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Chasing Thunderbird
A Shifter U Tale
A legendary love.
Ornithology professor Simon Coleman’s reputation is at risk, and the only way to save his name is to prove thunderbirds are more than creatures of Native American myth. Grad student and part-time barista Ford Whitney has a lot on his plate, but it’s also his duty to make sure the resident bird nerd doesn’t discover shape-shifters—like himself—live on campus.
When a series of incidents related to Simon’s search put him in harm’s way, Ford’s instincts kick in, and they become closer than is strictly proper for student and teacher. Ford is forced to reveal his secrets to Simon, and their relationship is put to the test—Simon must choose between salvaging his reputation and protecting the man who protected him….
A legendary love.
Ornithology professor Simon Coleman’s reputation is at risk, and the only way to save his name is to prove thunderbirds are more than creatures of Native American myth. Grad student and part-time barista Ford Whitney has a lot on his plate, but it’s also his duty to make sure the resident bird nerd doesn’t discover shape-shifters—like himself—live on campus.
When a series of incidents related to Simon’s search put him in harm’s way, Ford’s instincts kick in, and they become closer than is strictly proper for student and teacher. Ford is forced to reveal his secrets to Simon, and their relationship is put to the test—Simon must choose between salvaging his reputation and protecting the man who protected him….
228 pages, ebook
First published February 6, 2018
8 people are currently reading
66 people want to read
About the author
J. Leigh Bailey
24 books93 followersj. leigh bailey is an office drone by day and the author of Young Adult and New Adult LGBT Romance by night. She can usually be found with her nose in a book or pressed up against her computer monitor. A book-a-day reading habit sometimes gets in the way of... well, everything...but some habits aren't worth breaking. She's been reading romance novels since she was ten years old. The last twenty years or so have not changed her voracious appetite for stories of romance, relationships and achieving that vitally important Happy Ever After. She's a firm believer that everyone, no matter their gender, age, sexual orientation or paranormal affiliation deserves a happy ending.
She wrote her first story at seven, which was, unbeknownst to her at the time, a charming piece of fan-fiction in which Superman battled (and defeated, of course) the nefarious X Luther. She was quite put out to be told, years later, that the character's name was actually Lex. Her second masterpiece should have been a best-seller, but the action-packed tale of rescuing her little brother from an alligator attack in the marshes of Florida collected dust for years under the bed instead of gaining critical acclaim.
Now she writes Young Adult LGBT Romance novels about boys traversing the crazy world of love, relationships and acceptance.
Sign up for my newsletter--https://t.co/FfL9gFVJLQ --for sneak peeks, news, and upcoming appearances.
She wrote her first story at seven, which was, unbeknownst to her at the time, a charming piece of fan-fiction in which Superman battled (and defeated, of course) the nefarious X Luther. She was quite put out to be told, years later, that the character's name was actually Lex. Her second masterpiece should have been a best-seller, but the action-packed tale of rescuing her little brother from an alligator attack in the marshes of Florida collected dust for years under the bed instead of gaining critical acclaim.
Now she writes Young Adult LGBT Romance novels about boys traversing the crazy world of love, relationships and acceptance.
Sign up for my newsletter--https://t.co/FfL9gFVJLQ --for sneak peeks, news, and upcoming appearances.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
May 19, 2019
2.5 Stars
A better sophomore effort but still not quite the win.
Simon is the new guy in town and thus, the new professor at Cody College, secret haven for shifter students. As per the blurb, he’s looking for some familial redemption, and Cody is supposedly the last place a potential sighting of the rare thunderbird took place. Because he is unaware of the college’s supernatural leanings, graduate student Ford (aka as one of the elusive birds Simon’s so desperately looking for) is assigned to keep him out of the know about everyone else’s dual nature.
Of course, that plan quickly goes to hell, and Simon’s scientist brain whirs and buzzes with all the new revelations. Throw in being held at gunpoint for his research, vandalism of his vehicle and residence, and stalked by some sinister snake god worshippers, and Simon can barely keep things straight, let alone effectively hide his attraction towards the enigmatic Ford.
This wasn’t as frustrating as the first book but I admit, I was bored at times with all the bird speak, and I never really felt what made Simon and Ford connect. The lack of Ford’s pov was sorely missed, and I didn’t fully feel why he fell for Simon.
What this excelled at was the continued world building regarding the small town of Cody, boasting a brimming population of various shifters. Know that Simon was no pushover in his drive to find all the facts, and his quirky nerdy personality lent some humor to the story. Ford was a dreamy broody alpha type, bossy and protective but also secretive as hell solely due to survival mode. Overall though, this lacked a fulfilling romance for me, and while a pleasant read with short lived angst, this unfortunately hardly evoked a reaction one way or the other.
A better sophomore effort but still not quite the win.
Simon is the new guy in town and thus, the new professor at Cody College, secret haven for shifter students. As per the blurb, he’s looking for some familial redemption, and Cody is supposedly the last place a potential sighting of the rare thunderbird took place. Because he is unaware of the college’s supernatural leanings, graduate student Ford (aka as one of the elusive birds Simon’s so desperately looking for) is assigned to keep him out of the know about everyone else’s dual nature.
Of course, that plan quickly goes to hell, and Simon’s scientist brain whirs and buzzes with all the new revelations. Throw in being held at gunpoint for his research, vandalism of his vehicle and residence, and stalked by some sinister snake god worshippers, and Simon can barely keep things straight, let alone effectively hide his attraction towards the enigmatic Ford.
This wasn’t as frustrating as the first book but I admit, I was bored at times with all the bird speak, and I never really felt what made Simon and Ford connect. The lack of Ford’s pov was sorely missed, and I didn’t fully feel why he fell for Simon.
What this excelled at was the continued world building regarding the small town of Cody, boasting a brimming population of various shifters. Know that Simon was no pushover in his drive to find all the facts, and his quirky nerdy personality lent some humor to the story. Ford was a dreamy broody alpha type, bossy and protective but also secretive as hell solely due to survival mode. Overall though, this lacked a fulfilling romance for me, and while a pleasant read with short lived angst, this unfortunately hardly evoked a reaction one way or the other.
January 1, 2022
2.5 Stars
We’re back at Cody College (AKA Shifter U) for another shapeshifting tale of new love, this time between new (human) professor, Simon Coleman, and his assigned TA and Thunderbird shifter (shhh, it’s a secret!), Ford Whitney.
Much like with the first story, I once again enjoyed the shapeshifting lore/world building within this story, and I appreciated the steady presence of good humour and levity throughout. The small-town Wyoming setting, being a safe haven for shifter folk, is also one I still enjoy. The people here are kind of kooky and sweet, which makes for fun and light reading.
Again, like with the first book, I could have done with a hell of a lot more in terms of relationship development between Simon and Ford. I didn’t really feel a connection between them until well into the second half of the story, and right when I thought things were taking off, Simon behaved in a way that left a sour taste in my mouth, leaving me feeling frustrated and kind of despondent during the final chapters of their story.
Ultimately, despite my yearning for a stronger romance arc, I enjoyed this one a bit more than its predecessor – probably due to the fact that this one had a much tighter plot and less crazy (see: annoying) antics of the MCs. I’d go as far as to say the synopses for the next few stories sound much more appealing to me and I’m hopeful my enjoyment will only improve as I read on!
We’re back at Cody College (AKA Shifter U) for another shapeshifting tale of new love, this time between new (human) professor, Simon Coleman, and his assigned TA and Thunderbird shifter (shhh, it’s a secret!), Ford Whitney.
Much like with the first story, I once again enjoyed the shapeshifting lore/world building within this story, and I appreciated the steady presence of good humour and levity throughout. The small-town Wyoming setting, being a safe haven for shifter folk, is also one I still enjoy. The people here are kind of kooky and sweet, which makes for fun and light reading.
Again, like with the first book, I could have done with a hell of a lot more in terms of relationship development between Simon and Ford. I didn’t really feel a connection between them until well into the second half of the story, and right when I thought things were taking off, Simon behaved in a way that left a sour taste in my mouth, leaving me feeling frustrated and kind of despondent during the final chapters of their story.
Ultimately, despite my yearning for a stronger romance arc, I enjoyed this one a bit more than its predecessor – probably due to the fact that this one had a much tighter plot and less crazy (see: annoying) antics of the MCs. I’d go as far as to say the synopses for the next few stories sound much more appealing to me and I’m hopeful my enjoyment will only improve as I read on!
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February 13, 2018 5 Hearts
Twitching is a British term used to mean "the pursuit of a previously located rare bird." In North America it is more often called chasing. – Wikipedia
Ahh yeah. We are back at Cody College aka Shifter U and it’s time to get Ford’s story.
Let me first say how much of a fan I am of the series and that I absolutely adored the first book. In my review for Stalking Buffalo Bill I said, “Now, the only thing I could hope for is for Ford to get a book because his shift is stunning, and I would love to see who could handle him.” and I sure as heck got what I asked for.
Dr. Simon Coleman has been searching for the existence of the mythical Thunderbird for years to remedy the reputation of his family but namely his grandfather. When he lands a job as a Professor of at Cody College in the biology department, he decides the Wyoming area that has recently had a sighting of what could be a thunderbird is the best place to get some more fieldwork and research done. But time is of the essence as his grandfather is sick with lung cancer and Simon would love nothing more than to clear his name before he dies.
Knowing a bit about Cody College, I loved getting to see the campus through Simon’s eyes. I really liked that Simon wasn’t a shifter in a world/town/college full of them. When he first notices all the random piles of clothing lying around campus and frat boys comfortably talking to foxes, it was adorable. With Simon being on the edge of mythology and cryptozoology for so long it was only fate that these worlds of his would collide; the myths with his academics. It brought on endearing moments and ones of awkward pleasure for me as a reader for Simon to learn that shifters have heightened senses and that well, they can smell arousal. But nothing compares to the connection Ford and Simon have.
Ford is amazing in this story. I fell hard for him in Donnie’s book as Donnie’s big bad bird BFF and how stoic and loyal he is to those he cares about. Seeing him take care of Simon time and again, even when it’s his kind on the line with Simon’s introduction to shifters, Ford is stunning.
The attraction between Ford and Simon is electric and the pun is intended. Though Simon isn’t sure about his attraction to his teaching assistant Ford, he knows that it’s not a good idea to get involved with a student and yet he wants nothing more than to spend time with Ford. When Simon is out doing research one night and gets mugged by masked men in dark vehicles who have a snake like tattoo on their arm and steal his journal, he gets freaked and has a meltdown in front of the one person he doesn’t want to see him fall apart.
From there, we get Ford doing what he does best; handling the situation and this situation just happens to be Simon. When Simon needs someone to guard his research and his body, Ford take on the task and we get some fantastic moments between the couple. Let me just say the first kiss was damn hot and with true tradition of the series led to a fun moment of teasing with Donnie that I was waiting to happen.
Now, I just had a thought as I was going to go into how great the story was, but I would have loved to get a bit of Ford’s POV. While I still covet that, I realized that it wasn't Ford's story per se. This was Simon literally chasing a thunderbird that wound up being more than he, his family or his ancestors could have imagined. The chase, the discovery and the loyalty of secrecy belongs to Simon as he falls in love with Ford. So, while it's their romance it's Simon's story.
I wanted this story from the second I met Ford in Stalking Buffalo Bill and I wanted it bad. I needed to see the one person who could break through the walls Ford Whitney built to save his family and his kind and I got it. Simon is perfect for Ford in every way and they complement each other wonderfully. That end was spectacular and swoon worthy with what Ford does for Simon. I loved their story and their romance. I am one happy and satisfied Rambling Redhead.
Twitching is a British term used to mean "the pursuit of a previously located rare bird." In North America it is more often called chasing. – Wikipedia
Ahh yeah. We are back at Cody College aka Shifter U and it’s time to get Ford’s story.
Let me first say how much of a fan I am of the series and that I absolutely adored the first book. In my review for Stalking Buffalo Bill I said, “Now, the only thing I could hope for is for Ford to get a book because his shift is stunning, and I would love to see who could handle him.” and I sure as heck got what I asked for.
Dr. Simon Coleman has been searching for the existence of the mythical Thunderbird for years to remedy the reputation of his family but namely his grandfather. When he lands a job as a Professor of at Cody College in the biology department, he decides the Wyoming area that has recently had a sighting of what could be a thunderbird is the best place to get some more fieldwork and research done. But time is of the essence as his grandfather is sick with lung cancer and Simon would love nothing more than to clear his name before he dies.
Knowing a bit about Cody College, I loved getting to see the campus through Simon’s eyes. I really liked that Simon wasn’t a shifter in a world/town/college full of them. When he first notices all the random piles of clothing lying around campus and frat boys comfortably talking to foxes, it was adorable. With Simon being on the edge of mythology and cryptozoology for so long it was only fate that these worlds of his would collide; the myths with his academics. It brought on endearing moments and ones of awkward pleasure for me as a reader for Simon to learn that shifters have heightened senses and that well, they can smell arousal. But nothing compares to the connection Ford and Simon have.
Ford is amazing in this story. I fell hard for him in Donnie’s book as Donnie’s big bad bird BFF and how stoic and loyal he is to those he cares about. Seeing him take care of Simon time and again, even when it’s his kind on the line with Simon’s introduction to shifters, Ford is stunning.
The attraction between Ford and Simon is electric and the pun is intended. Though Simon isn’t sure about his attraction to his teaching assistant Ford, he knows that it’s not a good idea to get involved with a student and yet he wants nothing more than to spend time with Ford. When Simon is out doing research one night and gets mugged by masked men in dark vehicles who have a snake like tattoo on their arm and steal his journal, he gets freaked and has a meltdown in front of the one person he doesn’t want to see him fall apart.
From there, we get Ford doing what he does best; handling the situation and this situation just happens to be Simon. When Simon needs someone to guard his research and his body, Ford take on the task and we get some fantastic moments between the couple. Let me just say the first kiss was damn hot and with true tradition of the series led to a fun moment of teasing with Donnie that I was waiting to happen.
Now, I just had a thought as I was going to go into how great the story was, but I would have loved to get a bit of Ford’s POV. While I still covet that, I realized that it wasn't Ford's story per se. This was Simon literally chasing a thunderbird that wound up being more than he, his family or his ancestors could have imagined. The chase, the discovery and the loyalty of secrecy belongs to Simon as he falls in love with Ford. So, while it's their romance it's Simon's story.
I wanted this story from the second I met Ford in Stalking Buffalo Bill and I wanted it bad. I needed to see the one person who could break through the walls Ford Whitney built to save his family and his kind and I got it. Simon is perfect for Ford in every way and they complement each other wonderfully. That end was spectacular and swoon worthy with what Ford does for Simon. I loved their story and their romance. I am one happy and satisfied Rambling Redhead.
January 7, 2018
3.5 Stars
Simon Coleman is a genius. He got his PhD by the time he'd turned twenty and comes from a long line of academics. Unfortunately, his family also has a bit of a reputation in Academia for their zealous and, sadly, over-publicized quest for the mythical thunderbird cryptid. While they've had proof of the mysterious bird's existence a couple of times it always ends up stolen, wiped, or missing by the time whoever had it goes public leading to shame, embarrassment and besmirching of the family's good name.
When a position as a professor in the biology department at Cody College opens up it seems fated. Simon had heard about the possibility of a sighting in the area of a thunderbird (the scene toward the end of Stalking Buffalo Bill ), and while Simon is determined to prove thunderbirds do exist so he can set the record straight, he isn't going to go shouting about it in public.
Unfortunately, a junior journalism major writing a get-to-know-him article in the College’s e-magazine puts his family's quest on the front page, and puts Simon under a microscope, especially with the College's biology department chair. As a result, Simon's given a TA, Ford Whitney, as a babysitter to keep Simon in line, and, unbeknownst to Simon, to keep the College's biggest secret - that it has the largest population of shifter students in the US - secret.
Simon and Ford have instant sparks, and it's cute to see the signs that Simon is so oblivious to. Now readers know from Stalking Buffalo Bill that Ford is a Thunderbird shifter capable of controlling weather, but, for reasons that are explained pretty late in the story to Simon, Simon is kept unaware of just what kind of shifter Ford is, but since the readers are in the know it lends for some humorous moments.
However, the secret about shifters is accidentally revealed, but that turns out to not be the weirdest thing Simon has to deal with, no, the weirdest thing are the guys with guns who seem particularly interested in his research.
Since the story is told from Simon's first person POV, we don't really get to know what's going on with Ford, or how he feels other than the "reactions" that keep happening around Simon that he can't figure out.
The story itself is interesting, particularly how it piggybacks and expands on the world building from book one, Stalking Buffalo Bill , without being repetitive about it. You could, I suppose, read Chasing Thunderbird as a standalone and not have a lot of trouble following along, but I did feel like it really fleshed things out to know what happened in the first book.
In my opinion this was a fun story with some humor, good characters, and I had a good time reading it, I just wish it was more than a single, first person POV. I would have loved to have gotten into Ford's head.
Advanced Review Galley copy of Chasing Thunderbird (Shifter U #2) provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
Simon Coleman is a genius. He got his PhD by the time he'd turned twenty and comes from a long line of academics. Unfortunately, his family also has a bit of a reputation in Academia for their zealous and, sadly, over-publicized quest for the mythical thunderbird cryptid. While they've had proof of the mysterious bird's existence a couple of times it always ends up stolen, wiped, or missing by the time whoever had it goes public leading to shame, embarrassment and besmirching of the family's good name.
When a position as a professor in the biology department at Cody College opens up it seems fated. Simon had heard about the possibility of a sighting in the area of a thunderbird (the scene toward the end of Stalking Buffalo Bill ), and while Simon is determined to prove thunderbirds do exist so he can set the record straight, he isn't going to go shouting about it in public.
Unfortunately, a junior journalism major writing a get-to-know-him article in the College’s e-magazine puts his family's quest on the front page, and puts Simon under a microscope, especially with the College's biology department chair. As a result, Simon's given a TA, Ford Whitney, as a babysitter to keep Simon in line, and, unbeknownst to Simon, to keep the College's biggest secret - that it has the largest population of shifter students in the US - secret.
Simon and Ford have instant sparks, and it's cute to see the signs that Simon is so oblivious to. Now readers know from Stalking Buffalo Bill that Ford is a Thunderbird shifter capable of controlling weather, but, for reasons that are explained pretty late in the story to Simon, Simon is kept unaware of just what kind of shifter Ford is, but since the readers are in the know it lends for some humorous moments.
My ears popped as another wave of staticky pressure rolled over me. Just like on a plane. I wiggled my jaw, trying to ease the tension. I looked around, but no one else seemed to notice anything odd. Maybe it was some kind of stress-induced physiological reaction?
However, the secret about shifters is accidentally revealed, but that turns out to not be the weirdest thing Simon has to deal with, no, the weirdest thing are the guys with guns who seem particularly interested in his research.
Since the story is told from Simon's first person POV, we don't really get to know what's going on with Ford, or how he feels other than the "reactions" that keep happening around Simon that he can't figure out.
The story itself is interesting, particularly how it piggybacks and expands on the world building from book one, Stalking Buffalo Bill , without being repetitive about it. You could, I suppose, read Chasing Thunderbird as a standalone and not have a lot of trouble following along, but I did feel like it really fleshed things out to know what happened in the first book.
In my opinion this was a fun story with some humor, good characters, and I had a good time reading it, I just wish it was more than a single, first person POV. I would have loved to have gotten into Ford's head.
Advanced Review Galley copy of Chasing Thunderbird (Shifter U #2) provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
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February 6, 2018A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
I chose Chasing Thunderbird because I myself am interested in cryptozoology. I am not ashamed to say I believe Bigfoot exists, and there are other unexplainable things out there in the world that just haven’t been discovered. Also, I’m a big fan of the California condor, and thanks to an awesome keeper at the zoo, I learned they are a part of the Thunderbird legend. But I digress. Suffice to say, I thought this would be an interesting departure from a traditional romance. I wasn’t disappointed.
Obviously, I liked the premise of the story, and the author clearly did a lot of research into the history of the Thunderbird myth, rather than just making up something for the story’s sake. This added what I would say is an almost sort of reality. Along with that, Simon and Ford were well fleshed out and interesting. Simon, the young genius, wants to be a good professor and to belong on campus. Sure, things were a little weird, but he tried not to let it bother him. He kept copious notes in journals, both from bird watching and about the Thunderbird. Simon is a sweet nerd, and I liked him immediately. He was a fish out of water (or a bird out of the nest?), but he was trying to take it in stride. Also, he loved his family and wanted to save their reputations. Loyalty is an admirable quality for an MC to have. Ford was the strong silent type. Serious, but sexy, he wanted to do the right thing by Simon and the college. He was also a hard worker, holding up a job as a barista at a campus café. Once again, the character’s loyalty made me love him as much as I did Simon.
Read Kenna’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
I chose Chasing Thunderbird because I myself am interested in cryptozoology. I am not ashamed to say I believe Bigfoot exists, and there are other unexplainable things out there in the world that just haven’t been discovered. Also, I’m a big fan of the California condor, and thanks to an awesome keeper at the zoo, I learned they are a part of the Thunderbird legend. But I digress. Suffice to say, I thought this would be an interesting departure from a traditional romance. I wasn’t disappointed.
Obviously, I liked the premise of the story, and the author clearly did a lot of research into the history of the Thunderbird myth, rather than just making up something for the story’s sake. This added what I would say is an almost sort of reality. Along with that, Simon and Ford were well fleshed out and interesting. Simon, the young genius, wants to be a good professor and to belong on campus. Sure, things were a little weird, but he tried not to let it bother him. He kept copious notes in journals, both from bird watching and about the Thunderbird. Simon is a sweet nerd, and I liked him immediately. He was a fish out of water (or a bird out of the nest?), but he was trying to take it in stride. Also, he loved his family and wanted to save their reputations. Loyalty is an admirable quality for an MC to have. Ford was the strong silent type. Serious, but sexy, he wanted to do the right thing by Simon and the college. He was also a hard worker, holding up a job as a barista at a campus café. Once again, the character’s loyalty made me love him as much as I did Simon.
Read Kenna’s review in its entirety here.
February 19, 2018
3.5 stars
Chasing Thunderbird is the second book -- but can be read as stand alone -- in the Shifter U series. I liked this more than Stalking Buffalo Bill. I thought the world built was better in this book. One of the reasons, probably, is because Simon as the main narrator of this book is an outsider. He is clueless about what is going on in Cody College; he doesn't know the existence of shifters.
So, I discovered new things alongside Simon. But at the same time, because I also knew about other stuffs, it became some sort of amusing insiders joke.
There's a quick timeline in this book as well, and it is TOTALLY my reading preference that I dislike the whole notion of falling in love within two weeks. However, like I said, it was still better for me than the first one.
Chasing Thunderbird is the second book -- but can be read as stand alone -- in the Shifter U series. I liked this more than Stalking Buffalo Bill. I thought the world built was better in this book. One of the reasons, probably, is because Simon as the main narrator of this book is an outsider. He is clueless about what is going on in Cody College; he doesn't know the existence of shifters.
So, I discovered new things alongside Simon. But at the same time, because I also knew about other stuffs, it became some sort of amusing insiders joke.
There's a quick timeline in this book as well, and it is TOTALLY my reading preference that I dislike the whole notion of falling in love within two weeks. However, like I said, it was still better for me than the first one.
May 20, 2018
3.5 Stars
March 9, 2018
What a fantastic book! I’ve had so much fun with Simon’s story.
Thought it was all very fascinating, I only just read up on thunderbirds when I was 20% into the book (triggered my inner research nerd).
I love what J. Leigh did here!
Written only from Simon’s POV I’ve come to love him very much! Ford on the other hand remains a mystery to me. I didn’t find myself drawn to him like to Simon or the guys from the previous book.
Oh. I miss Donnie! Him showing up was my highlight.
Highly recommended!
Thought it was all very fascinating, I only just read up on thunderbirds when I was 20% into the book (triggered my inner research nerd).
I love what J. Leigh did here!
Written only from Simon’s POV I’ve come to love him very much! Ford on the other hand remains a mystery to me. I didn’t find myself drawn to him like to Simon or the guys from the previous book.
Oh. I miss Donnie! Him showing up was my highlight.
Highly recommended!
February 8, 2018
Cute addition to the Shifter U universe. I definitely feel that reading book one helps in terms of background. Otherwise, since this is written in (non-shifter) Simon's POV, it could be very confusing. I definitely thought that the relationship really jumped quickly, from being slightly antagonistic (though not really enemies) to discussing love all of a sudden. But I did enjoy reading the story.
September 14, 2022
Solid 3.5 stars rounded up
It's more than just a little obvious what/who Ford is, but I tried to give Simon the benefit of the doubt, since he's only looking for birds not bird-shifters. Although when he figures out that shifters are a thing? That's when I started to be a little annoyed with him for not cluing in. The showdown with the bad guys was over so quick that I might've missed it if I hadn't been paying attention, which made it 3.5 instead of 4 stars. I'll probably get around to reading the rest eventually...which is I think exactly where I was when I finished the first one in the series.
It's more than just a little obvious what/who Ford is, but I tried to give Simon the benefit of the doubt, since he's only looking for birds not bird-shifters. Although when he figures out that shifters are a thing? That's when I started to be a little annoyed with him for not cluing in. The showdown with the bad guys was over so quick that I might've missed it if I hadn't been paying attention, which made it 3.5 instead of 4 stars. I'll probably get around to reading the rest eventually...which is I think exactly where I was when I finished the first one in the series.
February 7, 2018
After the hilarity that is ‘Stalking Buffalo Bill’ (the first book in this series set at Shifter U), I was really looking forward to reading another story set in this world. It is a contemporary world where shifters are not known to humans and “band together” at certain universities and places where they feel comfortable. This time the focus is on an ornithology professor in trouble and a shape-shifting grad student trying to protect the shifter population from discovery. All the elements I liked so much in the first volume are present again: a student/professor relationship, secrets, danger, threats, and above all, a wonderful sense of humor. This is not a world that takes itself too seriously, and I really enjoyed a return to this lighter kind of paranormal setup.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
August 9, 2024
Very Good!
I binged this book right after the first one. I liked how it brought in a different perspective of a “human” and a “shifter” romance, but from the human experience, instead of 2 shifters like the first book in the series. It also had characters be shown in this story as well, which I enjoyed. I will be finishing the rest of this series soon for sure!
I binged this book right after the first one. I liked how it brought in a different perspective of a “human” and a “shifter” romance, but from the human experience, instead of 2 shifters like the first book in the series. It also had characters be shown in this story as well, which I enjoyed. I will be finishing the rest of this series soon for sure!
March 29, 2018
This was a tad boring but I loved the concept of thunderbirds.
February 9, 2018
Full review available at: https://optimumm.blog/2018/02/07/revi...
Chasing Thunderbird by J. Leigh Bailey is the second book in the Shifter U series and book thirteen in Dreamspun Beyond series. I didn’t realize this was the second book in the series when I read it. And after reading a couple of the other reviews on Goodreads, I have a feeling that I missed out on a lot of inside comedy and knowing what kind of shifter Ford was since it was revealed in the first book Stalking Buffalo Bill. However, I did enjoy reading Chasing Thunderbird.
The story’s told through Simon’s first person POV, so we don’t get to know what Ford’s thinking or feeling except for how he reacts to what’s going on. I did like Cody College and all of the strange happenings that go on like when Simon attends a bird watching club meeting and how secretly it’s a bird shifter club. I also liked how bold all of the wildlife is at the college and how they aren’t afraid of humans which is strange to Simon but makes sense to everybody else that goes there since the college has one of the largest population of shifter students.
Simon is an Ornithology professor. He’s an academic genius and received his Ph.D. by the age of twenty and comes from a long line of academics. However, his family has a reputation in academia for their zealous and over publicized search for the Thunderbird cryptid. They have gotten proof of the Thunderbird, but every time the evidence is stolen, lost or goes missing just when the person goes public with it leading to embarrassment, shame, and besmirching of the family name.
When a position in the biology department becomes available at Cody College, it seems like fate to Simon. This will put him close to a recent sighting of the Thunderbird, and he wants to finally get proof and clear his family’s name in secret, of course. However, when a meet and greet article turns into an article about his family’s search for the Thunderbird, the head of the biology department assigns Simon a TA to make sure that he stays in line and doesn’t cause the college any embarrassment. His new TA is Ford Whitney. Grad student and part-time barista, Ford has a lot on his plate, and it’s his job to make sure that Simon doesn’t find out that shifters are real and that the college has the largest population in residence.
As Simon investigates the location of the supposed sighting of the Thunderbird, he runs into a group of people that want all of his research on the Thunderbirds, and they aren’t above trying to force him to give it to them. Ford will be forced to step in and save Simon and the secret about the shifters will be revealed. Simon will have to decide on what is more important to him, clearing his family’s name or saving the Thunderbirds by keeping their existence a secret.
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book ***
Chasing Thunderbird by J. Leigh Bailey is the second book in the Shifter U series and book thirteen in Dreamspun Beyond series. I didn’t realize this was the second book in the series when I read it. And after reading a couple of the other reviews on Goodreads, I have a feeling that I missed out on a lot of inside comedy and knowing what kind of shifter Ford was since it was revealed in the first book Stalking Buffalo Bill. However, I did enjoy reading Chasing Thunderbird.
The story’s told through Simon’s first person POV, so we don’t get to know what Ford’s thinking or feeling except for how he reacts to what’s going on. I did like Cody College and all of the strange happenings that go on like when Simon attends a bird watching club meeting and how secretly it’s a bird shifter club. I also liked how bold all of the wildlife is at the college and how they aren’t afraid of humans which is strange to Simon but makes sense to everybody else that goes there since the college has one of the largest population of shifter students.
Simon is an Ornithology professor. He’s an academic genius and received his Ph.D. by the age of twenty and comes from a long line of academics. However, his family has a reputation in academia for their zealous and over publicized search for the Thunderbird cryptid. They have gotten proof of the Thunderbird, but every time the evidence is stolen, lost or goes missing just when the person goes public with it leading to embarrassment, shame, and besmirching of the family name.
When a position in the biology department becomes available at Cody College, it seems like fate to Simon. This will put him close to a recent sighting of the Thunderbird, and he wants to finally get proof and clear his family’s name in secret, of course. However, when a meet and greet article turns into an article about his family’s search for the Thunderbird, the head of the biology department assigns Simon a TA to make sure that he stays in line and doesn’t cause the college any embarrassment. His new TA is Ford Whitney. Grad student and part-time barista, Ford has a lot on his plate, and it’s his job to make sure that Simon doesn’t find out that shifters are real and that the college has the largest population in residence.
As Simon investigates the location of the supposed sighting of the Thunderbird, he runs into a group of people that want all of his research on the Thunderbirds, and they aren’t above trying to force him to give it to them. Ford will be forced to step in and save Simon and the secret about the shifters will be revealed. Simon will have to decide on what is more important to him, clearing his family’s name or saving the Thunderbirds by keeping their existence a secret.
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book ***
July 14, 2018
Review can be read at It's About The Book
Simon Coleman is going to find a thunderbird. He’s going to show the world his family isn’t crazy. More importantly he’s going to show his dying, beloved grandfather the family isn’t crazy. They were chasing a real thing this whole time. Simon’s plans are a little complicated by the fact he’s got a serious case of the hots for his TA. As a professor Simon should not have any kind of relationship with his TA that isn’t inherently professional. TA Ford Whitney is always there. Ford even catches Simon when he falls. But things are weird at Cody College where Simon just started. In the most undeniable way possible Simon finds out just how outside the norm Cody College really is. Then things start getting dangerous. When Simon’s house is broken into and his research on thunderbirds stolen Ford becomes glued to Simon’s side. A relationship develops. One thing budding relationships can’t handle is mistrust, and Simon ends up having a fairly good reason to mistrust Ford.
I really enjoy these books. They’re a wonderful mix of lighthearted and dangerous. There’s a hint of angst but not enough to make me feel angsty. They’re just fun. I want to have fun when I read. I enjoyed reading about the impossible situation these guys were in. I felt bad for Simon and his impossible situation. Pride is real. Sometimes it’s all we’ve got. It’s all fine and dandy to tell ourselves knowing the truth is vindication enough, but I don’t know if I could have swallowed my pride as quickly as Simon did.
I already know I will be wanting the next book in this series. I like the characters, the voice, the whole thing. I’m really excited to see where the next Shifter U book will go. Not just for the fun of it, but I want to know what’s happening with the baddies. Ford has powers and all but I’m sure the baddies still know they’re baddies.
Simon Coleman is going to find a thunderbird. He’s going to show the world his family isn’t crazy. More importantly he’s going to show his dying, beloved grandfather the family isn’t crazy. They were chasing a real thing this whole time. Simon’s plans are a little complicated by the fact he’s got a serious case of the hots for his TA. As a professor Simon should not have any kind of relationship with his TA that isn’t inherently professional. TA Ford Whitney is always there. Ford even catches Simon when he falls. But things are weird at Cody College where Simon just started. In the most undeniable way possible Simon finds out just how outside the norm Cody College really is. Then things start getting dangerous. When Simon’s house is broken into and his research on thunderbirds stolen Ford becomes glued to Simon’s side. A relationship develops. One thing budding relationships can’t handle is mistrust, and Simon ends up having a fairly good reason to mistrust Ford.
I really enjoy these books. They’re a wonderful mix of lighthearted and dangerous. There’s a hint of angst but not enough to make me feel angsty. They’re just fun. I want to have fun when I read. I enjoyed reading about the impossible situation these guys were in. I felt bad for Simon and his impossible situation. Pride is real. Sometimes it’s all we’ve got. It’s all fine and dandy to tell ourselves knowing the truth is vindication enough, but I don’t know if I could have swallowed my pride as quickly as Simon did.
I already know I will be wanting the next book in this series. I like the characters, the voice, the whole thing. I’m really excited to see where the next Shifter U book will go. Not just for the fun of it, but I want to know what’s happening with the baddies. Ford has powers and all but I’m sure the baddies still know they’re baddies.
February 1, 2018
I really like this series. I read book one and was hooked and now with book two, let's just say that I can not wait for book three to come out. I was so excited to see that this book was about Ford because he really caught my attention in the first book.
Shifter U or better known to everyone else as Cody College to outsiders is full of secrets. For Ford it holds the secrets of his family and his friends. Secrets that could harm most everyone in attendance and who works there if those secrets were to come out. So when a new professor starts there it is awkward for Simon to say the least.
Simon knows that there is something strange going on at this college but he is not quite sure what it is. He knows that things are going to be awkward if for no other reason then the fact he is so young to be a professor. And the article done about him and his family did not help any either. But it is so much more then that. It is the fact he keeps finding bits of clothing all over the campus and when he walks in somewhere everyone quits talking and stares at him. So Awkward is a good word for it all.
Little does Simmon know but is about to get a crash course in very quickly, but things are not as they seem at Cody College. And Simmon is about to find out just how dangerous all the secrets this place holds are.
The one person that may be able to save Simmon from not only the danger that seems to be following him but also from himself is Ford. But the real question is, can Ford and Simmon for that matter trust one another enough to work together to figure out who is behind everything that is putting Simmon in danger?
This was another good book in this series. J Leigh Bailey has a very amazing way of capturing the readers attention and not letting it go till the end. This was a very exciting read from almost the very beginning till the end. Definitely looking forward to the next book in this series.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
Shifter U or better known to everyone else as Cody College to outsiders is full of secrets. For Ford it holds the secrets of his family and his friends. Secrets that could harm most everyone in attendance and who works there if those secrets were to come out. So when a new professor starts there it is awkward for Simon to say the least.
Simon knows that there is something strange going on at this college but he is not quite sure what it is. He knows that things are going to be awkward if for no other reason then the fact he is so young to be a professor. And the article done about him and his family did not help any either. But it is so much more then that. It is the fact he keeps finding bits of clothing all over the campus and when he walks in somewhere everyone quits talking and stares at him. So Awkward is a good word for it all.
Little does Simmon know but is about to get a crash course in very quickly, but things are not as they seem at Cody College. And Simmon is about to find out just how dangerous all the secrets this place holds are.
The one person that may be able to save Simmon from not only the danger that seems to be following him but also from himself is Ford. But the real question is, can Ford and Simmon for that matter trust one another enough to work together to figure out who is behind everything that is putting Simmon in danger?
This was another good book in this series. J Leigh Bailey has a very amazing way of capturing the readers attention and not letting it go till the end. This was a very exciting read from almost the very beginning till the end. Definitely looking forward to the next book in this series.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
July 11, 2018
I felt that this really improved from the last book as it kept me hooked on this relationship and had me hoping for a good ending, even as you could see the bad looking.
As the reader it is very clear what is coming up for the characters. After all, knowing about shifters and the fact of what it means, it becomes increasingly clear exactly what shifter Ford is. Not to mention that it was talked about in the last book. But Simon has no clue of that. First he doesn't know about shifters; once he does he doesn't really clue in to what type of shifter Ford could be. Simon is a consummate scientist and doesn't see the possibility of magic or extraordinary ability, blocking him from the idea of Ford's shift. This all amps up to it turning out pretty badly when Ford does get rather dramatically revealed.
Despite this knowledge on the readers part I really loved the development of the relationship between Simon and Ford. It started with plenty of attraction but had the forbidden part with Simon being a professor and Ford a student- despite the fact that Ford was a grad student and a year older than Simon. As things start happening Simon is drawn to Ford to tell him and finds security, and their relationship starts to deepen. This only sparks more lust and eventually it all sparks into a very passionate relationship. The two worked in school and they worked out in the community. Ford was dominant and commanding, but Simon did enjoy taking direction- though he was willing to fight back if he didn't want it. That fire motivates them to work past the issues that they have and make something together, which was great to read!
There is a good bit of myth mixed into the book, myths that are brought into the present life of the shifters. It made a great plot that had me loving the story and the characters. It was a very enjoyable story!
As the reader it is very clear what is coming up for the characters. After all, knowing about shifters and the fact of what it means, it becomes increasingly clear exactly what shifter Ford is. Not to mention that it was talked about in the last book. But Simon has no clue of that. First he doesn't know about shifters; once he does he doesn't really clue in to what type of shifter Ford could be. Simon is a consummate scientist and doesn't see the possibility of magic or extraordinary ability, blocking him from the idea of Ford's shift. This all amps up to it turning out pretty badly when Ford does get rather dramatically revealed.
Despite this knowledge on the readers part I really loved the development of the relationship between Simon and Ford. It started with plenty of attraction but had the forbidden part with Simon being a professor and Ford a student- despite the fact that Ford was a grad student and a year older than Simon. As things start happening Simon is drawn to Ford to tell him and finds security, and their relationship starts to deepen. This only sparks more lust and eventually it all sparks into a very passionate relationship. The two worked in school and they worked out in the community. Ford was dominant and commanding, but Simon did enjoy taking direction- though he was willing to fight back if he didn't want it. That fire motivates them to work past the issues that they have and make something together, which was great to read!
There is a good bit of myth mixed into the book, myths that are brought into the present life of the shifters. It made a great plot that had me loving the story and the characters. It was a very enjoyable story!
June 28, 2019
Well...I am firmly in love with this series.
Initially, I was a bit surprised that this was told in Simon's POV and not Ford's, but then it all began to make sense. Even though *we* knew from book 1, that Ford was a Thunderbird, it was even better to see Simon learn that information, bit by bit, shock by shock, and see everything he went through to get to that discovery.
The action/adventure aspect was just as engaging as book 1, though a slower build up. Joining the Aviation Club was hilarious! It had the feel of that "shameful family legacy" similar to National Treasure, and I loved how well it was explored, that Simon had precautions against losing his evidence, that it went back into history for such a long time, and there were forums he used to trade information. The whole aspect of the 'investigation' into thunderbirds was brilliantly handled.
Then, to top it all off with that Epilogue...it was everything I could have hoped for.
Funny. Charming. Sweet. Full of action. Some hotness. Adventure. A slow-ish-burn romance. And the perfect ending.
~
Favourite Quote
"How could he be talking coherently when I wasn't even sure what my name was?"
"At school, I'll keep my distance and defer to you, the same as I would to any professor in the department. But when we're off campus, you're mine."
Initially, I was a bit surprised that this was told in Simon's POV and not Ford's, but then it all began to make sense. Even though *we* knew from book 1, that Ford was a Thunderbird, it was even better to see Simon learn that information, bit by bit, shock by shock, and see everything he went through to get to that discovery.
The action/adventure aspect was just as engaging as book 1, though a slower build up. Joining the Aviation Club was hilarious! It had the feel of that "shameful family legacy" similar to National Treasure, and I loved how well it was explored, that Simon had precautions against losing his evidence, that it went back into history for such a long time, and there were forums he used to trade information. The whole aspect of the 'investigation' into thunderbirds was brilliantly handled.
Then, to top it all off with that Epilogue...it was everything I could have hoped for.
Funny. Charming. Sweet. Full of action. Some hotness. Adventure. A slow-ish-burn romance. And the perfect ending.
~
Favourite Quote
"How could he be talking coherently when I wasn't even sure what my name was?"
"At school, I'll keep my distance and defer to you, the same as I would to any professor in the department. But when we're off campus, you're mine."
July 30, 2018
My Review:
Oooh, I loved this book. I liked it even more than I did the first book of the Shifter U series, which I didn't expect.
Simon's family has been searching for proof of the elusive thunderbird for generations, to the point where they are a laughing stock of the scientific world, because someone has been out there systematically erasing all the proof they've found. When an online forum mentions a sighting of a large bird that sounds promising in Wyoming, Simon accepts the job to teach in the local biology department.
When he gets to the college he's immediately assigned Ford as a TA. What he doesn't know (and the reader is aware of) is that Ford is the elusive thunderbird.
I loved this book so much. Ford and Simon are wonderful together, although my heart hurt for both of them when everything came to a head. I liked the way the story was written and how the romance developed, although both men fought against it.
There's a bit of action and suspense to the story, too, which just made it that much better. I highly recommend this book and have already started book #3. I'm loving these Shifter U novels.
Oooh, I loved this book. I liked it even more than I did the first book of the Shifter U series, which I didn't expect.
Simon's family has been searching for proof of the elusive thunderbird for generations, to the point where they are a laughing stock of the scientific world, because someone has been out there systematically erasing all the proof they've found. When an online forum mentions a sighting of a large bird that sounds promising in Wyoming, Simon accepts the job to teach in the local biology department.
When he gets to the college he's immediately assigned Ford as a TA. What he doesn't know (and the reader is aware of) is that Ford is the elusive thunderbird.
I loved this book so much. Ford and Simon are wonderful together, although my heart hurt for both of them when everything came to a head. I liked the way the story was written and how the romance developed, although both men fought against it.
There's a bit of action and suspense to the story, too, which just made it that much better. I highly recommend this book and have already started book #3. I'm loving these Shifter U novels.
November 23, 2019
Low stakes paranormal romantic suspense. The narrator is (once again) a swoony and needlessly young guy. I don't like the swoony/alpha dynamic to begin with, and people this young aren't really for me. To say nothing of the potential professor/grad student dynamics. An unchallenging read since it was on my shelf during a reading slump.
April 23, 2018
I enjoyed this book a great deal. The characters were well written. The drama/conflict was quite understandable in the setting. What really got me though was the epilogue of it. So wonderfully touching.
March 30, 2018
A bit less engaging than the first one, but the premise is still fun.
September 19, 2018
I really have to give up reading mass paperbacks. The font is too hard to read.
September 28, 2018
I was just in the right mood for this story. It was great and I hoped for and loved the epilogue
December 27, 2018
Great book. Couldn't put in down.
February 15, 2018
This was terrific! The world building is excellent. The humor is great! The romance could use some follow up, but what we get is sweet.
I loved the chemistry between the MCs, and I ADORED Ford’s shifted form!
If we'd gotten to see our guys together longer this would have easily been a 5+ star read for me. Understanding that the genre is lower steam, I still wish we'd gotten more smexy times.
The action was fast paced, the dialog witty, the magic wonderful and the conclusion fairly to mostly satisfying.
Though I wanted more time with our guys as a fully fledged couple, I appreciated their version of HEA.
(I was disappointed not to see Buffalo Bill again, but was glad to see some of the other characters from book one.)
4.5 of 5 stars
I loved the chemistry between the MCs, and I ADORED Ford’s shifted form!
If we'd gotten to see our guys together longer this would have easily been a 5+ star read for me. Understanding that the genre is lower steam, I still wish we'd gotten more smexy times.
The action was fast paced, the dialog witty, the magic wonderful and the conclusion fairly to mostly satisfying.
Though I wanted more time with our guys as a fully fledged couple, I appreciated their version of HEA.
(I was disappointed not to see Buffalo Bill again, but was glad to see some of the other characters from book one.)
4.5 of 5 stars
March 7, 2018
4,5 heart review by PizzyGirl
I am loving this series. It is not high literature but man it was fun and it was exactly what I wanted when I needed it.
There are going to be people who disagree with me but I think this story was extremely well written. The plot tied into the characters which were both complemented by the writing style and overall tone of the story.
I easily connected with both Ford and Simon and never once questioned their developing mating. I felt their personalities were well developed and easy to understand. They were perfectly matched yet so different. I especially loved that no matter what was happening around them, their personalities bled through. Especially Simon. Seeing his geek come out in highly sexual and highly stressful situations kept things light and humorous and just perfect for me.
The plot was way over the top dramatic but it followed the ARC established in the first book and worked perfectly with the relationship development and fit the characters and the universe. I loved the lore and mythology and the way these crazies were so crazy the plot just worked well.
I also loved that within the over the top plot was an over the top mating that was strong and fast and yet so imperfect. I felt the heat between these men and felt the natural progression when they first kissed and never questioned the permanence of things. I also totally understood the issues these men had. Normally I HATE plot devices where one MC believes the lies of a stranger over their love interest, but in this story it worked well. Ford and Simon barely knew each other and Ford was so mysterious that I would have made the same leaps in logic as Simon did. I thought it was a good use of a device I normally can’t tolerate.
Finally, I want to mention that I LOVED the ending. Oh yes, it was totally predictable and expected but it still brought tears of joy to my eyes and I loved every minute of my reading experience.
This series is on my list to continue to the end. It is sometimes cheesy and always interesting and fun and everything I want in a Dreamspun Beyond romance.
This book was provided for free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
I am loving this series. It is not high literature but man it was fun and it was exactly what I wanted when I needed it.
There are going to be people who disagree with me but I think this story was extremely well written. The plot tied into the characters which were both complemented by the writing style and overall tone of the story.
I easily connected with both Ford and Simon and never once questioned their developing mating. I felt their personalities were well developed and easy to understand. They were perfectly matched yet so different. I especially loved that no matter what was happening around them, their personalities bled through. Especially Simon. Seeing his geek come out in highly sexual and highly stressful situations kept things light and humorous and just perfect for me.
The plot was way over the top dramatic but it followed the ARC established in the first book and worked perfectly with the relationship development and fit the characters and the universe. I loved the lore and mythology and the way these crazies were so crazy the plot just worked well.
I also loved that within the over the top plot was an over the top mating that was strong and fast and yet so imperfect. I felt the heat between these men and felt the natural progression when they first kissed and never questioned the permanence of things. I also totally understood the issues these men had. Normally I HATE plot devices where one MC believes the lies of a stranger over their love interest, but in this story it worked well. Ford and Simon barely knew each other and Ford was so mysterious that I would have made the same leaps in logic as Simon did. I thought it was a good use of a device I normally can’t tolerate.
Finally, I want to mention that I LOVED the ending. Oh yes, it was totally predictable and expected but it still brought tears of joy to my eyes and I loved every minute of my reading experience.
This series is on my list to continue to the end. It is sometimes cheesy and always interesting and fun and everything I want in a Dreamspun Beyond romance.
This book was provided for free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
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