In my usual meandering way, I picked up this book by a favorite author and decided to give it a go. It's book four of a series I hadn't read before. Oops! Fortunately, there was description enough to keep me from feeling lost. I figured out really quick that this wasn't going to be one of the lighter stories I was used to getting from this author. It was darker and grittier. Oh the snark and hot passion were there, but there were layers of something more. The least of which is that this is menage romance and the sexy times got pretty hot. Have to say, I really enjoyed what I got. Guess it was right book; right timing.
I usually say whether a book makes a good standalone or not at this point, but I'm honestly not sure. Short answer is that yes, this one did fine out of order for me, but it was pretty obvious that it was tied to events from before. I'm thinking that I probably just spoiled the ending of at least the book that came before if I get the chance to read it- which I plan to. So, while I got a complete romance and a wrap up of the immediate conflict in this one, I can tell that it would have been even better in order.
The story opens with werewolf, Marc, settled down in his wolf form watching former friends and pack members cleaning up after the big battle. He feels sorrowful and guilty for his role in it all. An evil vampire-werewolf hybrid controlled him and other wolves to do awful things to their own kind- things Marc can never forgive himself for. They look for him, but he will never go back. He will go rogue. He can't help, but get close to his worst enemy's ashes to make good and sure the fiend is dead. Now he will check on the others who were controlled to see if he can help them.
Thaddeus is an old vampire and a recluse, but he still does his duty to his people and the council. He is relieved that the one stirring things up is dead, but is uneasy about the council's reaction to the near war that almost happened with the werewolves. Instead of being relieved, most are disappointed that the war didn't occur. Morpheus even has plans to instigate the war by rounding up all the vulnerable rogue werewolves and using them against their own kind. Thaddeus is appalled and speaks out, but then barely makes it out alive when his kind betrays him and puts him on the run. He must do what he can to prevent the war that will decimate their numbers and expose them to the humans. He decides to play peacemaker with the wolves if he can.
Antonia was once an innocent, ignorant human until Roderick and his minions captured her, tortured her, and made her a werewolf. She is imprisoned in a cell, but feels it when her mind is released from Roderick's control. Mayhem outside her cell ensues and she has no idea what is happening until a few days later a werewolf releases her. Now being two spirited is confusing and scary for her. She slowly trusts Marc to guide her even if she balks at his news that female werewolves by law must take multiple mates because they are less prevalent than males. While she slowly adjusts to her new circumstances, she and Marc find that danger isn't done with them and they are forced to take the powerful Thaddeus on as an ally. She is so confused by her strong feelings for both Marc and Thaddeus. They both want her and she wants them both. They are so different. Can she accept them both? But first they must fight to stay alive and work on their mutual task of stopping Morpheus' plans and avoiding a war.
This story was told in alternating narration from all three main characters. Each of these three were so different from each other. Marc is a tender, protector sort. Toni is a feisty woman who won't give up on what she believes in. Thaddeus was jaded and cynical along with snarky and confident. He is probably the most interesting out of the three because he is the one who is most changed by their relationship so that he embraces love with his two wolves and how they bring him back to life again.
I loved the tension that was built from them being from enemy races, but coming together first as wary allies to friends and finally to something more. There were obvious enemies, stubborn people from both races, and a shadowy figure pulling strings in the background. It was all pretty exciting stuff.
The romance was handled so well, too. They are all three attracted (the two men are not attracted to each other, but both to Toni), but things go slowly. I even enjoyed how the guys reluctantly earn each other's respect and become friends. It takes a while for things to get going, but this trio do end up going all the way for some double penetration action. I am very picky about menage relationships and I enjoyed how this one came about and grew into a true romance. They start out as partners in their shared cause, experience danger, and a few playful moments before finally coming together as mates. I look forward to seeing how this new first of its kind relationship plays out.
The story left things in a good spot, but also made it obvious that there is so much more to come. I think those who enjoy menage and paranormal action together should give this series a go. Loved the surprise difference in this one from the stuff I've previously read from the author.
My thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.