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Heartblaze #4
Werewolf Unchained: A Heartblaze Novel
The ultimate wolf shifter adventure!
From USA Today bestselling author Shay Roberts comes the first book of Ash’s Saga, a gritty werewolf novel set in the remarkable Heartblaze world.
Fair warning, these aren’t your mother’s shifters. If you’re feeling brave, pounce on this book and sink your teeth into a frenzied werewolf epic!
“My name is Ash. I live alone in the woods outside a werewolf community. What could go wrong?”
"Once I finished this book I started aching for more." – Marolyn Scott ★★★★
"A true rollercoaster ride." – Book Lover ★★★★★
"Unputdownable!" – Sue Leak ★★★★★
READING ORDER
There are three separate trilogies set in the Heartblaze world. You can start with any of them, but if you want to read all three sets, the recommended order is:
Tyler's Saga
Emma's Saga
Ash's Saga
AUTHOR Q&A
How would you describe this series?
The books are fast-paced paranormal/urban fantasy thrillers with both action and romance. When I began writing this series, I set out to create something for readers who enjoy a thought-provoking book. Heartblaze books are told from the point of view of multiple characters and take place in the present-day as well as the past. These books are not for people looking for light and fluffy reading, nor for readers completely unfamiliar with the genre.
Is this series appropriate for all ages?
No. The series is written for adults, young adults, and mature teens.
What types of creatures are in the novel?
Quite a number: vampires, werewolves, werebears, ghosts, witches, and fae. All of them are portrayed in new ways. For example, the werewolves are shifters who channel animal spirits from the distant past. The fae have their own unique language that plays a role in some of the books. It’s a functional language that I spent a year developing!
From USA Today bestselling author Shay Roberts comes the first book of Ash’s Saga, a gritty werewolf novel set in the remarkable Heartblaze world.
Fair warning, these aren’t your mother’s shifters. If you’re feeling brave, pounce on this book and sink your teeth into a frenzied werewolf epic!
“My name is Ash. I live alone in the woods outside a werewolf community. What could go wrong?”
"Once I finished this book I started aching for more." – Marolyn Scott ★★★★
"A true rollercoaster ride." – Book Lover ★★★★★
"Unputdownable!" – Sue Leak ★★★★★
READING ORDER
There are three separate trilogies set in the Heartblaze world. You can start with any of them, but if you want to read all three sets, the recommended order is:
Tyler's Saga
Emma's Saga
Ash's Saga
AUTHOR Q&A
How would you describe this series?
The books are fast-paced paranormal/urban fantasy thrillers with both action and romance. When I began writing this series, I set out to create something for readers who enjoy a thought-provoking book. Heartblaze books are told from the point of view of multiple characters and take place in the present-day as well as the past. These books are not for people looking for light and fluffy reading, nor for readers completely unfamiliar with the genre.
Is this series appropriate for all ages?
No. The series is written for adults, young adults, and mature teens.
What types of creatures are in the novel?
Quite a number: vampires, werewolves, werebears, ghosts, witches, and fae. All of them are portrayed in new ways. For example, the werewolves are shifters who channel animal spirits from the distant past. The fae have their own unique language that plays a role in some of the books. It’s a functional language that I spent a year developing!
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About the author
Shay Roberts
32 books220 followersShay Roberts, a USA Today bestselling fantasy author, has a reputation for writing page-turning novels with captivating characters.
Shay began writing as a child, scribbling stories on the walls of the family home. In ink. As you can imagine, they were poorly received. But when the young author moved to pencil and paper, a career was born.
The medieval world is a frequent setting for the writer’s works. Passionate about Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA), Shay founded the Academy of Arms, a nonprofit medieval martial arts school in Los Angeles. As an instructor, the author developed expertise in various dueling weapons, including the longsword and pollaxe, and later discovered these skills are counterproductive in office situations.
Shay is also an instrument-rated pilot with a diverse educational background, including an MA in Screenwriting, a BS in Biology, and a BA in English. This is another way of saying Shay never wanted to leave college and join the “real world.”
When not slaving over a new novel, the author plays open-world RPGs and explores the latest tech gadgets. Shay enjoys a healthy lifestyle that includes cooking, working out, fermenting vegetables, and brewing kombucha. The writer’s cherry-ginger kombucha has been particularly well-received.
The author finds Pomskies and Russian Blues to be the most adorable of all creatures and will duel anyone who says otherwise. As an animal lover, there is always a place in Shay’s books for another furry friend.
Currently, the author spends much of the year in Portugal, embracing the culture and learning the language. É muito difícil! With its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and friendly people, Portugal is the perfect place for writing spellbinding novels. Be advised, if you ever want to visit this lovely country, you are required to love futebol and swear allegiance to Ronaldo.
Shay began writing as a child, scribbling stories on the walls of the family home. In ink. As you can imagine, they were poorly received. But when the young author moved to pencil and paper, a career was born.
The medieval world is a frequent setting for the writer’s works. Passionate about Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA), Shay founded the Academy of Arms, a nonprofit medieval martial arts school in Los Angeles. As an instructor, the author developed expertise in various dueling weapons, including the longsword and pollaxe, and later discovered these skills are counterproductive in office situations.
Shay is also an instrument-rated pilot with a diverse educational background, including an MA in Screenwriting, a BS in Biology, and a BA in English. This is another way of saying Shay never wanted to leave college and join the “real world.”
When not slaving over a new novel, the author plays open-world RPGs and explores the latest tech gadgets. Shay enjoys a healthy lifestyle that includes cooking, working out, fermenting vegetables, and brewing kombucha. The writer’s cherry-ginger kombucha has been particularly well-received.
The author finds Pomskies and Russian Blues to be the most adorable of all creatures and will duel anyone who says otherwise. As an animal lover, there is always a place in Shay’s books for another furry friend.
Currently, the author spends much of the year in Portugal, embracing the culture and learning the language. É muito difícil! With its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and friendly people, Portugal is the perfect place for writing spellbinding novels. Be advised, if you ever want to visit this lovely country, you are required to love futebol and swear allegiance to Ronaldo.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
April 5, 2017
Completely loving this series Heartblaze 4 is as amazing as its sisters in the series I am most definitely hooked, any who love action adventure fantasy paranormal with some romance I think you will enjoy these books though must admit you would need to start from book one to avoid any confusion it is definitely a continuous series. I was honoured to be a beta and arc reader for this book and I absolutely adore it, thank you Scribe xx
January 23, 2019
Wow, such a brilliant wolf shifter story! I was sad when it ended. I have to read more!
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
March 29, 2017
I have read every single books of his to date, my favorite being Christmas with the Vampire and which I intend to read over again each year at least once at this time of year. Amazon keeps changing categories for ratings, just look to the stars. #4 did beta for so out soon.
Heartblaze 1: Vampire Soul (Heartblaze #1) Heartblaze 1 Bonus Story: Wildwood
Heartblaze 2: Vampire Rising (Heartblaze #2) Heartblaze 2 Bonus Story: Shadow Plague
Heartblaze 3: Vampire Eternal
Heartblaze 4: Werewolf Unchained
Wolfheart: A Heartblaze Novelette
Valentine Witch: A Heartblaze Novelette
Christmas with the Vampire
goodreads for some reason didn't bring my original reading dates up, left blank, so set today
Heartblaze 1: Vampire Soul (Heartblaze #1) Heartblaze 1 Bonus Story: Wildwood
Heartblaze 2: Vampire Rising (Heartblaze #2) Heartblaze 2 Bonus Story: Shadow Plague
Heartblaze 3: Vampire Eternal
Heartblaze 4: Werewolf Unchained
Wolfheart: A Heartblaze Novelette
Valentine Witch: A Heartblaze Novelette
Christmas with the Vampire
goodreads for some reason didn't bring my original reading dates up, left blank, so set today
May 11, 2017
Ash Kinley's home life isn't the sort you want to encounter, even on its best days, and it definitely isn't conducive to growing up free of hangups and coping mechanisms that can shade your later life. At its most basic description of it's encompassed by estranged relationships with both her parents, who contribute to the greatest causes of severe distress since the time of her earliest memories. The majority role is owned by her abusive father. His behaviour toward her ranges significantly in the stakes of abuse, from incessant verbal digs and threats, to actual violence which constitutes physical abuse.
His influence ranges further yet, in its impacts upon her mother, which lay at the heart of the abusive relationship she shares with her mother. This ranges mostly from ambivalence toward her, to the same at the ways her husband treats their only daughter; which in itself constitutes a type of abuse. In her mother's defence she is also a brunt of her husband's abuse, but she nonetheless has shirked her responsibility to provide a safe home free of abuse. Ash has therefore spent what is very likely her whole life baring abuse from multiple fronts of distress. Unlike her mother she hadn't the option of turning to emotional separation and the bottle to stem the tide of her own emotions
If it weren't for Ash's strength of character and the exceptional relationships formed with canines with ease, then she'd have struggled exponentially more. Her four-legged furry friends varied from working dogs on the small farm where she grew up, to her own best friend Shasta - a Husky who's Ash's sister in many ways, and to other dogs as the situation provided. School and particular teachers also provided some outlets. Speaking of schooling, her life forever changed when Ash was doing her school homework one night, not an easy task in a volatile household, when her mother appeared in the doorway with blood all over her clothes and hands. She knew instantly that it would be human in origin, her homework now promptly forgotten. Some relief came in hearing her mother say it wasn't hers, that she needed her help.
The amount visible prompted automatic presumptions over what she'd likely find, what she would likely see when she reached the destination her mother was leading her to. As expected, there wasn't any surprise that occurred at the end of that meandering road, but there was a significant surprise nonetheless; it existed not in the what but in the how. Therein lay a shocking fear in what might now come to pass. It made her breathing ragged for the time it took her to swallow the enormous lump and to give her the courage to make a stunning decision she would come to look back on and wonder, should I have done it any differently.
Either way it prompted her to do what she'd never had the courage to do for her own sake alone, but for which she didn't batter the shortest of eyelids in packing up her only true loved ones. In rapid succession she grabbed enough resources to get her started, and then she packed the things which mattered most to her into the farm's rundown truck and left the grizzly scene in her rearview mirror. Only one definitive answer screamed loudly enough to block out the white noise in her head: she couldnt be present when the police arrived.
Still reeling, Ash wouldn't identify why a particular long ago memory surfaced to direct her travel to where her truck arrived several hours later. Now stopped for the first time since departing, she was parked at a gas station in an out-of-the-way rural township known as Corby. She had only the faintest recollection of stopping at Corby's gas station once before in a childhood memory that could just as easily have been dream given how little it registered, her family having been on their way somewhere if her memory held true. You could say her only surprise was that the rundown truck had actually made the whole trip, even if she still couldn't see any surprise in having arrived here of all places, or why the decision felt at ease.
Whilst her plan had permitted her to get her children (aka furry friends) and herself hundreds of kilometres away, it hadn't been without any losses. She didn't understand why, but the eldest dog, Peanut, strangely fled from the cab of the truck when she stopped and after a half hour of waiting he hadn't returned. Given his extensive training as a working dog it made no sense, and all she could now hope was that his nose would lead him to her if he returned. She couldn't afford to wait any longer, she needed to get to wherever they were going.
She hadn't expected much when she first asked about places to work and stay, somewhere she could keep her dogs with her, but it wasn't the cold standof'fish attitude she received from the gas station clerk. Thankfully, in a rare moment of luck fashioned in the form of serendipity, her next destination came when another nearby local at the counter had overheard her asking her question and he'd chosen to provide her with a recommendation based on local knowledge about an abandoned property and shed where they could hold up until something else came along; if it ever did, an outcome she didn't place much hope in.
He, an attractive guy called Magnus, assured her that the place was far enough from Corby, its locals, and the areas they frequented most, so that she'd be able to stay and pursue whatever she needed to be able to settle for a while without being chased away or constantly disturbed and pestered until she chose to leave anyway, which she still couldn't wrap her mind around. It was exceptionally obvious that outsider to the people of Corby equates to unwanted and in need of being run-off. If she thought about it long enough, a luxury she didn't have given how precarious their current situation was, not with all the other things she needed to focus on, she'd arrive somewhere in the vacinity of: what is it about Corby and its people that they need to hide so astringently?
From there on it becomes increasingly apparent that Corby isn't your everyday sort of place where the local community is both so tightly woven together, and so obviously resistant to outsiders. Even the fact that they consider people who aren't locals as undesirable outsiders was a telling sign, surely she hasn't been the first person to have sought out work and/or accommodation in the area. From the burgeoning intimacy forming with Magnus, who'd arranged some crucial resources necessary to live with at least the necessary modicum of health - if not comfort - it became apparent that the townsfolk are more clan-like than would normally be seen in rural communities.
In the woods around the property she stays at she's able to hunt, being a longtime expert with lead balls and her slingshot, to help keep her and her dogs fed and some spare cash once she can get a local butcher to buy her excess meat from her. There's signs of some pretty powerful and presumably dangerous predators that have left certain signs of their passing in the woods. She can also continue the intensive training of one of her dogs, who if fully trained as a working farm or guard dog will reap enough money to buy a litter and start her own small business; which if successful would provide the funds to possibly get a real roof over their heads.
When their friendship turns to intimacy Ash learns that he has an unstable brother who might be dangerous if she ever comes across him. And when their intimacy turns to lust she learns that Magnus has some pretty impressive fingernails, that when the marks they leave are looked at closely they could pass themselves off as claw marks, left in the heat of the moment (well, her heat at least). Like her life needs anymore complications from a dangerous brother or a guilt stricken boyfriend becoming paranoid over a few measly scratch marks on her. Perhaps if they stay together long enough she might one day be able to explain to him why accidental injuries barely register as an injury inflicted upon her by a male in her life. Irrespective of any new incidentals, though, she inexplicably feels this path is one she was always meant to take. Given her past it definitely dawns on her that things could get worse at any stage before, during, or after they get better, but it's a road less travelled that seems to define her fate, and this is her road for better or worse.
Shay's proven track record for reinventing what you expect from classifications is extended in style, and more comprehensively by this new addition to the series. The shift in focal species is likewise indicative of his reinvention, actualising shifters in ways unique to his creation. Even the fact that he has a Svartr'n Queen as his villainess in lieu of what queens are more likely to be when it comes to fantasy, that is either a vampire or a fae, shows how he steps of the path most regularly trodden. His knack for creating bold, strong and inventive lead heroines is also revealed further in this new leading lady. Indeed, a good strong porportion of characters with endless strength and fortitude are female, not to suggest however that the same characteristics aren't seen in the male roles.
Particularly evident real life reflections are also well incorporated. An exemplary observation in this case is that diversity can be a harsh taskmaster, and when it shapes lives in certain domains, it can provide the groundwork for very dynamic and strong capacities for hardship. His other lead character continues to show the fundamental things that have been learnt about him from the first trilogy. I'm a hundred percent certain that I won't be alone in saying that perhaps if we cross enough of our fingers and toes, then this second trilogy might avail him with an alternate romantic soul who is more closely linked to his than the last one, which didn't pan out as we'd hoped. Like their 'good' counterparts, even Shay's villains are similarly as dynamic and capable. Whilst we may not always like villains winning in their goals, they are integral parts of any story, adding depth, mystery, and surprise that cannot be explored so commensurately in their absence.
The added components of time and history shape not only the series but also each individual story in ways that are captivating and intriguing beyond the last page of any book. Others will likely comment too, that they struggle to comprehend how Shay can wrap his mind around the time influences in his plots so well. They arrive at an understood conclusion, when I say lost it doesn't refer to confusion being there once a road is travelled. Whilst in the midst of your own workings over the rationale you can get a little lost regarding how things can pan out; only until, that is, Shay provides you with that 'gotcha moment' where the lightbulb in your brain goes off and you can say "oh yeah, now I get it".
These and other features inherently have the substantive benefit of knowing that you're lining up for the next books, with the benefits of knowing you have x-number of books that you can buy without any risk of wasting money. We've all bought books we didn't like or didn't enjoy enough to make the cost worthwhile. These are different factors to books that are just unreasonably overpriced, a factor I'm not addressing with these observations. As much as we might not like these said outcomes, we also have to be realistic in accepting that tastes are just far too variable for everyone to like the exact same things. So irrespective of this actuality, it's always nice to go into a purchase knowing it's as much of a safe bet as you're going to get.
Further additions to the types of paranormal species adds dimensions that can't be experienced in the same way elsewhere. The way that the former unresolved conflicts of the previous trilogy are carried over with new characters has also had an impact on the impressions of those situations. Some of your predeveloped expectations may no longer inherently be solved in the same fashion you predicted if the same characters aren't going to be the people who solve them. After all, part of the ways that problems are solved comes about because of the people solving them.
The inclusions based around mythology, legends, and Celtic lore, starts to play increasing roles. Again the series has renewed vigour in the way that uncommon elements and uniquely created ones expand our experience and entertainment. Please don't interpret that within the context of the perception that vigour was lacking or in need of renewal, it's a purely positive statement not arising from constructive criticisms about where the series was at. Action adventure roles out in semi-quest styled natures such that in isolation, you'd be forgiven if you read the respective excerpts and came to the conclusion you're reading epic fantasy.
Character needs combine with the mystery and suspense added by joint villains (yes - KoR unfortunately has not died and passed into the annals of history like their co-conspirator of the first trilogy) to create an atmospheric climate. Pressure builds from the very first page, which is a pretty good achievement given the book opens with the bonus story before it then reverts to the first chapter. I don't know if it's my own biases or attraction to Shay's storytelling, that begun with a novelette I chanced upon before I even read Vampire Soul (Heartblaze #1), but I have a feeling that existing fans will enjoy this shifter focused trilogy and Ash even more than Emma and her trilogy. I hope some of its momentum translates into picking up new readers who may only just now be picking up a Shay Roberts novel.
In this manner, I hope that new readers will also look at Werewolf Unchained as the next evolution and not only as a sequel to Vampire Eternal. It's for this very reason that I took the approach at the beginning of my review to break the series into trilogies. It does occur to me though that this is a cautionary approach because I wouldn't want to give the impression that there's no crossover: if so, please accept my apology. This would be incorrect, there's ample crossover! For example, Stefan, Corby, Caine, Esben, the Norns, and much more are all still present and accounted. Excluding a few new names and an absence of some old names, irrespective of their degrees of contribution to the plot, the series remains exactly that. It should therefore remain as being considered a continuance.
But I do believe that Werewolf Unchained could in some ways be read as your first look at Shay's Heartblaze Series, to perhaps then go back and read Emma's saga in a fashion commensurate with a long prequel. Given Emma's battle over Sindom turned out the way it did (I won't say anything more in case a reader looks at this review without first having read the prior three books) it's possible to consider that new readers aren't limited from getting into the Heartblaze Series if they haven't already devoured the first three books. This is at the core of my approach to viewing it as different sagas, to use an alternate word to trilogy. We've all had occasions when because we only pickup on a series at some novel a ways into it, we decide we don't want to read however many previous books there are and therefore turn away from experiencing the respective series.
Heartblaze spans an enormous amount of time in very unique ways, thereby including numerous changing landscapes. It is written with a huge cast of characters as different as they are similar, creating excellent dynamics. There's a medley of paranormal species, including the who's who of types. It contains magic that varies from mythological, to divine, to purely innate as it is in the case of shifters. It includes every emotion from the more obscure to the everyday. It has facets that allow reliance on the sorts of things you expect from your fantasy menu, to the things that are either uncommon or completely unique surprises. It also combines aspects from different genres altogether, in addition to a combination of subgenres.
And not the last or the only other reason to get involved in this series, but it is nonetheless a noteworthy appraisal that this new book takes the series significantly past stereotyped borders that male readers (in particular) are likely to expect from paranormal romance. It has been my observation that male readers are more interested in urban fantasy than they are paranormal romance. Admittedly, this observation has been taken from the genders evident in reviewers. If too much disparity does exist between genders in regards to the ratio of male readers to male reviewers versus the same for females, then this estimation will hold true only in regards to reviewers and not readers in general. Regardless, what's important is that the new book would be a great example to break down stereotyped expectations about whether paranormal romance is a genre that can be attractive to male readers.
It goes without saying that with so many above positive attributes it's 5☆☆☆☆☆ Stars!
His influence ranges further yet, in its impacts upon her mother, which lay at the heart of the abusive relationship she shares with her mother. This ranges mostly from ambivalence toward her, to the same at the ways her husband treats their only daughter; which in itself constitutes a type of abuse. In her mother's defence she is also a brunt of her husband's abuse, but she nonetheless has shirked her responsibility to provide a safe home free of abuse. Ash has therefore spent what is very likely her whole life baring abuse from multiple fronts of distress. Unlike her mother she hadn't the option of turning to emotional separation and the bottle to stem the tide of her own emotions
If it weren't for Ash's strength of character and the exceptional relationships formed with canines with ease, then she'd have struggled exponentially more. Her four-legged furry friends varied from working dogs on the small farm where she grew up, to her own best friend Shasta - a Husky who's Ash's sister in many ways, and to other dogs as the situation provided. School and particular teachers also provided some outlets. Speaking of schooling, her life forever changed when Ash was doing her school homework one night, not an easy task in a volatile household, when her mother appeared in the doorway with blood all over her clothes and hands. She knew instantly that it would be human in origin, her homework now promptly forgotten. Some relief came in hearing her mother say it wasn't hers, that she needed her help.
The amount visible prompted automatic presumptions over what she'd likely find, what she would likely see when she reached the destination her mother was leading her to. As expected, there wasn't any surprise that occurred at the end of that meandering road, but there was a significant surprise nonetheless; it existed not in the what but in the how. Therein lay a shocking fear in what might now come to pass. It made her breathing ragged for the time it took her to swallow the enormous lump and to give her the courage to make a stunning decision she would come to look back on and wonder, should I have done it any differently.
Either way it prompted her to do what she'd never had the courage to do for her own sake alone, but for which she didn't batter the shortest of eyelids in packing up her only true loved ones. In rapid succession she grabbed enough resources to get her started, and then she packed the things which mattered most to her into the farm's rundown truck and left the grizzly scene in her rearview mirror. Only one definitive answer screamed loudly enough to block out the white noise in her head: she couldnt be present when the police arrived.
Still reeling, Ash wouldn't identify why a particular long ago memory surfaced to direct her travel to where her truck arrived several hours later. Now stopped for the first time since departing, she was parked at a gas station in an out-of-the-way rural township known as Corby. She had only the faintest recollection of stopping at Corby's gas station once before in a childhood memory that could just as easily have been dream given how little it registered, her family having been on their way somewhere if her memory held true. You could say her only surprise was that the rundown truck had actually made the whole trip, even if she still couldn't see any surprise in having arrived here of all places, or why the decision felt at ease.
Whilst her plan had permitted her to get her children (aka furry friends) and herself hundreds of kilometres away, it hadn't been without any losses. She didn't understand why, but the eldest dog, Peanut, strangely fled from the cab of the truck when she stopped and after a half hour of waiting he hadn't returned. Given his extensive training as a working dog it made no sense, and all she could now hope was that his nose would lead him to her if he returned. She couldn't afford to wait any longer, she needed to get to wherever they were going.
She hadn't expected much when she first asked about places to work and stay, somewhere she could keep her dogs with her, but it wasn't the cold standof'fish attitude she received from the gas station clerk. Thankfully, in a rare moment of luck fashioned in the form of serendipity, her next destination came when another nearby local at the counter had overheard her asking her question and he'd chosen to provide her with a recommendation based on local knowledge about an abandoned property and shed where they could hold up until something else came along; if it ever did, an outcome she didn't place much hope in.
He, an attractive guy called Magnus, assured her that the place was far enough from Corby, its locals, and the areas they frequented most, so that she'd be able to stay and pursue whatever she needed to be able to settle for a while without being chased away or constantly disturbed and pestered until she chose to leave anyway, which she still couldn't wrap her mind around. It was exceptionally obvious that outsider to the people of Corby equates to unwanted and in need of being run-off. If she thought about it long enough, a luxury she didn't have given how precarious their current situation was, not with all the other things she needed to focus on, she'd arrive somewhere in the vacinity of: what is it about Corby and its people that they need to hide so astringently?
From there on it becomes increasingly apparent that Corby isn't your everyday sort of place where the local community is both so tightly woven together, and so obviously resistant to outsiders. Even the fact that they consider people who aren't locals as undesirable outsiders was a telling sign, surely she hasn't been the first person to have sought out work and/or accommodation in the area. From the burgeoning intimacy forming with Magnus, who'd arranged some crucial resources necessary to live with at least the necessary modicum of health - if not comfort - it became apparent that the townsfolk are more clan-like than would normally be seen in rural communities.
In the woods around the property she stays at she's able to hunt, being a longtime expert with lead balls and her slingshot, to help keep her and her dogs fed and some spare cash once she can get a local butcher to buy her excess meat from her. There's signs of some pretty powerful and presumably dangerous predators that have left certain signs of their passing in the woods. She can also continue the intensive training of one of her dogs, who if fully trained as a working farm or guard dog will reap enough money to buy a litter and start her own small business; which if successful would provide the funds to possibly get a real roof over their heads.
When their friendship turns to intimacy Ash learns that he has an unstable brother who might be dangerous if she ever comes across him. And when their intimacy turns to lust she learns that Magnus has some pretty impressive fingernails, that when the marks they leave are looked at closely they could pass themselves off as claw marks, left in the heat of the moment (well, her heat at least). Like her life needs anymore complications from a dangerous brother or a guilt stricken boyfriend becoming paranoid over a few measly scratch marks on her. Perhaps if they stay together long enough she might one day be able to explain to him why accidental injuries barely register as an injury inflicted upon her by a male in her life. Irrespective of any new incidentals, though, she inexplicably feels this path is one she was always meant to take. Given her past it definitely dawns on her that things could get worse at any stage before, during, or after they get better, but it's a road less travelled that seems to define her fate, and this is her road for better or worse.
Shay's proven track record for reinventing what you expect from classifications is extended in style, and more comprehensively by this new addition to the series. The shift in focal species is likewise indicative of his reinvention, actualising shifters in ways unique to his creation. Even the fact that he has a Svartr'n Queen as his villainess in lieu of what queens are more likely to be when it comes to fantasy, that is either a vampire or a fae, shows how he steps of the path most regularly trodden. His knack for creating bold, strong and inventive lead heroines is also revealed further in this new leading lady. Indeed, a good strong porportion of characters with endless strength and fortitude are female, not to suggest however that the same characteristics aren't seen in the male roles.
Particularly evident real life reflections are also well incorporated. An exemplary observation in this case is that diversity can be a harsh taskmaster, and when it shapes lives in certain domains, it can provide the groundwork for very dynamic and strong capacities for hardship. His other lead character continues to show the fundamental things that have been learnt about him from the first trilogy. I'm a hundred percent certain that I won't be alone in saying that perhaps if we cross enough of our fingers and toes, then this second trilogy might avail him with an alternate romantic soul who is more closely linked to his than the last one, which didn't pan out as we'd hoped. Like their 'good' counterparts, even Shay's villains are similarly as dynamic and capable. Whilst we may not always like villains winning in their goals, they are integral parts of any story, adding depth, mystery, and surprise that cannot be explored so commensurately in their absence.
The added components of time and history shape not only the series but also each individual story in ways that are captivating and intriguing beyond the last page of any book. Others will likely comment too, that they struggle to comprehend how Shay can wrap his mind around the time influences in his plots so well. They arrive at an understood conclusion, when I say lost it doesn't refer to confusion being there once a road is travelled. Whilst in the midst of your own workings over the rationale you can get a little lost regarding how things can pan out; only until, that is, Shay provides you with that 'gotcha moment' where the lightbulb in your brain goes off and you can say "oh yeah, now I get it".
These and other features inherently have the substantive benefit of knowing that you're lining up for the next books, with the benefits of knowing you have x-number of books that you can buy without any risk of wasting money. We've all bought books we didn't like or didn't enjoy enough to make the cost worthwhile. These are different factors to books that are just unreasonably overpriced, a factor I'm not addressing with these observations. As much as we might not like these said outcomes, we also have to be realistic in accepting that tastes are just far too variable for everyone to like the exact same things. So irrespective of this actuality, it's always nice to go into a purchase knowing it's as much of a safe bet as you're going to get.
Further additions to the types of paranormal species adds dimensions that can't be experienced in the same way elsewhere. The way that the former unresolved conflicts of the previous trilogy are carried over with new characters has also had an impact on the impressions of those situations. Some of your predeveloped expectations may no longer inherently be solved in the same fashion you predicted if the same characters aren't going to be the people who solve them. After all, part of the ways that problems are solved comes about because of the people solving them.
The inclusions based around mythology, legends, and Celtic lore, starts to play increasing roles. Again the series has renewed vigour in the way that uncommon elements and uniquely created ones expand our experience and entertainment. Please don't interpret that within the context of the perception that vigour was lacking or in need of renewal, it's a purely positive statement not arising from constructive criticisms about where the series was at. Action adventure roles out in semi-quest styled natures such that in isolation, you'd be forgiven if you read the respective excerpts and came to the conclusion you're reading epic fantasy.
Character needs combine with the mystery and suspense added by joint villains (yes - KoR unfortunately has not died and passed into the annals of history like their co-conspirator of the first trilogy) to create an atmospheric climate. Pressure builds from the very first page, which is a pretty good achievement given the book opens with the bonus story before it then reverts to the first chapter. I don't know if it's my own biases or attraction to Shay's storytelling, that begun with a novelette I chanced upon before I even read Vampire Soul (Heartblaze #1), but I have a feeling that existing fans will enjoy this shifter focused trilogy and Ash even more than Emma and her trilogy. I hope some of its momentum translates into picking up new readers who may only just now be picking up a Shay Roberts novel.
In this manner, I hope that new readers will also look at Werewolf Unchained as the next evolution and not only as a sequel to Vampire Eternal. It's for this very reason that I took the approach at the beginning of my review to break the series into trilogies. It does occur to me though that this is a cautionary approach because I wouldn't want to give the impression that there's no crossover: if so, please accept my apology. This would be incorrect, there's ample crossover! For example, Stefan, Corby, Caine, Esben, the Norns, and much more are all still present and accounted. Excluding a few new names and an absence of some old names, irrespective of their degrees of contribution to the plot, the series remains exactly that. It should therefore remain as being considered a continuance.
But I do believe that Werewolf Unchained could in some ways be read as your first look at Shay's Heartblaze Series, to perhaps then go back and read Emma's saga in a fashion commensurate with a long prequel. Given Emma's battle over Sindom turned out the way it did (I won't say anything more in case a reader looks at this review without first having read the prior three books) it's possible to consider that new readers aren't limited from getting into the Heartblaze Series if they haven't already devoured the first three books. This is at the core of my approach to viewing it as different sagas, to use an alternate word to trilogy. We've all had occasions when because we only pickup on a series at some novel a ways into it, we decide we don't want to read however many previous books there are and therefore turn away from experiencing the respective series.
Heartblaze spans an enormous amount of time in very unique ways, thereby including numerous changing landscapes. It is written with a huge cast of characters as different as they are similar, creating excellent dynamics. There's a medley of paranormal species, including the who's who of types. It contains magic that varies from mythological, to divine, to purely innate as it is in the case of shifters. It includes every emotion from the more obscure to the everyday. It has facets that allow reliance on the sorts of things you expect from your fantasy menu, to the things that are either uncommon or completely unique surprises. It also combines aspects from different genres altogether, in addition to a combination of subgenres.
And not the last or the only other reason to get involved in this series, but it is nonetheless a noteworthy appraisal that this new book takes the series significantly past stereotyped borders that male readers (in particular) are likely to expect from paranormal romance. It has been my observation that male readers are more interested in urban fantasy than they are paranormal romance. Admittedly, this observation has been taken from the genders evident in reviewers. If too much disparity does exist between genders in regards to the ratio of male readers to male reviewers versus the same for females, then this estimation will hold true only in regards to reviewers and not readers in general. Regardless, what's important is that the new book would be a great example to break down stereotyped expectations about whether paranormal romance is a genre that can be attractive to male readers.
It goes without saying that with so many above positive attributes it's 5☆☆☆☆☆ Stars!
May 12, 2017
This is another awesome installment in the Heartblaze series. Emma Rue does not appear in this story. The focus is on Ash, Stephan, and a new character named Grima. I'm glad because I wanted to see more of Stephan and of Ash, though I didn't necessarily see them together (no, they're not a couple, yet). As for Grima, she's certainly not one of my favorite characters, but I'm sure she'll be back.
I found this plot much easier to follow than the one in Heartblaze 3, probably because there's no time travel or exploration of alternate realities (other than the rift linking to the Vikings). This one fluctuates between POVs of Ash, Stephan, and Grima. It's not hard to follow.
There's a lot of action packed into this book, including an intense battle with KoR. Although there are some gruesome scenes, nothing is too graphic. I particularly enjoyed the references to Nordic lore and Ragnarök. Overall, I'd have to say this is a great addition to the Heartblaze series and I'm looking forward to the next one!
I almost forgot: Thanks to Snowfire Press for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I found this plot much easier to follow than the one in Heartblaze 3, probably because there's no time travel or exploration of alternate realities (other than the rift linking to the Vikings). This one fluctuates between POVs of Ash, Stephan, and Grima. It's not hard to follow.
There's a lot of action packed into this book, including an intense battle with KoR. Although there are some gruesome scenes, nothing is too graphic. I particularly enjoyed the references to Nordic lore and Ragnarök. Overall, I'd have to say this is a great addition to the Heartblaze series and I'm looking forward to the next one!
I almost forgot: Thanks to Snowfire Press for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 4, 2017
This latest Heartblaze book is awesome, if a little violent! Bringing together Ash (from the Wolfheart Novelette) and Stefan and the other Wolf characters from Corby and the Bears (seen in Wolfheart and some of the earlier Heartblaze books), as well as new characters in the Were world and some surprising additions from a strange place in the human one (that's all I can say without putting in spoilers!), this book has a huge cast of characters, all of whom spring to life in your imagination thanks to the excellent writing. And with the typical Heartblaze multiple-track story approach of the book - Ash's story, Stefan's, what's happening in Corby, the Svartr, and what happens in the battle - as followed through the characters eyes, with chapters headed with their names to tell you who we are following that time, it can get a little confusing at times! But despite that, it's an excellent story and I cannot wait to see what happens next.
Highly recommended for all Heartblaze lovers, and all Were lovers should definitely read the series so far (including Novelettes), culminating in this book.
Highly recommended for all Heartblaze lovers, and all Were lovers should definitely read the series so far (including Novelettes), culminating in this book.
May 9, 2017
A worthy non-vampire sequel to the first three vampire-filled books of the Heartblaze series! There are some fantastic new main characters, combined with a few 'old friends'. Again there are some mysteries to solve and some fights to fight. It never gets boring! I loved it just as much as the first 3 books! I can't wait to read Heartblaze 5!
I received a copy and chose to review it.
I received a copy and chose to review it.
April 29, 2017
Heartblaze 4 is Stefan's story and takes the saga in a whole different direction. Julian is missing completely and Emma and Lorance receive only a passing mention, but the KOR is back with a vengeance and this tale introduces a whole new set of characters from among the denizens of Corby, a northern were tribe and even a Viking raiding party.
Although the cast has changed, Werewolf Unchained has some things in common with the other stories in the series. It is a riveting story with plenty of action and the vivid, impeccably edited quality that we've come to associate with Shay Roberts writing. It's easy reading that will keep you captivated from beginning to end - an end that will come all too quickly.
Although the cast has changed, Werewolf Unchained has some things in common with the other stories in the series. It is a riveting story with plenty of action and the vivid, impeccably edited quality that we've come to associate with Shay Roberts writing. It's easy reading that will keep you captivated from beginning to end - an end that will come all too quickly.
April 25, 2017
What a great adventure and a plucky heroine! Ash, the heroine of this book, is very different from Emma, who dominated the story line in the first three books. Though Ash has always held herself apart from the people around her and preferred her dogs, she learns that she holds a special place in the paranormal world and readily steps in to her new life with the werewolves of Corby. There she meets Stefan, still in love with Emma, but now set on moving forward and helping his father and his hometown survive in the face of great odds and enemies both human and shifter.
Strange forces are at work around Corby and Ash is caught in the middle. Rifts in time, rival werewolves and the search to build a paranormal coalition that can battle KOR, the shifters' old nemesis, all play into a story that draws you in.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author. This is my honest review.
Strange forces are at work around Corby and Ash is caught in the middle. Rifts in time, rival werewolves and the search to build a paranormal coalition that can battle KOR, the shifters' old nemesis, all play into a story that draws you in.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author. This is my honest review.
April 23, 2017
The newest addition to the Heartblaze family, Ash Kinley, kicks some major tail and embeds herself into your heart. Dealing with major life changes by events out of her control, Ash proves herself capable and humble, traits that catapult her into prominence that she never saw coming.
Beloved friends from the Heartblaze series are also present; Stefan's as charming as ever, and as comfortable as a broken in pair of jeans. Grima and her wickedness are back to round things out and lend her always provocative personality.
Norse mythology is strong and gives an intelligent depth to the other worldly happenings that surround Ash and the characters and keep them on their toes.
Fans of Shay Roberts' Heartblaze series will not be disappointed; this installment is one of my favorites with its unique characters and fresh plot that weaves that distinctly 'Heartblaze' feel throughout.
* I received an arc from Snowfire Press for an honest review
Beloved friends from the Heartblaze series are also present; Stefan's as charming as ever, and as comfortable as a broken in pair of jeans. Grima and her wickedness are back to round things out and lend her always provocative personality.
Norse mythology is strong and gives an intelligent depth to the other worldly happenings that surround Ash and the characters and keep them on their toes.
Fans of Shay Roberts' Heartblaze series will not be disappointed; this installment is one of my favorites with its unique characters and fresh plot that weaves that distinctly 'Heartblaze' feel throughout.
* I received an arc from Snowfire Press for an honest review
April 30, 2017
Loved reading this wonderful story. I am amazed how much is
packed into this awesome story and series. There is truly something
for everyone. I highly recommend it to everyone, you will not be disappointed.
I voluntarily read an advance review copy of this book.
packed into this awesome story and series. There is truly something
for everyone. I highly recommend it to everyone, you will not be disappointed.
I voluntarily read an advance review copy of this book.
April 18, 2017
Heartblaze 4: Werewolf Unchained (Ash's Saga) by Shay Roberts is a Paranormal Romance
Stefan is a wolf shifter at Knights of Rome, an organization that hunts and kills paranormals, whose cover has been blown. Stefan returns to his hometown of Corby after Fortuna, his nemesis from KoR, unleased a strange smoke into Corby. The smoke caused the wolf shifters to lose their ability to invoke their wolf. Stefan recruits and leads a group of shifters to retaliate against KoR, only to find out there's betrayal from within. One of the groups wants to take over the world, starting with Corby after they kill Stefan. Ash is a beautiful dog trainer who ran away from home and settled into an abandoned shack in Corby. Ash finds out that she's half wolf shifter and can speak with wolf souls and is able to reconnect the Summoner Cain with his wolf. When Cain has his wolf back, he can summon the lost wolves and reconnect everyone. Ash befriends Seeker, the last of the ice vargr, a giant wolf, who lends her the use of her vargr body when Corby comes under attack. Will Ash be able to help save Corby?
Werewolf Unchained has action, suspense, steamy scenes and paranormals galore. Shay Roberts has combined a riveting story with interesting characters for a book I read in one go. I highly recommend this book.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book
Stefan is a wolf shifter at Knights of Rome, an organization that hunts and kills paranormals, whose cover has been blown. Stefan returns to his hometown of Corby after Fortuna, his nemesis from KoR, unleased a strange smoke into Corby. The smoke caused the wolf shifters to lose their ability to invoke their wolf. Stefan recruits and leads a group of shifters to retaliate against KoR, only to find out there's betrayal from within. One of the groups wants to take over the world, starting with Corby after they kill Stefan. Ash is a beautiful dog trainer who ran away from home and settled into an abandoned shack in Corby. Ash finds out that she's half wolf shifter and can speak with wolf souls and is able to reconnect the Summoner Cain with his wolf. When Cain has his wolf back, he can summon the lost wolves and reconnect everyone. Ash befriends Seeker, the last of the ice vargr, a giant wolf, who lends her the use of her vargr body when Corby comes under attack. Will Ash be able to help save Corby?
Werewolf Unchained has action, suspense, steamy scenes and paranormals galore. Shay Roberts has combined a riveting story with interesting characters for a book I read in one go. I highly recommend this book.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book
April 25, 2017
Brilliant!! I am hooked on this series! I have loved every single one. Engrossing story. Cleverly written and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The characters are believable. I love books that draw you in to such an extent that you'd imagine yourself in it....from the characters,the story line,the plot,even the description of the world around them etc WOW!! Shay Roberts,you are always on point. Honoured to be a beta reader and an ARC....
April 26, 2017
It's different from the vampire's perspective. Absolutely love it. Ash is absolutely an amazing hero in this story. “Thanks to Snowfire Press for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.”
April 2, 2017
The supernatural round has been enriched with this otherwordly (pun intended) amazing book.
What the pun is will be clear for those who read the book, but its not a spoiler. Sexy shifters, deadly enemies, top notch action, super twists, a young woman with skin on her nose, and a very special way of telling the story (authors specialty), that bargains for a unforgettable read, unlike anything you read before. And you will see in what a genial way it all comes togheter, not even close to what you can guess, not until the very last page at least. I genuinly adore the way its all created, so that from page one to the very end it holds the attention and interest.
Admittingly I am a fan of books by this talented Author, without exceptions has every single book been a treat for the reader. This time it felt like a double treat since some of the characters from earlier books is present and you get to fraternize with them again. I had so much looked forward to this book, since I have read everything else he has written. I then had the great fortune to get this marvellous book as a gift to read in advance, and as with everything I read, I Review, dead pan honestly... And honestly I Love It!
April 15, 2017
I have enjoyed this series. It goes in different directions than you expect and offers some interesting characters. This book goes on a different tangent than the first three books in the series but has some recurring characters and the main theme of protecting the people they love from the domination of others remains central to the story. It introduces a new heroine and a new villain who is bent on control and destruction.
I definitely recommend you read all the books in order to get the most enjoyment out of the series. If you have not, this book is the best place to start now as it is focused on some new characters and takes the story in a different direction. There are three characters telling the story from their point of view which I enjoyed but can be a little distracting for some readers if you don't follow along carefully. It is quite a journey and worth you time and attention.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
I definitely recommend you read all the books in order to get the most enjoyment out of the series. If you have not, this book is the best place to start now as it is focused on some new characters and takes the story in a different direction. There are three characters telling the story from their point of view which I enjoyed but can be a little distracting for some readers if you don't follow along carefully. It is quite a journey and worth you time and attention.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
April 15, 2017
Shay does it again. I stand amazed every time I read a Shay Roberts book.
It's the start of Ash's story and it captivates you from page one. It's fast passed and keeps you wondering what is next and how all the characters fits together.
I was so glad when Ash got her wolf and what an wonderful wolf! Grima Queen of the Svartr is a real pain in the butt. Stefan steps up to the challenge and rock the KoR world in its foundation. Tempus will keep you wondering the whole time. Celia is a friends butt, with friends like her you do not need enemies. Magnus is a typical man with issues that infuriated me. He just need to get over himself and man up.
You can not read this book and not have a opinion about everything and not have your emotions been thrown to and fro.
All in all a good read.
Thanks to Snowfire Press for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
It's the start of Ash's story and it captivates you from page one. It's fast passed and keeps you wondering what is next and how all the characters fits together.
I was so glad when Ash got her wolf and what an wonderful wolf! Grima Queen of the Svartr is a real pain in the butt. Stefan steps up to the challenge and rock the KoR world in its foundation. Tempus will keep you wondering the whole time. Celia is a friends butt, with friends like her you do not need enemies. Magnus is a typical man with issues that infuriated me. He just need to get over himself and man up.
You can not read this book and not have a opinion about everything and not have your emotions been thrown to and fro.
All in all a good read.
Thanks to Snowfire Press for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 3, 2017
Heartblaze 4 Werewolf Unchained
This story grabbed my attention from 'Wolf heart: The Novelette' [included by the author Shay Roberts giving the reader some of the back story to 'Werewolf Unchained'] through to the last period on the final sentence of the book. I couldn't put it down reading it all in one sitting. Reading 'Werewolf Unchained' was like saying hello to old friends and making new ones. I was so happy to see Stefan back and to revisit Corby as well as Esben, the werebears and the Norns from Treson. It was nice to meet Ash and become involved in her story, how and why she fits into the were story spun by Mr. Roberts. Getting into this story was/is a true rollercoaster ride of ups and downs worries that this time the weres might not come out on top of what they are up against. Bringing in the Svartr weres has in my humble opinion added another depth to the story. I can't wait for the next book in this series. Good job Mr. Roberts.
Thanks to Snowfire Press for providing a copy of this book which I enjoyed and am voluntarily giving my honest review for.
This story grabbed my attention from 'Wolf heart: The Novelette' [included by the author Shay Roberts giving the reader some of the back story to 'Werewolf Unchained'] through to the last period on the final sentence of the book. I couldn't put it down reading it all in one sitting. Reading 'Werewolf Unchained' was like saying hello to old friends and making new ones. I was so happy to see Stefan back and to revisit Corby as well as Esben, the werebears and the Norns from Treson. It was nice to meet Ash and become involved in her story, how and why she fits into the were story spun by Mr. Roberts. Getting into this story was/is a true rollercoaster ride of ups and downs worries that this time the weres might not come out on top of what they are up against. Bringing in the Svartr weres has in my humble opinion added another depth to the story. I can't wait for the next book in this series. Good job Mr. Roberts.
Thanks to Snowfire Press for providing a copy of this book which I enjoyed and am voluntarily giving my honest review for.
April 15, 2017
The entire Heartblaze Saga is fantastic! Book four is where you find the story of Ash and Stefan. Ash's story begins with vikings, witches, vampires, shifters and more. We also learn more about Stefan and his past. I recommend you read all the books in order to get the most out of the series. If you haven't not, this book is a good place to start as it is focused on some new characters and takes the story in a different direction.
If you have read any of Shay Roberts books you know he is attentive in the details and this book is no different.
“Thanks to Snowfire Press for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.”
If you have read any of Shay Roberts books you know he is attentive in the details and this book is no different.
“Thanks to Snowfire Press for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.”
April 14, 2017
For me it's new because the characters aren't Emma and Julian. At least it gave Stefan a love story which I didn't expect at all because I thought the first guy Ash hooked up with would turn out to be her lover. Also the connection among characters are uncanny. It's a good story, it's full of mysteries and questions that you want answered ASAP but you have to read the book to gain the answers, making you want to crave for more. Also, it adds knowledge because of the Norse mythology in it. It’s a good book all in all but it made me miss Emma and Julian.
April 15, 2017
I love this book, as the others in this series.
A new fantastic book, where you could find the story of Ash and Stefan.
A world similar but different from that in the other books. The story will entrainment you until the last page.
The characters are strong and complex.
A book for all those who love fantasy.
Thanks to Snowfire Press for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
A new fantastic book, where you could find the story of Ash and Stefan.
A world similar but different from that in the other books. The story will entrainment you until the last page.
The characters are strong and complex.
A book for all those who love fantasy.
Thanks to Snowfire Press for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 12, 2017
“Thanks to Snowfire Press for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.”
The Heartblaze series is unique and very entertaining. The stories are told through the different characters, but comes together at the end. Stefan is a were sometimes at odds with his clan and father (clan leader), but he wants only what is best for all. There are all sorts of weres, witches, magical and mythical creatures in this story. You will be entertained by the characters and the challenges they face in each chapter. That is why I give it a 5 star rating. Enjoy.
The Heartblaze series is unique and very entertaining. The stories are told through the different characters, but comes together at the end. Stefan is a were sometimes at odds with his clan and father (clan leader), but he wants only what is best for all. There are all sorts of weres, witches, magical and mythical creatures in this story. You will be entertained by the characters and the challenges they face in each chapter. That is why I give it a 5 star rating. Enjoy.
March 27, 2017
This book is an awesome spellbinding book. It's the 4th in a series and I know there will be much, much more.
It is quite the rollercoaster ride. It seems just as I get used to this way, it goes another. But that, as we all know is what makes a book good. It's got everything you want to keep you interested.
I hope you get it. I know you will enjoy.
Happy Reading
It is quite the rollercoaster ride. It seems just as I get used to this way, it goes another. But that, as we all know is what makes a book good. It's got everything you want to keep you interested.
I hope you get it. I know you will enjoy.
Happy Reading
June 4, 2017
Grabbed me from the first chapter and had me craving more! So well written. The characters all feel like they are old friends. I got this as a beta reader before the publish and I could not put it down. I can't wait to get my hands on the next installment to see what happens to Ash, Cain and the other residents of Corby, or to see how the impending battle turns out.
April 3, 2017
Absolutely wonderful! Shay Roberts has woven a stunning tapestry of past, present, normal and paranormal in this suspenseful continuation of the Heartblaze series. While the protagonist of the previous books, Emma, is only mentioned a few times in this book, Stephan continues on and a new and wonderful heroine emerges as Ash makes her appearance. You truly won't want to miss this one!
April 11, 2017
So much is happening, a lot of action in this read. Ash is strong and independent she didn't have it easy with her parents. After the death of her father she takes the dogs and leaves needing to keep them safe. She decided it was better to live on her own. There are so many intriguing characters like Stephen, Grima, Norns, and many more.
April 3, 2017
This one takes a different direction, some of the original characters only figure indirectly while others take the limelight. Its a great book to read, I really enjoy the author's style of writing and it's a book that I didn't want to put down, but din't want to finish either.
Read
May 3, 2017Even though this is the 4th book in the series it is 1st book I have read of shay's wonderful book of different worlds the past with new , werewolves shifters versus Vikings . A Great details of each encounter ash comes across . I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book
May 28, 2018
This book was provided to me in return for an honest review. This in no way affects my opinion of the book. I've read a lot of books by Shay Roberts and even helped to edit one of his books a few years ago. I love his writing and witty humor.
Like I mentioned, I've read a few of Shay's books, the first three novels in the Heartblaze series, and loved each and every one of them. I have to start off by saying that the writing itself improved by leaps and bounds. Once I started reading, I couldn't stop until I got to the ending. I even read the sneak peak of the next book (which I usually don't do at all). This story was so intriguing, enticing and hard to put down!!
We read from three perspectives, and at first, I didn't know if this would be a hindrance or not, but it worked perfectly for the story. Also, I did not get lost, as the character names were so different, and the voice of each character could be distinguished.
Ash is one kickass girl, strong and proud. I loved her. Stefan is a character I've already learned a lot about through the previous Heartblaze novels, so he was an easy one to follow. He is brave and kind. Then there is Grima, I loved to hate her. She was that character that I immediately didn't like for some reason (this is a good thing).
Now, the story... There is an all-out war brewing with KoR, a rival werewolf clan and a rift in time (we don't learn as much about this, which makes me think this is a setup for the next book).
Please keep writing Shay, I need more of this amazing world you've created and the characters need more stories.
Like I mentioned, I've read a few of Shay's books, the first three novels in the Heartblaze series, and loved each and every one of them. I have to start off by saying that the writing itself improved by leaps and bounds. Once I started reading, I couldn't stop until I got to the ending. I even read the sneak peak of the next book (which I usually don't do at all). This story was so intriguing, enticing and hard to put down!!
We read from three perspectives, and at first, I didn't know if this would be a hindrance or not, but it worked perfectly for the story. Also, I did not get lost, as the character names were so different, and the voice of each character could be distinguished.
Ash is one kickass girl, strong and proud. I loved her. Stefan is a character I've already learned a lot about through the previous Heartblaze novels, so he was an easy one to follow. He is brave and kind. Then there is Grima, I loved to hate her. She was that character that I immediately didn't like for some reason (this is a good thing).
Now, the story... There is an all-out war brewing with KoR, a rival werewolf clan and a rift in time (we don't learn as much about this, which makes me think this is a setup for the next book).
Please keep writing Shay, I need more of this amazing world you've created and the characters need more stories.
July 7, 2017
I have read every single books of his to date, my favorite being Christmas with the Vampire and which I intend to read over again each year at least once at this time of year. Amazon keeps changing categories for ratings, just look to the stars. {date is wrong, had computer crash and just not able to double check what all should have reviewed}
My name is Ash. I'm living alone in the woods outside a werewolf community. What could go wrong? My name is Stefan. I'm a werewolf warrior headed for a deadly showdown with my greatest enemy. Then Ash comes along and changes everything.
Heartblaze 1: Vampire Soul (Heartblaze #1) Heartblaze 1 Bonus Story: Wildwood
Heartblaze 2: Vampire Rising (Heartblaze #2) Heartblaze 2 Bonus Story: Shadow Plague
Heartblaze 3: Vampire Eternal
Heartblaze 4: Werewolf Unchained
Heartblaze 5: Werewolf Unbroken (Ash's Saga)
Wolfheart: A Heartblaze Novelette
Valentine Witch: A Heartblaze Novelette
Christmas with the Vampire
Recommended reading order: start with books 1-3 (Emma’s Saga, vampires), or jump in at books 4-6 (Ash’s Saga, werewolves), or begin with books 7-9 (Rosemarie’s Saga, dragons). If you start the series with books 4 or 7, expect a few references to the previous books, but you will still be able to follow the story.
My name is Ash. I'm living alone in the woods outside a werewolf community. What could go wrong? My name is Stefan. I'm a werewolf warrior headed for a deadly showdown with my greatest enemy. Then Ash comes along and changes everything.
Heartblaze 1: Vampire Soul (Heartblaze #1) Heartblaze 1 Bonus Story: Wildwood
Heartblaze 2: Vampire Rising (Heartblaze #2) Heartblaze 2 Bonus Story: Shadow Plague
Heartblaze 3: Vampire Eternal
Heartblaze 4: Werewolf Unchained
Heartblaze 5: Werewolf Unbroken (Ash's Saga)
Wolfheart: A Heartblaze Novelette
Valentine Witch: A Heartblaze Novelette
Christmas with the Vampire
Recommended reading order: start with books 1-3 (Emma’s Saga, vampires), or jump in at books 4-6 (Ash’s Saga, werewolves), or begin with books 7-9 (Rosemarie’s Saga, dragons). If you start the series with books 4 or 7, expect a few references to the previous books, but you will still be able to follow the story.
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