Another day, another problem for Piper Jones and her eclectic mix of allies. And so far, her crew of vampire enforcers, werewolves, and her warlock mentor have come through it all unscathed. But when a rogue assassin starts killing off Knox’s pack, she’s got more to worry about than the faint blue scar on her chest and her failing powers. Now she must race against time to heal her broken magic, if she wants to save the wolves she’s grown to love.
AMBER LYNN NATUSCH is the author of the bestselling Caged series for adults. She was born and raised in Winnipeg, and is still deeply attached to her Canadian roots. She loves to dance and practice Muay Thai―but spends most of her time running a chiropractic practice with her husband, raising two young children, and attempting to write when she can lock herself in the bathroom for ten minutes of peace. Dare You to Lie is her debut YA novel with Tor Teen.
Well...........this book was boring as hell. I had hoped that the series would improve as the books progressed, but no such luck. Lame characters and the ridiculous love triangle have ruined this for me. I can now say I have no desire to continue on with this series. Waste of my time. At least it was offered as a kindleunlimited.
(RabidReads.com) Amber Lynn Natusch was the first author to really cement my love of indie authors. After finding and reading her Caged series, I was hooked. It made me realize that just because a writer hadn’t yet been signed by one of the big publishing houses, didn’t mean they shouldn’t be. And Ms. Natusch now has been signed for an upcoming 2018 release by Tor publishing(and also signed earlier by Montlake for another series) and it just backed up everything I already knew about her as an author. She can write and write amazingly.
Beyond the Shadows is the third in her Force of Nature series. It’s unique in many aspects and yet familiar in some. There’s vampires, werewolves, warlocks, and fae in this world that the author has created, but there’s also something more. And that something is Piper. Piper has been a mystery in the past to everyone she knows(supposedly,anyway)and more importantly to herself. Now that she is coming into her powers, she’s actually more powerful than all the other supernaturals around her combined. She knows a lot more about herself by this third book and is ready to kick some ass-again. Her bound mate, vampire enforcer Merc, is back in the picture now and Knox, the werewolf alpha from Alaska, is still by her side as well. And that’s a big problem. Bigger problem? War is coming to the supernaturals in New York City and Piper and all her cohorts are involved, willingly or unwillingly. When Knox’s pack comes under fire from an unknown and unseen entity, things speed up in this war.
As in previous books, I loved all these characters, well, except for the villains anyway. Piper has grown from a young woman that was barely making it in the supernatural world, to being larger than life at times. She has a deep love for everyone in her circle, especially Knox and Merc. She’s close to Kat, a lone werewolf, and Grizz, the Alaskan grizzly bear with an attitude and a close bond to Piper. She continues to be mentored by Drake, the aged warlock with major secrets. Knox is still my favorite male hero of the series. He’s honorable, loyal, and loves Piper-probably more than his own pack. Merc, I would have gravitated to for Piper, back in the beginning of the series. But he had his problems and they were pretty major-even though the worst of them wasn’t his fault. I feel almost sorry for him at times, but I just have more good feelings about Knox-can’t help it. I do know that Merc has his fans though. My absolute favorite side character is still Grizz, with Kat coming in second place. Any fun moments always featured both of them giving much needed levity to this supernatural world full of war and death.
This book was full of skirmishes and then all out war at times. The good guys don’t always win every confrontation and a new threat is introduced. I enjoyed the whole thing. The writing was good as usual, the premise remains interesting, and the pacing was pretty spot on. The only thing that would have made this a bit better for me would be some more happening in the romance department. I know it’s urban fantasy, but I still missed it as it’s been there in the previous books. These definitely need to be read in order, as it’s an ongoing story.
Highly recommended to urban fantasy readers. This particular book is for ages 14 plus, in my opinion, although the previous books were probably 16 plus. There is violence and language.
I thought this was a trilogy. I stuck with the series because of it. Love triangles are not my thing. Now there is no resolution to this... So... What? A reverse harem situation? Again, not my thing. I wish it was noted in the book description. Knowing there is another book on the way sealed it for me. This is nothing against the author. I appreciate Piper's character development. The story keeps dragging. Not my cup of tea and I feel like I have wasted my time.
I was given the opportunity to once again, beta and proofread another of Amber's books. And she just gets better and better with every book and story. Even after all the books she's written so far, I can still see her growth in her and her writing. But what amazes me more than anything is her ability to never write about the same plot or scene in any of her books.
Beyond the Shadows is the third book in her Forces of Nature series and these must be read in order. And it starts off right where Into The Storm left off. Piper was able to handle the faerie queen but not without repercussions. She is trying to figure out why her powers aren't as strong as before and slightly off-kilter along with running into another problem. Some unknown assassin is picking off Knox's pack and no-one has an idea who, why or how this is happening.
Piper is dealt a shit ton of problems in this book. She's dealing with her fading powers, still learning about her past, trying to deal with two alpha assholes (Merc and Knox) who can't seem to step down from their high horses and call a truce momentarily, trying to figure out who this assassin is, all the while dealing with a war that is going to come to head soon. Yea, just your average day for Piper.
Amber definitely throws a lot at you in this book, but it is all handled very well and never once feel overwhelming. She also does a fantastic job of doing a quick review of past events to remind readers of what they gone through and how they came to be where they are throughout the book. You can see how Amber is slowly tying everything together, but still gives us more questions too. I LOVE IT!!
I can't wait for the next book in this series. I can only imagine what Amber will throw at us next.
I loved this series at first. I really did. I was excited to see this wrap up with no loose ends. I was disappointed. Also, speaking of loose...piper. Beyond disappointing as a character. Seriously for a storyline to bear so much weight on mates and being bound, having an unbreakable connection was all a big lie. It's an utter joke with piper. A lot of problems would clear up if she would stop being cruel to her mate and stop letting Knox dip in her gravy. Just hate the triangle that was never needed. Destroys a lot of the stories credibility, at least for me. Piper ran from Merc because he attacked her while under the control of a wizard. She left him and didn't forgive him. She then bounced around with Knox who now does the same thing to her in a similar way and it's fine. Hate it! She should treat Knox the way she treated Merc; who has given her nothing but love and sacrifice; but nope it's ok when Knox does it. Whatever. Kill Knox. I'm over it. Treat Merc with love and respect. Piper is not worth the devotion .
The writing and story line are fine. The first book is great but then in book two we get a love triangle. It’s my personal preference to not read books with love triangles. Others might like it but they just aren’t my thing. Very off putting for me.
Another fantastic addition to the series! I wish I knew if this was RH or not. There are 2 guys so far. But I love all the characters, especially Piper, Kat, and Griz. Five glittery stars!
I really struggled with the first 25% of the book to the point I considered not finishing. Too much oh I can't choose it hurts too much. Though in her case she kind of does need both. Somethings wrong with me but I won't tell anyone. Thankfully at least she wasn't letting Merc and Knox dictate her actions. Eventually at 50% it felt like thing were moving and by 75% it was in full swing and to finished strong. I do love that Kat continues to provide female balance to the story.
I really don’t know how to rate this book! Five stars aren’t nearly enough for this book... for this series... for this author. She really has an amazing way of spinning her story. It captivates you from the beginning to the end. In this one we meet some new character which I hated instantly, probably exactly the way Amber plotted it. We have the King and Queen of Faerie. Drake... can’t tell you who he is... and most of all the trio of men in her life. Merc, Knox and Grizz. I was a Merc lover in book one then in book two it was half and half. But in book three it’s Knox all the way baby!!
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and series so far immensely. Cannot wait for book 4!
half of the time i didn't know what's happening anymore (took me a lot before i kind of recalled what happened during the previous two books. i hesitated re-reading because tbh i didn't feel like doing so). half of the time, it's full-on angst. i'm here for grizz, anyway.
Book three in the series and Oh My Gosh is this series getting good. Not that it wasn't good to begin with, because it was, but I mean that the story really feels like it picks up pace in this book and we finally get to uncover some long hidden secrets which have been bugging me for a while.
I felt relationships were developed more in Beyond the Shadows, Piper is coming more into herself after the events of book one and two, but she still has the same insecurities from her childhood, however with the closer relationships she's building she is starting to get through some of those.
I have to say that my favourite character in this book, and pretty much in the series, is Grizz. Oh I love me some Grizz, he just has the best scenes and moments and makes me laugh. Kat, of course, is my second favourite. I really feel like she needs her own series. She's just such a kickass awesome side character and the scenes with her, Piper and Grizz are the best, specially if Brunton is around for Kat to pick on!
There were some big reveals in this book and a great new character was introduced. He may be slightly evil, but not am I intrigued by him and I can't wait to see what the author does with him next.
I really enjoyed this book as much as I've enjoyed the previous two in the series. This is another five star review from me and I'm really looking forward to seeing what happens next.
By the 3rd book of a series, especially one written by Amber Lynn Natusch, you should be used to the colossal chaos that seems to rain down on her characters. Well this book is no different and it does come with some major kick a$$ moments and secrets revealed. These secrets have enormous consequences that I can't wait to see unfold in the books to come. There are sure going to be hell to pay by someone and it seems to always be Piper. It's a good thing she writes strong female characters that can handle the curveballs and fastballs she throws at them. I'm not sure how many books she plans to write for this series, but she never seems to end a one completely, which I am totally fine with. She answers all the questions and leaves everything in order but she always leaves a little opening where there is a sliver of a chance they will return. It may be in some other form somewhere seemingly obscure, but they're there nonetheless. I hope this one continues for a while and she leaves the door ajar.
I love the dynamics of the character's the Amber Lynn Natusch has created in this series. The character's are well defined and have close bonds all branching from their love, friendship and belief in Piper. Piper has definitely come into her own magical power. She learns a lot about whom she is, confirms betrayal, discovers new relatives (bad and good) as well as some secrets that both Knox & Merc have kept away from her for good reason (so they think) Piper is strong and compassionate towards the ones she considers her family and loved ones. I knew this couldn't be the final book in the story, especially once the fey king came into play toward the end. Piper loves and needs Knox & Merc and of course Grizz and the rest of her family. I am anxious for "Beneath the Dust" I don't want to see Knox or Merc hurt in any way (love triangles bite) I'm proud of them for stepping up, putting differences behind them to be what Piper needs them to be, they each balance her in a different way.
This is not the first book of ALN that I picked up and read in one sitting. Every book ALN wrote is so enthralling that it’s so hard to stop reading it.
Piper and the gang are back again. This time someone is targeting the “pack”. Before it’s too late, they need to figure who is it or if this “mysterious assassin” has some sort of connection to the faeries. It’s another heart-stopping/OMG or the “what the F@&$ happened...” kind of book that will keep you guessing to the very end. And of course, the cliff hanger would leave you gasping for more.
As always, I love Grizz!!! I wish I had a pet like Grizz! And Piper...oh Piper! She’s all grown up now (LOL), she got some “power”/magic issues but she’s definitely stronger. And I’m kinda liking the Drake character better. There’s more revelation in this 3rd installment. Something you might or might NOT see coming. Love triangle is much more intense than ever. Nevertheless, this book is another ALN masterpiece.
HOLY MOLY!!! That was good!!! In book three we get to know more about Piper and see her developing into her powers. Grizz is still my favorite (just because he’s so funny and truly cute) I absolutely love how Amber Lynn developed his character. After reading book two I wasn’t sure how big of a roll Grizz would play in book three. I love how his attitude and the fact he is so protective of Piper. The moments with Grizz talking back and or taking his guardian roll very serious was both humorous and cute. Kat is still the smarta$$ bestfriend I think everyone needs in their life. We do get answers to questions I’ve asked myself as well as many readers have asked before when book two ended. I look forward to reading more from Amber Lynn Natusch!
Well I didn’t not see that coming one bit... just wow! I am amazed at how much Amber got into this book without it feeling disjointed or rushed. It was absolutely perfect! This was another amazing book from her and I am just floored by where this story has gone so far. I need so much more from Piper, Merc, Knox, Grizz and Kat!
In this book we continue to discover more about how intwined the pasts of Knox, Merc and Piper really are, fate really had a hand in everything with them. I loved seeing how Piper’s relationships with everyone grew in this book too, including some of the side characters. This is an absolutely amazing book from Amber and I am already off to start book 4!
These books are closer to a 3.5 star, but better than 3 star. The constant whining about not knowing which male to pick because she can’t decide is actually annoying… but it’s a part of the character’s personality. Piper still seems weak minded although she is very powerful. Needing others to balance her power is a plot issue for me when those who created her didn’t need that balance. The war doesn’t seem to be mentioned much since they are always on their own missions. The group is quite dysfunctional, but the characters are fun to read. I will continue the series. I’m invested in knowing the ending.
Okay so the first 2 books were fan-freaking-tastic but Beyond the Shadows.....it was...meh. At least that's what I think. It felt a bit rushed and like it was lacking some really good story. I was hoping for some definite relationship progress and it kinda happened but not really? And I pretty much already had an inkling of who Piper was, so I wasnt surprised by it. That's another thing, I wasnt surprised by anything in this book. Just overall felt a little slack to me. However, I'm going to read book 4 when it comes out and hopefully it makes up for this one.
Each of these books deserve a review and all 5 stars
They have the entertainment, the plot, the twists, a lot of sexy shifters and vamps that are wasting away with no loving that’s for sure, finally getting somewhere with merc and Knox.
It’s a lot tamer than it started out in book 1 and mainly focus on the action and toughing up our girl at last aka piper.
Grizz the bear is definitely my favourite character in this series
So finally book 3 a lot more is unraveled for piper We are getting answers and seeing her come into her magic.
I absolutely loved the continuation on Piper's story! She is one bad@ss chick with the weight of the world on her shoulders. There are some questions about Piper answered in this story. There also seems to be a (maybe, hopefully) solution to the 'love triangle'.
Grizz and Kat are absolutely amazing in this book. Grizz is the strong silent type. And I love Kats feisty attitude. She's the perfect BFF for Piper
This the 3rd book in the Force of Nature series does not disappoint....Piper Jones and her "groupies" are once again trying to find answers....answers that they need NOW before it's too late... Ms. Natusch gives her readers more insight into her characters and keeps her readers turning the pages....and GRIZZ.....I find I can "bear"ly help from ❤️ you more! I'm looking forward to the next installment of this series
I’m a huge fan and look forward to each book this author puts out. The world she creates in this series is so entertaining that you hate to leave it when finished. Her characters are full of depth and relatable. There is the right amount of drama, action and humor that make you love this book. If you’ve been following the series, a lot of answers will be revealed finally and you will love it.
I couldn't stand her double standard with Knox and Merc. It irritated me to no end that she had moments that she shied away from Merc because of what he had done but even after Knox does, what I would consider worse cause he knew what could happen and still followed her, she never shies from his touch. She relegated Merc to her dreams when it came to contact, but allowed Knox to touch her whenever and wonder why they would have issues.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Piper and the gang are back at it again.! This book takes you for a wild, nail biting ride and leaves you wanting more and asking so many questions. There is so much hilarity with Kat and Grizz you won't stop giggling.! No spoilers but this is a must read just like the first two in the Force of Nature Series. You will not be disappointed!
I loved this book... Grizz and Kat were so entertaining I was literally laughing out loud... Piper was a true bad pass in this book and I loved it... here's the but... I fell in love with the romance, love triangle and all..there was no romance in this book and I was little upset Piper hasn't chosen the person she wants to be with romantically...
Another marvelously exciting installment in this stunning series by Amber Lynn Natusch. The book is heartbreaking and wonderful with secrets revealed at just about every turn of the page. Well done! I will impatiently be awaiting the next installment, as always!
Amazing book, i just devoured it! I couldn't take it in fast enough! And the end had my heart racing! Natusch really knows how to grab you, shake you and throw you up in the air not knowing where you'll land...all in a great way. You'll fall in love with her characters, flaws and all. I cannot wait for the next book in the series.
Must.Have.More. Piper, Merc, Knox, Grizz and Kat have truly and completely stolen my heart.....I love love this series. The action, the love and the story that keeps surprising me is addicting. I highly recommend you read it...I for one will be counting the days until installment number 4.
I couldn’t put it down at all. Any chance during the day I would read this book. Even stayed up late. I just love how this book has it all the drama and love and mystery it’s just mind blowing at times. You will not be disappointed at all! Can’t wait to read the next book!!
Book three and I don't understand how this book series classifies as a reverse harem. There is a love triangle, but through the whole thing everyone says she has to choose. The set up is there for a reverse harem, but so far I have been disappointed in this area.
The story is there and I liked the authors world building and the I like the characters. Juuuust not what I was looking for.