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The Wolves of Hemlock Hollow #1
Once Bitten
One night was all it took to change everything. One moment of weakness, and now I’m becoming. Werewolves were supposed to be things only seen in movies, not things that exist in real life. Instead of med school and homework, my life is filled with a laundry list of things that were once impossibilities. Groups fighting over whom I belong to. The possibility of dying if I don’t learn everything before the next full moon. Figuring out how to survive in a world I never knew existed. But the biggest danger? history professor, super sexy Viking werewolf, and the man who’s been assigned by the Council to teach me how to survive becoming a werewolf.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 21, 2017
21 people are currently reading
86 people want to read
About the author
Heather McCorkle
46 books315 followersFantasy & scifi in all their wonderful subgenres are my jam. Doesn't matter to me if it's indie or traditionally published, I read it all as long as it fits in those genres and piques my interest.
I'm also an award winning author~and aspiring to someday be a bestselling one. Life goals!~of paranormal, fantasy, steampunk, historical fantasy, and YA urban fantasy. When I'm not reading, editing, writing, or surfing my social networking sites, I can be found on the slopes, the hiking trails, or paddleboarding. As a native Oregonian, I enjoy the outdoors almost as much as the worlds I read about and create on the pages. No need to travel to the Great Northwest, though, you can find me on my website, in my newsletter, and on my social media sites.
I'm also an award winning author~and aspiring to someday be a bestselling one. Life goals!~of paranormal, fantasy, steampunk, historical fantasy, and YA urban fantasy. When I'm not reading, editing, writing, or surfing my social networking sites, I can be found on the slopes, the hiking trails, or paddleboarding. As a native Oregonian, I enjoy the outdoors almost as much as the worlds I read about and create on the pages. No need to travel to the Great Northwest, though, you can find me on my website, in my newsletter, and on my social media sites.
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May 16, 2017DNF with no rating. I just couldn't get into this one.
April 23, 2017
'Once Bitten' by Heather McCorkle is book One in "The Wolves of Hemlock Hollow" series. This is the story of Sonya and Ty.
Sonya is tough, alone and learning to become a Doctor. Sonya meets Raul who she thinks is nice and after a date they start to make out when he ups an bites her. Sonya hurt and struggling to realize what he has done with Ty shows up to chase him away.
Ty takes on the role as her 'teacher' for learning what she is becoming after Raul's assault. Ty is suppose to have a non-emotional connection while teacher her to become a werewolf. But he is finding it hard to do that. Sonya is struggling to understand what is happening to her...but her father had told her stories of what she is now dealing with.
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
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Sonya is tough, alone and learning to become a Doctor. Sonya meets Raul who she thinks is nice and after a date they start to make out when he ups an bites her. Sonya hurt and struggling to realize what he has done with Ty shows up to chase him away.
Ty takes on the role as her 'teacher' for learning what she is becoming after Raul's assault. Ty is suppose to have a non-emotional connection while teacher her to become a werewolf. But he is finding it hard to do that. Sonya is struggling to understand what is happening to her...but her father had told her stories of what she is now dealing with.
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H...
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/17091...
http://sissymaereads.blogspot.com/
https://twitter.com/soapsrus68
https://romancebookreviewforyou.wordp...
http://booklikes.com/blog
https://www.tumblr.com/blog/romancebo...
https://plus.google.com/+SissyHicks
https://www.pinterest.com/u2soapsrus/
April 22, 2017
What a great combination of humour, angst, shifters and romance this story proved to be - I thoroughly enjoyed it! It has great characters who are easy to relate to and empathise with, an engaging, action-packed plot full of twists and turns to keep the reader guessing and is written in a way that brings the story to life in the imagination of the reader.
Studying to become a Doctor isn't easy, but it is made harder when you're also working your way to pay for your studies. Actually almost trusting the man who'd been chatting her up at work proved to be a life-changing decision for Sonya, the heroine of the story. She's wary and, it turns out, with good reason. After seeing her home and Sonya refusing to let him in, he bites her before another stranger chases him off. That handsome, very fit, stranger is Ty, a history professor. It also turns out that Ty is a Viking werewolf and it is he who explains the Norse mythology and background to what is now happening to Sonya - she's turning into a werewolf. As different packs vie to have Sonya join them, this new reality is open to many possibilities and Sonya needs the best help and advice she can get to ensure she survives her transition into a varúlfur. Why did Raul choose her? Why did her father tell her so many Norse tales that she's now discovering are true? Can Ty protect her from those who are out to get her? What secrets is Ty keeping? Can she really trust him?
The story starts at a fast pace and continues at that throughout. It is a high action packed story with well developed characters and is mainly told from the point of view of the main characters, especially Sonya. Many thanks to Entangled who, without obligation, gifted me a copy of this book via NetGalley. This is my honest opinion after reading the book. It is the first story in a new series and I really hope I get to read more from the series and others by this author in future.
Studying to become a Doctor isn't easy, but it is made harder when you're also working your way to pay for your studies. Actually almost trusting the man who'd been chatting her up at work proved to be a life-changing decision for Sonya, the heroine of the story. She's wary and, it turns out, with good reason. After seeing her home and Sonya refusing to let him in, he bites her before another stranger chases him off. That handsome, very fit, stranger is Ty, a history professor. It also turns out that Ty is a Viking werewolf and it is he who explains the Norse mythology and background to what is now happening to Sonya - she's turning into a werewolf. As different packs vie to have Sonya join them, this new reality is open to many possibilities and Sonya needs the best help and advice she can get to ensure she survives her transition into a varúlfur. Why did Raul choose her? Why did her father tell her so many Norse tales that she's now discovering are true? Can Ty protect her from those who are out to get her? What secrets is Ty keeping? Can she really trust him?
The story starts at a fast pace and continues at that throughout. It is a high action packed story with well developed characters and is mainly told from the point of view of the main characters, especially Sonya. Many thanks to Entangled who, without obligation, gifted me a copy of this book via NetGalley. This is my honest opinion after reading the book. It is the first story in a new series and I really hope I get to read more from the series and others by this author in future.
April 23, 2017
Review For: Once Bitten by Heather McCorkle 'Once Bitten' by Heather McCorkle is book One in "The Wolves of Hemlock Hollow" series. This is the story of Sonya and Ty. Sonya is tough, alone and learning to become a Doctor. Sonya meets Raul who she thinks is nice and after a date they start to make out when he ups an bites her. Sonya hurt and struggling to realize what he has done with Ty shows up to chase him away. Ty takes on the role as her 'teacher' for learning what she is becoming after Raul's assault. Ty is suppose to have a non-emotional connection while teacher her to become a werewolf. But he is finding it hard to do that. Sonya is struggling to understand what is happening to her...but her father had told her stories of what she is now dealing with. "My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H... https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR... https://twitter.com/soapsrus68https:/... https://www.tumblr.com/blog/romancebo...
April 15, 2017
Pages and pages of inner dialogue and descriptions of things. Boring boring and more boring.
No attraction between the two characters. It was not what I thought it was going to be. I will skip the rest of the series.
Received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
No attraction between the two characters. It was not what I thought it was going to be. I will skip the rest of the series.
Received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
April 15, 2017
I loved it! It's an amazing read. It has been quite some time since I read paranormal romance and I'm glad that I read this one. It's book one in what looks like a promising new series. Characters are all well-written, story is engaging, and there are enough twists and turns to keep it interesting from the very beginning until the end. There is also some mystery around main characters.
When Sonya's one mistake lead to her becoming a werewolf, she has no idea what to do. Somehow Ty ends up to be the one to help her through her change. She is wary of him. She doesn't think that she can trust anyone in this new world, which has been unknown to her until now. But soon she realizes that Ty is exactly who he says he is... and the attraction between them is unmistakable. But will she even survive this ordeal to think about her future.
Ty has never helped a new werewolf before so there are a lot of things he doesn't know. He is trying his best to help Sonya. One thing is clear to him, there is no way he will ever let anyone hurt her. He will protect her and be there for her as long as she will have him. Even after her change he'd still wants to be with her. Now they only need to stay alive, and make to until after she changes.... but what they don't know is that things will get even more complicated then they're anticipating...
It's an intriguing story. I think it's brilliantly written. There was no dragging, it flowed smoothly, there was enough romance, adventure, and mystery to make it perfect. I think all paranormal readers will love this book.
When Sonya's one mistake lead to her becoming a werewolf, she has no idea what to do. Somehow Ty ends up to be the one to help her through her change. She is wary of him. She doesn't think that she can trust anyone in this new world, which has been unknown to her until now. But soon she realizes that Ty is exactly who he says he is... and the attraction between them is unmistakable. But will she even survive this ordeal to think about her future.
Ty has never helped a new werewolf before so there are a lot of things he doesn't know. He is trying his best to help Sonya. One thing is clear to him, there is no way he will ever let anyone hurt her. He will protect her and be there for her as long as she will have him. Even after her change he'd still wants to be with her. Now they only need to stay alive, and make to until after she changes.... but what they don't know is that things will get even more complicated then they're anticipating...
It's an intriguing story. I think it's brilliantly written. There was no dragging, it flowed smoothly, there was enough romance, adventure, and mystery to make it perfect. I think all paranormal readers will love this book.
March 24, 2017
Holy werewolves, Batman! What did I just read!! Once Bitten by Heather McCorkle is incredible! Book 1 of The Wolves of Hemlock Hollow Series, this book has a winning combination of romance and heat, action, and drama, not to mention plenty of Norse lore and mythology to make a paranormal lover combust! This story was unique and quite different from the shifter stories we’ve come to know and love. Ms. McCorkle did a marvelous job with weaving her story and I am so looking forward to what’s coming next.
Please note that an ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review of which this is both honest and completely voluntary.
Please note that an ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review of which this is both honest and completely voluntary.
April 19, 2017
Reading the blurb for Once Bitten and I'm realizing what was it that made me want to read it: Viking werewolf. I've read all sorts of books that contain the combination of a Viking and some other kind of being, but I have yet to encounter this unique to me combo. Shifters are some of my most favorite books and throw in Vikings, heck yay! And...things did not go off quite like I had expected.
Normally, if a story isn't working for me, it usually falls on the heroine. Either she's too weak, or too dumb. In this case, Sonya isn't either of those. She's a fairly strong character. Okay, granted she took what was happening to her, the whole situation, a bit too easily. Probably her family history played its part in keeping her from screaming because I would have completely lost it. Nope, in this case, it was the hero that drove me nuts. Ty was supposed to be a Viking werewolf. Instead, he comes off as way too calm, almost impassive. I like my leading males, especially shifters, to have a bit more Alpha to them. Come on Ty, embrace the animal and show me your Grrr side!
So the story itself was good although I do feel robbed of the whole Viking werewolf thing. History and lore do not make a Viking. Sorry, I digress. It's told from alternating POVs so you get tho know what they are both thinking. The beginning was exciting, then it slowed down in the middle as Sonya begins to learn the new world she was forced into. I get it, this is the first book in the series and there's a certain amount of world-building that needs to occur. Normally, I am a big fan of world-building. However, my lack of connection with the characters really killed it for me and I really wanted to start skimming but I didn't. It wasn't until around the last 20% of the book before my interested was piqued. Now things start to pick up when... Nope, I'm not giving anything away except of course there is an HEA. You'll need to find out what happens to Sonya and Ty for yourself.
What I really enjoy about shifter books is the fast-paced, high emotions they tend to have. Once Bitten didn't seem to have that for me. It had more of a slow meander to it which had my mind wandering from the story on more than one occasion. That really sucked for me because I prefer books that grab me from the get-go and make me lose sleep. It's not that the storyline was bad, no, it held quite a bit of promise. My problem was the lack of connection I felt to the characters as well I felt the story dragging on several occasions. I'm going to guess the next book is going to be about Ayra. Maybe I'll stick around to see how it goes for her.
I received this book from the JeepDiva for the express purposes of an honest review. The opinions and rating of this review are solely mine.
Stars - 3, Flames - 3
Normally, if a story isn't working for me, it usually falls on the heroine. Either she's too weak, or too dumb. In this case, Sonya isn't either of those. She's a fairly strong character. Okay, granted she took what was happening to her, the whole situation, a bit too easily. Probably her family history played its part in keeping her from screaming because I would have completely lost it. Nope, in this case, it was the hero that drove me nuts. Ty was supposed to be a Viking werewolf. Instead, he comes off as way too calm, almost impassive. I like my leading males, especially shifters, to have a bit more Alpha to them. Come on Ty, embrace the animal and show me your Grrr side!
So the story itself was good although I do feel robbed of the whole Viking werewolf thing. History and lore do not make a Viking. Sorry, I digress. It's told from alternating POVs so you get tho know what they are both thinking. The beginning was exciting, then it slowed down in the middle as Sonya begins to learn the new world she was forced into. I get it, this is the first book in the series and there's a certain amount of world-building that needs to occur. Normally, I am a big fan of world-building. However, my lack of connection with the characters really killed it for me and I really wanted to start skimming but I didn't. It wasn't until around the last 20% of the book before my interested was piqued. Now things start to pick up when... Nope, I'm not giving anything away except of course there is an HEA. You'll need to find out what happens to Sonya and Ty for yourself.
What I really enjoy about shifter books is the fast-paced, high emotions they tend to have. Once Bitten didn't seem to have that for me. It had more of a slow meander to it which had my mind wandering from the story on more than one occasion. That really sucked for me because I prefer books that grab me from the get-go and make me lose sleep. It's not that the storyline was bad, no, it held quite a bit of promise. My problem was the lack of connection I felt to the characters as well I felt the story dragging on several occasions. I'm going to guess the next book is going to be about Ayra. Maybe I'll stick around to see how it goes for her.
I received this book from the JeepDiva for the express purposes of an honest review. The opinions and rating of this review are solely mine.
Stars - 3, Flames - 3
April 2, 2017
Once upon a time, I pretty much exclusively read urban fantasy and paranormal romance, it was the genre that got me back into my love of reading. I still dabble from time to time, but mostly I read a lot of romance these days. But I have always had a soft spot in my heart but UF and PNR, especially when it comes to werewolves, or really any kind of shifter book. This book was an easy pick up for me, because not only was it a shifter book, but it was already really rooted in Norse mythology, which has recently become a bit of a fascination for me.
Once of the things that tends to make UF and PNR not always work for me is world building. Let's face it explaining the rules to how a society works and all the history that goes along with that can be confusing to a reader if not done well, or worse can come off as super boring. Heather didn't hesitate to jump right in with this book, we have Sonya getting bitten within the first couple of pages of the book, and it was definitely not a good experience for her. I liked how we jump right in, and how we really got the opportunity to learn about the world at the same time as Sonya did, her questions were my questions, and just in general I felt like the world was explained really well. I will say that at the beginning I was not really on board with some of Sonya's reactions to things. I mean she gets by this guy, who is like big time creeper dude, she's angry and rightfully kind of violent about it, but when she gets a note from him telling her to meet him in Montana, she gets in the car and goes after him. Totally not something I, or any sane person, would do.
Ty is our hero, and an already established werwolf, and honestly in the beginning her comes across as kind of larger than life and a little bit like a zen master, and then you find out he's only 30. He's definitely a good guy, super hot, good with Sonya, and an excellent teacher. More than that though you find out as the story goes on that he has a long history with the area and with the packs in the area that is not exactly a good history, so him being a lone wolf, and by proxy a neutral party, make a lot of sense.
I think the thing I enjoyed the most about this book was that it was pretty well balanced, you learned the history of these wolves, the pack politics, and about Ty at a slow and steady pace, but it never got boring because just when you thought there would be a lull in the book, the sexual tension would amp up or other werewolves would show up and danger/suspense was there. I liked the book, I liked the writing style, I liked the mythology. I am definitely looking forward to seeing where this series goes especially now that all the ground work has been done.
April 25, 2017
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Every story that brings us into the world of werewolves and shifters has some basic lore that is universal. Then the author brings in their own unique spin on that world, adding to the established lore of shifters. In Once Bitten we are taken along this journey with Sonya. As she is faced with learning how to survive in this world, we are also learning along with her. It’s a unique world building that makes it a natural flowing process of learning what this world is all about.
Sonya is out on a date with Raul, a man who seemed nice but is now giving off that well known feeling of unease and need to get rid of him fast that most women (or men) have encountered over the years. When Sonya’s instinct proves correct and she is attacked and bitten by Raul, she is rescued by a man she’d never have thought to be part of that new world. She knows of Ty as a professor at the school she attends, now he’s become her teacher in another more vital study… how to become a werewolf, and survive what is coming.
I enjoyed Once Bitten. I found it to be full of danger, twists and turns, definite sexual tensions and the beginning of an intriguing series that I plan on following. For now I have questions that need answers, and a world to get to know better. If you enjoy Paranormal Romance then I believe you’d find this world rather fascinating. Norse mythology is always an interesting history period, add to that the touch of the supernatural and there are so many possibilities. Take a chance on this world, I believe you’ll find the experience well worth your time.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Every story that brings us into the world of werewolves and shifters has some basic lore that is universal. Then the author brings in their own unique spin on that world, adding to the established lore of shifters. In Once Bitten we are taken along this journey with Sonya. As she is faced with learning how to survive in this world, we are also learning along with her. It’s a unique world building that makes it a natural flowing process of learning what this world is all about.
Sonya is out on a date with Raul, a man who seemed nice but is now giving off that well known feeling of unease and need to get rid of him fast that most women (or men) have encountered over the years. When Sonya’s instinct proves correct and she is attacked and bitten by Raul, she is rescued by a man she’d never have thought to be part of that new world. She knows of Ty as a professor at the school she attends, now he’s become her teacher in another more vital study… how to become a werewolf, and survive what is coming.
I enjoyed Once Bitten. I found it to be full of danger, twists and turns, definite sexual tensions and the beginning of an intriguing series that I plan on following. For now I have questions that need answers, and a world to get to know better. If you enjoy Paranormal Romance then I believe you’d find this world rather fascinating. Norse mythology is always an interesting history period, add to that the touch of the supernatural and there are so many possibilities. Take a chance on this world, I believe you’ll find the experience well worth your time.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
April 26, 2017
Once Bitten, Heather McCorkle
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance,
My first read of Heather's novels, but I love the werewolf genre and this sounded fun.
I found it a little - well - bland I guess? It was well written, the characters were all clearly set out and the take of the werewolf genre had some fresh additions. Sounds good doesn't it?
However I just found the story dragged, with nothing much happening until the last 20% or so. Even then I found that for a group so set in rules and hierarchy the story-line went well off track.
I couldn't see how all these things, all these anarchist actions wouldn't have been seen coming, if those in charge had been taking note. Its hard to see a rigid, supposedly strong and well run system fall down so badly by the actions of such inept characters.
There didn't seem to have been much thought or planning of what would happen, and the ones creating the mayhem were strangely lacking in intelligence and strategy.
The story-line is sound, and things like this do happen but it needed to have characters that were capable of planning and executing such a strategy for me to believe it.
Its kind of a one plot book too, in that Sonya's transforming was a part of that overall plot. I liked Ty, apart from his manner of speaking which proved irritating after a time, but he was so laid back he was almost horizontal, which didn't fit so well with his thoughts on throwing everything, disregarding all the rules, because he was so attracted to Sonya. I anted to say "get a grip man, its only for a couple of weeks!!" The man I thought he was would have done just that, not been mulling constantly about giving in to temptation.
Its one of those reads that feels very simplistic, not complex drama but a quick easy read. Depends what you want - and its different for everyone, for me its more often the complex drama that does it.
First books in a series have a hard task and for me this one doesn't quite live up to the promise of the description. I'm undecided as to whether I want to continue with it. I'll see nearer the time I guess, how much other things I've got on and whether I'm pulled in by the description. I'm not saying I would read more, not saying its a no go for me but I am on the fence over it.
Stars: two and a half, a good premise but it needs a bit more action and drama, a little more speed for me. Maybe in the later books?
ARC supplied for review purposes by Netgalley and Publishers
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance,
My first read of Heather's novels, but I love the werewolf genre and this sounded fun.
I found it a little - well - bland I guess? It was well written, the characters were all clearly set out and the take of the werewolf genre had some fresh additions. Sounds good doesn't it?
However I just found the story dragged, with nothing much happening until the last 20% or so. Even then I found that for a group so set in rules and hierarchy the story-line went well off track.
I couldn't see how all these things, all these anarchist actions wouldn't have been seen coming, if those in charge had been taking note. Its hard to see a rigid, supposedly strong and well run system fall down so badly by the actions of such inept characters.
There didn't seem to have been much thought or planning of what would happen, and the ones creating the mayhem were strangely lacking in intelligence and strategy.
The story-line is sound, and things like this do happen but it needed to have characters that were capable of planning and executing such a strategy for me to believe it.
Its kind of a one plot book too, in that Sonya's transforming was a part of that overall plot. I liked Ty, apart from his manner of speaking which proved irritating after a time, but he was so laid back he was almost horizontal, which didn't fit so well with his thoughts on throwing everything, disregarding all the rules, because he was so attracted to Sonya. I anted to say "get a grip man, its only for a couple of weeks!!" The man I thought he was would have done just that, not been mulling constantly about giving in to temptation.
Its one of those reads that feels very simplistic, not complex drama but a quick easy read. Depends what you want - and its different for everyone, for me its more often the complex drama that does it.
First books in a series have a hard task and for me this one doesn't quite live up to the promise of the description. I'm undecided as to whether I want to continue with it. I'll see nearer the time I guess, how much other things I've got on and whether I'm pulled in by the description. I'm not saying I would read more, not saying its a no go for me but I am on the fence over it.
Stars: two and a half, a good premise but it needs a bit more action and drama, a little more speed for me. Maybe in the later books?
ARC supplied for review purposes by Netgalley and Publishers
April 24, 2017
One night was all it took to change everything. One moment of weakness, and now I’m becoming. Werewolves were supposed to be things only seen in movies, not things that exist in real life. Instead of med school and homework, my life is filled with a laundry list of things that were once impossibilities. Groups fighting over whom I belong to. The possibility of dying if I don’t learn everything before the next full moon. Figuring out how to survive in a world I never knew existed. But the biggest danger? Ty: history professor, super sexy Viking werewolf, and the man who’s been assigned by the Council to teach me how to survive becoming a werewolf.
Review:
Great start to this new series.
I read four great paranormal romances last week and this was one of them. It was action packed from the start, from Sonya being turned to Ty saving her and them going on the run, Sonya's training. It truly is full of action and fast paced. It was an average length but seemed to be over before I knew it. It is not only full of action but also some super sexy times too and it was written sensually and emotionally. There is a lot of machinations going on and it was hard to figure out what everyone ulterior motives are/were. I really liked how the story based the wolves around Viking/Norse mythology and wove the two together. The only thing that I think would have made the story better was if it was in a longer format, and more things were fleshed out.
Great paranormal romance from this new-to-me Author.
3.5Stars
*I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book provided by the publisher.*
Review:
Great start to this new series.
I read four great paranormal romances last week and this was one of them. It was action packed from the start, from Sonya being turned to Ty saving her and them going on the run, Sonya's training. It truly is full of action and fast paced. It was an average length but seemed to be over before I knew it. It is not only full of action but also some super sexy times too and it was written sensually and emotionally. There is a lot of machinations going on and it was hard to figure out what everyone ulterior motives are/were. I really liked how the story based the wolves around Viking/Norse mythology and wove the two together. The only thing that I think would have made the story better was if it was in a longer format, and more things were fleshed out.
Great paranormal romance from this new-to-me Author.
3.5Stars
*I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book provided by the publisher.*
June 5, 2017
Sonya is a med student and has been dating Raul for a couple of weeks. One night as she's kissing him goodnight at the door, he bites her. Ty, our hero, chases Raul away, but he is captured by someone else. Sonya goes back to her apartment and passes out for two days. Raul sends her a letter saying she's special and Loki will look after her, just like Sonya's father said.
The people who captured Ty are the council of the werewolf packs. They appoint him to be Sonya's kennari, which is someone who helps the newly bitten go through their transition. If a newly bitten werewolf doesn't learn to control their emotions they can go insane and have to be put down. When Ty gets back to Sonya she has already started to sprout fangs and she's more than ready to find out what is happening to her.
As Sonya and Ty are driving to Ty's house, they are stopped by men from Raul's pack. Raul was supposed to have an arranged marriage with another pack and he didn't want to follow through with it. Now, he feels that Sonya is his and her Kennari should come from his pack.
Sonya spends about three weeks at Ty's house as he trains her and explains werewolf culture. They are so crazy attracted to each other that I'm amazed they were able to speak in complete sentences. The mega attraction was definitely over the top, but I appreciated that they didn't fall into bed immediately.
This was a good book although I never really connected with the characters. I think too much time was wasted with Sonya or Ty going on about sexy/distracting the other one is. Ty and Sonya would have been better with more introspection or anything else that would have resulted in character depth. I really liked the idea of starting with a person who has just been bitten and following them through their transition. While the book dragged in the middle a bit, it was interesting.
The people who captured Ty are the council of the werewolf packs. They appoint him to be Sonya's kennari, which is someone who helps the newly bitten go through their transition. If a newly bitten werewolf doesn't learn to control their emotions they can go insane and have to be put down. When Ty gets back to Sonya she has already started to sprout fangs and she's more than ready to find out what is happening to her.
As Sonya and Ty are driving to Ty's house, they are stopped by men from Raul's pack. Raul was supposed to have an arranged marriage with another pack and he didn't want to follow through with it. Now, he feels that Sonya is his and her Kennari should come from his pack.
Sonya spends about three weeks at Ty's house as he trains her and explains werewolf culture. They are so crazy attracted to each other that I'm amazed they were able to speak in complete sentences. The mega attraction was definitely over the top, but I appreciated that they didn't fall into bed immediately.
This was a good book although I never really connected with the characters. I think too much time was wasted with Sonya or Ty going on about sexy/distracting the other one is. Ty and Sonya would have been better with more introspection or anything else that would have resulted in character depth. I really liked the idea of starting with a person who has just been bitten and following them through their transition. While the book dragged in the middle a bit, it was interesting.
March 21, 2017
2.5 stars
It was ok. There were things I liked, things I didn't.
The author portrayed the whole "shifter" thing in a pretty unique way. Sonya got bitten right at the beginning of the book which started her change. The way werewolves shifted, how the transformation happened, and how they lived (pretty much totally normal "people"), were a bit of a different twist. They never thought of their "wolves" as a separate identity like you usually see. They were pretty much just people who could turn into a wolf. Not two entities in one. There was not the typical "I smelled you and know you are my mate immediately" kind of thing. They just dated like a regular couple. Ty was not your typical shifter either. He was pretty much always calm and centered, a really nice guy, had control of himself, was always totally honest about everything, and liked Sonya but never had the "you are MINE" mentality. Unfortunately, he was kind of dull and boring. He was definitely the zen-ist werewolf I've ever read about. And I absolutely hated that he didn't use contractions. I know it was intentional and even explained in the book. Doesn't make it less annoying.
I liked that Sonya could take care of herself. I always like a strong heroine. I didn't really feel the connection between her and Ty as much as I wanted to although I do appreciate that it wasn't a love at first sight situation. I just wasn't that invested in them.
The plot, or the idea of the plot, was good and the book was well written but I just felt like it dragged on. There really wasn't much going on at all until the last 5-10% of the book or so. I wish some of that action and element of danger had been present throughout the book and that the pace would have been quicker.
Side characters were only briefly portrayed. Not quite enough to get a handle on them but Lars and Ayra are two characters that seem like they will be interesting. I might give the next book a try and see what unfolds.
I received this book from netgalley in exchange for an honest review
It was ok. There were things I liked, things I didn't.
The author portrayed the whole "shifter" thing in a pretty unique way. Sonya got bitten right at the beginning of the book which started her change. The way werewolves shifted, how the transformation happened, and how they lived (pretty much totally normal "people"), were a bit of a different twist. They never thought of their "wolves" as a separate identity like you usually see. They were pretty much just people who could turn into a wolf. Not two entities in one. There was not the typical "I smelled you and know you are my mate immediately" kind of thing. They just dated like a regular couple. Ty was not your typical shifter either. He was pretty much always calm and centered, a really nice guy, had control of himself, was always totally honest about everything, and liked Sonya but never had the "you are MINE" mentality. Unfortunately, he was kind of dull and boring. He was definitely the zen-ist werewolf I've ever read about. And I absolutely hated that he didn't use contractions. I know it was intentional and even explained in the book. Doesn't make it less annoying.
I liked that Sonya could take care of herself. I always like a strong heroine. I didn't really feel the connection between her and Ty as much as I wanted to although I do appreciate that it wasn't a love at first sight situation. I just wasn't that invested in them.
The plot, or the idea of the plot, was good and the book was well written but I just felt like it dragged on. There really wasn't much going on at all until the last 5-10% of the book or so. I wish some of that action and element of danger had been present throughout the book and that the pace would have been quicker.
Side characters were only briefly portrayed. Not quite enough to get a handle on them but Lars and Ayra are two characters that seem like they will be interesting. I might give the next book a try and see what unfolds.
I received this book from netgalley in exchange for an honest review
April 27, 2017
It had been a minute since I had been in this genre with this little gem drawing my attention. This was also first time for me reading this author. The female lead in this was once going in one direction but when Sonya gets a encounter of a furry kind which will change it all for her. Ty the male lead will have it hard with a challenge. Not that he can't teach but resist is something else. You will get caught up in the drama that unfolds. This is also first in a series and love when I catch the beginnings. This one gives you great background which enables you to really enter in this world and love it. With different kinds of elements this one is a winner. The chemistry in turn ensures you too have to see how this turns out. She will have me coming back to another one from this series.
April 20, 2017
Sonya is just a student working her way through med school as a waitress. A man who has been chatting her up for a while tries to take things further than she wants. The result of that night will change her forever.
Werewolf Ty gets picked up by the authorities along with the ones he is fighting. He will then get a task that will test his control to the limit.
If our heroine is to survive she must learn to control her new abilities. Her teacher is proving quite the distraction. They must find out why so many wolves are after her.
This is the beginning of a new series, and stars Viking werewolves. What could be sexier? The characters have lots of depth to them and are strong, sexy and fun. A fabulous story line full of magic and danger that I was pulled into from the first page. I can't wait to read more of this series. I loved it.
Werewolf Ty gets picked up by the authorities along with the ones he is fighting. He will then get a task that will test his control to the limit.
If our heroine is to survive she must learn to control her new abilities. Her teacher is proving quite the distraction. They must find out why so many wolves are after her.
This is the beginning of a new series, and stars Viking werewolves. What could be sexier? The characters have lots of depth to them and are strong, sexy and fun. A fabulous story line full of magic and danger that I was pulled into from the first page. I can't wait to read more of this series. I loved it.
March 24, 2017
3.5 Stars Once Bitten is the first book in The Wolves of Hemlock Hollow and the first book I have read by Heather McCorkle. I enjoyed this story and loved the Norse aspect. I look forward to seeing what the author brings us next
March 14, 2017
I love the paranormal genre and found this title while browsing on Netgalley. Heather McCorkle is new to me and after reading the blub thought I'd give it a try. This book started out at a furious pace and stayed that way through the whole book. At times I was a bit lost but I was also really intrigued. The story itself isn't a new one but I was pleasantly surprised at the new and bold ideas of how "becoming" happens. I am always looking for a HEA and this one delivers with a climactic showdown. From the first page you meet the hero and heroine and the story takes off from there. I liked the direction the story took but I think it got a little bogged down in the details towards the middle and then picked up again at the end. I would definitely recommend this book as a pleasurable read and would also try other titles by this author.
April 24, 2017
This was an interesting take on werewolves, one I haven't read before....but it's a lot to take in. There's lore, and characters and a whole lot more that goes into this story. I must admit that I didn't feel the chemistry between the leads like I probably should have and the complicated lore was somewhat distracting from Sonya's journey for me. I'm not sure if I'll pick up the next in this series, as I am assuming we will get a story on Ayra. I had to force myself though this book as it drug in several places.
This was a complimentary advanced reader copy from the author/publisher in exchange for a honest review via Netgalley.
This was a complimentary advanced reader copy from the author/publisher in exchange for a honest review via Netgalley.
April 28, 2017
**3.5 Stars**
My what large teeth you have. The better to bite you with, you naive girl. What started as an intense make-out session for Sonya, a medical student, soon turned painful, and not the good kind at all. Nothing like seeing your blood on someone's teeth to completely ruin the mood.
"I'm sorry it had to be like this. I didn't want it to, I swear." -- Raul
Thankfully, help arrives, but not before Raul promises he'll see her soon. Her rescuer, assuring her he can take care of himself, hurriedly takes off in pursuit of her attacker, after ensuring she's inside safely. Unfortunately, while trying to clean the wounds, Sonya blacks out.
Ty is determined to Raul. Yes, Ty knows who he's chasing, and Raul just bit a woman in Ty's territory, breaking an ancient law of their kind. Though he catches up to him, a disagreement regarding Raul's actions and the consequences ensues, but when others arrive, some on Raul's side, others not, Ty is so taken with the assumption he's a bad guy as well.
Two days later, Sonya wakes, knowing something is different, but hides from her new reality and convinces herself it's a result from Raul drugging her.
After Ty is deemed innocent by the council, of which is his ex-girlfriend is a member, he requests to be Sonya's kennari, her teacher, fitting as he's a professor, so to speak, during the "becoming." Not only will she recognize him as he tried to help her, but there's just something about her that pulls him in. He wants to, needs to, be a part of her change.
When Ty and Sonya officially meet for the first time, the mutual attraction is intense, though both do their best not to let it show. Ty begins asking questions, trying to determine the exact sequence of events from that night, then explains her new way of life.
As the two spend a lot of time in close proximity during Sonya's training, the yearning between them us growing more difficult to resist. But, to act on it would break yet another ancient law, the one forbidding kennari to romantically become involved with their nemi (student). If he can withstand the temptation until her "schooling" was over, they can see where their connection leads. Besides, they have their hands full now with Sonya learning about her new abilities, how to control herself from shifting too soon, hoping she survives the change, and avoiding those trying to claim her for Raul or their own pack.
"We are worth the wait, you are worth the wait." - Ty
Why did Raul choose Sonya? Does it have something to do with her birthmark that resembles a ruin? Is there something to the stories her Dad shared with her of his Swedish ancestry? What of her mother's people, the Cherokee? Will Sonya survive her first shift? How long can Ty and Sonya resist one another? Will they act upon their chemistry, regardless of the potential consequences? Is it real, or only due to the circumstances? Is there a HEA for Ty and Sonya?
One-click now and meet this couple as they navigate not only a new world for one, but also a new future for them both.
**I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
My what large teeth you have. The better to bite you with, you naive girl. What started as an intense make-out session for Sonya, a medical student, soon turned painful, and not the good kind at all. Nothing like seeing your blood on someone's teeth to completely ruin the mood.
"I'm sorry it had to be like this. I didn't want it to, I swear." -- Raul
Thankfully, help arrives, but not before Raul promises he'll see her soon. Her rescuer, assuring her he can take care of himself, hurriedly takes off in pursuit of her attacker, after ensuring she's inside safely. Unfortunately, while trying to clean the wounds, Sonya blacks out.
Ty is determined to Raul. Yes, Ty knows who he's chasing, and Raul just bit a woman in Ty's territory, breaking an ancient law of their kind. Though he catches up to him, a disagreement regarding Raul's actions and the consequences ensues, but when others arrive, some on Raul's side, others not, Ty is so taken with the assumption he's a bad guy as well.
Two days later, Sonya wakes, knowing something is different, but hides from her new reality and convinces herself it's a result from Raul drugging her.
After Ty is deemed innocent by the council, of which is his ex-girlfriend is a member, he requests to be Sonya's kennari, her teacher, fitting as he's a professor, so to speak, during the "becoming." Not only will she recognize him as he tried to help her, but there's just something about her that pulls him in. He wants to, needs to, be a part of her change.
When Ty and Sonya officially meet for the first time, the mutual attraction is intense, though both do their best not to let it show. Ty begins asking questions, trying to determine the exact sequence of events from that night, then explains her new way of life.
As the two spend a lot of time in close proximity during Sonya's training, the yearning between them us growing more difficult to resist. But, to act on it would break yet another ancient law, the one forbidding kennari to romantically become involved with their nemi (student). If he can withstand the temptation until her "schooling" was over, they can see where their connection leads. Besides, they have their hands full now with Sonya learning about her new abilities, how to control herself from shifting too soon, hoping she survives the change, and avoiding those trying to claim her for Raul or their own pack.
"We are worth the wait, you are worth the wait." - Ty
Why did Raul choose Sonya? Does it have something to do with her birthmark that resembles a ruin? Is there something to the stories her Dad shared with her of his Swedish ancestry? What of her mother's people, the Cherokee? Will Sonya survive her first shift? How long can Ty and Sonya resist one another? Will they act upon their chemistry, regardless of the potential consequences? Is it real, or only due to the circumstances? Is there a HEA for Ty and Sonya?
One-click now and meet this couple as they navigate not only a new world for one, but also a new future for them both.
**I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
April 30, 2017
Sonya was making out with a man- Raul - she had met two weeks ago. They were in the alley as she wouldn’t let him in her apartment. The alley was in front of her low income apartment. Sonya didn’t see fate coming for her. Then Raul bit down and locked onto her neck drinking her blood. Then his fangs went back up into his mouth. Then Raul told her he was sorry it had to be this way. There had been a car with the headlights then Raul took off running a man with cold blue eyes and golden hair named Ty. Ty came and told her she should go inside and lock her door and he would go after Raul. Then she warned Ty to be careful and Raul was dangerous and the man said so was he. Sonya was six years into her medical degree Sonya also worked full time at the bar while going to school. Ty caught Raul and said you bit a woman and The Council will have your hide for that. While at the bar Sonya found out she was fired but she had been unconscious for two days. Then she got mad at the owner and discovered she had two sets of fangs two sets on top and two sets on bottom. Then she found a letter from Raul saying to come look for him if she wanted her questions answered about what she was becoming Then Sonya remembered her dad once told her that she was special chosen by Loki and someday it would all make sense Ty Vioarrrson had been captured as a horse tranquilizer had brought him down. Then the police officer declared Ty was free to go. He requested to be Sonya’s Kennari He said he had tried to save Sonya and she probably already had some trust for him. But even though she pulled something in Ty if he became her Kennari he had to keep his emotional feelings distance from her the code demanded it. At least she would be safe in his care and he would not allow Raul near her again. One of the six that were part of The Council was Raul’s parent and another was the parent of the girl Raul was engaged to. Ty said neither party’s Kennari would be impartial. This woman deserved the right to be brought through the Veroa by someone by someone without an agenda. It was the law. The six people were The Council. She had just driven three states and six hours. She recognized him immediately when he stepped in front of her. A thrill ran through her. He told her his name was Ty and he was a professor. Then as Sonya asked ty what Raul had did to her she teared up he pulled her in hug her. Somehow Ty put Sonya at ease in a way no one had before him. Sonya’s dad had told her tales of Viking werewolves her whole childhood.
I liked this story a lot. At times I felt bad that Sonya was alone even if she had a busy life between work and school. At times I chuckled and that is always good. I thought this had a good plot. It was fast paced and had a lot of turns and twists to this story. There was a lot in this story. There was a lot in this story: werewolves, heat, action, drama, Norse lore and mythology, drama, romance, a bite, people trying to take Sonya, a lone wolf, sexual tension, danger, suspense, mystery, adventure, and a lot more. I did however get a little lost at times. But I still kept going and really enjoyed the story. I loved the characters and I recommend.
I liked this story a lot. At times I felt bad that Sonya was alone even if she had a busy life between work and school. At times I chuckled and that is always good. I thought this had a good plot. It was fast paced and had a lot of turns and twists to this story. There was a lot in this story. There was a lot in this story: werewolves, heat, action, drama, Norse lore and mythology, drama, romance, a bite, people trying to take Sonya, a lone wolf, sexual tension, danger, suspense, mystery, adventure, and a lot more. I did however get a little lost at times. But I still kept going and really enjoyed the story. I loved the characters and I recommend.
May 1, 2017
'Once Bitten' by Heather McCorkle is book One in "The Wolves of Hemlock Hollow" series & this is Sonya and Ty’s story. Sonya is tough, alone and studying to be a doctor. She meets Raul who she thinks is ok and after a date they start to make out when he ups an bites her hard which is how she gets infected. Sonya is hurt when Ty comes upon them and chases Raul away. Ty ends up being the one to help Sonya thru her change but Sonya doesn’t know what to believe or do. Ty usually is unflappable in these situations but something about Sonya calls to him. Ty finds He wants to and will protect her and be there for her as long as she will have him.
There is a lot of heat, romance, mystery and suspense along with the paranormal aspect and a dash of Norse mythology in this book. I did like this book and look forward to more in this upcoming series.
My rating: 4.0 stars ****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
March 12, 2017
Ty really appreciates his woman, "my tongue slid out and ran along my upper lip, dipping between my fangs. “Dang, woman, you look fine.” I shook my head, grabbed the towel off the leather chaise, and held it out to her. “As much as I would love to spend the entire day making love to you, I have to go to the police station. How do you feel about a ride in my Porsche?” I liked this book, Ty was patient, kind and protective.
May 1, 2017
Grabbed my attention
This book grabbed my attention from the beginning and never let go. I'm not a big fan of paranormal romance but Sonya and Ty intrigued me early on and I couldn't put it down. I look forward to more adventures in Hemlock Hollow.
This book grabbed my attention from the beginning and never let go. I'm not a big fan of paranormal romance but Sonya and Ty intrigued me early on and I couldn't put it down. I look forward to more adventures in Hemlock Hollow.
May 8, 2017
Love how the book incorporated Icelandic which really does make this paranormal world more real. Their lust is subtle but constant and I loveeeeed how perfect developed Ty was as a character!
March 21, 2017
I received this book from net galley for an honest review. Thank you!!
This novel involves Norse mythology, based on Loki and that the werewolves are descended from Fenir, Loki's son. There is also some romance and action. This novel contains first person points of view from Sonya and Ty, but more from Sonya's perspective.
Sonya is a med student who gets bitten by Raul, a man whom she was seeing. She does not know what this means. Ty finds Sonya and becomes her kennari, to help prepare her for her shift into wolf form on the full moon, which includes controlling her emotions. Ty is a lone wolf and there is a reason for this, which he explains to Sonya after someone tells her to ask him about it. Ty is a history teacher at the university and since he is not allied with any pack, he felt he was the best person to teach Sonya. However, the three packs are still after Sonya, but she has no idea why they want her. As Sonya and Ty begin to train, they also have to keep fighting their attraction for each other since it is forbidden for a teacher student relationship. However, there are still werewolves out there who want to disrupt their plans. When Sonya and Ty discover people being bitten without their permission, it adds another layer of mystery onto their plates. Will Sonya be able to shift without going mad? Will Sonya and Ty be able to be together and can they stop all the trouble that is brewing?
This novel involves Norse mythology, based on Loki and that the werewolves are descended from Fenir, Loki's son. There is also some romance and action. This novel contains first person points of view from Sonya and Ty, but more from Sonya's perspective.
Sonya is a med student who gets bitten by Raul, a man whom she was seeing. She does not know what this means. Ty finds Sonya and becomes her kennari, to help prepare her for her shift into wolf form on the full moon, which includes controlling her emotions. Ty is a lone wolf and there is a reason for this, which he explains to Sonya after someone tells her to ask him about it. Ty is a history teacher at the university and since he is not allied with any pack, he felt he was the best person to teach Sonya. However, the three packs are still after Sonya, but she has no idea why they want her. As Sonya and Ty begin to train, they also have to keep fighting their attraction for each other since it is forbidden for a teacher student relationship. However, there are still werewolves out there who want to disrupt their plans. When Sonya and Ty discover people being bitten without their permission, it adds another layer of mystery onto their plates. Will Sonya be able to shift without going mad? Will Sonya and Ty be able to be together and can they stop all the trouble that is brewing?
May 9, 2017
From the book's description, this story looked really promising. But once I started reading, it just didn't hold my attention. I didn't really even like the main character, and the secondaries (including the hero) were either too familiar or too mysterious, and unbelievable across the board. I made it to about 20% before I stopped reading. YMMV.
January 17, 2024
Nearly DNF! I liked the beginning of the story, however, the body consisted mainly of inner dialogue, until finally we got to the last 20% when there was finally some story progression. Annoying to say the least.
April 7, 2018
I like the fact that she wasn't all freaked out and did stupid stuff
November 19, 2018
3.5 stars
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