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Bears of Pinerock County #3
Alpha Rancher Bear
A take-charge alpha with commitment issues + a midwife who's not about to give up control of her well-ordered life + a roadside winter disaster = an EXPLOSIVE romance that's about to blow up everything they both thought they wanted!
This is the third book in the Bears of Pinerock County series.
Alec Tanner isn't looking for a mate. The tough, reclusive alpha of the Pinerock County bears likes his life just fine. Even if his solitude is because of his emotional walls rather than actual desire to be alone. Even if there's a part of him that can't help but envy the companionship his clan brothers have found with their mates ...
Charmian Russell can't imagine letting a man into her life. The Pinerock County midwife is doing just fine on her own, thanks, and she doesn't want a boyfriend to boss her around. Especially not an infuriating (but smoking hot) alpha like Alec Tanner. Even if he does make her weak in the knees ...
But when their car goes off the road in a snowstorm, suddenly these two proud, controlling people have to rely on each other if they're going to make it back alive. And there's nothing like trying to keep warm in a blizzard to make it harder to fight the sizzling attraction pulling them together. Can they learn to let someone else in, and find the happiness they've been missing?
Alpha Rancher Bear is a hot, standalone bear shifter romance, third in the Bears of Pinerock County series. No cliffhangers!
This is the third book in the Bears of Pinerock County series.
Alec Tanner isn't looking for a mate. The tough, reclusive alpha of the Pinerock County bears likes his life just fine. Even if his solitude is because of his emotional walls rather than actual desire to be alone. Even if there's a part of him that can't help but envy the companionship his clan brothers have found with their mates ...
Charmian Russell can't imagine letting a man into her life. The Pinerock County midwife is doing just fine on her own, thanks, and she doesn't want a boyfriend to boss her around. Especially not an infuriating (but smoking hot) alpha like Alec Tanner. Even if he does make her weak in the knees ...
But when their car goes off the road in a snowstorm, suddenly these two proud, controlling people have to rely on each other if they're going to make it back alive. And there's nothing like trying to keep warm in a blizzard to make it harder to fight the sizzling attraction pulling them together. Can they learn to let someone else in, and find the happiness they've been missing?
Alpha Rancher Bear is a hot, standalone bear shifter romance, third in the Bears of Pinerock County series. No cliffhangers!
150 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 3, 2016
609 people are currently reading
250 people want to read
About the author
Zoe Chant
330 books1,524 followersZoe Chant loves writing paranormal romance. Over a cup of tea (or something stronger) she whips up sexy tales of hunky heroes and adventurous heroines to tantalize and satisfy her readers. Sizzling hot romance, no cliffhangers!
While series should ideally be read in order, all of Zoe’s books are standalones and can be read in any order. This includes books within series.
To get a free book for subscribing to her mailing list, please follow this link: https://www.zoechant.com/join-my-mail...
Zoe's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/32545...
While series should ideally be read in order, all of Zoe’s books are standalones and can be read in any order. This includes books within series.
To get a free book for subscribing to her mailing list, please follow this link: https://www.zoechant.com/join-my-mail...
Zoe's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/32545...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
June 19, 2017
Alpha Rancher Bear is the third book in the Bears of Pinerock County series and while it can stand-alone, I would recommend reading the first two books first to understand the secondary characters better.
This was an enjoyable addition to this series, and I absolutely loved Charmain. I loved that she was strong, smart and stubborn. She was a great match for Alec and this was a nice, sweet story. The only part I found a little lacking was that there was no real action. They meet, the banter was fun, the chemistry was hot, and then not much else happens. A small hiccup which is easily sorted out and that is it. It made for an angst free read which isn’t always a bad thing, but it did mean the ending felt a little flat. Overall I would still recommend this to fans of this series and paranormal romance fans. It was well written and would make a great afternoon beach read.
This was an enjoyable addition to this series, and I absolutely loved Charmain. I loved that she was strong, smart and stubborn. She was a great match for Alec and this was a nice, sweet story. The only part I found a little lacking was that there was no real action. They meet, the banter was fun, the chemistry was hot, and then not much else happens. A small hiccup which is easily sorted out and that is it. It made for an angst free read which isn’t always a bad thing, but it did mean the ending felt a little flat. Overall I would still recommend this to fans of this series and paranormal romance fans. It was well written and would make a great afternoon beach read.
December 30, 2017
My Thoughts - 5 out of 5 Unicorns - I loved it!!!
***I choose what I read and review based on what intrigues me!! No one tells me what to think, feel, or write about any book! I have bought this book last year because I love and own most of Zoe’s books!
The cover is a great match to the story!
This is the 3rd book in the series! It is for adults only due to the steamy content.
This is Alec’s story!! YAY!!! It is about time he gets his mate! I love how Charmian knocks Alec for a loop. It was a great story watching them learn to compromise and grow together. The clan keeps growing, and I love it! No bad guys in this book, but the weather is an issue and brings trouble.
I highly recommend to any HEA shifter fans out there because Zoe Chant knows how a write a great story that you will enjoy! I can’t wait for Gannon’s story!!!
***I choose what I read and review based on what intrigues me!! No one tells me what to think, feel, or write about any book! I have bought this book last year because I love and own most of Zoe’s books!
The cover is a great match to the story!
This is the 3rd book in the series! It is for adults only due to the steamy content.
This is Alec’s story!! YAY!!! It is about time he gets his mate! I love how Charmian knocks Alec for a loop. It was a great story watching them learn to compromise and grow together. The clan keeps growing, and I love it! No bad guys in this book, but the weather is an issue and brings trouble.
I highly recommend to any HEA shifter fans out there because Zoe Chant knows how a write a great story that you will enjoy! I can’t wait for Gannon’s story!!!
June 9, 2019
4 stars
This was a very enjoyable story. I liked both Alec and Charmian and liked how they got together, even if it was a little different than I expected from the book description.
Charmian is a midwife for a small town of mostly ranchers. Charmian grew up the daughter of a local Vet but her parents recently retired and moved to Florida.
Alec is the Alpha of his bear clan (his brothers and cousins) and runs a ranch with them. Alec took over the Alpha spot when his parents died in an accident and he does the best he can as an Alpha, even if he didn't have the best example.
One of Alec's brothers' mates is pregnant and Alec gets asked to take her to her midwife appointment. When he gets there, he's rather flummoxed at the sight of Charmian as he recognizes her as his mate. Unfortunately, their first meeting (and even the second) didn't go the best and it takes a few days to work past the initial issues. The mutual attraction is strong though and while Charmian balks a little at the speed of shifter matings, she does pretty well at taking things in stride. Before too long, Alec and Charmian have worked things out and end the story together and heading towards a HEA.
This was a very enjoyable story. Charmian is a good, strong heroine and I liked her very much. I liked Alec very much as well (once he got himself on track). Overall, this was a very good story with characters I liked so I'd recommend it. :)
This was a very enjoyable story. I liked both Alec and Charmian and liked how they got together, even if it was a little different than I expected from the book description.
Charmian is a midwife for a small town of mostly ranchers. Charmian grew up the daughter of a local Vet but her parents recently retired and moved to Florida.
Alec is the Alpha of his bear clan (his brothers and cousins) and runs a ranch with them. Alec took over the Alpha spot when his parents died in an accident and he does the best he can as an Alpha, even if he didn't have the best example.
One of Alec's brothers' mates is pregnant and Alec gets asked to take her to her midwife appointment. When he gets there, he's rather flummoxed at the sight of Charmian as he recognizes her as his mate. Unfortunately, their first meeting (and even the second) didn't go the best and it takes a few days to work past the initial issues. The mutual attraction is strong though and while Charmian balks a little at the speed of shifter matings, she does pretty well at taking things in stride. Before too long, Alec and Charmian have worked things out and end the story together and heading towards a HEA.
This was a very enjoyable story. Charmian is a good, strong heroine and I liked her very much. I liked Alec very much as well (once he got himself on track). Overall, this was a very good story with characters I liked so I'd recommend it. :)
November 29, 2021
The perfect mate for an alpha bear
This was a sweet, sexy, and exciting novella with a side of obstinate independence. Alec is a bear shifter and the alpha of his clan. Charmian is the midwife taking care of the mate of his cousin and clan member. When they meet Alec instantly recognize that she is his mate. To get to their HEA, they will have to figure out a way to become a team and let go of how they thought their lives would look. The story includes loyal friends and family, a little bit of danger, tragic back stories, love, fated mates, and laughs. While short, the characters were well developed and the story was well written. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
This was a sweet, sexy, and exciting novella with a side of obstinate independence. Alec is a bear shifter and the alpha of his clan. Charmian is the midwife taking care of the mate of his cousin and clan member. When they meet Alec instantly recognize that she is his mate. To get to their HEA, they will have to figure out a way to become a team and let go of how they thought their lives would look. The story includes loyal friends and family, a little bit of danger, tragic back stories, love, fated mates, and laughs. While short, the characters were well developed and the story was well written. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
March 30, 2025
Alec the Alpha Apologizes !
Alec and Charmaine’s story is fraught with danger as they are stranded outside in a snowstorm, after a car wreck. Talk about having to get to know and rely on someone all at the same time ! I love the characters in Pinerock County, we get Charmaine ( Saffron’s midwife ) and all the guys and Tara as well as a few furry four legged ones too. The storyline is believable and the heat between Alec and Charmaine is palpable, you feel them both fighting the mate bond, as well as wanting to give into it. Lauren Esker writes Alec’s character beautifully, the way he doesn’t want to apologize, because Alphas don’t apologize is spot on , and you feel his fear about Charmaine driving after dark as if you were the one standing there ! This is a truly great read ! 5✨’s
Alec and Charmaine’s story is fraught with danger as they are stranded outside in a snowstorm, after a car wreck. Talk about having to get to know and rely on someone all at the same time ! I love the characters in Pinerock County, we get Charmaine ( Saffron’s midwife ) and all the guys and Tara as well as a few furry four legged ones too. The storyline is believable and the heat between Alec and Charmaine is palpable, you feel them both fighting the mate bond, as well as wanting to give into it. Lauren Esker writes Alec’s character beautifully, the way he doesn’t want to apologize, because Alphas don’t apologize is spot on , and you feel his fear about Charmaine driving after dark as if you were the one standing there ! This is a truly great read ! 5✨’s
October 17, 2017
Very quick, great read.
August 6, 2025
only slightly better than the other but only bc there was no unpasteurized milk propaganda
May 7, 2025
“Life itself was a work in progress, and no one was ever quite finished with it.”
✔️novella
✔️bear shifter MMC x human FMC
✔️alpha of the clan/rancher x midwife
✔️forced proximity
✔️fated mates & instalust
✔️no breakup
Though this isn’t my favorite story in the series, I really like the couple. This is an insta-lust story for sure, but not insta-love like the others. Alec (MMC) knows as soon as he sees Charmain (FMC) that she is his mate, but they don’t have the best first interaction and it takes a little bit of time for them to start communicating and giving into their feelings. Both MCs are stubborn and strong, and they really are the perfect match for each other, but it takes time for them to learn how to compromise and work together and though the timeline of their story is still unrealistically fast it doesn’t feel as intense as the previous two books.
This is a low angst shifter book, there is a little bit of danger in the form of a car accident on a snowy road, but I wouldn’t say that there is any suspense. It was fun seeing the MMC (who swore he didn’t need/want a mate) find his match and seeing the clan/family grow in multiple ways.
✔️novella
✔️bear shifter MMC x human FMC
✔️alpha of the clan/rancher x midwife
✔️forced proximity
✔️fated mates & instalust
✔️no breakup
Though this isn’t my favorite story in the series, I really like the couple. This is an insta-lust story for sure, but not insta-love like the others. Alec (MMC) knows as soon as he sees Charmain (FMC) that she is his mate, but they don’t have the best first interaction and it takes a little bit of time for them to start communicating and giving into their feelings. Both MCs are stubborn and strong, and they really are the perfect match for each other, but it takes time for them to learn how to compromise and work together and though the timeline of their story is still unrealistically fast it doesn’t feel as intense as the previous two books.
This is a low angst shifter book, there is a little bit of danger in the form of a car accident on a snowy road, but I wouldn’t say that there is any suspense. It was fun seeing the MMC (who swore he didn’t need/want a mate) find his match and seeing the clan/family grow in multiple ways.
February 2, 2017
Another super quick read from this author. I liked this one, the characters were nicely developed and I loved that the h was successful, independent and not easily scared. The H was a hot alpha but with fears of his own to overcome. Great secondary characters, just wished it was longer!
January 12, 2018
Still going strong
I liked this story a lot. No one was chasing Charmian, but that doesn't mean things are simple! Not for Alec! He has fought change to his clan so much, that originally he plans on ignoring his bear, and her, too!
This story has less action and more character development than the last one did. We still have a sexy bear shifter, but he has met his match with this strong willed midwife. The steamy scenes are still there, as are the great secondary characters. Read these in order. I am sure if you enjoy shifter romances, you will enjoy this series.
I liked this story a lot. No one was chasing Charmian, but that doesn't mean things are simple! Not for Alec! He has fought change to his clan so much, that originally he plans on ignoring his bear, and her, too!
This story has less action and more character development than the last one did. We still have a sexy bear shifter, but he has met his match with this strong willed midwife. The steamy scenes are still there, as are the great secondary characters. Read these in order. I am sure if you enjoy shifter romances, you will enjoy this series.
August 14, 2023
Book #3
This book is about th Alpha of the 'Bears of Pinerock County' and his mate. Alec has been the leader of the clan ever since his parents died. He never thought he would find his mate. Charmaine is the midwife of the county. Saffron and Remy decided to have their baby born on the ranch. When Alec and Charmaine met he knew he had found his mate. It was hard for Charmaine to understand why Alec was so protective of her. It took a blizzard for them to spend enough time alone together to figure out how to work together as a team. On to #4..
This book is about th Alpha of the 'Bears of Pinerock County' and his mate. Alec has been the leader of the clan ever since his parents died. He never thought he would find his mate. Charmaine is the midwife of the county. Saffron and Remy decided to have their baby born on the ranch. When Alec and Charmaine met he knew he had found his mate. It was hard for Charmaine to understand why Alec was so protective of her. It took a blizzard for them to spend enough time alone together to figure out how to work together as a team. On to #4..
January 9, 2025
Hmmmm... I enjoyed this book a little more than the previous two. I think that was partly, because Charmian seemed like a stronger character than either Tara or Saffron, and partly because both characters had some psychological growing to do, and it was nice seeing them doing it as the story progressed.
This is still not my favourite paranormal series of Ms Eskell's, but if this instalment is a sign of how the later books will go, I think I'll enjoy them more than the first two. Plus, it helps that Gannon's story is next. Here's hoping.
This is still not my favourite paranormal series of Ms Eskell's, but if this instalment is a sign of how the later books will go, I think I'll enjoy them more than the first two. Plus, it helps that Gannon's story is next. Here's hoping.
October 8, 2025
Back on track
Back on track for me anyway. Alec and Charmaine had a story quick as it was with insta love it got you involved. Both characters drawn well especially Charmaine since first time meeting her. Charmaine gets a strong personality and heat ratio to story made it a more enjoyable read. A few more editing/typos the 1st was kinda funny Alec’s gray-eyed character went suddenly to blue! I do love authors creative writing, plots interesting, pacing, etc. but if you want more story read her other series Agent Shifters, Bodyguard Shifters
Back on track for me anyway. Alec and Charmaine had a story quick as it was with insta love it got you involved. Both characters drawn well especially Charmaine since first time meeting her. Charmaine gets a strong personality and heat ratio to story made it a more enjoyable read. A few more editing/typos the 1st was kinda funny Alec’s gray-eyed character went suddenly to blue! I do love authors creative writing, plots interesting, pacing, etc. but if you want more story read her other series Agent Shifters, Bodyguard Shifters
October 26, 2016
I am binge reading and have quite a few of Zoe Chant's books that I had one-clicked and wanted to read, but would always have something else come up. I have to say. TAKE THE TIME AND READ ALL OF HER BOOKS!! They are each unique, some follow a specific group, but each can stand alone and have a happy ending. They are feel good and quick reads! I absolutely love all her books I have read! And they never leave you feeling like your missing something at the end.
February 25, 2023
Independent
Charmian and Alec have become strong independent people. She's the towns midwife and he is his clans alpha.
When they meet the first look has something pulling them together but at the same time Alec can't find words. Charmian is beautiful and independent and it both impresses and intimidates him.
Can they push their independence aside to let the other in and love thrive?
Charmian and Alec have become strong independent people. She's the towns midwife and he is his clans alpha.
When they meet the first look has something pulling them together but at the same time Alec can't find words. Charmian is beautiful and independent and it both impresses and intimidates him.
Can they push their independence aside to let the other in and love thrive?
August 13, 2017
Charmian and Alec's story starts off completely rocky, gets worse, then finally the two hard headed alpha type duo come to understand that soul mates can't run from their fate. Excellent book 3 of the Pinerock County series, with alpha bear Alec finally getting his own mate. 4⭐'s and I can't wait for Gannon's story in book 4 !!
April 27, 2020
Not much I can say...other than this is a fun, lighthearted paranormal romance. Zoe always manages to write a story I enjoy reading. Alec and Charmian's story is just another example. Well written, fast paced, easily imagined, and believable characters and possible situations. (I moved south for a reason. ..just sayin!)
Definitely worth reading!
Definitely worth reading!
May 24, 2020
Another book better than the first in the series. I liked that Charmain was able to stand toe to toe with Alec and call him out on his stubborn behavior while recognizing some of the same traits in herself. I think they balance each other out nicely, and Charmain will help him be the kind of alpha that his clan needs.
January 29, 2022
Letting someone in
Alex & Charman: he was the alpha of the clan and since his parents died he didn't let anyone get close to him. She was always on her own and she was a midwife but when she saw him something inside of her snapped cause she didn't want to be alone anymore.
The characters will take you through twists and turns throughout journey to find their fated mated.
Alex & Charman: he was the alpha of the clan and since his parents died he didn't let anyone get close to him. She was always on her own and she was a midwife but when she saw him something inside of her snapped cause she didn't want to be alone anymore.
The characters will take you through twists and turns throughout journey to find their fated mated.
October 21, 2022
A nice romantic story for Alec and Charmain
This is book three in the serie. This is the story for the Alpha Alec. He is a brooder but a patient Alpha who takes responsibility seriously. His love interest is a strong willed mid-wife who needs to learn how to be with someone. Once these two accept that they are mates. It’s a sweet and easy to read story. Read On!
This is book three in the serie. This is the story for the Alpha Alec. He is a brooder but a patient Alpha who takes responsibility seriously. His love interest is a strong willed mid-wife who needs to learn how to be with someone. Once these two accept that they are mates. It’s a sweet and easy to read story. Read On!
January 8, 2023
I was on a Sci Fi binge now I am on a Paranormal shifter binge and that is how I came across Zoe's books. Once I find an author whose books I like I will read them all and let me tell you Zoe has a lot. They are quick and easy reads. Some serious some make me laugh but all have danger and fated mates.
I enjoy paranormal stories as they take you away from everyday life and anything goes.
I enjoy paranormal stories as they take you away from everyday life and anything goes.
July 16, 2024
The Alpha Meets His Match
Book 3 in this series is just as good as the others. Two individuals that are used to being in charge that have to figure out how to deal with their expectations of being obeyed. His alpha personality and her "take charge" attitude collide during their "courtship". After an accident, they learn to give and take while they get their HEA.
Book 3 in this series is just as good as the others. Two individuals that are used to being in charge that have to figure out how to deal with their expectations of being obeyed. His alpha personality and her "take charge" attitude collide during their "courtship". After an accident, they learn to give and take while they get their HEA.
March 12, 2025
Thoroughly enjoyable read
I enjoyed this storyline as much as the first book, but more than the second.
It's as well written as the previous and still has a very enjoyable plot.
The continuation of characters is a nice experience, too. Getting to know them more with each book.
Yet another with my favourite ending... a HEA! ❤️
Onto the next!
I enjoyed this storyline as much as the first book, but more than the second.
It's as well written as the previous and still has a very enjoyable plot.
The continuation of characters is a nice experience, too. Getting to know them more with each book.
Yet another with my favourite ending... a HEA! ❤️
Onto the next!
July 15, 2025
He's A hard man 4 a alpha because of his dad but can he loosen up a little bit 2 possibly find a future 4 himself? She helps women deliver their babies. But a unexpected snow storm came and ruined a few things along with a animal. Can they figure out how 2 talk 2 each other without fighting cause they r 2 much alike? Lol it was really good!!
February 4, 2026
The Alpha & The Midwife
Finally Alec gets a chance to let loose! I know the characters dealing with him everyday were thrilled that hercfpund his mate and what a mate she is. Charmian is no joke. I guess you gotta be in this line of work. They looked at each other once and they were both hooked and that is special.
Finally Alec gets a chance to let loose! I know the characters dealing with him everyday were thrilled that hercfpund his mate and what a mate she is. Charmian is no joke. I guess you gotta be in this line of work. They looked at each other once and they were both hooked and that is special.
March 1, 2018
Alec is the alpha but has been a bit standoffish for some reason. When he meets his mate in the form of the midwife Charmain, who is looking after Saffron’s pregnancy, he runs scared.
Charmain pushes their relationship onward and I really enjoyed their story.
Read in the box set
Charmain pushes their relationship onward and I really enjoyed their story.
Read in the box set
July 6, 2020
So glad Alec found his love without great trauma. Being an Alpha sometimes is traumatic enough. Charmian is perfect for him although I sense moments where two alphas in the same house will be stressful.
August 16, 2020
Super fun shifter series
These books are seriously addictive! The alpha and his mate was such an awesome read. I love how stubborn they both are and perfectly matched. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
These books are seriously addictive! The alpha and his mate was such an awesome read. I love how stubborn they both are and perfectly matched. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
September 5, 2020
I would happily read multiple books about these two. I loved finally getting a glimpse into Alec's head and getting to understand why he is the way he is. And Charmian is legit the best character in this series. I absolutely love her.
May 26, 2022
Alpha Ranch Bear
This author gets a reader captured in the previous book and keeps our interest from page 1 to the end of the book. I love the suspense and the characters are very interesting.
This author gets a reader captured in the previous book and keeps our interest from page 1 to the end of the book. I love the suspense and the characters are very interesting.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews