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Cougarville #3
Stone Cold Fox
Cougarville's mechanic, and resident Alpha fox, shelters a mysterious woman who ignites his protective animal instincts when evil forces try to tear them apart.
Jo Ferrell has been cast out of her home for reasons she doesn’t understand. The grey streak in her hair is gone, her body is younger, and there’s an ominous shadow chasing her. With nowhere else to go, Jo finds shelter in a shed whose owner she wants nothing to do with—but he’s too much to resist.
Reese Cooper has never felt a pull towards a woman like he does towards Jo and his Fox is desperate to claim her as their mate. After offering her a place to stay, Reese finds it difficult to resist his beautiful new roommate. But when dark magic threatens their happiness, Reese will use all of his strength to protect the woman he loves…if he’s not too late.
Stone Cold Fox is a fun, sexy, exciting read from Evangeline Anderson that will make readers want to revisit Cougarville again and again.
*Author's Though I have tried to handle the subject sensitively, certain events in this book may make anyone with a history of past abuse upset. Please read responsibly.*
Jo Ferrell has been cast out of her home for reasons she doesn’t understand. The grey streak in her hair is gone, her body is younger, and there’s an ominous shadow chasing her. With nowhere else to go, Jo finds shelter in a shed whose owner she wants nothing to do with—but he’s too much to resist.
Reese Cooper has never felt a pull towards a woman like he does towards Jo and his Fox is desperate to claim her as their mate. After offering her a place to stay, Reese finds it difficult to resist his beautiful new roommate. But when dark magic threatens their happiness, Reese will use all of his strength to protect the woman he loves…if he’s not too late.
Stone Cold Fox is a fun, sexy, exciting read from Evangeline Anderson that will make readers want to revisit Cougarville again and again.
*Author's Though I have tried to handle the subject sensitively, certain events in this book may make anyone with a history of past abuse upset. Please read responsibly.*
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2017
79 people are currently reading
375 people want to read
About the author
Evangeline Anderson
300 books5,057 followersEvangeline Anderson is a registered MRI tech who would rather be writing. And yes, she is nerdy enough to have a bumper sticker that says “I’d rather be writing.” Honk if you see her! She is thirty-something and lives in Florida with a husband, a son, and two cats. She had been writing erotic fiction for her own gratification for a number of years before it occurred to her to try and get paid for it. To her delight, she found that it was actually possible to get money for having a dirty mind and she has been writing paranormal and Sci-fi erotica steadily ever since.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
October 2, 2017
Reese and Jo
So, in this story we will have again an older woman that rejuvenates and becomes the potential mate of a much younger Cougarville shifter.
The new elements in this book are:
1. The fact that Jo is a Hearth witch. Thus, witches are introduced in the series.
2. Huge wolflike creatures play a part in the story. Thus, I can imagine that one if the next stories will be about their Alpha , Jase. Yes, I am looking forward to it because I love wolf shifters!
3. A potential important enemy is introduced. A Skin Walker, i.e. A human that becomes animal with magic.
I don’t find easily fox shifters in literature, so I was very happy with this story.
Other than that, the book was definitely not as funny as the first book and also it was much darker than the first two books. It was really heartbreaking and the readers will almost immediately realize that Jo has been abused when she was younger. As a result she does not trust easily and Reese will have a hard time trying to prove to her that he only wants to make her happy and safe.
If you have triggers, be warned that .
So, in this story we will have again an older woman that rejuvenates and becomes the potential mate of a much younger Cougarville shifter.
The new elements in this book are:
1. The fact that Jo is a Hearth witch. Thus, witches are introduced in the series.
2. Huge wolflike creatures play a part in the story. Thus, I can imagine that one if the next stories will be about their Alpha , Jase. Yes, I am looking forward to it because I love wolf shifters!
3. A potential important enemy is introduced. A Skin Walker, i.e. A human that becomes animal with magic.
I don’t find easily fox shifters in literature, so I was very happy with this story.
Other than that, the book was definitely not as funny as the first book and also it was much darker than the first two books. It was really heartbreaking and the readers will almost immediately realize that Jo has been abused when she was younger. As a result she does not trust easily and Reese will have a hard time trying to prove to her that he only wants to make her happy and safe.
If you have triggers, be warned that .
July 28, 2017
I like the unique concept to this shifter series and I quite enjoyed book 1, but I'm not sure this series is for me. I love the alpha shifters in these books but the heroines in book 2 and this one just pushed away too much to enjoy the book. They pushed to a point that it got way over the top. These last two books also went down a darker road than the first. I'm a bit bummed because I really like the Alpha she has planned for book 4. I'm just not a fan of the overall plot of the series. ARC provided by NetGalley.
August 1, 2017
In this book we meet Cougarville's resident Alpha fox Reece and he's no ordinary shifter as he's blessed with the ability to change his size which meant yep this big guy could do sweet and cuddly! Good thing he can because he finds a traumatised witch in his shed who is afraid of men and definitely in need of help.
Jo has no knowledge of shifters and even less of the rejuvenation that she's experienced. Cast out and suspected of dark magic she's convinced something dangerous is following her. It is and she might feel safe with Reece but is it real or all part of a spell gone awry?
I feel the first half of this book suffered a little due to Jo's manner and behaviour. Her dialogue felt stilted and well frankly juvenile ( pardon the pun). I did like that she's a hearth witch and thought crossing the two species of witch and shifter added greatly to the story.
Reece was a sweetie and no mistake. Technically a grease monkey as he's a mechanic but he wasn't an imbecile and had hidden depths. He is the second Alpha to play down his brains and accomplishments and it makes a real change from the arrogant heroes some authors throw at us.
There's a mystery to solve that is partially explained but there's definitely scope for more in this series. Sexy times don't dominate and thankfully it's not as sticky and messy as the last book. Plus if you are a lover of wolves I'm pretty sure you will enjoy meeting a certain Dire wolf!
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
Jo has no knowledge of shifters and even less of the rejuvenation that she's experienced. Cast out and suspected of dark magic she's convinced something dangerous is following her. It is and she might feel safe with Reece but is it real or all part of a spell gone awry?
I feel the first half of this book suffered a little due to Jo's manner and behaviour. Her dialogue felt stilted and well frankly juvenile ( pardon the pun). I did like that she's a hearth witch and thought crossing the two species of witch and shifter added greatly to the story.
Reece was a sweetie and no mistake. Technically a grease monkey as he's a mechanic but he wasn't an imbecile and had hidden depths. He is the second Alpha to play down his brains and accomplishments and it makes a real change from the arrogant heroes some authors throw at us.
There's a mystery to solve that is partially explained but there's definitely scope for more in this series. Sexy times don't dominate and thankfully it's not as sticky and messy as the last book. Plus if you are a lover of wolves I'm pretty sure you will enjoy meeting a certain Dire wolf!
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
September 11, 2017
When a person is abused, sometimes they turn inwards and shy away from the world. Not everyone is a survivor able to take the world back on. Jo Ferrell is a woman who was accosted as a young girl. She never got over it and used various ways to make herself forget. She finally finds a place to stay that helps her heal to some degree, she lives with witches in a coven. Happy for years, she felt she finally is in a safe place, only to be kicked out for practicing black magic. The kicker? She didn't have anything to do with black magic. She has no idea why she is suddenly looking so young.
Is this the end of the series? Because if so, I feel like Ms. Anderson has left me hanging in a world that could spin off more stories. In this third one, which can be read as a standalone, Jo is another woman clueless about being a juvie. She is caught up in a nefarious plot to bring more potential female mates into the world of the shifters. Lucky for Jo, her knowledge of magic plus her innate power has saved her several times. But when it comes time to find an alpha male, Jo is stubbornly refusing, due to her unresolved trauma from her past.
Jo is a character I am not sure I like. This is because I can not relate to her. Her victim mentality doesn't work for me. Yes, I get that she was sexually abused when she was young. Some of us who have similar experiences, have moved on and not let that one moment in time define who we are for the rest of our lives. Jo let it define her entire life for decades. It isn't that I look down upon her. It is more that I can't understand letting someone else screw up my life and letting the "bad guy" win. Perhaps I am too much of a stick it to them type of person. I understand there are people like Jo in the world. I'm just not too enamoured of them. Regardless, Reese is very much attracted to Jo. He is a guy who has the utmost patience. He gently woos Jo. He doesn't press her. He is in a word - unrealistic. Seriously, is there any guy in the real world like Reese who would take on so much of Jo's baggage? A hot guy who has it together? Probably not. But this is what makes the story a fairy tale. A desperate modest unknowing powerful female needs a white knight to save her from… well, everything. If I come across a bit sarcastic, it is probably because this type of trope doesn't work for me.
Regardless of my lack of love for Jo and disbelief in Reese, I did enjoy the story. The plot moved along a thread that showed up in the second book. It also revealed a bit more into the history of one of the secondary characters I really liked. My favourite part is Reese's shifter fox. I loved his little baby like fox and also his ferocious one. Jo's issue with all of Reese was another negative about her for me. Still, this is a lovely shifter world with potential to grow into more. The story is well written and transports a reader into a lovely fantasy. Recommended for paranormal readers who enjoy white knights saving their damsel in distress.
*provided by NetGalley
Is this the end of the series? Because if so, I feel like Ms. Anderson has left me hanging in a world that could spin off more stories. In this third one, which can be read as a standalone, Jo is another woman clueless about being a juvie. She is caught up in a nefarious plot to bring more potential female mates into the world of the shifters. Lucky for Jo, her knowledge of magic plus her innate power has saved her several times. But when it comes time to find an alpha male, Jo is stubbornly refusing, due to her unresolved trauma from her past.
Jo is a character I am not sure I like. This is because I can not relate to her. Her victim mentality doesn't work for me. Yes, I get that she was sexually abused when she was young. Some of us who have similar experiences, have moved on and not let that one moment in time define who we are for the rest of our lives. Jo let it define her entire life for decades. It isn't that I look down upon her. It is more that I can't understand letting someone else screw up my life and letting the "bad guy" win. Perhaps I am too much of a stick it to them type of person. I understand there are people like Jo in the world. I'm just not too enamoured of them. Regardless, Reese is very much attracted to Jo. He is a guy who has the utmost patience. He gently woos Jo. He doesn't press her. He is in a word - unrealistic. Seriously, is there any guy in the real world like Reese who would take on so much of Jo's baggage? A hot guy who has it together? Probably not. But this is what makes the story a fairy tale. A desperate modest unknowing powerful female needs a white knight to save her from… well, everything. If I come across a bit sarcastic, it is probably because this type of trope doesn't work for me.
Regardless of my lack of love for Jo and disbelief in Reese, I did enjoy the story. The plot moved along a thread that showed up in the second book. It also revealed a bit more into the history of one of the secondary characters I really liked. My favourite part is Reese's shifter fox. I loved his little baby like fox and also his ferocious one. Jo's issue with all of Reese was another negative about her for me. Still, this is a lovely shifter world with potential to grow into more. The story is well written and transports a reader into a lovely fantasy. Recommended for paranormal readers who enjoy white knights saving their damsel in distress.
*provided by NetGalley
August 1, 2017
'Stone Cold Fox' by Evangeline Anderson is Book Three in the "Cougarville" series.
I have read the other books in this series bu feel this is easily a standalone book.
This is the story of Jo Ferrel and Reese Cooper.
Jo is a witch that her and her fellow witches only practice White Magic. Unknown to Jo and the other, Jo has started a rejuvenation process which some women when they reach a certain age go through. The process set in motion the women looking and feeling way younger than her actual age..with a few other side effects. Since her fellow witches didn't know anything about this process they accused Jo of doing black magic and kicked her out of the groups. So Jo has been on her own with something that seems to be following her that she feels in threatening her. While running she comes to be in Reese shed feeling at a lost.
Reese was sort of expecting someone in his shed because of the local pharmacist / future teller who told him to go home that there would be someone there for him to meet. At first Reese's Fox was showing an emotional upset that the Jo was upset Once Reese calmed her down some and cleaned up the weeks of running from her shadow... he himself is lost. Reese only want's to keep her safe and to claim her.
Hot Paranormal story that I enjoyed.
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
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I have read the other books in this series bu feel this is easily a standalone book.
This is the story of Jo Ferrel and Reese Cooper.
Jo is a witch that her and her fellow witches only practice White Magic. Unknown to Jo and the other, Jo has started a rejuvenation process which some women when they reach a certain age go through. The process set in motion the women looking and feeling way younger than her actual age..with a few other side effects. Since her fellow witches didn't know anything about this process they accused Jo of doing black magic and kicked her out of the groups. So Jo has been on her own with something that seems to be following her that she feels in threatening her. While running she comes to be in Reese shed feeling at a lost.
Reese was sort of expecting someone in his shed because of the local pharmacist / future teller who told him to go home that there would be someone there for him to meet. At first Reese's Fox was showing an emotional upset that the Jo was upset Once Reese calmed her down some and cleaned up the weeks of running from her shadow... he himself is lost. Reese only want's to keep her safe and to claim her.
Hot Paranormal story that I enjoyed.
"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://twitter.com/soapsrus68
https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR...
http://sissymaereads.blogspot.com/
http://booklikes.com/blog
https://romancebookreviewforyou.wordp...
https://www.tumblr.com/blog/romancebo...
July 24, 2017
I received a copy of this title to read and review for Wicked Reads
3 stars
When Jo began the rejuvenation process, her fellow witches noticed, and thought her to be practicing 'black magic'. She was excommunicated from the coven, and set adrift. Being herded through the woods, Jo makes her way to Reese's property.
Reese is Cougarville's resident mechanic and one and only Fox shifter. He's a sweet, caring man, willing to literally give the shirt off his back to help anyone.
This is the recipe of a hot and steamy, yummy read, right?
I'm truly struggling with this story, and I adore both this series and author. It isn't so much the story itself, but Jo. While her tragic background, witchcraft, and the shadowy thing in the woods were the perfect vehicle to propel her into Reese's orbit, her actual characterization is a struggle to get through.
This is my issue in a nutshell, and I need to be completely blunt. At 40+ years of living experience, 20+ in a normal home life, even with higher education, and then 20 years in a 'yoga' community, where they visited the real world weekly, Jo sounds mentally and emotionally incompetent. It goes beyond naivety, being sheltered, or dealing with traumatic experiences. Her wooden, short sentences of inner monologue have her sounding childlike (not childish, but in actuality the mental capacity of a child).
"Get back you... you man!" (This makes Jo sound like she was raised in the woods for 40 years of her life and never around civilization) This evens out after a few chapters, but it made the first few chapters feel choppy. Then, come to realize, while Jo may have been in an all-female yoga community, she ventured into town and no doubt didn't go around pointing at every male on the street, "You man!"
At first, Jo first sounded as if she wouldn't be able to hold a conversation, go out into public, or speak anything but monosyllables. With her stilted speech and inner monologue, it was difficult for me to enjoy the erotic and romantic aspects of the novel, as if she was physically unable to consent. So reading Reese coax Jo made it feel as if he was a predator doing anything he could to get 'inside' her, added on top of that the 'mating', the spell, and the magic of it all.
As a witch, who must believe in otherworldly things, she was so blankly in denial about anything dealing with herself, it was beyond frustrating to read. While I realize this was to slow the pacing of the storyline, so that there was a reason for it being more than a short story, it made Jo seem unable to consent to anything.
*"It must be the spell" but she felt that way prior to finding Reese.
*"I'm not a Juvie" yet she was excommunicated for looking younger, & she herself never once contemplated 'why' she looked 20 years younger. (Who in their right mind wouldn't wonder HOW/WHY they look 20 years younger, and when told why, would completely disregard it but not offer a viable reason?) She conducts witchcraft, never questions why she looks younger, yet doesn't believe the logical explanation as to the why of it.
*What rational 40+ yo woman would waste her last few dollars to buy coffee/tea when her companion tells her expressly not to enter the coffee shop. She's scared, has no money and no job, is living off the generosity of others, and just had breakfast, but she needs tea NOW. She does it anyway, of course... pandemonium ensues.
*When Jo ventured into the woods, I was literally done but forced myself to keep reading.
*Jo & Reese never once was curious as to who the man was in the woods, didn't even discuss his physical features. Instead of protecting themselves and figuring out what was wrong, they did a sex 'ritual'. As I said, Jo bought that, sex with the trappings of it being a ritual, because she is not mentally competent enough to consent.
*"I won't break my vow" but she kept having no issue with Reese touching her (any sexual contact would be the breaking of a vow, not just penetrative sex)
While I enjoyed the premise, Reese, the cast of characters, and the world-building, the childlike way Jo was written, compounded with the forced feeling to her ignorance, made it impossible for me to enjoy the story.
Another issue was how quickly ILYs were said. I realize this is a mating story, which I do find as a guilty pleasure, but Reese's Fox was thinking ILYs within 'seconds' of meeting Jo. There is attraction, lust, infatuation, but love takes familiarity to build. I do this in my writing, and I implore others to do so- writers, ask your character why they are saying they love the other character. WHY do they love them? If the answer is physical, it's not love. Reese knew nothing of Jo to love yet. Reese wanted Jo, needed Jo, but he didn't love her.
3 stars
When Jo began the rejuvenation process, her fellow witches noticed, and thought her to be practicing 'black magic'. She was excommunicated from the coven, and set adrift. Being herded through the woods, Jo makes her way to Reese's property.
Reese is Cougarville's resident mechanic and one and only Fox shifter. He's a sweet, caring man, willing to literally give the shirt off his back to help anyone.
This is the recipe of a hot and steamy, yummy read, right?
I'm truly struggling with this story, and I adore both this series and author. It isn't so much the story itself, but Jo. While her tragic background, witchcraft, and the shadowy thing in the woods were the perfect vehicle to propel her into Reese's orbit, her actual characterization is a struggle to get through.
This is my issue in a nutshell, and I need to be completely blunt. At 40+ years of living experience, 20+ in a normal home life, even with higher education, and then 20 years in a 'yoga' community, where they visited the real world weekly, Jo sounds mentally and emotionally incompetent. It goes beyond naivety, being sheltered, or dealing with traumatic experiences. Her wooden, short sentences of inner monologue have her sounding childlike (not childish, but in actuality the mental capacity of a child).
"Get back you... you man!" (This makes Jo sound like she was raised in the woods for 40 years of her life and never around civilization) This evens out after a few chapters, but it made the first few chapters feel choppy. Then, come to realize, while Jo may have been in an all-female yoga community, she ventured into town and no doubt didn't go around pointing at every male on the street, "You man!"
At first, Jo first sounded as if she wouldn't be able to hold a conversation, go out into public, or speak anything but monosyllables. With her stilted speech and inner monologue, it was difficult for me to enjoy the erotic and romantic aspects of the novel, as if she was physically unable to consent. So reading Reese coax Jo made it feel as if he was a predator doing anything he could to get 'inside' her, added on top of that the 'mating', the spell, and the magic of it all.
As a witch, who must believe in otherworldly things, she was so blankly in denial about anything dealing with herself, it was beyond frustrating to read. While I realize this was to slow the pacing of the storyline, so that there was a reason for it being more than a short story, it made Jo seem unable to consent to anything.
*"It must be the spell" but she felt that way prior to finding Reese.
*"I'm not a Juvie" yet she was excommunicated for looking younger, & she herself never once contemplated 'why' she looked 20 years younger. (Who in their right mind wouldn't wonder HOW/WHY they look 20 years younger, and when told why, would completely disregard it but not offer a viable reason?) She conducts witchcraft, never questions why she looks younger, yet doesn't believe the logical explanation as to the why of it.
*What rational 40+ yo woman would waste her last few dollars to buy coffee/tea when her companion tells her expressly not to enter the coffee shop. She's scared, has no money and no job, is living off the generosity of others, and just had breakfast, but she needs tea NOW. She does it anyway, of course... pandemonium ensues.
*When Jo ventured into the woods, I was literally done but forced myself to keep reading.
*Jo & Reese never once was curious as to who the man was in the woods, didn't even discuss his physical features. Instead of protecting themselves and figuring out what was wrong, they did a sex 'ritual'. As I said, Jo bought that, sex with the trappings of it being a ritual, because she is not mentally competent enough to consent.
*"I won't break my vow" but she kept having no issue with Reese touching her (any sexual contact would be the breaking of a vow, not just penetrative sex)
While I enjoyed the premise, Reese, the cast of characters, and the world-building, the childlike way Jo was written, compounded with the forced feeling to her ignorance, made it impossible for me to enjoy the story.
Another issue was how quickly ILYs were said. I realize this is a mating story, which I do find as a guilty pleasure, but Reese's Fox was thinking ILYs within 'seconds' of meeting Jo. There is attraction, lust, infatuation, but love takes familiarity to build. I do this in my writing, and I implore others to do so- writers, ask your character why they are saying they love the other character. WHY do they love them? If the answer is physical, it's not love. Reese knew nothing of Jo to love yet. Reese wanted Jo, needed Jo, but he didn't love her.
August 3, 2017
How to begin? Well, lets start with the fact that I really like the series and the angle which the author presents the shifter world. The author incorporates a little myth and other elements that help to separate this story from the others that are out right now. To me, the difference is a big PLUS considering most shifter tales can get a little too predictable. In the case of the Cougarville series there are enough little twists and turns that will have the reader coming back to see what happens next.
The male leads ... the alphas of the series are great. All three leads in this series have been compassionate, patient and understanding. Reese Cooper the fox shifter is the most patient of them all. His character had no choice but to be patient because his counterpart (rejuvenating Jo Farrell) is very, VERY irritating. While reading, I tried to keep in mind that her character was coming from a place of hurt and fear. Jo was just so ... I don't know ... distrustful and selfish. Jo made the second heroine in this series that I didn't really care for. Secondary characters like Fiona (the apothecary) more than make up the difference and I am really excited to see more of this character and find out more of her secrets. There are other secondary characters being introduced that could possibly have their own story soon and it will be interesting to see what the author does with them.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The male leads ... the alphas of the series are great. All three leads in this series have been compassionate, patient and understanding. Reese Cooper the fox shifter is the most patient of them all. His character had no choice but to be patient because his counterpart (rejuvenating Jo Farrell) is very, VERY irritating. While reading, I tried to keep in mind that her character was coming from a place of hurt and fear. Jo was just so ... I don't know ... distrustful and selfish. Jo made the second heroine in this series that I didn't really care for. Secondary characters like Fiona (the apothecary) more than make up the difference and I am really excited to see more of this character and find out more of her secrets. There are other secondary characters being introduced that could possibly have their own story soon and it will be interesting to see what the author does with them.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 20, 2017
This book is the third in the paranormal romance series based in the shifter town of Cougarville. Here a plethora of different shifters and other paranormals live in relative harmony and it is here that women undergoing the rejuvenation process seem to find their way to. This story is definitely of a more adult nature than the previous two as it contains involves historic physical and sexual abuse warned!
Cougarville’s resident mechanic is also their only fox shifter, Reese Cooper. Whilst out in town he’s told to go home by Fiona, the town’s wise woman/apothecary/seer, and to look after the woman he’ll find hiding in his garden shed. Everyone respects Fiona and usually follow her advice. When Reese does so he discovers Jo Ferrell, a witch on the run, hiding just as Fiona had said. Reese is an alpha shifter but he's also a defender of those he loves, the kindest, patient, understanding and compassionate of them all - and he needs to be! When he realises Jo doesn't trust men he goes round a corner to shift, then attempts to let fox win her over - so sweet, but will it work? Jo has been hurt and abused in the past and is running from danger now so it won't be easy to get her to trust a man, let alone a shifter!
Reese is a character to win your heart but Jo is so traumatised she’s somewhat irritating at times. Their journey to their HEA is a real roller coaster, and it is great to catch up on some of the characters from earlier books in the series, too. This story introduced some additional secondary characters and I’ll be intrigued to discover which, if any, of these will have their own story told in later books in the series.
I requested and was given a copy of this book via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion after choosing to read it.
Cougarville’s resident mechanic is also their only fox shifter, Reese Cooper. Whilst out in town he’s told to go home by Fiona, the town’s wise woman/apothecary/seer, and to look after the woman he’ll find hiding in his garden shed. Everyone respects Fiona and usually follow her advice. When Reese does so he discovers Jo Ferrell, a witch on the run, hiding just as Fiona had said. Reese is an alpha shifter but he's also a defender of those he loves, the kindest, patient, understanding and compassionate of them all - and he needs to be! When he realises Jo doesn't trust men he goes round a corner to shift, then attempts to let fox win her over - so sweet, but will it work? Jo has been hurt and abused in the past and is running from danger now so it won't be easy to get her to trust a man, let alone a shifter!
Reese is a character to win your heart but Jo is so traumatised she’s somewhat irritating at times. Their journey to their HEA is a real roller coaster, and it is great to catch up on some of the characters from earlier books in the series, too. This story introduced some additional secondary characters and I’ll be intrigued to discover which, if any, of these will have their own story told in later books in the series.
I requested and was given a copy of this book via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion after choosing to read it.
August 14, 2017
My Thoughts - 5 out of 5 Unicorns - I loved it!!!
***I choose what I read and review based on what intrigues me!! Yes, I got a review copy of this book, but no one tells me what to think, feel, or write about any book!
This is the 3rd book in the series, and it is for adults only due to the violence and steamy content. In this book, there is the sensitive topics abduction and threat of rape. I mention it for those readers who may be affected by these topics. I also highly recommend reading the books in order because it makes it so much more together!!
This is Coop’s story, and it starts where book 2 ended with the crying girl in the his shed. Okay first off Coop is a very unique shifter which I think is very cool, but I won’t tell you how he is unique because you need to read it yourself. Jo has had some bad things happen to her in her past, and she isn’t over them. She has basically hidden herself away, but she never healed. Jo is also very unique. This world is very intriguing, and I loved every minute of it. I can’t wait for the next book which I assume with involve a certain Alpha Dire Wolf.
Evangeline makes this world come alive, and I like it more and more with each book! I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!
I highly recommend to shifter fans who want a unique story especially if you are already a fan of this series!
***I choose what I read and review based on what intrigues me!! Yes, I got a review copy of this book, but no one tells me what to think, feel, or write about any book!
This is the 3rd book in the series, and it is for adults only due to the violence and steamy content. In this book, there is the sensitive topics abduction and threat of rape. I mention it for those readers who may be affected by these topics. I also highly recommend reading the books in order because it makes it so much more together!!
This is Coop’s story, and it starts where book 2 ended with the crying girl in the his shed. Okay first off Coop is a very unique shifter which I think is very cool, but I won’t tell you how he is unique because you need to read it yourself. Jo has had some bad things happen to her in her past, and she isn’t over them. She has basically hidden herself away, but she never healed. Jo is also very unique. This world is very intriguing, and I loved every minute of it. I can’t wait for the next book which I assume with involve a certain Alpha Dire Wolf.
Evangeline makes this world come alive, and I like it more and more with each book! I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!
I highly recommend to shifter fans who want a unique story especially if you are already a fan of this series!
July 24, 2017
Stone Cold Fox (Cougarville #3) by Evangeline Anderson
3 stars
M/F Shifter Romance
Triggers: Rape, Attempted Murder, Kidnapping
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Hmmm, where to start with this review? This was the third installment in this series and I had a much more difficult time connecting with these characters than I did in the previous books.
Jo is running. What she's running from, she's not sure - she just knows that someone or something is after her and until she can figure out what, she just has to keep moving. She is also a Juvie but doesn't know about this process, so when she's cast out of her community of women, she has nobody to turn to. She has had a rough past - being a survivor of rape, she has shut herself off from men in general. So, when she's confronted by Reese, a hulking man, she's not only scared, but wary.
Reese is a good guy. He's a fox shifter who wants to protect Jo, but given her skiddish behavior, knows that he has to treat lightly. He is a mechanic by trade, but also has a broad knowledge of a lot of different topics, which just makes his more intriguing.
I think where I take issue with this story is that despite her age, being 40 years old, Jo is so naive and sheltered that she doesn't seem 40. In the previous books, the women had life experience, but used their life knowledge to learn from and grow. Jo is stagnant and isn't really capable of growth - she's stunted. The dialogue between her and Reese is also not very developed. They have very youthful interactions and it seems like a YA story rather than an adult one.
While the mystery is solved and the resolution is OK, I think that I just didn't really connect with these characters like I did with the previous books. I do hope that the next one is more developed and has more mature characters.
3 stars
M/F Shifter Romance
Triggers: Rape, Attempted Murder, Kidnapping
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Hmmm, where to start with this review? This was the third installment in this series and I had a much more difficult time connecting with these characters than I did in the previous books.
Jo is running. What she's running from, she's not sure - she just knows that someone or something is after her and until she can figure out what, she just has to keep moving. She is also a Juvie but doesn't know about this process, so when she's cast out of her community of women, she has nobody to turn to. She has had a rough past - being a survivor of rape, she has shut herself off from men in general. So, when she's confronted by Reese, a hulking man, she's not only scared, but wary.
Reese is a good guy. He's a fox shifter who wants to protect Jo, but given her skiddish behavior, knows that he has to treat lightly. He is a mechanic by trade, but also has a broad knowledge of a lot of different topics, which just makes his more intriguing.
I think where I take issue with this story is that despite her age, being 40 years old, Jo is so naive and sheltered that she doesn't seem 40. In the previous books, the women had life experience, but used their life knowledge to learn from and grow. Jo is stagnant and isn't really capable of growth - she's stunted. The dialogue between her and Reese is also not very developed. They have very youthful interactions and it seems like a YA story rather than an adult one.
While the mystery is solved and the resolution is OK, I think that I just didn't really connect with these characters like I did with the previous books. I do hope that the next one is more developed and has more mature characters.
October 7, 2019
I listened as a standalone, but I recommend reading the first in the series first. It took me a while to understand the alternate reality.
August 23, 2017
Jo Ferrell is a woman on the run and the one thing she knows is that she can never trust a man. Reese Cooper finds Jo hiding on his property and offers to assist her but knows he is going to slowly have to build her trust. Jo is a witch though and does not know about shifters and when Reese changes to his fox, he sees a different side to Jo and knows that he wants her. Someone is after Jo though and Reese will do what he can to protect, can Jo let go of what her fears are to have a chance with Reese and build any type of future?
I like this shifter series, has a different twist and each character is uniquely different. I liked Jo's story had several twists that get revealed as the story goes on. Reese I loved, he was rock solid where Jo was concerned. Anxious to see what is next in this clever series.
I like this shifter series, has a different twist and each character is uniquely different. I liked Jo's story had several twists that get revealed as the story goes on. Reese I loved, he was rock solid where Jo was concerned. Anxious to see what is next in this clever series.
August 7, 2017
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog: http://romancingthereaders.blogspot.c...
I'm happy to say that this series keeps getting better and better with each book that I read from it. I really enjoyed the first two books, they did a wonderful job of setting up the series, but I loved Stone Cold Fox!
I think it had to do with Reese. From book one I really liked him. He is one of those characters that keeps you thinking about them even when you're done with the book. From Naked Buck where he is introduced you want more of his story.
He just has that....you know, that it factor. I think of him and I sigh....
He is a all-around great guy. You won't be able to help yourself, you'll be sighing too! I think we just love nice, sexy caring guys that would stand for you no matter what! Of course we also like sexy bad boys that also stick up for us too. I think it's the sexy part that we are attracted to! ha!
Now lets not forget about Jo. I did like her too. But at times I wanted to shake her a bit. Some of her moves was pretty dumb! I found myself more then once thinking, really? Of course her dumb moves added to the story but still...
Together they are perfect with each other. Jo really needs someone like Reese in her life and Reese needs someone so he's not so alone. It just worked out perfect for the two of them that they were each others, everything.
If you haven't yet read this series and your a fan of paranormal, or would love to find that one author to try, I think you'll really enjoy this series. I've already read the first three books and all I can think about is when there will be more.
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ARC received for a honest review
I'm happy to say that this series keeps getting better and better with each book that I read from it. I really enjoyed the first two books, they did a wonderful job of setting up the series, but I loved Stone Cold Fox!
I think it had to do with Reese. From book one I really liked him. He is one of those characters that keeps you thinking about them even when you're done with the book. From Naked Buck where he is introduced you want more of his story.
He just has that....you know, that it factor. I think of him and I sigh....
He is a all-around great guy. You won't be able to help yourself, you'll be sighing too! I think we just love nice, sexy caring guys that would stand for you no matter what! Of course we also like sexy bad boys that also stick up for us too. I think it's the sexy part that we are attracted to! ha!
Now lets not forget about Jo. I did like her too. But at times I wanted to shake her a bit. Some of her moves was pretty dumb! I found myself more then once thinking, really? Of course her dumb moves added to the story but still...
Together they are perfect with each other. Jo really needs someone like Reese in her life and Reese needs someone so he's not so alone. It just worked out perfect for the two of them that they were each others, everything.
If you haven't yet read this series and your a fan of paranormal, or would love to find that one author to try, I think you'll really enjoy this series. I've already read the first three books and all I can think about is when there will be more.
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ARC received for a honest review
August 2, 2017
I am so enjoying this series. I just loved Reese. He was a fox shifter that was just perfect for Jo. He had the perfect personality and patience to help her heal and move on.
I loved that fact that the author made Jo a witch. It truly made the story truly interesting. They both served the goddess but in a different way. This was Reese’s first time meeting a witch and Jo’s first time meeting a shifter I had t wonder what was going through her mind.
Oh, I did not like Bianca. She was one evil, well you get the picture. You will have to read the book to find out what meanness she was up to.
It is always good to see some of the previous characters in each story. I have to say I just love Fiona. She truly has a gift and it makes you wonder what her whole story is.
Reese will have a ways to go before he has Jo’s trust. I love how he went about winning her.
Jo is a Juvie and is in denial about the whole thing. She is also in danger and has a past that she is having a hard time over coming. There are things that happen that Jo is having issues dealing with and Reese will have a hard time dealing his own things as well. The one thing I love is that love wins out in the end.
FYI.. looking forward to Jase’s story.
I loved that fact that the author made Jo a witch. It truly made the story truly interesting. They both served the goddess but in a different way. This was Reese’s first time meeting a witch and Jo’s first time meeting a shifter I had t wonder what was going through her mind.
Oh, I did not like Bianca. She was one evil, well you get the picture. You will have to read the book to find out what meanness she was up to.
It is always good to see some of the previous characters in each story. I have to say I just love Fiona. She truly has a gift and it makes you wonder what her whole story is.
Reese will have a ways to go before he has Jo’s trust. I love how he went about winning her.
Jo is a Juvie and is in denial about the whole thing. She is also in danger and has a past that she is having a hard time over coming. There are things that happen that Jo is having issues dealing with and Reese will have a hard time dealing his own things as well. The one thing I love is that love wins out in the end.
FYI.. looking forward to Jase’s story.
August 10, 2017
A beautifully executed story where Jo has a past history of abuse and Reese an alpha fox shifter who is caring, thoughtful and patient. The authors' sensitive handling of Jo's past will bring tears to your eyes. This book is impactful to anyone who has had abuse. It made me cry, pray she would have the courage to step into a new life and that she would allow love to consume her.
Reese was so sensitive and the perfect mate for Jo. How he handles what he finds out about her is done with tender and loving care. Don't get me wrong. This is not a weak man. In fact, the strength it took for him to not go crazy and try to take care of everything for her was amazing.
This story does have some very hot, hot scenes that will cause the reader to want to fan themselves. But of course, let's not forget the dark magic that is pure evil and gives the reader just the right amount of intrigue to keep them on the edge of their sets. Combine all the ingredients and you have a great memorable read.
I give this book 5 STARS for the outstanding execution of a difficult subject while portraying hope and love.
Received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.
Visit my blog for more reviews: Sportochick's Musings
Reese was so sensitive and the perfect mate for Jo. How he handles what he finds out about her is done with tender and loving care. Don't get me wrong. This is not a weak man. In fact, the strength it took for him to not go crazy and try to take care of everything for her was amazing.
This story does have some very hot, hot scenes that will cause the reader to want to fan themselves. But of course, let's not forget the dark magic that is pure evil and gives the reader just the right amount of intrigue to keep them on the edge of their sets. Combine all the ingredients and you have a great memorable read.
I give this book 5 STARS for the outstanding execution of a difficult subject while portraying hope and love.
Received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.
Visit my blog for more reviews: Sportochick's Musings
August 18, 2017
I’ve been trying to branch out a bit in my paranormal reading. I’m always up for a good paranormal but lately I’ve noticed I’ve sort of fallen into a paranormal reading rut where I stick to the same type of paranormal beings or the same authors. So when Stone Cold Fox by Evangeline Anderson was offered for review I snagged it because it was a new-to-me author and fox-shifters were new to me as well.
Here’s what’s going on.
Since being kicked out of her coven and home for being accused of using black magic, Jo’s been on the run and being chased by something sinister in the woods. Finding shelter in a shed, she finds herself rescued by a sexy man who happens to be a fox shifter. Although she’s attracted to him, she’s not sure if she can trust him. While Reese knows he must take it slow, his Fox has already claimed Jo as its mate. The only thing he has to do is wait until Jo finally accepts the truth about what she really is.
I’m a bit on the fence about this one. Okay, so more than a bit. I liked the premise of the story. I liked the paranormal world and lore that Anderson created. The shifters in the book come from the Paleolithic Era, so they’re not your standard shifters and I found that really intriguing. And I really liked Reese—he’s an alpha Fox shifter who will stop at nothing to protect his mate.
While I found some things intriguing, I struggled with a lot of the story.
Jo wasn’t really a heroine I could get behind. She’s forty-one but she’s overly naïve and incompetent. Yes, she’s lived in a man-free Yoga-witchy commune type of place for twenty years, but before that she lived twenty years in the real world and even went to college, so she should know how to act around people.
And it’s not just her nativity that bothers me. She was assaulted in college so now she considers all men evil creatures out to get her so when she realizes that she’s attracted to Reese, she attempts to cast an anti-love spell on him which goes awry. So now every time she get lusty towards him or vice versa, she blames the spell even though they had the feelings before the spell.
Then there’s her denial about being a ‘Juvie’ or Rejuvenated female—a woman born with the shifter gene that remains dormant until she reaches her forties or fifties. For someone born with magical powers, she spent so much time being in denial it was ridiculous.
Finally, the last straw with her was the fact she was TSTL. I mean, seriously, some creature in the woods was chasing her, but she willingly went back into the woods at night to find a flower she needed for a spell. Then she decides to give the people that accused her of using dark magic and cast her out a second chance. I spent so much time rolling my eyes and calling her an idiot, eventually, I started rooting for the thing in the woods.
Also, it irked me that no one, Reese, Jo, or any of the secondary characters, attempted to figure out what was roaming the woods. They were like, ‘oh, yeah, there’s something creepy and possibly deadly in the woods, but let’s just mention it and then do nothing about’.
The insta-lust/love didn’t bother me. It’s common in shifter books especially if it’s the fated-mate type. What did bother me was how much time Jo spent complaining about the ach between her legs, the first few time was okay but considering she went on and on about it like a broken record, it just became annoying.
Overall, this one had potential but a TSTL heroine that was also naïve and incompetent was its downfall. I’ve heard that the first two books in the series are stronger, but I’m not so sure if they’ll be on my TBR list anytime soon.
Here’s what’s going on.
Since being kicked out of her coven and home for being accused of using black magic, Jo’s been on the run and being chased by something sinister in the woods. Finding shelter in a shed, she finds herself rescued by a sexy man who happens to be a fox shifter. Although she’s attracted to him, she’s not sure if she can trust him. While Reese knows he must take it slow, his Fox has already claimed Jo as its mate. The only thing he has to do is wait until Jo finally accepts the truth about what she really is.
I’m a bit on the fence about this one. Okay, so more than a bit. I liked the premise of the story. I liked the paranormal world and lore that Anderson created. The shifters in the book come from the Paleolithic Era, so they’re not your standard shifters and I found that really intriguing. And I really liked Reese—he’s an alpha Fox shifter who will stop at nothing to protect his mate.
While I found some things intriguing, I struggled with a lot of the story.
Jo wasn’t really a heroine I could get behind. She’s forty-one but she’s overly naïve and incompetent. Yes, she’s lived in a man-free Yoga-witchy commune type of place for twenty years, but before that she lived twenty years in the real world and even went to college, so she should know how to act around people.
And it’s not just her nativity that bothers me. She was assaulted in college so now she considers all men evil creatures out to get her so when she realizes that she’s attracted to Reese, she attempts to cast an anti-love spell on him which goes awry. So now every time she get lusty towards him or vice versa, she blames the spell even though they had the feelings before the spell.
Then there’s her denial about being a ‘Juvie’ or Rejuvenated female—a woman born with the shifter gene that remains dormant until she reaches her forties or fifties. For someone born with magical powers, she spent so much time being in denial it was ridiculous.
Finally, the last straw with her was the fact she was TSTL. I mean, seriously, some creature in the woods was chasing her, but she willingly went back into the woods at night to find a flower she needed for a spell. Then she decides to give the people that accused her of using dark magic and cast her out a second chance. I spent so much time rolling my eyes and calling her an idiot, eventually, I started rooting for the thing in the woods.
Also, it irked me that no one, Reese, Jo, or any of the secondary characters, attempted to figure out what was roaming the woods. They were like, ‘oh, yeah, there’s something creepy and possibly deadly in the woods, but let’s just mention it and then do nothing about’.
The insta-lust/love didn’t bother me. It’s common in shifter books especially if it’s the fated-mate type. What did bother me was how much time Jo spent complaining about the ach between her legs, the first few time was okay but considering she went on and on about it like a broken record, it just became annoying.
Overall, this one had potential but a TSTL heroine that was also naïve and incompetent was its downfall. I’ve heard that the first two books in the series are stronger, but I’m not so sure if they’ll be on my TBR list anytime soon.
July 26, 2017
A very intense story that may have some triggers for some people. The main female character was raped in her past and there is some violent scenes. Definitely meant for mature readers as there is also some steamy scenes.
Cougarville just seems to pull in all the females that are going through a rejuvenation process due to latent shifter genes. This time Coop is the male to find a female. With her past he will definitely have a battle on his hands to prove his worth and what she means to him. He has way more patience for her than most people and never seems to give up.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of the book.
Cougarville just seems to pull in all the females that are going through a rejuvenation process due to latent shifter genes. This time Coop is the male to find a female. With her past he will definitely have a battle on his hands to prove his worth and what she means to him. He has way more patience for her than most people and never seems to give up.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of the book.
July 25, 2017
I truly enjoyed this series the other two books was fantastic. In this case not so I'm not one to leave bad review but I really struggled with this book. It wasn't so much the story per se it had to do with the heroine Jo despite her age, being 40 years old, Jo is so naive and sheltered that she doesn't seem 40 at all she sounds more mentally and emotionally incompetent. While her tragic past made me feel deeply bad for her, as witch, you would think they must believe in otherworldly things, so I couldn't understand why she was such in denial about being a shifter, it was very aggravating and frustrating to read. All I could say was poor Reese who had the patience of a saint of it was me I would've told her to kick rocks. Overall a good read it's suspenseful a little bit of humour and intrigue. Looking forward to seeing what else is in store for this series. I voluntarily read and review this ARC no minority compensation was received the opinions I have expressed are my own.
August 1, 2017
Welcome back to Cougarville! Stone Cold Fox is the story of Reese (the fox shifter/auto mechanic) and Jo, the Juvie/Wiccan. This series is a bit strange but I totally love it!
Jo is a Wiccan practitioner who was kicked out of her coven because they thought she was using dark magic to appear younger. Turns out, she is just a Juvie (if you have read the previous 2 books, you understand this! If not, they do explain it a bit in the story). However, she has had a difficult past when it comes to men and she is extremely distrustful. Reese eventually assures her he means her no harm; then he discovers she is a Juvie.
Reese is one of the characters in town I have wanted to know more about. He is a gentle giant of sorts and a bit of a loner. Also, he is an auto mechanic which I love because my husband is an auto mechanic too! Reese knows just how to approach Jo so that she feels safe with him. His fox really wants him to claim her though! Reese is an alpha fox, but he is so gentle with Jo in order to make her feel safe. Its very romantic!
Jo, like the other girls who have recently rejuvenated, is a stranger character. She is more able to accept the whole 'shifter' thing since she is a witch, but she refuses to accept the idea that she carries the shifter gene. Her mistrust in men started when she was 19, and since that time she has lived in a womens' only coven so that she felt comfortable. She thinks men are evil and will simply take what they want from her (because that has been her experience!). I thought Anderson handled this well as a plot device. Jo is rightfully skeptical of men and her responses to men when she interacts with them are expected of a woman who has been assaulted in the past. Anderson doesn't simply use this as a fly by night device; she develops the character of Jo in a way that the reader can truly believe this woman has been assaulted. She doesn't over do it for dramatic effect either, which I think is very important when dealing with this type of sensitive plot device.
The villain in this is a blend of a previous villain and a witch from Jo's past. The villainous plan is the same-trying to harness the power of rejuvenation for money. Its a fairly small part of the story; most of the book focuses on the relationship and Jo coming to terms with her new reality.
Stone Cold Fox is part shifter story with a dash of fated mates and a bit of magic that I wish I had (rejuvenation!) that create an enjoyable escape! The Cougarville series won't be a hit for everyone; but, if you like your PNR to be a bit different and a bit lighter, I think you will enjoy the series. Anderson also gives you LOTS of steamy scenes that lead up to the mating. While Anderson creates tension and dangerous situations, the stories still have a lighter feel than some darker, twistier PNR books.
POV: 3rd
Tears: no
Trope: fated mates
Triggers: [spoiler]Obviously, as mentioned, Jo was assaulted. It is handled well in my opinion and not overly dramatized but might be a trigger for some people.[/spoiler]
Series/Standalone: stand alone within an interconnected series (you could read this one as a stand alone more so than book 2)
Cliffhanger: [spoiler]no[/spoiler]
HEA: [spoiler]yes[/spoiler]
[rating-report]
Elemental Mating by Milly Taiden, Survival Instinct by Janie Crouch, Ice Planet Barbarians by Ruby Dixon...then you will probably like Stone Cold Fox!
Stone Cold Fox
August 2, 2017
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the third book in the series - and I would recommend that you start at the beginning of the series to fully enjoy this story. We catch up with the sisters and their mates, as well as get the foxy story of Reese and his destiny with exiled Wiccan witch, Jocasta (Jo).
Running through this series is the question of who and why there is an increased level of juvvies coming into Cougarville, and this one has another twist in the tale too - which may be revisited in future books I am guessing. Whilst Sadie and Sam weren't keen on the idea of being shifters, they did not have the fear that Jo has of being intimate with the men they fell for in Cougarville. Jo has however promised to remain chaste, after a terrible incident in her past - and terrible it truly was, as we learn. Therefore the attention of any man is unwelcome and even frightening, so her reaction to Reese is confounding her.
Reese is the most incredibly patient man, helped by the confidence instilled in him, by resident sage, Fiona. Keller is not so certain, and is worried for his friend - anyone who has read the previous books will enjoy this happily reformed character!
If you like your shifters both super hot, and slyly cute, then Reese should press your buttons - he certainly pressed Jo's !
This is the third book in the series - and I would recommend that you start at the beginning of the series to fully enjoy this story. We catch up with the sisters and their mates, as well as get the foxy story of Reese and his destiny with exiled Wiccan witch, Jocasta (Jo).
Running through this series is the question of who and why there is an increased level of juvvies coming into Cougarville, and this one has another twist in the tale too - which may be revisited in future books I am guessing. Whilst Sadie and Sam weren't keen on the idea of being shifters, they did not have the fear that Jo has of being intimate with the men they fell for in Cougarville. Jo has however promised to remain chaste, after a terrible incident in her past - and terrible it truly was, as we learn. Therefore the attention of any man is unwelcome and even frightening, so her reaction to Reese is confounding her.
Reese is the most incredibly patient man, helped by the confidence instilled in him, by resident sage, Fiona. Keller is not so certain, and is worried for his friend - anyone who has read the previous books will enjoy this happily reformed character!
If you like your shifters both super hot, and slyly cute, then Reese should press your buttons - he certainly pressed Jo's !
July 31, 2017
FTC DISCLAIMER: I RECEIVED AN E-ARC FROM THE PUBLISHER THROUGH NET GALLEY. I VOLUNTARILY OFFER MY HONEST REVIEW OF THE BOOK, THOUGH IT IS NOT EXPECTED OF ME! RECEIPT OF THIS BOOK IN THIS MANNER DOES NOT AFFECT MY OPINION OF THE BOOK OR THE CONTENT OF MY REVIEW!
I was extremely eager to get my hands on this book, and thankfully, it lived up to my eager anticipation of it!
I found Jo to be an extremely unique heroine! I loved that she was both potential shifter and witch, and loved that her uniqueness was used to explain Fiona. I also liked how Jo's past was handled, especially with the trauma in it. It was a far cry from the author's Brides of the Kindred series that I had objected to so strongly in the past.
I enjoyed Reese's dichotomy, how he was the educated grease monkey mechanic. I also enjoyed his shifter abilities and what he could do with them, and the legends surrounding them. Reese was a very caring and protective hero, and I found it extremely easy to connect with him!
The plot had several twists and turns in it, and was definitely a continuation of the events of book 2 of this series. It left things unresolved enough that there can be another book in this series, as there are many unanswered questions, as well as a teaser of the new hero. I have to say that this book and series has really turned me around on this author, and I eagerly await any further installments in the series!
I was extremely eager to get my hands on this book, and thankfully, it lived up to my eager anticipation of it!
I found Jo to be an extremely unique heroine! I loved that she was both potential shifter and witch, and loved that her uniqueness was used to explain Fiona. I also liked how Jo's past was handled, especially with the trauma in it. It was a far cry from the author's Brides of the Kindred series that I had objected to so strongly in the past.
I enjoyed Reese's dichotomy, how he was the educated grease monkey mechanic. I also enjoyed his shifter abilities and what he could do with them, and the legends surrounding them. Reese was a very caring and protective hero, and I found it extremely easy to connect with him!
The plot had several twists and turns in it, and was definitely a continuation of the events of book 2 of this series. It left things unresolved enough that there can be another book in this series, as there are many unanswered questions, as well as a teaser of the new hero. I have to say that this book and series has really turned me around on this author, and I eagerly await any further installments in the series!
July 28, 2017
The Alpha shifters of Cougarville are dominant, protective, and ready to rumble if their special lady friends are menaced. And if their special lady friend is fighting the pull of attraction between them, they still do everything they can to make sure their Juvie is safe.
Which brings us around to Jo and Reese. She was forced into her rejuvenation without having any knowledge of shifters and their ilk. While that might have been problematic, her magical know-how keeps her safe until she gets to Cougarville, the one place where there are people who can explain what's going on. Actually, I might be exaggerating a bit. There are other places. Wolfish places. But that's another story for another day.
For all he's a man who can shift into a beast, Reese is a little disbelieving of Jo's claims of magic. He believes she believes she can do things, but he's not convinced it's anything more than that. Until, you know, THINGS HAPPEN. AND THEN MORE THINGS HAPPEN. (Do I smell a setup for a new series? I *hope* so!)
A little dark, a lot of sexy, and plenty of fun, those Courgarville shifters are a-okay. They fight for the things they believe in just as hard as they love. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Which brings us around to Jo and Reese. She was forced into her rejuvenation without having any knowledge of shifters and their ilk. While that might have been problematic, her magical know-how keeps her safe until she gets to Cougarville, the one place where there are people who can explain what's going on. Actually, I might be exaggerating a bit. There are other places. Wolfish places. But that's another story for another day.
For all he's a man who can shift into a beast, Reese is a little disbelieving of Jo's claims of magic. He believes she believes she can do things, but he's not convinced it's anything more than that. Until, you know, THINGS HAPPEN. AND THEN MORE THINGS HAPPEN. (Do I smell a setup for a new series? I *hope* so!)
A little dark, a lot of sexy, and plenty of fun, those Courgarville shifters are a-okay. They fight for the things they believe in just as hard as they love. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
August 3, 2017
Lovin this series! Love how each one is different. In this one he's a fox and she's a witch. She doesn't even know that shifters exist and doesn't believe that she could be one too. Has a mysterious thing/man that's evil in the woods. Love how the author mixes it all up so you never know what to expect. Even though this is the 3rd in the series, you don't necessarily have to read the other ones but you'll miss out the different characters backgrounds and some explanations. Highly recommend for shifter lovers. Reviewed for NetGalley.
September 20, 2017
Paranormal books are my first love, and I had read the previous books in this series so I couldn't wait to start this book.
Right off the bat, one of the things that I loved most about this book was how different it is. Most paranormal books stick to only one "branch" of paranormal, yet this book had the shifter, as well as the witches. Which I thought was a great addition because it added something more to the story.
Jo's story is one that was full of heartbreak, but even with that, it made this story so much better. Getting to follow along as she grew strong, and was willing and able to take risks, it showed how much strength she had hidden and didn't even know she had.
Reese was a great male character - I had liked him in the previous books but this one, wow it just amazed me at how great of a guy he is. How he was willing to walk away from Jo, even knowing that she was his mate just to keep her safe. Wowzer, if I ever met a guy like him in real life...
Anywho - the story was one that drew me in and I couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen next. I couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen next.
Overall I'd say if your looking for a great story that could be read as a standalone. However it is still a great read if you do read the series.
Reviewed by Crystal Marie for Crystal's Many Reviewers
*Copy provided for review*
Right off the bat, one of the things that I loved most about this book was how different it is. Most paranormal books stick to only one "branch" of paranormal, yet this book had the shifter, as well as the witches. Which I thought was a great addition because it added something more to the story.
Jo's story is one that was full of heartbreak, but even with that, it made this story so much better. Getting to follow along as she grew strong, and was willing and able to take risks, it showed how much strength she had hidden and didn't even know she had.
Reese was a great male character - I had liked him in the previous books but this one, wow it just amazed me at how great of a guy he is. How he was willing to walk away from Jo, even knowing that she was his mate just to keep her safe. Wowzer, if I ever met a guy like him in real life...
Anywho - the story was one that drew me in and I couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen next. I couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen next.
Overall I'd say if your looking for a great story that could be read as a standalone. However it is still a great read if you do read the series.
Reviewed by Crystal Marie for Crystal's Many Reviewers
*Copy provided for review*
October 16, 2020
the story seemed off for some reason. I tried to read it several times but didn't get the feeling
July 24, 2017
I received a free copy via NetGalley; this is my honest review.
- I liked the story and I liked the end. I'm going to repeat what I wrote the last time: The story really finishes at the last chapter; the epilogue brings you to the next book - and the next hero - and contains a really nice cliffhanger (you know, not too much of a cliffhanger to despair about it).
- I was a bit uneasy at seeing we had a witch in this story - the other stories in the series contained an h with a regular job, a regular life - and didn't really see why the author would be putting word-to-word incantations in there and not just once - I didn't think it fit.
- There's a lot of guilt on Jocasta's side and at the end it was a bit annoying. Reese also did everything to put her at ease around him and I didn't think she made any effort about it on her side.
- It's funny, it's sad, there's a bit of suspense at the end, and in between you get fright, disdain, shame, desire, happiness, joy, and hope.
Happy reading!
- I liked the story and I liked the end. I'm going to repeat what I wrote the last time: The story really finishes at the last chapter; the epilogue brings you to the next book - and the next hero - and contains a really nice cliffhanger (you know, not too much of a cliffhanger to despair about it).
- I was a bit uneasy at seeing we had a witch in this story - the other stories in the series contained an h with a regular job, a regular life - and didn't really see why the author would be putting word-to-word incantations in there and not just once - I didn't think it fit.
- There's a lot of guilt on Jocasta's side and at the end it was a bit annoying. Reese also did everything to put her at ease around him and I didn't think she made any effort about it on her side.
- It's funny, it's sad, there's a bit of suspense at the end, and in between you get fright, disdain, shame, desire, happiness, joy, and hope.
Happy reading!
August 23, 2017
Head over to Self-Professed Book Hoarders to check out the full review.
Happy Reading
Thank you to Netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Happy Reading
Thank you to Netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 31, 2017
3 1/2 - 4 stars
I have loved this series, especially the uniqueness of the storylines, the type of shifters, and the rejuvenation process that the females go through to be mated with the males. As much as I was looking forward to reading this book, there were several issues that kept me from being able to fully enjoy it. It had a great storyline, but it was the characters, mostly Jo, that I had difficulties with.
Jo had been through a lot during her life, and I truly felt for her because of this. However, instead of dealing with the attack she survived while in college, she basically ignored it and all men for the next 20 years. Everyone handles things differently, which is fine. When she started the rejuvenation process, kicked out of the only home that she's known for the last 20 years, attacked by a pack of wolf shifters because of her juvie scent, chased by an evil being, and when the only person who has been nice and tried to help her is a man, she treats him horribly. I get her being afraid and leery of men, but Reece has done everything he can to try and show her, repeatedly, that he is no threat to her, and only wants to help.
Jo's inner dialogue and her actions make her come across as a sheltered, skittish, and almost child-like woman. However, she had a normal life prior to the attack, went to college, and is supposed to be a somewhat high ranking witch, all of which would lead you to believe that she had to have some type of strength to her personality, but it rarely shows, and then it's used only towards the "men" that she's so afraid of. Her personality seems to bounce around constantly, and even though she's a witch, she has a difficult time believing that there are shifters, and absolutely refuses to consider that she has the shifter gene, is going through the rejuvenation process, or that she's going to become a shifter herself. It's confusing at times, frustrating trying to keep up with her mood changes and beliefs, and downright annoying at other times, at least to me.
Reece is a great guy, always willing to help out anyone in need, and goes above and beyond to help Jo in every way possible. He's supposed to be an Alpha, but the only time that I ever saw this was when it came to protecting Jo, or during their intimate scenes, but even then it was extremely subdued. I have never met an alpha that could turn off that part of their personality at will, and find it difficult to believe that he was able to do so for the length of time it took Jo to finally trust him. Other than that, he was a great character.
I don't want it to seem like that I didn't like this story, because I did. There were just some things that kept me from being able to fully enjoy it as I was expecting to. I have loved this series, and hope that there will be many more books to come. I love that it's different from any of the other shifter stories that I have read before. These are just my opinions, and I hope that you won't allow this to keep you from reading this book. If you're interested in this series, I suggest that you start from the beginning. You'll get to read fantastic, unique stories, meet wonderful characters, and learn about these shifters, and their way of life. You won't be disappointed.
It has been a fantastic series that I would definitely recommend, including this book.
I have voluntarily reviewed this arc provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
I have loved this series, especially the uniqueness of the storylines, the type of shifters, and the rejuvenation process that the females go through to be mated with the males. As much as I was looking forward to reading this book, there were several issues that kept me from being able to fully enjoy it. It had a great storyline, but it was the characters, mostly Jo, that I had difficulties with.
Jo had been through a lot during her life, and I truly felt for her because of this. However, instead of dealing with the attack she survived while in college, she basically ignored it and all men for the next 20 years. Everyone handles things differently, which is fine. When she started the rejuvenation process, kicked out of the only home that she's known for the last 20 years, attacked by a pack of wolf shifters because of her juvie scent, chased by an evil being, and when the only person who has been nice and tried to help her is a man, she treats him horribly. I get her being afraid and leery of men, but Reece has done everything he can to try and show her, repeatedly, that he is no threat to her, and only wants to help.
Jo's inner dialogue and her actions make her come across as a sheltered, skittish, and almost child-like woman. However, she had a normal life prior to the attack, went to college, and is supposed to be a somewhat high ranking witch, all of which would lead you to believe that she had to have some type of strength to her personality, but it rarely shows, and then it's used only towards the "men" that she's so afraid of. Her personality seems to bounce around constantly, and even though she's a witch, she has a difficult time believing that there are shifters, and absolutely refuses to consider that she has the shifter gene, is going through the rejuvenation process, or that she's going to become a shifter herself. It's confusing at times, frustrating trying to keep up with her mood changes and beliefs, and downright annoying at other times, at least to me.
Reece is a great guy, always willing to help out anyone in need, and goes above and beyond to help Jo in every way possible. He's supposed to be an Alpha, but the only time that I ever saw this was when it came to protecting Jo, or during their intimate scenes, but even then it was extremely subdued. I have never met an alpha that could turn off that part of their personality at will, and find it difficult to believe that he was able to do so for the length of time it took Jo to finally trust him. Other than that, he was a great character.
I don't want it to seem like that I didn't like this story, because I did. There were just some things that kept me from being able to fully enjoy it as I was expecting to. I have loved this series, and hope that there will be many more books to come. I love that it's different from any of the other shifter stories that I have read before. These are just my opinions, and I hope that you won't allow this to keep you from reading this book. If you're interested in this series, I suggest that you start from the beginning. You'll get to read fantastic, unique stories, meet wonderful characters, and learn about these shifters, and their way of life. You won't be disappointed.
It has been a fantastic series that I would definitely recommend, including this book.
I have voluntarily reviewed this arc provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
October 12, 2017
Jo Ferrell is a third-level Wiccan witch who was kicked out of her commune and has been on her own for weeks. Not to mention she's been chased by violent wolf-men and is being followed by a shadow man. That and her past trauma with men have made her very distrustful, even of Reese Cooper, who seems terribly nice and concerned for her. It doesn't take long for Reese to realize that Jo is a rejuvenated female and although he's promised not to touch her, he longs for Jo, and so does his fox. But Jo refuses to believe that she could be a shifter as well, and is still too afraid to consider breaking her vow of chastity or putting her heart in Reese's hands...especially when she learns a few of his secrets.
So this one was better than the second one, but I still struggled with it at points. This had a great deal more UST and tension build up, which I liked, since the two of them don't have sex until the 80% mark...and this is mind boggling since Jo is a "juvie" and just reeking of "juvie" hormones. Reese apparently has an iron will. This worked for me though because it meant that Jo and Reese had a lot more time to get to know each other and become friends before they had to succumb to the breeding fever, which meant it didn't feel so non-consensual. I was on the fence about Jo - I liked her, but didn't care for how much fear she always had. She comes by it honestly, but she was hard to connect to because of it I think. And I couldn't figure out why she refused to believe she could be a shifter. Here's a woman who has seen shifting and can do magic and everyone is telling her she's going to be a shifter after she mates and she up and down refuses to believe it, and with absolutely no justification for not believing it. It was confusing.
I will also say that the subject of Jo's past, involving a brutal rape, is dealt with very sensitively. Well, until Reese decides to get his vengeance for what happened to Jo. This was one of the things that totally blew my mind and put this into the realm of unbelievable. Reese decides that he's going to track down all three rapists and their lawyer and murder them out of revenge for Jo - he only gets the one because the others are already dead. He talks like it's his right and there was nothing wrong with it since they're rapists...nevermind that they'd done their jail time and the crime took place 20 some years before. A lot could happen in that time. The guy could have turned his life around and been vital to some charity by that point, but Reese makes him pay for his 20-year-old crime...after he gets out of jail. This makes Reese a cold-blooded murderer and I struggle to continue to respect a hero like that. Joe likewise had issues with it and rightfully called him to task for it, claiming that he didn't take vengeance for her, he took it for himself. So I was wondering how this was going to wrap up and then on the last few pages, Reese mentions the issue and asks if Jo can forgive him and she acts like it was never a huge deal in the first place. Nope - totally unrealistic. Either she cares or she doesn't...can't have it both ways.
So this one was better than the second one, but I still struggled with it at points. This had a great deal more UST and tension build up, which I liked, since the two of them don't have sex until the 80% mark...and this is mind boggling since Jo is a "juvie" and just reeking of "juvie" hormones. Reese apparently has an iron will. This worked for me though because it meant that Jo and Reese had a lot more time to get to know each other and become friends before they had to succumb to the breeding fever, which meant it didn't feel so non-consensual. I was on the fence about Jo - I liked her, but didn't care for how much fear she always had. She comes by it honestly, but she was hard to connect to because of it I think. And I couldn't figure out why she refused to believe she could be a shifter. Here's a woman who has seen shifting and can do magic and everyone is telling her she's going to be a shifter after she mates and she up and down refuses to believe it, and with absolutely no justification for not believing it. It was confusing.
I will also say that the subject of Jo's past, involving a brutal rape, is dealt with very sensitively. Well, until Reese decides to get his vengeance for what happened to Jo. This was one of the things that totally blew my mind and put this into the realm of unbelievable. Reese decides that he's going to track down all three rapists and their lawyer and murder them out of revenge for Jo - he only gets the one because the others are already dead. He talks like it's his right and there was nothing wrong with it since they're rapists...nevermind that they'd done their jail time and the crime took place 20 some years before. A lot could happen in that time. The guy could have turned his life around and been vital to some charity by that point, but Reese makes him pay for his 20-year-old crime...after he gets out of jail. This makes Reese a cold-blooded murderer and I struggle to continue to respect a hero like that. Joe likewise had issues with it and rightfully called him to task for it, claiming that he didn't take vengeance for her, he took it for himself. So I was wondering how this was going to wrap up and then on the last few pages, Reese mentions the issue and asks if Jo can forgive him and she acts like it was never a huge deal in the first place. Nope - totally unrealistic. Either she cares or she doesn't...can't have it both ways.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 27, 2017
Title: Stone Cold Fox - Cougarville Book 3
Author: Evangeline Anderson
Publisher: St Martin's Press
Published: 8-1-2017
Pages: 240
Genre: Erotica
Sub-Genre: Sci Fi & Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, Shifter, Fox, Werewolves, Contemporary Romance
ISBN: 9781250142061
ASIN: B0719MYWN
Reviewed For NetGalley and St. Martin's Press
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Cougarville's mechanic, and resident Alpha fox, shelters a mysterious woman who ignites his protective animal instincts when evil forces try to tear them apart.
Jo Ferrell has been cast out of her home for reasons she doesn’t understand. The grey streak in her hair is gone, her body is younger, and there’s an ominous shadow chasing her. With nowhere else to go, Jo finds shelter in a shed whose owner she wants nothing to do with—but he’s too much to resist.
Reese Cooper has never felt a pull towards a woman like he does towards Jo and his Fox is desperate to claim her as their mate. After offering her a place to stay, Reese finds it difficult to resist his beautiful new roommate. But when dark magic threatens their happiness, Reese will use all of his strength to protect the woman he loves…if he’s not too late.
Stone Cold Fox contains content of a mature nature, strong language and explicit sexual situations. Not for readers under the age of 18.
The combination of Reese and Jo might seem a bit odd considering Jo's fear of men due to earlier trauma and Reese's strong Alpha take charge attitude. Yet we also get to see that there is a more gentle side to the Alpha as well. He goes out of his way to gentle Jo's fears and show her she is safe with him. Evangeline Anderson shpws her talents by making her characters believable and likable. The story is well written and flows quickly and smoothly.
Cougarville Series
1. Buck Naked
2. Cougar Bait
3. Stone Cold Fox
My rating of "Stone Cold Fox - Cougarville Book 3" is 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0719PMYWN/...
B&N Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/ston...
Books-A-Million Link: http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Stone-...
Google Play Link: https://play.google.com/store/books/d...
Indigo Link: https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/...
Kobo Link: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/ston...
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
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Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
Author: Evangeline Anderson
Publisher: St Martin's Press
Published: 8-1-2017
Pages: 240
Genre: Erotica
Sub-Genre: Sci Fi & Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, Shifter, Fox, Werewolves, Contemporary Romance
ISBN: 9781250142061
ASIN: B0719MYWN
Reviewed For NetGalley and St. Martin's Press
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Cougarville's mechanic, and resident Alpha fox, shelters a mysterious woman who ignites his protective animal instincts when evil forces try to tear them apart.
Jo Ferrell has been cast out of her home for reasons she doesn’t understand. The grey streak in her hair is gone, her body is younger, and there’s an ominous shadow chasing her. With nowhere else to go, Jo finds shelter in a shed whose owner she wants nothing to do with—but he’s too much to resist.
Reese Cooper has never felt a pull towards a woman like he does towards Jo and his Fox is desperate to claim her as their mate. After offering her a place to stay, Reese finds it difficult to resist his beautiful new roommate. But when dark magic threatens their happiness, Reese will use all of his strength to protect the woman he loves…if he’s not too late.
Stone Cold Fox contains content of a mature nature, strong language and explicit sexual situations. Not for readers under the age of 18.
The combination of Reese and Jo might seem a bit odd considering Jo's fear of men due to earlier trauma and Reese's strong Alpha take charge attitude. Yet we also get to see that there is a more gentle side to the Alpha as well. He goes out of his way to gentle Jo's fears and show her she is safe with him. Evangeline Anderson shpws her talents by making her characters believable and likable. The story is well written and flows quickly and smoothly.
Cougarville Series
1. Buck Naked
2. Cougar Bait
3. Stone Cold Fox
My rating of "Stone Cold Fox - Cougarville Book 3" is 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0719PMYWN/...
B&N Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/ston...
Books-A-Million Link: http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Stone-...
Google Play Link: https://play.google.com/store/books/d...
Indigo Link: https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/...
Kobo Link: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/ston...
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
The Reading Room Link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
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