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Asheville Arcana #1
Out of the Ashes
Asheville Arcana
In their differences, they’ll find strength—and love.
Alpha werewolf Eli Hammond returns from a fishing trip to discover a nasty surprise—five members of his pack murdered and the rest missing. He needs help locating and rescuing his pack mates, but the supernatural council in Asheville, North Carolina, turns him away.
Except for one man.
As they work together, Eli is stunned—and not especially thrilled—to discover half-elf Arden Gilmarin is his destined mate. But as Arden and his friends struggle to help Eli in his quest, Eli surrenders to the demands of his body—and his heart. They’ll need to bond together, because the forces opposing them are stronger and more sinister than anyone predicted. The evil has its sights set on Arden, and if Eli wants to save his mate and the people he is entrusted with protecting, he’s in for the fight of his life.
In their differences, they’ll find strength—and love.
Alpha werewolf Eli Hammond returns from a fishing trip to discover a nasty surprise—five members of his pack murdered and the rest missing. He needs help locating and rescuing his pack mates, but the supernatural council in Asheville, North Carolina, turns him away.
Except for one man.
As they work together, Eli is stunned—and not especially thrilled—to discover half-elf Arden Gilmarin is his destined mate. But as Arden and his friends struggle to help Eli in his quest, Eli surrenders to the demands of his body—and his heart. They’ll need to bond together, because the forces opposing them are stronger and more sinister than anyone predicted. The evil has its sights set on Arden, and if Eli wants to save his mate and the people he is entrusted with protecting, he’s in for the fight of his life.
220 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2017
89 people are currently reading
220 people want to read
About the author
Ari McKay
72 books181 followersAri McKay is the professional pseudonym for Arionrhod and McKay, who collaborate on original m/m fiction. They began writing together in 2004 and finished their first original full length novel in 2011. Recently, they’ve begun collaborating on designing and creating costumes to wear and compete in at Sci Fi conventions, and they share a love of yarn and cake.
Arionrhod is an avid costumer, knitter, and all-around craft fiend, as well as a professional systems engineer. Mother of two human children and two dachshunds who think they are human, she is a voracious reader with wildly eclectic tastes, devouring romance novels, military science fiction, horror stories and Shakespeare with equal glee. She is currently preparing for the zombie apocalypse.
McKay is an English teacher who has been writing for one reason or another most of her life. She also enjoys knitting, reading, cooking, and playing video games. She has been known to knit in public. Given she has the survival skills of a gnat, she’s relying on Arionrhod to help her survive the zombie apocalypse.
Arionrhod is an avid costumer, knitter, and all-around craft fiend, as well as a professional systems engineer. Mother of two human children and two dachshunds who think they are human, she is a voracious reader with wildly eclectic tastes, devouring romance novels, military science fiction, horror stories and Shakespeare with equal glee. She is currently preparing for the zombie apocalypse.
McKay is an English teacher who has been writing for one reason or another most of her life. She also enjoys knitting, reading, cooking, and playing video games. She has been known to knit in public. Given she has the survival skills of a gnat, she’s relying on Arionrhod to help her survive the zombie apocalypse.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
August 19, 2021
4 Stars
When alpha werewolf Eli Hammond comes home one day to find several members of his pack dead and the rest mysteriously vanished, he heads straight to Asheville, NC – the home of one of the largest communities of supernatural beings in the country – to implore the supernatural council to help him find and rescue his pack mates.
Although the council as a whole are pretty useless, one member, a sweet and determined half-elf named Arden, agrees to help Eli find his missing pack mates however he can. With the aid of Arden’s friends – a kind-hearted mage named Whimsy and a brooding vampire named Julian – Eli and Arden go in search for answers to the increasingly disturbing disappearances.
While they work to solve the mystery, Eli and Arden also come to realise that they are, in fact, fated mates. Initially, this realisation is a shocking revelation to Eli, as he always assumed that if he found his mate it would be a fellow werewolf, not some fragile, fussing half-elf like Arden. But before long - as seems to always be the way when one tries to deny the pull of a fated-mate bond - Eli soon realises that Arden might just be his perfect match in all things, proving stronger and braver and more caring than Eli could have ever imagined or hoped for in a mate.
I love me some fated mates in my paranormal reads and Eli and Arden made a very sweet couple, but I definitely found myself preferring Arden as a character over reticent Eli. I just wanted to gobble Arden up, with his big heart and his eternally compassionate nature.
The world-building in this story was also very good. I honestly didn’t know what to expect, having never read an Ari McKay story before, and also not having read any other stories from the Dreamspun Desires series (yet). This story, in terms of the writing quality, the characters, and the plot, was definitely impressive and left a good impression.
I had a fun time reading this one and I eager anticipate the release of more stories within this particular series set in Asheville, as I’m now hankering for more loved-up action for characters like Whimsy and Julian.
When alpha werewolf Eli Hammond comes home one day to find several members of his pack dead and the rest mysteriously vanished, he heads straight to Asheville, NC – the home of one of the largest communities of supernatural beings in the country – to implore the supernatural council to help him find and rescue his pack mates.
Although the council as a whole are pretty useless, one member, a sweet and determined half-elf named Arden, agrees to help Eli find his missing pack mates however he can. With the aid of Arden’s friends – a kind-hearted mage named Whimsy and a brooding vampire named Julian – Eli and Arden go in search for answers to the increasingly disturbing disappearances.
While they work to solve the mystery, Eli and Arden also come to realise that they are, in fact, fated mates. Initially, this realisation is a shocking revelation to Eli, as he always assumed that if he found his mate it would be a fellow werewolf, not some fragile, fussing half-elf like Arden. But before long - as seems to always be the way when one tries to deny the pull of a fated-mate bond - Eli soon realises that Arden might just be his perfect match in all things, proving stronger and braver and more caring than Eli could have ever imagined or hoped for in a mate.
I love me some fated mates in my paranormal reads and Eli and Arden made a very sweet couple, but I definitely found myself preferring Arden as a character over reticent Eli. I just wanted to gobble Arden up, with his big heart and his eternally compassionate nature.
The world-building in this story was also very good. I honestly didn’t know what to expect, having never read an Ari McKay story before, and also not having read any other stories from the Dreamspun Desires series (yet). This story, in terms of the writing quality, the characters, and the plot, was definitely impressive and left a good impression.
I had a fun time reading this one and I eager anticipate the release of more stories within this particular series set in Asheville, as I’m now hankering for more loved-up action for characters like Whimsy and Julian.
August 13, 2017
My bday month is starting off RIGHT!
Group unicorn review with Ann and Sara
3.75 HEARTS--The inaugural read of the Dreamspun Beyond line was a success!
When I learned the Dreamspun line was branching off into the paranormal lane, I was tickled pink and curious. Curious to see what book would start off the paranormal line.
And it's werewolf and elf fluff!
And I ate it up...mostly.
I loved the world building. I am coming off a True Blood binge (R.I.P. Nelsan Ellis) and this book perfectly fit into my paranormal crave. Contemporary setting, paranormal beings are known and living in harmony...mostly. The town of Asheville is small but the paranormal community is huge. Arden is a half mage/half elf business owner in that town. When werewolf alpha Eli leaves Georgia to Asheville to ask for assistance in seeking answers for his missing wolf pack, Arden is the only being who gives Eli a shot.
Arden asks his best friends and sometimes lovers, wizard Whimsy and vampire Julian, to help Eli because he can't help being drawn to him. Ahh... fated mates score!
The conflict for the story is that a certain someone tries to deny their bond. I wanted to reach out and touch him, because dude, don't you read shifter romance. Fated mates can't be denied. It's Shifter Freakonomics 101. (You know I got an A++ for the course, right?)
The band of friends use all sorts of magic and ask other paranormals for help like angels/demon hunters and dryads. So frigging cool. And though I'm not too keen on the baddies of this series (I happen to love the horns, is all I'll say), the suspense part was fully recognized and enjoyable to read.
But I didn't full out love this.
What I didn't like as much as the play into Arden's passiveness. I love me a good ol' power bottom but was the need to play up how pretty and nurturing Arden is necessary? I wished Arden was a little more stronger and less damsel in distress--ish. He knows he's a big bad 300+ year old half elf. Why is he getting carried around when it's not necessary. I would have loved it more if he showed more why he is equal to being a werewolf's mate than getting downplayed into a submissive role. He can be a power bottom who loves nothing more than getting held down in the bedroom (or wall) but he doesn't need to be a stereotype when a man is present. You feel me?
There were a few lulls but the pacing overall was quick.
I can't wait to read more from this series. Fingers crossed for Julian and Whimsy getting their own books!
A copy provided for an honest review.
Group unicorn review with Ann and Sara
3.75 HEARTS--The inaugural read of the Dreamspun Beyond line was a success!
When I learned the Dreamspun line was branching off into the paranormal lane, I was tickled pink and curious. Curious to see what book would start off the paranormal line.
And it's werewolf and elf fluff!
And I ate it up...mostly.
I loved the world building. I am coming off a True Blood binge (R.I.P. Nelsan Ellis) and this book perfectly fit into my paranormal crave. Contemporary setting, paranormal beings are known and living in harmony...mostly. The town of Asheville is small but the paranormal community is huge. Arden is a half mage/half elf business owner in that town. When werewolf alpha Eli leaves Georgia to Asheville to ask for assistance in seeking answers for his missing wolf pack, Arden is the only being who gives Eli a shot.
Arden asks his best friends and sometimes lovers, wizard Whimsy and vampire Julian, to help Eli because he can't help being drawn to him. Ahh... fated mates score!
The conflict for the story is that a certain someone tries to deny their bond. I wanted to reach out and touch him, because dude, don't you read shifter romance. Fated mates can't be denied. It's Shifter Freakonomics 101. (You know I got an A++ for the course, right?)
The band of friends use all sorts of magic and ask other paranormals for help like angels/demon hunters and dryads. So frigging cool. And though I'm not too keen on the baddies of this series (I happen to love the horns, is all I'll say), the suspense part was fully recognized and enjoyable to read.
But I didn't full out love this.
What I didn't like as much as the play into Arden's passiveness. I love me a good ol' power bottom but was the need to play up how pretty and nurturing Arden is necessary? I wished Arden was a little more stronger and less damsel in distress--ish. He knows he's a big bad 300+ year old half elf. Why is he getting carried around when it's not necessary. I would have loved it more if he showed more why he is equal to being a werewolf's mate than getting downplayed into a submissive role. He can be a power bottom who loves nothing more than getting held down in the bedroom (or wall) but he doesn't need to be a stereotype when a man is present. You feel me?
There were a few lulls but the pacing overall was quick.
I can't wait to read more from this series. Fingers crossed for Julian and Whimsy getting their own books!
A copy provided for an honest review.
December 31, 2019
3.5 Hearts
Not bad. Not bad at all.
As the blurb says, strange and sinister things are afoot, and werewolf Eli is desperate to get help in order to avenge and rescue his pack. He comes to Asheville to seek aid, and gets a cold shoulder from the supernatural council except for Arden, who surprisingly is whom Eli’s wolf claims as his mate. However, the last thing Eli wants or needs is any distractions, but he can’t say no to the half human/half elf’s help no matter the complications. As Eli and Arden look for clues, they soon discover that it’s more than just a hostile takeover. Something evil is building towards horrific proportions, something that has been brewing for decades.
Overall, this was a pretty good paranormal story, not too simple, not too cheesy. Granted it takes an inordinate amount of time for Eli to unstick his head outta his ass, but once he accepts his fate, things progress quickly for him and Arden, showcasing a decent amount of smexy heat all tied up in that lovely mate bond we have to have in our shifter stories.
This was also nicely narrated by Andrew McFerrin, and I have not one complaint as he does voice distinction, accents and emotion all very well! Obviously, this is just the set up for a series, and though the main story arc is resolved, there are definitely some loose threads hanging. I enjoyed the world building, and the supporting characters were likeable and intriguing, making me look forward to seeing them get their happy ending as they fight the evil that’s sure to return.
Thank you to the authors/publisher for the audio in exchange for a honest review
Not bad. Not bad at all.
As the blurb says, strange and sinister things are afoot, and werewolf Eli is desperate to get help in order to avenge and rescue his pack. He comes to Asheville to seek aid, and gets a cold shoulder from the supernatural council except for Arden, who surprisingly is whom Eli’s wolf claims as his mate. However, the last thing Eli wants or needs is any distractions, but he can’t say no to the half human/half elf’s help no matter the complications. As Eli and Arden look for clues, they soon discover that it’s more than just a hostile takeover. Something evil is building towards horrific proportions, something that has been brewing for decades.
Overall, this was a pretty good paranormal story, not too simple, not too cheesy. Granted it takes an inordinate amount of time for Eli to unstick his head outta his ass, but once he accepts his fate, things progress quickly for him and Arden, showcasing a decent amount of smexy heat all tied up in that lovely mate bond we have to have in our shifter stories.
This was also nicely narrated by Andrew McFerrin, and I have not one complaint as he does voice distinction, accents and emotion all very well! Obviously, this is just the set up for a series, and though the main story arc is resolved, there are definitely some loose threads hanging. I enjoyed the world building, and the supporting characters were likeable and intriguing, making me look forward to seeing them get their happy ending as they fight the evil that’s sure to return.
Thank you to the authors/publisher for the audio in exchange for a honest review
April 16, 2018
3.5
~OUT OF THE FRYING PAN & INTO THE FIRE~
I’ve now moved on to the Dreamspun Beyond series and I am really looking forward to what this entire imprint has to offer. Out of the Ashes was a cute read, and I am looking forward to reading the other books.
Alpha Werewolf Eli Hammond has come back home only to find some of his pack mates dead and all the others missing. He can’t quite explain as to why it happened but he does know the neighbouring pack had something to do with the deaths and his missing friends. Instead of rushing in and trying to avenge and rescue, Eli realizes he will need the help of the supernatural council. When his concern falls on deaf ears, Elie realizes he’s going have to get things done on his own, until the beautiful half elf Arden offers up his help and expertise. What Eli never anticipated was finding his mate through all the hardship and while at anytime it would be something to celebrate, Eli knows a mate has no place in his life especially one that isn’t a wolf.
Arden is unusually drawn to the Alpha Wolf Eli and before he knows it he’s offering his help an getting caught up into something that is more sinister than pack rivalry. When Arden finds out that Eli is his mate he’s hurt that the man doesn’t seem to want to honour a bond that is as old as time. While he’s willing to to put in his all, Eli keeps him at arms length but Arden realizes he’s willing do anything to keep his very reluctant mate safe. Because demons are on the horizon and they are out to destroy some things.
First, I really liked the world building. I love all things fantasy and with a bit of fairytale element and this book had it. Think of any lore creature, and this book had it in drones. It was just so fantastical and I really enjoyed the world.
Secondly, Eli and Arden worked for me. While there was nothing so amazing about them, they have presence and their story kept me entertained. They were fun and with their friends it offered up a great eclectic mix of characters that could be a delight for many readers.
Thirdly, the weakest part of the story, is the overall plot. Demons should strike fear and all that but if anything all of it was very comical made even more so by the dismissal by the supernatural council of something so dire. Like demons were out there possessing people and shit and everyone was just out there coasting. From what I’m gathering this will be a series within the Dreamspun Beyond series, and I am really looking forward to how it will progress. This world has got me hook, line, and sinker.
Overall, an entertaining read and a great start to DP line. Looking forward to finding out more about these demons because right now they skills is surely lacking. So ready to revisit the world Ari McKay created.
~OUT OF THE FRYING PAN & INTO THE FIRE~
I’ve now moved on to the Dreamspun Beyond series and I am really looking forward to what this entire imprint has to offer. Out of the Ashes was a cute read, and I am looking forward to reading the other books.
Alpha Werewolf Eli Hammond has come back home only to find some of his pack mates dead and all the others missing. He can’t quite explain as to why it happened but he does know the neighbouring pack had something to do with the deaths and his missing friends. Instead of rushing in and trying to avenge and rescue, Eli realizes he will need the help of the supernatural council. When his concern falls on deaf ears, Elie realizes he’s going have to get things done on his own, until the beautiful half elf Arden offers up his help and expertise. What Eli never anticipated was finding his mate through all the hardship and while at anytime it would be something to celebrate, Eli knows a mate has no place in his life especially one that isn’t a wolf.
Arden is unusually drawn to the Alpha Wolf Eli and before he knows it he’s offering his help an getting caught up into something that is more sinister than pack rivalry. When Arden finds out that Eli is his mate he’s hurt that the man doesn’t seem to want to honour a bond that is as old as time. While he’s willing to to put in his all, Eli keeps him at arms length but Arden realizes he’s willing do anything to keep his very reluctant mate safe. Because demons are on the horizon and they are out to destroy some things.
First, I really liked the world building. I love all things fantasy and with a bit of fairytale element and this book had it. Think of any lore creature, and this book had it in drones. It was just so fantastical and I really enjoyed the world.
Secondly, Eli and Arden worked for me. While there was nothing so amazing about them, they have presence and their story kept me entertained. They were fun and with their friends it offered up a great eclectic mix of characters that could be a delight for many readers.
Thirdly, the weakest part of the story, is the overall plot. Demons should strike fear and all that but if anything all of it was very comical made even more so by the dismissal by the supernatural council of something so dire. Like demons were out there possessing people and shit and everyone was just out there coasting. From what I’m gathering this will be a series within the Dreamspun Beyond series, and I am really looking forward to how it will progress. This world has got me hook, line, and sinker.
Overall, an entertaining read and a great start to DP line. Looking forward to finding out more about these demons because right now they skills is surely lacking. So ready to revisit the world Ari McKay created.
August 2, 2017
3.5 Stars
Unicorn Buddy Read with SRAL and Sara!
The paranormal genre is such a perfect fit for the Dreamspun Series of stories and I was soooooo excited to jump on the Dreamspun Beyond train. Out of the Ashes is an excellent intro to Dreamspun Beyond and the Asheville Arcana series. I could tell while reading it was the beginning of something bigger, it’s an intro to the Asheville Arcana world. I love, love, love the idea of an Alpha Wolf and Half-Elf pairing, the whole opposites attract/balance each other is a delicious trope for me in the paranormal world. Arden and Eli were the perfect representation, but maybe just a little too perfect.
Since this is the first of a series there was a lot of focus on the world building, history and secondary characters and less on the main characters themselves. While I loved them, they were a little one note and I would have loved a little bit more nuance to them so that they didn’t fit into their molds (top/bottom, alpha hero/submissive damsel) quite so neatly.
Beyond that, I really like where the story is going and I will happily revisit Ashville along with the various and sundry supernatural folks who live there. I’m anxious to see how the new dynamics work out with the realigned wolf packs and new members of the Asheville community. I want to see where the authors take Whimsy and Julian. Julian is so very contrary and his dry snark is going to make for a great tale. I hope we get to revisit Arden and Eli too. I would love to have some more time with them and get to know them both together and separately in the context of their new lives.
**a copy of this story was provided for an honest review**
Unicorn Buddy Read with SRAL and Sara!
The paranormal genre is such a perfect fit for the Dreamspun Series of stories and I was soooooo excited to jump on the Dreamspun Beyond train. Out of the Ashes is an excellent intro to Dreamspun Beyond and the Asheville Arcana series. I could tell while reading it was the beginning of something bigger, it’s an intro to the Asheville Arcana world. I love, love, love the idea of an Alpha Wolf and Half-Elf pairing, the whole opposites attract/balance each other is a delicious trope for me in the paranormal world. Arden and Eli were the perfect representation, but maybe just a little too perfect.
Since this is the first of a series there was a lot of focus on the world building, history and secondary characters and less on the main characters themselves. While I loved them, they were a little one note and I would have loved a little bit more nuance to them so that they didn’t fit into their molds (top/bottom, alpha hero/submissive damsel) quite so neatly.
Beyond that, I really like where the story is going and I will happily revisit Ashville along with the various and sundry supernatural folks who live there. I’m anxious to see how the new dynamics work out with the realigned wolf packs and new members of the Asheville community. I want to see where the authors take Whimsy and Julian. Julian is so very contrary and his dry snark is going to make for a great tale. I hope we get to revisit Arden and Eli too. I would love to have some more time with them and get to know them both together and separately in the context of their new lives.
**a copy of this story was provided for an honest review**
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August 7, 20174.5 Hearts
What a fun debut for the new Dreamspun Beyond line! It’s no secret I am a fan of the Dreamspun Desires series and when I saw Dreamspinner was expanding that line to include paranormal reads within the same formula; let’s just say I was excited. Like really excited and then I saw who the authors were for the first book and the excite was too much to handle.
I love that this is listed as not only a Dreamspun Beyond book but also the first book in the Asheville Arcana series. This book gave us just enough information and world building to intrigue the reader and pull them in wanting more of this book and the others to follow. I don’t need an info dump of world building to let me know the layout of the supernatural as they come on the page nor understand the story of fated mates. What I do want to know what new secrets Asheville has and on what side of the deck of divination they will fall.
Eli Hammond returns from a trip to find members of his pack murdered and the others missing. As pack Alpha, Eli wants answers and he travels to Asheville to ask the supernatural council for help. But none of the council wants to help him but half elf Arden Gilmarin and he sets about to help the alpha wolf anyway he can.
When Eli and Arden sit down to discuss the situation they are just a wolf and an elf until they finally touch in a handshake and Eli’s wolf perks up and realizes Arden is his mate. Eli keeps this fact to himself though literally everyone around them can see they are true mates… excerpt Arden.
I love Arden. He is pocket worthy and so damn adorable. His pull toward Eli was immediate and he was in awe of Eli’s aura and dumbfounded that no one else could see how amazing the colors were. Well, they couldn't see them because they aren’t Eli’s mate. Sigh. Arden was so clueless about Eli but I loved that he followed his feeling of simply needing to help the alpha no matter what.
Eli is gruff and perfect for an Alpha but he doesn’t want a mate and even if he did, the timing isn’t right for him with his murdered and missing pack members. Plus, he just never thought he’d find his mate and didn’t think it would be in someone as seemingly delicate as Arden seems but fated mates are fated and cannot be denied. The moments we get with Eli and Arden once Arden realizes they are mates were so yummy I could have eaten them with a spoon. I love the banter and the UST between these two. It was so much fun for both men to fall into their roles as mates without even realizing it. Arden is the caretaker and Eli is his protector and defender. Eli wants to push Arden away but his wolf wants to get down and cuddle with his mate. It was great to see the natural reaction both men had to one another and to see them get advice from friends to take a chance on the bond. When we, along with Eli are told how special their bond is I fell further in love with the story. But still, Eli is unsure about going all the way with Arden but he knows it’s not just his life he’s messing with denying Arden his chance at a true and fated mate and so… what’s a wolf to do.
Goodness. I feel like the biggest dork as I write this review because all these moments are coming back to me and I can’t help but smile. I seriously love that we get Eli who is like a cowboy with the way he talks/acts wrapped up in the gorgeous body of an alpha werewolf who calls his elf mate “Itty Bitty” as an endearment. Color me happy and clean up the puddle of goo I melt into when he uses that. The man is gruff but the man is sexy as all get out when it comes to Arden. And Arden, his need to take care of everyone was super sweet and the man lives in a treehouse. Need I say more?
So yeah, this book was so much fun and I love how the authors translated the Dreamspun formula into this paranormal line. We get the romance with fated mates, we get the mystery of what happened to Eli’s pack and we get a world full of beautiful supernatural beings that intrigued me and some that were mentioned briefly that made me take note and wonder.
I have to say I am in love with Arden’s mage friend Whimsy and I think I highlighted some of the best lines from the book because they were his. I, like Arden, want Whimsy to find his perfect romance and I really hope we get his story. Then there is Julian, Arden’s Vampire friend and he was so mysterious with his past and I don’t know why, but I want Julian to go back to Micah's house and meet his grandson. Can that happen? A natural born demon hunter and an elder vampire??? Please?
Anyway, this is one jumbled mess of a ramble but that seems to happen to me when I really like a book and I really liked this. I can’t wait to see whose book we get next in the series and if any of my theories – that are not bunnies – are true.
What a fun debut for the new Dreamspun Beyond line! It’s no secret I am a fan of the Dreamspun Desires series and when I saw Dreamspinner was expanding that line to include paranormal reads within the same formula; let’s just say I was excited. Like really excited and then I saw who the authors were for the first book and the excite was too much to handle.
I love that this is listed as not only a Dreamspun Beyond book but also the first book in the Asheville Arcana series. This book gave us just enough information and world building to intrigue the reader and pull them in wanting more of this book and the others to follow. I don’t need an info dump of world building to let me know the layout of the supernatural as they come on the page nor understand the story of fated mates. What I do want to know what new secrets Asheville has and on what side of the deck of divination they will fall.
Eli Hammond returns from a trip to find members of his pack murdered and the others missing. As pack Alpha, Eli wants answers and he travels to Asheville to ask the supernatural council for help. But none of the council wants to help him but half elf Arden Gilmarin and he sets about to help the alpha wolf anyway he can.
When Eli and Arden sit down to discuss the situation they are just a wolf and an elf until they finally touch in a handshake and Eli’s wolf perks up and realizes Arden is his mate. Eli keeps this fact to himself though literally everyone around them can see they are true mates… excerpt Arden.
I love Arden. He is pocket worthy and so damn adorable. His pull toward Eli was immediate and he was in awe of Eli’s aura and dumbfounded that no one else could see how amazing the colors were. Well, they couldn't see them because they aren’t Eli’s mate. Sigh. Arden was so clueless about Eli but I loved that he followed his feeling of simply needing to help the alpha no matter what.
...it’s a mark of an especially strong bond when a werewolf’s mate’s not another werewolf. Something about each of you completes something about the other and does it so well that things like your outsides don’t matter. It means you’re marked to do something special.
Eli is gruff and perfect for an Alpha but he doesn’t want a mate and even if he did, the timing isn’t right for him with his murdered and missing pack members. Plus, he just never thought he’d find his mate and didn’t think it would be in someone as seemingly delicate as Arden seems but fated mates are fated and cannot be denied. The moments we get with Eli and Arden once Arden realizes they are mates were so yummy I could have eaten them with a spoon. I love the banter and the UST between these two. It was so much fun for both men to fall into their roles as mates without even realizing it. Arden is the caretaker and Eli is his protector and defender. Eli wants to push Arden away but his wolf wants to get down and cuddle with his mate. It was great to see the natural reaction both men had to one another and to see them get advice from friends to take a chance on the bond. When we, along with Eli are told how special their bond is I fell further in love with the story. But still, Eli is unsure about going all the way with Arden but he knows it’s not just his life he’s messing with denying Arden his chance at a true and fated mate and so… what’s a wolf to do.
Goodness. I feel like the biggest dork as I write this review because all these moments are coming back to me and I can’t help but smile. I seriously love that we get Eli who is like a cowboy with the way he talks/acts wrapped up in the gorgeous body of an alpha werewolf who calls his elf mate “Itty Bitty” as an endearment. Color me happy and clean up the puddle of goo I melt into when he uses that. The man is gruff but the man is sexy as all get out when it comes to Arden. And Arden, his need to take care of everyone was super sweet and the man lives in a treehouse. Need I say more?
So yeah, this book was so much fun and I love how the authors translated the Dreamspun formula into this paranormal line. We get the romance with fated mates, we get the mystery of what happened to Eli’s pack and we get a world full of beautiful supernatural beings that intrigued me and some that were mentioned briefly that made me take note and wonder.
I have to say I am in love with Arden’s mage friend Whimsy and I think I highlighted some of the best lines from the book because they were his. I, like Arden, want Whimsy to find his perfect romance and I really hope we get his story. Then there is Julian, Arden’s Vampire friend and he was so mysterious with his past and I don’t know why, but I want Julian to go back to Micah's house and meet his grandson. Can that happen? A natural born demon hunter and an elder vampire??? Please?
Anyway, this is one jumbled mess of a ramble but that seems to happen to me when I really like a book and I really liked this. I can’t wait to see whose book we get next in the series and if any of my theories – that are not bunnies – are true.
July 19, 2017
3.5 Stars
Werewolves, elves, witches, seers, vampires, demons and more!
The story is based around the mystery of who's taken Eli's pack, but, at its heart, this is a Fated Mates story.
Eli recognizes Arden as his Fated Mate, but he's reluctant because of the differences he believes they have...until he suddenly isn't. I definitely did some head scratching at how quickly Eli went from adamantly opposing accepting his mate to full on acceptance.
But, yes, there is still the mystery of the missing werewolves to solve too.
In the end the story was interesting, but I would have liked some more world building. There were quite a few situations that made me double check that this wasn't an established series I'd begun reading. It isn't, it's definitely book one, but sometimes felt like it wasn't.
Told in dual POV, it did take me quite a long time to settle into the rhythm/pacing of the story and if it hadn't been for fated mates being a favorite trope of mine, I might have given up. I'm glad I stuck with it.
There's also a slight cliffhanger which is more of an opening for its own series outside of Dreamspinner's new "Dreamspun Beyond" house line.
In the end, I enjoyed it and I'll probably check out another in the Asheville Arcana series.
Advanced Review Galley copy of Out of the Ashes provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
Werewolves, elves, witches, seers, vampires, demons and more!
The story is based around the mystery of who's taken Eli's pack, but, at its heart, this is a Fated Mates story.
Eli recognizes Arden as his Fated Mate, but he's reluctant because of the differences he believes they have...until he suddenly isn't. I definitely did some head scratching at how quickly Eli went from adamantly opposing accepting his mate to full on acceptance.
What you want don’t matter a lick to the wolf, now that it knows its mate. I suppose you could try fighting the wolf for the rest of your life, but it won’t do you no good. The wolf is always gonna want to be with Arden. I’ve known a few who tried to resist the mate bond for one damn fool reason or another, and I know of only one that’s been able to do it for long. And the one that did was the most miserable bastard I’ve ever known in my life.
But, yes, there is still the mystery of the missing werewolves to solve too.
In the end the story was interesting, but I would have liked some more world building. There were quite a few situations that made me double check that this wasn't an established series I'd begun reading. It isn't, it's definitely book one, but sometimes felt like it wasn't.
Told in dual POV, it did take me quite a long time to settle into the rhythm/pacing of the story and if it hadn't been for fated mates being a favorite trope of mine, I might have given up. I'm glad I stuck with it.
“You’re my home.”
Arden smiled, then tightened his arms around Eli in a fierce hug. “And you’re mine. Always.”
“Damn right,” Eli said...
There's also a slight cliffhanger which is more of an opening for its own series outside of Dreamspinner's new "Dreamspun Beyond" house line.
In the end, I enjoyed it and I'll probably check out another in the Asheville Arcana series.
Advanced Review Galley copy of Out of the Ashes provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
September 16, 2017
3.5 stars
July 2, 2017
Out of the Ashes by Ari McKay is a fun story with an intriguing plot and quirky characters that you will easily fall in love with! This book is the first story in a new house collection from Dreamspinner Press titled, Dreamspun Beyond. This collection is an off-shoot from their Dreamspun Desires collection and will include romantic stories with a paranormal twist and of course happily ever after endings. Additionally, Out of the Ashes is the begining of a new series from authors Ari McKay entitled, Asheville Arcana -- and after reading this first book, I admit I am eager for a few follow-up stories!
In this story we have Arden Gilmarin who is a centuries old half-elf and at the beginning of the story he is pondering love and happiness with his best friend Whimsy. Arden wonders if his next 300 years or so are destined to be the same or will something or better yet, someone (preferably a hot, Alpha type man, with abs for days, who knows how to top) come into his life and mix things up a bit?
You know that saying...be careful what you wish for? Well it so applies here. Not more than a day later, while in the midst of the Asheville paranormal council meeting, in walks Eli Hammond. ....
Full review to be posted at Alpha Book Club on Release Day 8/1/17
❥❥**´¨)
¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•`*Review Copy provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Jaime from Alpha Book Club
In this story we have Arden Gilmarin who is a centuries old half-elf and at the beginning of the story he is pondering love and happiness with his best friend Whimsy. Arden wonders if his next 300 years or so are destined to be the same or will something or better yet, someone (preferably a hot, Alpha type man, with abs for days, who knows how to top) come into his life and mix things up a bit?
You know that saying...be careful what you wish for? Well it so applies here. Not more than a day later, while in the midst of the Asheville paranormal council meeting, in walks Eli Hammond. ....
Full review to be posted at Alpha Book Club on Release Day 8/1/17
❥❥**´¨)
¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•`*Review Copy provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Jaime from Alpha Book Club
August 1, 2017
Review originally posted at Sinfully.
3.5 stars
Part of the new Dreamspun Beyond line of books, a paranormal offshoot of Dreamspun Desires, this story is a fun, sweet, low steam start to a new series from authors Ari McKay. This one focuses on fated mates Eli Hammond, the alpha werewolf of a Georgia pack and Arden Gilmarin, a half-elf resort owner from Asheville, NC who offers his assistance to find the missing members of Eli’s pack.
There’s not a lot of detailed world-building. The story jumps right into the world of the supernatural community of Asheville. Elves, wizards, vampires, wolves and other members of the community going about their business – just as ridiculous as any human small town board meeting – until the Asheville pack leader brings in the Alpha from a pack in Georgia. Eli’s pack was attacked by a neighboring pack and those who weren’t killed are now missing and he wants help finding them. Enter Arden, a half-elf with a wizard for a father, who volunteers to help Eli. From their first touch Eli recognizes Arden as his mate and doesn’t like it one bit.
Eli fights the pull of Arden as his wolf yearns to claim him. Yes, he recognizes Arden is his mate and can acknowledge that Arden is sexy as hell, but Eli has enough on his plate. And really, a half-elf? Not only couldn’t they be more different, he’s afraid Arden would break if Eli took him the way his wolf wants to. Arden may appear fragile but he’s got his strengths and wouldn’t mind a bit of a rough tumble with the sexy werewolf with the stunning aura. Arden turns on the charm and throws himself into caretaker mode and while he can sense Eli’s interest he isn’t getting anywhere. Eli’s fighting the attraction gets more difficult as Arden finds out he’s Eli’s mate and the two, along with Arden’s friends and family, go about trying to find out what happened to the pack and realize the extent of the evil they are dealing with.
Arden’s two best friends with benefits are fun secondary characters with distinct personalities and I’m assuming we’ll get their stories in the future. Whimsy the wizard is a sweetheart and comic relief. He has a knack for providing couples therapy as well. The third member of their threesome, vampire Julian, is a bit more serious and has some voyeuristic tendencies. Both are happy to help Arden get his man and help Eli find his family even if it requires antagonizing Eli with the knowledge that the three of them had more than one or two nights of fun together.
Told in dual POV, the story moves along quickly and had a good balance between the romantic and mystery storylines. There’s a bit of back and forth as Arden tries to persuade Eli to give him a chance and Eli fights it, but once Eli finally gives in he’s all in. But their time together may be over before it starts as the forces of evil catch up with them.
There is action, romance, humor and I also detected a few subtle shout outs to The Walking Dead TV series. With a wide range of supernatural characters, both good and evil, there is plenty going on. I did want to know a little more about the world they were living in, though I loved the descriptions of Arden’s and his family’s homes.
There are some parts of the story left open, as to be expected with a continuing series, but there is a happy ending for Eli and Arden. I’ll be looking forward to spending more time with these characters and hoping that both Whimsy and Julian will be featured in upcoming books. If you like paranormal stories that aren’t heavy on the world building but have a lot of variety in the characters and a odd couple of sexy fated mates you’ll enjoy this read.
3.5 stars
Part of the new Dreamspun Beyond line of books, a paranormal offshoot of Dreamspun Desires, this story is a fun, sweet, low steam start to a new series from authors Ari McKay. This one focuses on fated mates Eli Hammond, the alpha werewolf of a Georgia pack and Arden Gilmarin, a half-elf resort owner from Asheville, NC who offers his assistance to find the missing members of Eli’s pack.
There’s not a lot of detailed world-building. The story jumps right into the world of the supernatural community of Asheville. Elves, wizards, vampires, wolves and other members of the community going about their business – just as ridiculous as any human small town board meeting – until the Asheville pack leader brings in the Alpha from a pack in Georgia. Eli’s pack was attacked by a neighboring pack and those who weren’t killed are now missing and he wants help finding them. Enter Arden, a half-elf with a wizard for a father, who volunteers to help Eli. From their first touch Eli recognizes Arden as his mate and doesn’t like it one bit.
Eli fights the pull of Arden as his wolf yearns to claim him. Yes, he recognizes Arden is his mate and can acknowledge that Arden is sexy as hell, but Eli has enough on his plate. And really, a half-elf? Not only couldn’t they be more different, he’s afraid Arden would break if Eli took him the way his wolf wants to. Arden may appear fragile but he’s got his strengths and wouldn’t mind a bit of a rough tumble with the sexy werewolf with the stunning aura. Arden turns on the charm and throws himself into caretaker mode and while he can sense Eli’s interest he isn’t getting anywhere. Eli’s fighting the attraction gets more difficult as Arden finds out he’s Eli’s mate and the two, along with Arden’s friends and family, go about trying to find out what happened to the pack and realize the extent of the evil they are dealing with.
Arden’s two best friends with benefits are fun secondary characters with distinct personalities and I’m assuming we’ll get their stories in the future. Whimsy the wizard is a sweetheart and comic relief. He has a knack for providing couples therapy as well. The third member of their threesome, vampire Julian, is a bit more serious and has some voyeuristic tendencies. Both are happy to help Arden get his man and help Eli find his family even if it requires antagonizing Eli with the knowledge that the three of them had more than one or two nights of fun together.
Told in dual POV, the story moves along quickly and had a good balance between the romantic and mystery storylines. There’s a bit of back and forth as Arden tries to persuade Eli to give him a chance and Eli fights it, but once Eli finally gives in he’s all in. But their time together may be over before it starts as the forces of evil catch up with them.
There is action, romance, humor and I also detected a few subtle shout outs to The Walking Dead TV series. With a wide range of supernatural characters, both good and evil, there is plenty going on. I did want to know a little more about the world they were living in, though I loved the descriptions of Arden’s and his family’s homes.
There are some parts of the story left open, as to be expected with a continuing series, but there is a happy ending for Eli and Arden. I’ll be looking forward to spending more time with these characters and hoping that both Whimsy and Julian will be featured in upcoming books. If you like paranormal stories that aren’t heavy on the world building but have a lot of variety in the characters and a odd couple of sexy fated mates you’ll enjoy this read.
November 20, 2017
Have you ever wondered what would happen if an elf, a vampire, a wizard and a werewolf met...
...while I can't honestly say that I have...I can say that it was hella' good fun finding out.
The last thing alpha werewolf expected to find when he returned home was 5 dead pack members and the rest of the pack missing. In need of help to find his missing pack Eli heads to the pack in Asheville and the supernatural community located there. When the supernatural council turns down Eli's plea for help...all except for one person...half-elf, Arden Gilmarin.
As soon as they shake hands Eli knows he's met his mate...something he neither wants nor believes he needs. As Arden and his friends, the vampire Julian and a wizard named Whimsey work with Eli to figure out what's happened to Eli's pack, Eli begins to find it harder and harder to ignore his inner wolf's demands to be with it's mate.
While Arden knows that he wants Eli as soon as they meet what he doesn't realize is that they're mates.
I really enjoyed this story. It held my interest from start to finish. Both the storyline and the characters. The pace was fast but not excessively and the mystery and romance were woven together seamlessly. But even more than the story I loved these characters. Arden with his sweet caregiver ways, Eli with his gruff, alpha behavior and determination to keep Arden at arms length, Julian the mysterious vampire who keeps his past a secret and while he's not as open about his feelings as Arden or Whimsy it's still abundantly clear how much he cares about his two friends and the wizard, Whimsy. Whimsy is absolutely adorable and totally a spitfire...seriously don't mess with his friends because he will curse your sorry behind.
This was only my second time listening to an audio book narrated by Andrew McFerrin. I have to admit I was to say the least impressed by this narrator and the challenge he had narrating this story seriously there were a lot of speaking parts in this with a lot of different characters and Mr. McFerrin did a pretty impressive job giving them all their own unique voice and just keeping it straight as to which voice belonged to who and in how wonderfully expressive they were and this all combined to make one of the funnest audio books I've listened to in a while. I can definitely see me listening to this one again.
Best of all 'Out of the Ashes' as well as being one of the books in Dreamspinner's 'Dreamspun Beyond' series, this is the first book in Ari McKay's 'Asheville Aracana' series and I'm definitely looking forward to whatever comes next whether it's Julian or Whimsy or even someone new, I'm on board for what comes next from 'Asheville'.
*************************
An audio book of 'Out of the Ashes' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
...while I can't honestly say that I have...I can say that it was hella' good fun finding out.
The last thing alpha werewolf expected to find when he returned home was 5 dead pack members and the rest of the pack missing. In need of help to find his missing pack Eli heads to the pack in Asheville and the supernatural community located there. When the supernatural council turns down Eli's plea for help...all except for one person...half-elf, Arden Gilmarin.
As soon as they shake hands Eli knows he's met his mate...something he neither wants nor believes he needs. As Arden and his friends, the vampire Julian and a wizard named Whimsey work with Eli to figure out what's happened to Eli's pack, Eli begins to find it harder and harder to ignore his inner wolf's demands to be with it's mate.
While Arden knows that he wants Eli as soon as they meet what he doesn't realize is that they're mates.
I really enjoyed this story. It held my interest from start to finish. Both the storyline and the characters. The pace was fast but not excessively and the mystery and romance were woven together seamlessly. But even more than the story I loved these characters. Arden with his sweet caregiver ways, Eli with his gruff, alpha behavior and determination to keep Arden at arms length, Julian the mysterious vampire who keeps his past a secret and while he's not as open about his feelings as Arden or Whimsy it's still abundantly clear how much he cares about his two friends and the wizard, Whimsy. Whimsy is absolutely adorable and totally a spitfire...seriously don't mess with his friends because he will curse your sorry behind.
This was only my second time listening to an audio book narrated by Andrew McFerrin. I have to admit I was to say the least impressed by this narrator and the challenge he had narrating this story seriously there were a lot of speaking parts in this with a lot of different characters and Mr. McFerrin did a pretty impressive job giving them all their own unique voice and just keeping it straight as to which voice belonged to who and in how wonderfully expressive they were and this all combined to make one of the funnest audio books I've listened to in a while. I can definitely see me listening to this one again.
Best of all 'Out of the Ashes' as well as being one of the books in Dreamspinner's 'Dreamspun Beyond' series, this is the first book in Ari McKay's 'Asheville Aracana' series and I'm definitely looking forward to whatever comes next whether it's Julian or Whimsy or even someone new, I'm on board for what comes next from 'Asheville'.
*************************
An audio book of 'Out of the Ashes' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
September 18, 2017
Paranormal elements aside, this is your basic good ol' boy meets sophisticated citified guy. The typical werewolf trope of "fated mates" brings them together but what can I say? I'm a sucker for that (also, the Dreamspun Beyond line is designed to be somewhat trope-tastic, so it's to be expected). Also, I totally want Arden's house, but that's beside the point.
The narrative point of view switches back and forth between Eli and Arden so we get a good feel for both characters. Both are caring, hardworking men and they make a great couple. The side characters are great as well; Arden's friends-with-benefits Whimsy (a wizard) and Julian (a vampire) play a big role. I am guessing they will be the protagonists for the next two books.
The plot keeps the suspense up, although there a few "What the heck are you doing?" moments and at times the pacing seemed a bit off. There's also a couple of unanswered questions, though perhaps they are threads to be addressed in future stories. The story is engaging enough that I enjoyed it, though.
Finally: I grew up in Upstate South Carolina so Asheville, North Carolina and Clayton, Georgia are part of my old stomping grounds. I admit I went into this with a critical eye, but McKay did a nice job of getting a feel for the area, with an appropriate number of references to local landmarks. I could even imagine exactly where some of the fictional places in the book could be located.
I'd recommend this one, and can't wait to see more in the series!
The narrative point of view switches back and forth between Eli and Arden so we get a good feel for both characters. Both are caring, hardworking men and they make a great couple. The side characters are great as well; Arden's friends-with-benefits Whimsy (a wizard) and Julian (a vampire) play a big role. I am guessing they will be the protagonists for the next two books.
The plot keeps the suspense up, although there a few "What the heck are you doing?" moments and at times the pacing seemed a bit off. There's also a couple of unanswered questions, though perhaps they are threads to be addressed in future stories. The story is engaging enough that I enjoyed it, though.
Finally: I grew up in Upstate South Carolina so Asheville, North Carolina and Clayton, Georgia are part of my old stomping grounds. I admit I went into this with a critical eye, but McKay did a nice job of getting a feel for the area, with an appropriate number of references to local landmarks. I could even imagine exactly where some of the fictional places in the book could be located.
I'd recommend this one, and can't wait to see more in the series!
December 25, 2017
When Alpha werewolf Eli Hammond seeks the help of the supernatural council to help him locate his kidnapped pack members, the only one willing is Arden Gilmarin, a half-human/half-elf. It turns out to be the best thing to ever happen to Eli because he realizes almost immediately that Arden is his mate.
At first, though, he’s unwilling to act on the mate bond because (a) he’s not sure he wants to be burdened with a mate, and (b) it’s the worst possible time to be thinking of his own long-term happiness. But as the two work together—and with other supernatural beings and werewolves—he realizes that Arden is much more than he appears to be and he makes Eli a better person as well. By midway through the story, there’s no doubt that Eli is more than willing to mate with Arden and vice versa.
This is a highly enjoyable tale, the first in a new series, and this reviewer is definitely hoping that Arden’s friend Whimsy gets his story next. Each character is fully developed and the secondary characters enhance the story so well that it moves along at a fast pace. Andrew McFerrin’s narration was very good, giving each character a unique voice—something very important in an audiobook with multiple characters.
I’m looking forward to more in this world and I definitely recommend this to all lovers of paranormal MM romance.
Note: This audiobook was provided to me through Hearts on Fire Reviews in exchange for an impartial review.
At first, though, he’s unwilling to act on the mate bond because (a) he’s not sure he wants to be burdened with a mate, and (b) it’s the worst possible time to be thinking of his own long-term happiness. But as the two work together—and with other supernatural beings and werewolves—he realizes that Arden is much more than he appears to be and he makes Eli a better person as well. By midway through the story, there’s no doubt that Eli is more than willing to mate with Arden and vice versa.
This is a highly enjoyable tale, the first in a new series, and this reviewer is definitely hoping that Arden’s friend Whimsy gets his story next. Each character is fully developed and the secondary characters enhance the story so well that it moves along at a fast pace. Andrew McFerrin’s narration was very good, giving each character a unique voice—something very important in an audiobook with multiple characters.
I’m looking forward to more in this world and I definitely recommend this to all lovers of paranormal MM romance.
Note: This audiobook was provided to me through Hearts on Fire Reviews in exchange for an impartial review.
April 15, 2018
This was super sweet and had a lot of world building for a relatively short book.
I liked the setting, the paranormal elements were treated as just part of the world where werewolves, vampires, Fae, wizards, witches, diviners and other magic creatures lived alongside humans but separated off from them.
The threat was built up nicely, as was the sexual tension between alpha pack leader Eli and his half-elf mate Arden. Because this is a Dreamspun Beyond romance, there was just the one on page sex scene but it was worth the wait. Arden and Eli are perfect mates and blew the sheets off!
As this is an ongoing series (and I'll be reviewing Book Two shortly as well), there was a sort of cliffhanger. The plot narrative for this book was wrapped up but the overall story arc is still be concluded and I'm looking forward to seeing where it goes next.
There's plenty going on in Out of the Ashes and lots of potential for where the story is going next but it's Whimsy the mage up next in Forged In Fire!
#ARC kindly provided by the publishers Dreamspinner Press in return for an honest and unbiased review.
I liked the setting, the paranormal elements were treated as just part of the world where werewolves, vampires, Fae, wizards, witches, diviners and other magic creatures lived alongside humans but separated off from them.
The threat was built up nicely, as was the sexual tension between alpha pack leader Eli and his half-elf mate Arden. Because this is a Dreamspun Beyond romance, there was just the one on page sex scene but it was worth the wait. Arden and Eli are perfect mates and blew the sheets off!
As this is an ongoing series (and I'll be reviewing Book Two shortly as well), there was a sort of cliffhanger. The plot narrative for this book was wrapped up but the overall story arc is still be concluded and I'm looking forward to seeing where it goes next.
There's plenty going on in Out of the Ashes and lots of potential for where the story is going next but it's Whimsy the mage up next in Forged In Fire!
#ARC kindly provided by the publishers Dreamspinner Press in return for an honest and unbiased review.
August 2, 2017
OMG this was so unexpected! I’m not sure what I thought this was going to be – exactly – but what it is is a “city boy meets country boy” mixed with a bit of “fated mate but, I can’t have him”. There’s a terrific mystery – it’s actually pretty sad at times- and I’m usually not that interested in the mystery!
I loved all the various fantasy elements like the dryads and the very spiritual qualities that overlaid the basic philosophy – especially of Arden.
The smexy times are smokin’- definitely a hotter than usual story for this line of books!
(My only complaint was that Eli’s language got a bit tedious – it was a bit too “good ol boy for me.)
I’m super excited to see more from this series!
Highly Recommended!
4.5 of 5 stars
I loved all the various fantasy elements like the dryads and the very spiritual qualities that overlaid the basic philosophy – especially of Arden.
The smexy times are smokin’- definitely a hotter than usual story for this line of books!
(My only complaint was that Eli’s language got a bit tedious – it was a bit too “good ol boy for me.)
I’m super excited to see more from this series!
Highly Recommended!
4.5 of 5 stars
August 10, 2017
I did enjoy this book although I have to say I found the way Eli spoke a bit off-putting. Lots of ain'ts and poor grammar. I get it, he lived in the backwoods and was probably uneducated, but that is probably showing my own snobbishness. Still, I loved Arden and how he would call Eli on treating him like a weak little thing. I was also annoyed with Eli trying to deny the mating bond which as a werewolf he should have known the results of and not needed the werewolf to smack him upside the head.
To be honest, I liked Julian and Whimsy his "friends with benefits" a bit better. I wanted to see them hook-up. They both need someone, but I suppose the stories will be each of them finding true love. I loved Julian who was so sarcastic and rude and Whimsy was just adorable.
So overall, I enjoyed it, and the challenge they had of finding the reason for the original killings/kidnapping and the town council wanting the werewolves to pick up after themselves at the local park and that kind of mundane detail was hilarious, but I didn't love Eli as much as I loved Arden. Still, it was a fun read and I have no major hates.
To be honest, I liked Julian and Whimsy his "friends with benefits" a bit better. I wanted to see them hook-up. They both need someone, but I suppose the stories will be each of them finding true love. I loved Julian who was so sarcastic and rude and Whimsy was just adorable.
So overall, I enjoyed it, and the challenge they had of finding the reason for the original killings/kidnapping and the town council wanting the werewolves to pick up after themselves at the local park and that kind of mundane detail was hilarious, but I didn't love Eli as much as I loved Arden. Still, it was a fun read and I have no major hates.
July 25, 2018
OMG this was so unexpected! I’m not sure what I thought this was going to be – exactly – but what it is is a “city boy meets country boy” mixed with a bit of “fated mate but, I can’t have him”. There’s a terrific mystery – it’s actually pretty sad at times- and I’m usually not that interested in the mystery!
I loved all the various fantasy elements like the dryads and the very spiritual qualities that overlaid the basic philosophy – especially of Arden.
The smexy times are smokin’- definitely a hotter than usual story for this line of books!
(My only complaint was that Eli’s language got a bit tedious – it was a bit too “good ol boy for me.)
I’m super excited to see more from this series!
Highly Recommended!
4.5 of 5 stars
Audio
Andrew McFerrin rocked this! He did a fantastic job matching characters with voices and providing an entire CAST with unique and appropriate accents. This was a delight to listen to and absolutely added to my overall enjoyment!
Highly recommended!
6 of 5 stars
Overall 5 of 5 stars
I loved all the various fantasy elements like the dryads and the very spiritual qualities that overlaid the basic philosophy – especially of Arden.
The smexy times are smokin’- definitely a hotter than usual story for this line of books!
(My only complaint was that Eli’s language got a bit tedious – it was a bit too “good ol boy for me.)
I’m super excited to see more from this series!
Highly Recommended!
4.5 of 5 stars
Audio
Andrew McFerrin rocked this! He did a fantastic job matching characters with voices and providing an entire CAST with unique and appropriate accents. This was a delight to listen to and absolutely added to my overall enjoyment!
Highly recommended!
6 of 5 stars
Overall 5 of 5 stars
August 15, 2021
I was looking forward to reading this after having met some of these characters in Stop Dragon My Heart Around a book in the Magic Emporium series. I really wanted to know their story but right from the start of this book I felt like I'd been dropped into a story that had already begun. I even checked to see if I started on book 2 or 3 by accident. Everything felt like I should know the characters and the drama they found themselves in. Maybe it's just me. It's too bad because the bones are there, it just didn't draw me in like I would have liked.
TAGS
-- Fantasy -- paranormal -- wolf shifter/elf pairing -- variety of paranormal characters -- magic -- good vs evil -- possession -- some sweet moments -- likeable enough MCs... Eli & Arden -- liked it but didn't love it -- not sure I liked the ending -- maybe there's more to come -- on to the next book
Want to read
June 2, 2022🎁 FREE on Amazon today (6/2/2022)! 🎁
dnf
June 8, 2022DNF @ 48% This book wasn't bad, just kind of slow. If I wasn't in a reading slump I might have kept reading, but right now it's not working for me.
March 17, 2020
**grm**
Interesting story. The MCs were Eli, a sexy Alpha that not only was a good person but was also smart, and the other was an half-elf named Arden, that I was glad to see wasn't the usual naive and submissive mate. There were some things that didn't get an explanation, but this was the first book of a series, so I guess the authors will give us more infos in the next books. Just one thing made me roll my eyes for half the story, all the jokes about Arden's height. So, or did I miss something or the elf wasn't as short as the authors kept saying, because if I remember well, Eli was 6 feet 4(or near it) and when they met, they described the elf as almost one foot smaller so he would be around 5,4 and I don't know you guys but a 1,64 m person I don't think is so short to need someone to open a cabinet (or whatever that was, maybe take something from a shelf)for them... also because if you raise your arm to take a thing you go way over the height.... uhm... Anyway, I will start now the 2nd book.
Interesting story. The MCs were Eli, a sexy Alpha that not only was a good person but was also smart, and the other was an half-elf named Arden, that I was glad to see wasn't the usual naive and submissive mate. There were some things that didn't get an explanation, but this was the first book of a series, so I guess the authors will give us more infos in the next books. Just one thing made me roll my eyes for half the story, all the jokes about Arden's height. So, or did I miss something or the elf wasn't as short as the authors kept saying, because if I remember well, Eli was 6 feet 4(or near it) and when they met, they described the elf as almost one foot smaller so he would be around 5,4 and I don't know you guys but a 1,64 m person I don't think is so short to need someone to open a cabinet (or whatever that was, maybe take something from a shelf)for them... also because if you raise your arm to take a thing you go way over the height.... uhm... Anyway, I will start now the 2nd book.
March 13, 2018
there’s an entire world of paranormal creatures hidden away from prying human eyes. Faeries, shifters, vampires, and wizards join forces to rid America’s south of evil. In this story, we have Arden (half fae) and Eli (Alpha werewolf) who meet when Eli’s pack is kidnapped. Arden and his friends agree to help find Eli’s pack. There’s a nice bit of action throughout along with time for Arden and Eli to get know each other better. I enjoyed reading about them, and I will enjoy reading more about Arden’s circle of friends in future books. I had one small issue that stood out to me. The nickname towards the end (Eli called Arden Itty Bitty) bugged the hell out of me. Every time it was said, it tossed me out of the story (I’m strange that way🤷🏽♀️).
This was a nice beginning to a new paranormal series.
This was a nice beginning to a new paranormal series.
August 15, 2017
3.75 Stars. Although it did not end in a cliffhanger I am looking forward to more.
May 13, 2018
I need to make an appointment with my dentist because I’m fairly sure I developed a cavity while reading this book. These authors aren’t for me.
July 31, 2017
Full review at :
https://optimummblog.wordpress.com/2017/07/31/review-out-of-the-ashes-by-ari-mckay/
Eli Hammond is an Alpha wolf, after a trip, he comes back to his pack and finds 5 of his pack-mates dead and all the other members missing.
Arden Gilmarin is a Half-Elf, successful business man and a member of the Council of the Sup-Nat.
When Eli comes to Asheville asking for help rescuing his pack, he finds a closed door by the members of the council, except for Arden. His mate.
Eli knows from the beginning that Arden is his mate, but he refuses to claim him. First, he has his pack to rescue and as the Alpha, the pack comes first. Second, the fact that Arden isn’t from the same species, is something that bothers Eli. How can 2 different species be together and mate for life when they are so different?
Arden is adorable, smart, fun, with a big heart. He’s a caretaker, and helping people who need it, it’s second nature to him. So when Eli comes asking for help, he couldn’t refuse him. When he realized that they were mates, Arden tries to understand why Eli doesn’t want him and doesn’t do stupid things and I love that about him.
I loved this book. Eli and Arden are perfect together.
I’ve read a lot of paranormal books, I love this kind, and Out of the Ashes, is a really good book.
The author wrote an interesting story with a good plot, the MC’s a couple that I loved from the beginning, both of them (I was surprised too), the secondary characters were good too, and I wanted to know more about them.
The fact that the book wasn’t all about the mate pair, pleased me. The author wrote two stories in one.
The first story, we have the investigations about Eli’s pack and all the ramifications of it. The second story, Eli and Arden’s love story and mate’s bond.
I also loved that the author didn’t use the mate thing for ugly useless sex scenes (yes, it’s me Ivy, and no I’m not sick). Actually, he took the time to build the bond between them, of course it’s a magical bond, and of course after 4 days they were together for good (and I was doing a little dance), but that doesn’t mean they didn’t talk together or didn’t share their fears and worries.
Besides, like I said, the plot about the missing pack was super good.
For me, it was like reading a paranormal gay’s version of the TV Show Supernatural. Replace the brothers Sam and Dean Winchester by an Alpha Gay Wolf mated to a bossy bottom Half-elf, then add a broody Vampire as expert ès-demon, a wizard as the best friend who is also sex-buddy (I love this book!) and other supernatural creatures like Dryads, Witches and demon hunter.
Shake well, and you have Out of the Ashes.
I will definitely follow this series, and hope that book 2 will come soon.
4 OptimuMM’s for those adorable supernatural misfits
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book***
https://optimummblog.wordpress.com/2017/07/31/review-out-of-the-ashes-by-ari-mckay/
Eli Hammond is an Alpha wolf, after a trip, he comes back to his pack and finds 5 of his pack-mates dead and all the other members missing.
Arden Gilmarin is a Half-Elf, successful business man and a member of the Council of the Sup-Nat.
When Eli comes to Asheville asking for help rescuing his pack, he finds a closed door by the members of the council, except for Arden. His mate.
Eli knows from the beginning that Arden is his mate, but he refuses to claim him. First, he has his pack to rescue and as the Alpha, the pack comes first. Second, the fact that Arden isn’t from the same species, is something that bothers Eli. How can 2 different species be together and mate for life when they are so different?
Arden is adorable, smart, fun, with a big heart. He’s a caretaker, and helping people who need it, it’s second nature to him. So when Eli comes asking for help, he couldn’t refuse him. When he realized that they were mates, Arden tries to understand why Eli doesn’t want him and doesn’t do stupid things and I love that about him.
I loved this book. Eli and Arden are perfect together.
I’ve read a lot of paranormal books, I love this kind, and Out of the Ashes, is a really good book.
The author wrote an interesting story with a good plot, the MC’s a couple that I loved from the beginning, both of them (I was surprised too), the secondary characters were good too, and I wanted to know more about them.
The fact that the book wasn’t all about the mate pair, pleased me. The author wrote two stories in one.
The first story, we have the investigations about Eli’s pack and all the ramifications of it. The second story, Eli and Arden’s love story and mate’s bond.
I also loved that the author didn’t use the mate thing for ugly useless sex scenes (yes, it’s me Ivy, and no I’m not sick). Actually, he took the time to build the bond between them, of course it’s a magical bond, and of course after 4 days they were together for good (and I was doing a little dance), but that doesn’t mean they didn’t talk together or didn’t share their fears and worries.
Besides, like I said, the plot about the missing pack was super good.
For me, it was like reading a paranormal gay’s version of the TV Show Supernatural. Replace the brothers Sam and Dean Winchester by an Alpha Gay Wolf mated to a bossy bottom Half-elf, then add a broody Vampire as expert ès-demon, a wizard as the best friend who is also sex-buddy (I love this book!) and other supernatural creatures like Dryads, Witches and demon hunter.
Shake well, and you have Out of the Ashes.
I will definitely follow this series, and hope that book 2 will come soon.
4 OptimuMM’s for those adorable supernatural misfits
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book***
August 5, 2017
A Joyfully Jay review.
Out of the Ashes by the writing duo Ari McKay had almost every conceivable paranormal entity possible and intermeshed them together seamlessly. This was a fast-moving story with a sizzling romance that could not be denied despite Eli trying to do so with all he was worth. While I felt that Eli’s capitulation and acceptance of having Arden as his mate came about suddenly, it was not due to the plot lacking in building tension between the two men. Rather, it just seemed as though one moment Eli was dug in to resist Arden and the next he wasn’t. I think I wanted to see just a few more scenes of Eli fighting his attraction before he caved and that is really more a personal desire than anything else. The chemistry between Eli and Arden was decidedly there and it was interwoven well among the action and that kept this novel exciting and entertaining.
I also loved the interaction between Arden and his best friend, Whimsy. They provided much needed comic relief and gave us insight as to who Arden was and how loyal he could be to those he considered family. Considering that Arden and Whimsy were formerly friends with benefits and included a third, the vampire Julian, in their fun, I almost wish we could have had a prequel to this story focusing on the three of them and their friendship. Together they had terrific chemistry and I wanted to know more about them.
Out of the Ashes by Ari McKay is a worthy supernatural story with a few twists and turns and some pretty hot sexual tension to boot. It’s a great summer read for those who love the paranormal genre.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
Out of the Ashes by the writing duo Ari McKay had almost every conceivable paranormal entity possible and intermeshed them together seamlessly. This was a fast-moving story with a sizzling romance that could not be denied despite Eli trying to do so with all he was worth. While I felt that Eli’s capitulation and acceptance of having Arden as his mate came about suddenly, it was not due to the plot lacking in building tension between the two men. Rather, it just seemed as though one moment Eli was dug in to resist Arden and the next he wasn’t. I think I wanted to see just a few more scenes of Eli fighting his attraction before he caved and that is really more a personal desire than anything else. The chemistry between Eli and Arden was decidedly there and it was interwoven well among the action and that kept this novel exciting and entertaining.
I also loved the interaction between Arden and his best friend, Whimsy. They provided much needed comic relief and gave us insight as to who Arden was and how loyal he could be to those he considered family. Considering that Arden and Whimsy were formerly friends with benefits and included a third, the vampire Julian, in their fun, I almost wish we could have had a prequel to this story focusing on the three of them and their friendship. Together they had terrific chemistry and I wanted to know more about them.
Out of the Ashes by Ari McKay is a worthy supernatural story with a few twists and turns and some pretty hot sexual tension to boot. It’s a great summer read for those who love the paranormal genre.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
November 29, 2017
Audio Book Review
I love a good Paranormal romance. Out of the Ashes brings us several creatures not just your run of the mill shifter or vampire. we have Arden a half-Elf that owns a resort and is a caretaker. So when sexy Alpha werewolf Eli comes asking the local pack for help to find his missing pack Arden wants to help too. When he finds out Eli and him are mates he is hurt that Eli doesn't seem to want a mate. I loved his friends Whimsy and Julian as well and look forward to a story for them.
The narration is very good. I loved the accent Andrew McFerrin gave Eli and the unique voices of each character.
If you are looking for a good paranormal romance audio with vampires, wizards, werewolves, demons and fated mates I recommend this. Its fast paced and fun with a sweet romance.
I love a good Paranormal romance. Out of the Ashes brings us several creatures not just your run of the mill shifter or vampire. we have Arden a half-Elf that owns a resort and is a caretaker. So when sexy Alpha werewolf Eli comes asking the local pack for help to find his missing pack Arden wants to help too. When he finds out Eli and him are mates he is hurt that Eli doesn't seem to want a mate. I loved his friends Whimsy and Julian as well and look forward to a story for them.
The narration is very good. I loved the accent Andrew McFerrin gave Eli and the unique voices of each character.
If you are looking for a good paranormal romance audio with vampires, wizards, werewolves, demons and fated mates I recommend this. Its fast paced and fun with a sweet romance.
January 2, 2018
Very nice start to what I'm glad to discover is a series. I had the distinct advantage of knowing the Southern towns in this book, giving me clear visuals of the locale.
We've got vampires, werewolves, half-fae. What's not to love? I have to admit that I'm usually not a big fan of fated mates, but Ari McKay makes me like it and want more. Eli and Arden. Sigh. The main couple gets most of the attention, of course, but Ms. McKay takes time to thoroughly introduce and flesh out the secondary characters, and keeps us turning pages, hoping to learn their fate.
The narrator did an excellent job with the voices, further pulling me in to the story.
Great offering from a new-to-me author. Kudos on the world building.
We've got vampires, werewolves, half-fae. What's not to love? I have to admit that I'm usually not a big fan of fated mates, but Ari McKay makes me like it and want more. Eli and Arden. Sigh. The main couple gets most of the attention, of course, but Ms. McKay takes time to thoroughly introduce and flesh out the secondary characters, and keeps us turning pages, hoping to learn their fate.
The narrator did an excellent job with the voices, further pulling me in to the story.
Great offering from a new-to-me author. Kudos on the world building.
May 14, 2018
3.5 stars
I definitely feel INTRIGUED with the case which I assume will be the whole arc of this series. I enjoy the community of many supernatural beings.
I also appreciate that this story falls into DSP Dreamspun's line, because despite Eli knowing that Arden is his mate from the very first touch, but they don't exactly consummate the physical until later in the book. It's a sweet tale and I am going to check the sequel for sure
I definitely feel INTRIGUED with the case which I assume will be the whole arc of this series. I enjoy the community of many supernatural beings.
I also appreciate that this story falls into DSP Dreamspun's line, because despite Eli knowing that Arden is his mate from the very first touch, but they don't exactly consummate the physical until later in the book. It's a sweet tale and I am going to check the sequel for sure
August 17, 2017
I really enjoyed my first book of the Dreamspin Beyond series. This book provides a whole new world to explore & certain if this continues, I'll read more. They certainly have several supporting characters they could feature in future books. I love the reluctant love story between a bratty half elf & an alpha Werewolf. Highly recommended!
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