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Outcast Bears #1
Archer
Archer had no plans to return home. Not after the dramatic exit he'd made. An arranged marriage to settle the feud between two packs sounded alright on the surface, but he'd be damned if he were to be mated to someone he didn't love. When Archer and his brothers left home they didn't plan on ever going back... That is until he received a call from a familiar voice years later urging him to return home to fix a problem that could destroy them all.
Joanna loved him. When she found out she was going to be mated to Archer, she couldn't contain her excitement. He was the most kind, generous and sexy man she'd ever met. It was like a dream come true. Until he crushed her heart on the day of the ceremony. She was broken and had never really recovered from the betrayal. And now the bastard had the balls to return to Stonefall all these years later?
Who was she kidding, she couldn't stay mad at him. If she was honest with herself, she'd admit that Archer was and always will be the only man to occupy her thoughts... and hopefully her bed.
Content Warning: This book contains lots of sexy shifter action. Intended for a mature audience only,
Joanna loved him. When she found out she was going to be mated to Archer, she couldn't contain her excitement. He was the most kind, generous and sexy man she'd ever met. It was like a dream come true. Until he crushed her heart on the day of the ceremony. She was broken and had never really recovered from the betrayal. And now the bastard had the balls to return to Stonefall all these years later?
Who was she kidding, she couldn't stay mad at him. If she was honest with herself, she'd admit that Archer was and always will be the only man to occupy her thoughts... and hopefully her bed.
Content Warning: This book contains lots of sexy shifter action. Intended for a mature audience only,
Kindle Edition
First published February 2, 2018
625 people are currently reading
292 people want to read
About the author
Emilia Hartley
117 books461 followersReading wasn't always Emilia's passion, but over the years she developed an irreplaceable love for books. She writes about large, protective alpha males and their strong, sexy female mates.
If you enjoy steamy shifters and fated mates, then you'll LOVE Emilia's books!
If you enjoy steamy shifters and fated mates, then you'll LOVE Emilia's books!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
February 5, 2018
Archer was exiled from his pack for refusing to bow to tradition. His brothers Gage and Cohen left with him. Joanna was his intended mate. Years later Archer returns to right things within the pack. Archer and Joanna were an interesting couple. I enjoyed the dynamic between the brothers. A great story, wonderful read. Looking forward to the next book in this series.
I received a free copy of this book from Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book from Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 21, 2019
The outcast is back
What a great story. Sad in some parts but had a great HEA. The black sheep of the family returns to set things right and stir stuff up. Can't wait to read the next one.
What a great story. Sad in some parts but had a great HEA. The black sheep of the family returns to set things right and stir stuff up. Can't wait to read the next one.
March 8, 2018
Good read
Great read..I really enjoyed the first bonus story. I don't normally read added books but I got sucked in! Will be looking into this author further for more reads!
Great read..I really enjoyed the first bonus story. I don't normally read added books but I got sucked in! Will be looking into this author further for more reads!
May 17, 2021
The couple: Archer and Joanna
Romance genre: shifter
Part of a series: yes (Outcast Bears)
Length: unavailable
Plot: Archer was engaged to Joanna at one time, and was supposed to marry her to secure the relationship between their packs. Instead, he fell in love with a human and left. Eight years later, he's back at the behest of his family. He sees Joanna again, but now she's stuck with a lynx shifter, a really bad guy who's causing trouble in the area. Joanna can't get away from him without causing harm to her own pack. Archer is willing to help her though, because he's seeing now what he missed back then: Joanna is a woman of worth, and she serves to be treated like a queen.
Character development: Joanna is extremely forgiving. I've said it before, but it bears repeating: I can hold a grudge like nobody's business. I'm amazed at these heroines who can forgive and forget. How? What a useful skill! Joanna is also very selfless, staying in a terrible relationship so that the people in her pack will be safe. I like that Archer finally came to his grumpy, oblivious senses and did the right thing.
Would I read more from this author/in this series: yes
Next book in the series: Gage
Romance genre: shifter
Part of a series: yes (Outcast Bears)
Length: unavailable
Plot: Archer was engaged to Joanna at one time, and was supposed to marry her to secure the relationship between their packs. Instead, he fell in love with a human and left. Eight years later, he's back at the behest of his family. He sees Joanna again, but now she's stuck with a lynx shifter, a really bad guy who's causing trouble in the area. Joanna can't get away from him without causing harm to her own pack. Archer is willing to help her though, because he's seeing now what he missed back then: Joanna is a woman of worth, and she serves to be treated like a queen.
Character development: Joanna is extremely forgiving. I've said it before, but it bears repeating: I can hold a grudge like nobody's business. I'm amazed at these heroines who can forgive and forget. How? What a useful skill! Joanna is also very selfless, staying in a terrible relationship so that the people in her pack will be safe. I like that Archer finally came to his grumpy, oblivious senses and did the right thing.
Would I read more from this author/in this series: yes
Next book in the series: Gage
April 25, 2024
I struggled with this. I found Archer uncouth and just self centred.
Joanne was a weak doormat, one of the worst female leads ever. She was forever waiting to act and wondered why what was left of the pack distrusted her. Then when she could have righteously killed Killian, she let him go.
Obviously he will be coming back to make more trouble and hurt others.
A sharp kitchen knife or Patty’s gun would have solved the problem. Why didn’t she do something after Killian killed her father and brother. WEAK for four years.
Just not what I want to read. Ended up skimming to the end.
I liked the two brothers more.
Thank goodness for Kindle Unlimited.
Joanne was a weak doormat, one of the worst female leads ever. She was forever waiting to act and wondered why what was left of the pack distrusted her. Then when she could have righteously killed Killian, she let him go.
Obviously he will be coming back to make more trouble and hurt others.
A sharp kitchen knife or Patty’s gun would have solved the problem. Why didn’t she do something after Killian killed her father and brother. WEAK for four years.
Just not what I want to read. Ended up skimming to the end.
I liked the two brothers more.
Thank goodness for Kindle Unlimited.
February 5, 2018
When the life Archer left behind comes back to haunt him and then smacks him in the face by showing him what he could have had, what he should have protected, he gets the chance to prove what he's really made of. And if he can have Joanna for a quick minute before he fulfills his new promises? All the better. The female he rejected grew up well but she's in a tough spot with her new pack and Archer is determined to fix things for her. But to do that, he might have to make the ultimate sacrifice.
The overall development of the story was really good in this one. The characters were more fully fleshed out, the drama was kept to a minimum of sources, relationships were complex and didn't have awkward extras, and the setup for a sequel was clear and intriguing.
Archer is summoned back to his hometown after 8 years when he was exiled for refusing to follow tradition. His refusal was based on an arranged marriage to a pack leader's daughter and he thought himself in love with a human woman. We don't get any details about who she was or what happened when they left home but we know it didn't last and contributed to his disbelief and mockery of love.
What he finds on his first moments home is that nothing is as it should be. A new and dangerous pack is trying to establish themselves in the territory of the pack he left. As he figures out what's going on with the pack that kicked him out and the pack that's trying to take over he finds home, not just the one he left behind, but the one for him, his bear, and his heart.
Joanna feels a lot of guilt. When Archer left she felt vulnerable, weak, unwanted, and was ripe for the picking for a controlling, violent man. Killian filled the void and quickly showed his true colors. Since then her pack was decimated to a few members and only her feigned submission to him is keeping them safe. They blame her for their hell of a life just as much as she does and when her many, many pleas for help to the Vancourt pack go unanswered she's resolved to doing something on her own. But even the strongest alpha needs support and help. Surprisingly, Archer is willing to provide.
They become closer to one another and I find that they make a really good couple. Joanna has a few drama moments where she finds her resolve and then loses it, finds it, then loses it...those times are a bit annoying but understandable when you take into account of the years of abuse, fear, and self-sacrifice. Archer was a big ol' martyr and thankfully there was Joanna there to see his intentions and create a situation where they could help one another achieve what they would fail to do on their own. The way the alpha situation was handled was really good. I was happy with the outcome because it was right for the characters.
Aside from what I felt was a lack of groveling, there was a ton of heat and passion between Joanna and Archer. In addition to their chemistry they begin a great foundation for something deeper and lasting, a place where their love can flourish with time and attention. I'm also looking forward to seeing them in the periphery of Cohen and Gage's stories. I really hope that the intimations for more from these brothers in subsequent stories isn't just a dirty tease because I've gotten a bit attached and a lot interested in them.
3.5 stars rounded up.
Read and willingly reviewed this ARC from the author.
The overall development of the story was really good in this one. The characters were more fully fleshed out, the drama was kept to a minimum of sources, relationships were complex and didn't have awkward extras, and the setup for a sequel was clear and intriguing.
Archer is summoned back to his hometown after 8 years when he was exiled for refusing to follow tradition. His refusal was based on an arranged marriage to a pack leader's daughter and he thought himself in love with a human woman. We don't get any details about who she was or what happened when they left home but we know it didn't last and contributed to his disbelief and mockery of love.
What he finds on his first moments home is that nothing is as it should be. A new and dangerous pack is trying to establish themselves in the territory of the pack he left. As he figures out what's going on with the pack that kicked him out and the pack that's trying to take over he finds home, not just the one he left behind, but the one for him, his bear, and his heart.
Joanna feels a lot of guilt. When Archer left she felt vulnerable, weak, unwanted, and was ripe for the picking for a controlling, violent man. Killian filled the void and quickly showed his true colors. Since then her pack was decimated to a few members and only her feigned submission to him is keeping them safe. They blame her for their hell of a life just as much as she does and when her many, many pleas for help to the Vancourt pack go unanswered she's resolved to doing something on her own. But even the strongest alpha needs support and help. Surprisingly, Archer is willing to provide.
They become closer to one another and I find that they make a really good couple. Joanna has a few drama moments where she finds her resolve and then loses it, finds it, then loses it...those times are a bit annoying but understandable when you take into account of the years of abuse, fear, and self-sacrifice. Archer was a big ol' martyr and thankfully there was Joanna there to see his intentions and create a situation where they could help one another achieve what they would fail to do on their own. The way the alpha situation was handled was really good. I was happy with the outcome because it was right for the characters.
Aside from what I felt was a lack of groveling, there was a ton of heat and passion between Joanna and Archer. In addition to their chemistry they begin a great foundation for something deeper and lasting, a place where their love can flourish with time and attention. I'm also looking forward to seeing them in the periphery of Cohen and Gage's stories. I really hope that the intimations for more from these brothers in subsequent stories isn't just a dirty tease because I've gotten a bit attached and a lot interested in them.
3.5 stars rounded up.
Read and willingly reviewed this ARC from the author.
February 3, 2018
Archer carried the heavy box of books to the moving truck while the newly divorced woman watched him, devouring him with her gaze. A human would have struggled, but this was not an effort for Archer. She openly flirted with him, but she was a customer and he didn’t want to get involved. As they stood there, a car raced into the driveway and a man angrily moved toward her. Archer put out his arm, stopped him, and gave him a shove when he still tried to get to the woman. As they were about to fight, Archer’s phone buzzed and something magically swiped the green button to answer. The voice he didn’t recognize said he had to come back and fix his mistake! And he knew he had to resolve this.
Archer found himself driving in rental to Central NY, his bear furious at going back home where they had tried to bind him to someone else against his will and threw him out. He wanted to never go back. To him, love was a lie. To “fix his mistake”, he would need to apologize to the other pack and then he could go back home to Illinois. He stopped at Paul’s Mart inside his old pack’s territory and noticed new faces –shifters, not buying but hanging around. A 4th one, Killian, walked up with a woman – Joanna, the lynx shifter whom he was almost forced to marry 8 years ago. Killian had killed her father and brother. She avoided looking at the door so she would not alert Killian that she had gone to the Vancourt Pack for help against him. But where were they? Nancy brought a shotgun out from under the counter and demanded they leave.
Archer was angry at the fear he saw in Jo’s face. He was angry at the sadistic Killian who was causing trouble in Vancourt territory – while his father never showed up to stop it before it started! And if Archer killed Killian, he would become the new Alpha or be hunted down by the pack and killed. But Nancy told him to go see his father before anything else.
When Archer arrived, he was surprised that his younger brother had followed him there. They were even more surprised when the oldest brother was waiting inside. The three had been thrown out years ago, then the oldest had walked away as well. Cohen and Gage constantly fought with each other. They would need to make peace, especially if their father was as sick as he seemed to be judging by the stack of hospital bills! They went upstairs and their father said he had stage 4 cancer; this was unheard of in a shifter! He had been unaware of the activities at the Mart, which meant his pack was keeping secrets from him. Whatever was going on needed to be fixed – and Archer knew that he was going to have to fix it. Could he do that by himself, against the Bart Pack? Would his brothers join him? Could he save Jo? How had everything fallen apart?
This was a good book with a classic story line that was well paced and intriguing. Strange things were going on. The future was uncertain. I definitely recommend this book. It held the reader’s interest and kept up the suspense. Grab a copy and see how this tense situation will play out for the Vancourt Pack and for Jo, captive of a sadistic Alpha happy to use her to manipulate events for his own plans! I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Booksprout and my comments reflect my honest opinion.
Archer found himself driving in rental to Central NY, his bear furious at going back home where they had tried to bind him to someone else against his will and threw him out. He wanted to never go back. To him, love was a lie. To “fix his mistake”, he would need to apologize to the other pack and then he could go back home to Illinois. He stopped at Paul’s Mart inside his old pack’s territory and noticed new faces –shifters, not buying but hanging around. A 4th one, Killian, walked up with a woman – Joanna, the lynx shifter whom he was almost forced to marry 8 years ago. Killian had killed her father and brother. She avoided looking at the door so she would not alert Killian that she had gone to the Vancourt Pack for help against him. But where were they? Nancy brought a shotgun out from under the counter and demanded they leave.
Archer was angry at the fear he saw in Jo’s face. He was angry at the sadistic Killian who was causing trouble in Vancourt territory – while his father never showed up to stop it before it started! And if Archer killed Killian, he would become the new Alpha or be hunted down by the pack and killed. But Nancy told him to go see his father before anything else.
When Archer arrived, he was surprised that his younger brother had followed him there. They were even more surprised when the oldest brother was waiting inside. The three had been thrown out years ago, then the oldest had walked away as well. Cohen and Gage constantly fought with each other. They would need to make peace, especially if their father was as sick as he seemed to be judging by the stack of hospital bills! They went upstairs and their father said he had stage 4 cancer; this was unheard of in a shifter! He had been unaware of the activities at the Mart, which meant his pack was keeping secrets from him. Whatever was going on needed to be fixed – and Archer knew that he was going to have to fix it. Could he do that by himself, against the Bart Pack? Would his brothers join him? Could he save Jo? How had everything fallen apart?
This was a good book with a classic story line that was well paced and intriguing. Strange things were going on. The future was uncertain. I definitely recommend this book. It held the reader’s interest and kept up the suspense. Grab a copy and see how this tense situation will play out for the Vancourt Pack and for Jo, captive of a sadistic Alpha happy to use her to manipulate events for his own plans! I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Booksprout and my comments reflect my honest opinion.
March 5, 2019
Archer (The Outcast Bears Book 1) By: Emilia HartleyThis Bear's Learn'n, Every Action Has a Reaction & A Consequence!
"Archer" is a Strong Bear... Being Beat'n Down, Riened IN, & NEVER given a Choice,
By HIS Father, the Alpha, & "Archer" Feel'n Downtrodden...
Well IT Seems this Bear has a Point,
That Pushes his Nose too Far outta Joint...
And that's the Straw that Breaks this Bear's Composure!
Seems "Archer" Doesn't take kindly to an Arranged Mate/Marriage!
Neither DO His Two Brothers, & they head outta there together...
At least, until there's a Mystery Caller!
As ALL is NOT RIGHT, BACK at HOME... By Far,
Which means it's Time to Return Home & Fix the Havoc He's Wrought!!
But 'Twill EveryOne be Happy to see "Archer" & his Brothers...
What about the Would-be Mate "Archer" Gave Away...
Will She Forgive & Forget by Welcoming "Archer" BACK, or Say 'Sorry Charlie, & OFF you Get!'
I was granted an ARC of Emilia Hartley's "Archer (The Outcast Bears Book 1)" via Booksprout; I recommend this book to others based upon its own merits. All opinions expressed within this review are uniquely my own & freely given!
Until next time... Happy Reading!
February 24, 2018
Reviewed at Shifter Haven
I certainly hope that Archer was the first in an un-named series for now I need to know Gage and Cohen’s stories as well.
Archer is brought back to his home, to his pack by a mysterious phone call. He certainly would have liked to ignore it, but the message was far too clear even for his stubborn hide to ignore. Yeah, he’d made a huge mistake years ago, one that set his and his brothers’ feet on a path as the ousted sons of their pack’s Alpha. It didn’t take Archer long in the outside world to realize he’d made the wrong choice, but going back was not an option. It only takes a few minutes in his hometown for Archer to realize just how badly things have become. And worst of all is seeing the woman he was supposed to marry before his rebellion treated as she was now. Joanna was a strong woman not this eyes downcast shell of her former self. He needed answers – and someone was going to pay.
Once upon a time Joanna had been in love with Archer. The announcement that they were to be wed to unite their packs was the most welcome news in her world – until he left her at the alter and walked away into the human world instead of marrying her. She was hurt beyond belief and made some poor choices in the years after. The worst mistake was standing in her home, had taken over her pack after destroying her family. Somehow she had to save the remaining members of her pack and she was very afraid that she couldn’t do that without Archer’s help.
Archer is fast paced, intense and gripping. It is a compelling story that grabs hold of your imagination and will not let go. Archer, Cohen and Gabe are all interesting men and I really hope to learn more about Gabe and Cohen in more stories. Joanna is such a combination of strength and sorrow, fiery determination and hopelessness, she’s a fascinating character and I followed her journey with emotions on high.
I completely enjoyed my time in this world and would recommend Archer to any Paranormal Romance or Shifter Romance reader. It’s the type of story that will keep you glued to the pages with your heart pounding. Yeah, I’m hooked and hope to read more about this family of grizzly shifters.
I read this title through my Kindle Unlimited subscription.
I certainly hope that Archer was the first in an un-named series for now I need to know Gage and Cohen’s stories as well.
Archer is brought back to his home, to his pack by a mysterious phone call. He certainly would have liked to ignore it, but the message was far too clear even for his stubborn hide to ignore. Yeah, he’d made a huge mistake years ago, one that set his and his brothers’ feet on a path as the ousted sons of their pack’s Alpha. It didn’t take Archer long in the outside world to realize he’d made the wrong choice, but going back was not an option. It only takes a few minutes in his hometown for Archer to realize just how badly things have become. And worst of all is seeing the woman he was supposed to marry before his rebellion treated as she was now. Joanna was a strong woman not this eyes downcast shell of her former self. He needed answers – and someone was going to pay.
Once upon a time Joanna had been in love with Archer. The announcement that they were to be wed to unite their packs was the most welcome news in her world – until he left her at the alter and walked away into the human world instead of marrying her. She was hurt beyond belief and made some poor choices in the years after. The worst mistake was standing in her home, had taken over her pack after destroying her family. Somehow she had to save the remaining members of her pack and she was very afraid that she couldn’t do that without Archer’s help.
Archer is fast paced, intense and gripping. It is a compelling story that grabs hold of your imagination and will not let go. Archer, Cohen and Gabe are all interesting men and I really hope to learn more about Gabe and Cohen in more stories. Joanna is such a combination of strength and sorrow, fiery determination and hopelessness, she’s a fascinating character and I followed her journey with emotions on high.
I completely enjoyed my time in this world and would recommend Archer to any Paranormal Romance or Shifter Romance reader. It’s the type of story that will keep you glued to the pages with your heart pounding. Yeah, I’m hooked and hope to read more about this family of grizzly shifters.
I read this title through my Kindle Unlimited subscription.
February 6, 2018
A Chance To Make Things Right?
This is the latest bear shifter story by Emilia Hartley and I stated here that I LOVE her shifter stories but her bear shifter stories the most. In this book we meet Archer who I didn't like at the beginning of the story as his behaviour 8 years before set in motion a set of events that are almost catastrophic . He had an arranged marriage made with the other clan shifter's chief's daughter, Joanna but he didn't want to marry her as he had supposed 'feelings' for a human woman so he left her at the altar and was thrown out of his clan. She has loved him and was devastated that he'd do that and now she hates him. His two brothers left also but he gets a phone call saying has has to come back and fix his mess! When he returns he sees Joanna and notices that she's grown up really nicely[!] but seems to be very unhappy. He doesn't know what to do as he has no pack but he goes to see his Dad, discovers his brothers there and that there Dad is dying but of a disease that shifters don't get? Archer knows that to appease the other pack he needs to marry Joanna but a new shifter, Killian claims that she is his now and he's running the pack! Emilia is a terrific author and the way she weaves a storyline is brilliant. She gives us just enough information to keep us guessing and the way the characters interact and behave gives the story it's fast pace and the 'I can't put the book down' element to it. I thought Joanna was a very scared young woman who had done the best she could for her pack under very difficult and abusive circumstances. I was so glad that Archer manned up and became the shifter and man he always should have been and became the man that she had love all those years ago. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I'm really looking forward to the rest of the series and hope that we get to learn more about Archer's brothers!
DEFINITELY RECOMMENDED
This is the latest bear shifter story by Emilia Hartley and I stated here that I LOVE her shifter stories but her bear shifter stories the most. In this book we meet Archer who I didn't like at the beginning of the story as his behaviour 8 years before set in motion a set of events that are almost catastrophic . He had an arranged marriage made with the other clan shifter's chief's daughter, Joanna but he didn't want to marry her as he had supposed 'feelings' for a human woman so he left her at the altar and was thrown out of his clan. She has loved him and was devastated that he'd do that and now she hates him. His two brothers left also but he gets a phone call saying has has to come back and fix his mess! When he returns he sees Joanna and notices that she's grown up really nicely[!] but seems to be very unhappy. He doesn't know what to do as he has no pack but he goes to see his Dad, discovers his brothers there and that there Dad is dying but of a disease that shifters don't get? Archer knows that to appease the other pack he needs to marry Joanna but a new shifter, Killian claims that she is his now and he's running the pack! Emilia is a terrific author and the way she weaves a storyline is brilliant. She gives us just enough information to keep us guessing and the way the characters interact and behave gives the story it's fast pace and the 'I can't put the book down' element to it. I thought Joanna was a very scared young woman who had done the best she could for her pack under very difficult and abusive circumstances. I was so glad that Archer manned up and became the shifter and man he always should have been and became the man that she had love all those years ago. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I'm really looking forward to the rest of the series and hope that we get to learn more about Archer's brothers!
DEFINITELY RECOMMENDED
February 7, 2018
>Book review – Archer
>This book is a standalone shifter romance with an HEA. Archer and his brothers left their pack years ago to escape their abusive alpha father. Archer also escaped an arranged marriage to a shifter in order to have a relationship with a human woman. The odd part of the story is that the relationship with the woman is never explained. Archer just isn’t with a human woman at this point in the story and no explanation is given. A strange phone call brings Archer and his 2 brothers back to his pack to find his father dying. An evil shifter has taken over a rival pack and taken Archer’s one-time arranged fiancée.
>Apparently, now Archer feels an attraction to Joanna, his jilted fiancée. He also feels a responsibility to his pack and the one being terrorized by the evil Killian. The story started out with a bang: a fight in a convenience store in front of humans who were unaware of the existence of shifters. The continuation of the story was weaker. Joanna is a Lynx and Archer is a Bear. A huge issue is the mating between species that is never addressed. There is no backstory as to why Killian was successful in taking over a pack. If he killed the alpha, he should be alpha and not Joanne, as the story says.
>The romance between Killian and Joanna isn’t very romantic, but more of a bodily function. This book is appropriate for an adult audience. Even the reveal as to who called the brothers for help was a bit odd. This magical character has no backstory or explanation as to how she decided to finally help her pack and Joanna’s. I am giving this book 3 stars. I am a reviewer for Romance Authors that Rock.
>This book is a standalone shifter romance with an HEA. Archer and his brothers left their pack years ago to escape their abusive alpha father. Archer also escaped an arranged marriage to a shifter in order to have a relationship with a human woman. The odd part of the story is that the relationship with the woman is never explained. Archer just isn’t with a human woman at this point in the story and no explanation is given. A strange phone call brings Archer and his 2 brothers back to his pack to find his father dying. An evil shifter has taken over a rival pack and taken Archer’s one-time arranged fiancée.
>Apparently, now Archer feels an attraction to Joanna, his jilted fiancée. He also feels a responsibility to his pack and the one being terrorized by the evil Killian. The story started out with a bang: a fight in a convenience store in front of humans who were unaware of the existence of shifters. The continuation of the story was weaker. Joanna is a Lynx and Archer is a Bear. A huge issue is the mating between species that is never addressed. There is no backstory as to why Killian was successful in taking over a pack. If he killed the alpha, he should be alpha and not Joanne, as the story says.
>The romance between Killian and Joanna isn’t very romantic, but more of a bodily function. This book is appropriate for an adult audience. Even the reveal as to who called the brothers for help was a bit odd. This magical character has no backstory or explanation as to how she decided to finally help her pack and Joanna’s. I am giving this book 3 stars. I am a reviewer for Romance Authors that Rock.
May 21, 2018
Leaving his bride-to-be behind Archer ran away from his responsibilities. Years later he’ll learn the consequences of his actions and be offered the chance to right the wrong, but will he take it?
This is an easy read and so long as you don’t overthink the story you’ll be fine. If you’re the type that loves to have all the details (like me) however, then you might find ‘Archer’ a little lacking. Personally, I wanted to know more about the mating bonds. I read a lot of shifter stories, so I can fill in the blanks from the generalised shifter lore I’ve read, but I have no idea how the author sees the mating bonds working. I also had a little trouble with the formatting. I don’t usually comment on that but it threw me this time around. The font was far too large for my liking and even when I changed the font to make it the smallest t would go on my kindle, it was still larger than usual. There were also a few times when I thought they character’s inner animals were talking to them, but it wasn’t entirely clear and could be made more so with the use of italics. I know, it sounds like I’m nitpicking but those things are important to me. Aside from all that, the story wasn’t bad and the characters were fairly well defined. As I said at the start, it’s an easy read that you can lose yourself in. I should also mention that this book, apparently, also includes the first three books in the Fated Dragons series too and since I love dragon stories, I’m going to take a look at those next. Happy reading.
This is an easy read and so long as you don’t overthink the story you’ll be fine. If you’re the type that loves to have all the details (like me) however, then you might find ‘Archer’ a little lacking. Personally, I wanted to know more about the mating bonds. I read a lot of shifter stories, so I can fill in the blanks from the generalised shifter lore I’ve read, but I have no idea how the author sees the mating bonds working. I also had a little trouble with the formatting. I don’t usually comment on that but it threw me this time around. The font was far too large for my liking and even when I changed the font to make it the smallest t would go on my kindle, it was still larger than usual. There were also a few times when I thought they character’s inner animals were talking to them, but it wasn’t entirely clear and could be made more so with the use of italics. I know, it sounds like I’m nitpicking but those things are important to me. Aside from all that, the story wasn’t bad and the characters were fairly well defined. As I said at the start, it’s an easy read that you can lose yourself in. I should also mention that this book, apparently, also includes the first three books in the Fated Dragons series too and since I love dragon stories, I’m going to take a look at those next. Happy reading.
February 5, 2018
A broken engagement brings dire consequences: will the packs survive intact?!
February 3, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
Solid plot, lots of action with shifter wars, a truly villainous interloper, and a romance with plenty of heat. The heroine lynx shifter (Joanna) is weighed down with guilt and gloom as she nurses a broken heart and regrets her past decisions (and sees no good end for her pack as a result of them). I liked her; she proves brave and ready to sacrifice everything to right things. Her grizzly shifter ex fiance, Archer, returns grudgingly, with his brothers, to find his own pack disintegrating and his gruff Alpha father dying. Archer was also ready to sacrifice himself for the greater good but I felt a bit less sympathy for him since his departure years before had set the stage for the problems faced by his and Joanna's packs.
There was a lot of tension and darkness in this story and it put the romance a bit in the shade. The ending brought Archer and Joanna's story to a satisfying conclusion, but I kept waiting to learn what happened to the human woman that Archer left his pack and fiancee for before the story began. Guess I'll never know!
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
February 3, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
Solid plot, lots of action with shifter wars, a truly villainous interloper, and a romance with plenty of heat. The heroine lynx shifter (Joanna) is weighed down with guilt and gloom as she nurses a broken heart and regrets her past decisions (and sees no good end for her pack as a result of them). I liked her; she proves brave and ready to sacrifice everything to right things. Her grizzly shifter ex fiance, Archer, returns grudgingly, with his brothers, to find his own pack disintegrating and his gruff Alpha father dying. Archer was also ready to sacrifice himself for the greater good but I felt a bit less sympathy for him since his departure years before had set the stage for the problems faced by his and Joanna's packs.
There was a lot of tension and darkness in this story and it put the romance a bit in the shade. The ending brought Archer and Joanna's story to a satisfying conclusion, but I kept waiting to learn what happened to the human woman that Archer left his pack and fiancee for before the story began. Guess I'll never know!
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
February 6, 2018
Archer left his pack 8 year ago, with his older and younger brother following. Cast out by their Alpha father, for defying tradition, of an arranged mating. A call from someone from his old pack demands he return and fix his mistake. As much as he doesn't want to, Archer finds himself making his way home. What he finds is unnerving. Sifters he doesn't know, attacking members of his former pack, and his father no where in site. The women who he was suppose to marry in the middle of it.
Joanna, is caught in a hell of her own making. She fell apart after Archer refused their arranged mating and was cast out. She latched on to a man who seemed to fill the void Archer let, only to be betrayed. Her family lost and her pack all but gone. Archer and his brother's return may be the answer to her prayers.
Fast paced, romantic suspense. Loved Archer and Jo's story. Hoping that Cohen and Gage will get stories too.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. Love it so I bought it,.in support of the author, who generously included several of her other books as a bonus.
Joanna, is caught in a hell of her own making. She fell apart after Archer refused their arranged mating and was cast out. She latched on to a man who seemed to fill the void Archer let, only to be betrayed. Her family lost and her pack all but gone. Archer and his brother's return may be the answer to her prayers.
Fast paced, romantic suspense. Loved Archer and Jo's story. Hoping that Cohen and Gage will get stories too.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. Love it so I bought it,.in support of the author, who generously included several of her other books as a bonus.
May 30, 2018
Archer was cast out from his pack by his tyrannical father eight years ago. He rebelled at a prearranged marriage to the Alpha's daughter of an neighboring pack. Archer found this one demand too many. When he leaves, his younger brother Gage and older brother Cohen follow him. Now Archer receives a mysterious phone call telling him he must come home and fix his mistake. So in spite of his true feelings he heads home, where finds the situation wildly out of control for both his own pack and the neighboring one. finding feral shifters, illness, death and the girl he jilted virtually held hostage, Archer realizes his leaving has caused great problems. His two brothers also return home, quickly realizing the issues. Joanna, his former fiancee, needs help and when she realizes Archer is home she doesn't know if she should hope he'll help her and her pack. Archer is not an Alpha, but he is a strong bear shifter. Will his guilt for leaving cause him to help his old home? Or will he leave his girl and brothers to win the fight? The book I bought also included the Fated Dragon trilogy. So if you've read that series, be warned you're buying it again. If you haven't read it, you can now
May 20, 2018
Only 9% of book
I would have rated this story higher because it was pretty good, minimal spelling errors, though it did over use “bear of a man.” My biggest complaint is the fact the actual story only makes up 9% of the book. I wouldn’t have even bothered with it had I know there were “samples” for other books inside. I don’t mind including the first three chapters of another book that’s coming out soon (not one in a series that’s already out and at least several books into the series), but the samples for each are a LOT more than that. The additional content shouldn’t out match the main book. I’m so incredibly disappointed and am getting really tired of authors doing this. Pretty sure it’s against amazon’s rules, and for good reason.
While the story is good, I wouldn’t recommend buying it as it would be a waste of your money for the amount of a book you get. If you have KU like I do, it’s a lot more feasible, but then you’re left feeling like you wasted your time. :(
I would have rated this story higher because it was pretty good, minimal spelling errors, though it did over use “bear of a man.” My biggest complaint is the fact the actual story only makes up 9% of the book. I wouldn’t have even bothered with it had I know there were “samples” for other books inside. I don’t mind including the first three chapters of another book that’s coming out soon (not one in a series that’s already out and at least several books into the series), but the samples for each are a LOT more than that. The additional content shouldn’t out match the main book. I’m so incredibly disappointed and am getting really tired of authors doing this. Pretty sure it’s against amazon’s rules, and for good reason.
While the story is good, I wouldn’t recommend buying it as it would be a waste of your money for the amount of a book you get. If you have KU like I do, it’s a lot more feasible, but then you’re left feeling like you wasted your time. :(
April 27, 2021
I received this ebook ARC from the author on the condition that I write an honest review.
This author is a new to-me-author, but after reading this book, I do plan to read more of her books.
Archer is bear shifter, living within the human world, after his father sent him away from the pack. His brothers followed him out of the pack. They all return home after a mysterious phone call, calls them home. Upon their return, they find their father near death, and the pack without a clear alpha. There is turmoil among their pack and also the neighboring pack of Joanna.
Joanna had been betrothed to Archer several years ago, and when he abandoned her, she joined up with a cruel and violent shifter, a shifter who killed her family, and is trying to become alpha to her pack. There is fighting among both packs. Archer and Joanna realize that they have feelings for each other, and Archer has to fight for her, to save her and her pack. After several shifter fights, their lives become one, when they both accept their shifter bond. Eventually Archer and Joanna find their HEA.
This author is a new to-me-author, but after reading this book, I do plan to read more of her books.
Archer is bear shifter, living within the human world, after his father sent him away from the pack. His brothers followed him out of the pack. They all return home after a mysterious phone call, calls them home. Upon their return, they find their father near death, and the pack without a clear alpha. There is turmoil among their pack and also the neighboring pack of Joanna.
Joanna had been betrothed to Archer several years ago, and when he abandoned her, she joined up with a cruel and violent shifter, a shifter who killed her family, and is trying to become alpha to her pack. There is fighting among both packs. Archer and Joanna realize that they have feelings for each other, and Archer has to fight for her, to save her and her pack. After several shifter fights, their lives become one, when they both accept their shifter bond. Eventually Archer and Joanna find their HEA.
February 6, 2018
Archer and his 2 brothers left their pack after being exiled 8 years ago after growing up under the hard law of their father who is also the pack leader, but a mysterious call to Archer brings him home and boy have things changed. Their pack are keeping things from Archers farther Sampson but he has his own problems right now which are just as bad as another pack trying to take over the territory. Archer needs to to set things right with the pack prior to leaving again, however when he sees Jo again after leaving her pretty much at the alter he decides he needs to see what he missed out on as well. From here the dynamics between Archer, his brothers their pack and Jo changes and what was once a straight forward job now has the potential of good or bad outcomes for them all. The characters were great, some good twists and surprises as well as a really good pace, my only wish is that I knew if there will be a book for each of the other brothers!!
February 16, 2018
Archer thought he was making the right choice when he said no to an arranged marriage to keep the peace with another pack of shifters. He ended up having to break all ties and his brothers left too. Now, he is called back and finds out that things have really changed. He also begins to realize he may have made a big mistake in not taking his arranged mate.
Joanna was heartbroken when he left her. She really wanted the marriage. A bad choice in her next romance has devastated her pack and she needs help. She isn't sure Archer can be trusted to help.
I liked Joanna a lot for placing the well-being of others over her own happiness. She wants to make up for her mistake. Archer seems more of a hot head that doesn't care as much about consequences. His decision didn't work out the way he hoped yet he expects her to jump into his arms. There is chemistry but I would have liked a little more romance between them.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
Joanna was heartbroken when he left her. She really wanted the marriage. A bad choice in her next romance has devastated her pack and she needs help. She isn't sure Archer can be trusted to help.
I liked Joanna a lot for placing the well-being of others over her own happiness. She wants to make up for her mistake. Archer seems more of a hot head that doesn't care as much about consequences. His decision didn't work out the way he hoped yet he expects her to jump into his arms. There is chemistry but I would have liked a little more romance between them.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
April 23, 2021
The story was a great idea. To avoid being forced into an arranged marriage, Archer leaves his intended at the alter. Due to his refusal to wed, his father exiles him from his pack....den....clan.....whatever. Because of his absence a cataclysmic series of events unfolds. Doesn't sound bad right? Yet somehow it just fell flat. This first book in a series of 3, had the promise of a great story but a lack of character development and absolutely no world building left me wanting just a little bit more. There is a whole supernatural element which includes psychic visions and astral projections (sounds like an episode of Charmed right?). Which could have been o.k. if they were introduced and immersed into the story properly. Instead they were just shoved in there and it felt unnatural or forced.
I rounded up to 3 stars only because I am hopeful the remaining 2 books will make up for what the first one lacked.
I rounded up to 3 stars only because I am hopeful the remaining 2 books will make up for what the first one lacked.
February 22, 2018
Sexy Shifters Oh My
Archer by Emily a Hartley is a wonderful paranormal shifter romance. It has something for everyone. It's fill of passion, friendship, loyalty, lust and love. It is a book intended for adult readers only. The content is hot.
Fate is a funny thing. Archer left home and his pack because he was told to he had to marry a girl from another pack. Archer didn't believe his father knew what fate had in store for him. Thing about Fate it won't be denied. If more people understood how and why Fate was so important there might be less heartache in the world. Either way time always tells. If you enjoy a good twist of Fate then you'll love Archer. It's an edge of your seat ride from start to finish. I can't wait to see if Emilia is going to write more about this wonderful family.
Archer by Emily a Hartley is a wonderful paranormal shifter romance. It has something for everyone. It's fill of passion, friendship, loyalty, lust and love. It is a book intended for adult readers only. The content is hot.
Fate is a funny thing. Archer left home and his pack because he was told to he had to marry a girl from another pack. Archer didn't believe his father knew what fate had in store for him. Thing about Fate it won't be denied. If more people understood how and why Fate was so important there might be less heartache in the world. Either way time always tells. If you enjoy a good twist of Fate then you'll love Archer. It's an edge of your seat ride from start to finish. I can't wait to see if Emilia is going to write more about this wonderful family.
July 7, 2020
As a character, I liked Archer. He was sufficient complex and conflicted to make reading his story worthwhile. The reader doesn't get all that much detail about his past, but that just made the story more quick moving.
Gage and Cohen appear as though their stories will be interesting. There wasn't enough background on either to really grasp what motivated them, so their characterization here was quite lacking.
Joanna? Annoying at best. It's unclear for most of the time how old she might be or how old she was when she got involved with Killian. The behavior makes it unclear if she is just weak, a spoiled brat, or a submissive woman. As a character, she becomes quite grating. Her as any sort of leader is laughable, which is unfortunate as she really needed to be portrayed as a stronger and more calculating woman in order for the story to work well.
Gage and Cohen appear as though their stories will be interesting. There wasn't enough background on either to really grasp what motivated them, so their characterization here was quite lacking.
Joanna? Annoying at best. It's unclear for most of the time how old she might be or how old she was when she got involved with Killian. The behavior makes it unclear if she is just weak, a spoiled brat, or a submissive woman. As a character, she becomes quite grating. Her as any sort of leader is laughable, which is unfortunate as she really needed to be portrayed as a stronger and more calculating woman in order for the story to work well.
February 5, 2018
Archer is a grizzly bear shifter, middle son of an alpha, and when he refuses to agree to the marriage his father has arranged, he is expelled from the pack and his two brothers join him in solidarity. Fast forward to 4 years later, the beginning of the book. Archer gets an anonymous phone call to return and right the wrong he created when he "left" his pack. Meeting his rejected bride brings all kinds of unwanted, confusing feelings and helping her to fight for her pack becomes paramount for him. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A lovely love story of second chances. I am hoping to find out soon about his brothers mates and the way they will find and woo them.
A lovely love story of second chances. I am hoping to find out soon about his brothers mates and the way they will find and woo them.
July 4, 2021
I really wanted to like this book. The premise is good but follow through is disappointing. Characters appear with no back stories. The set up of packs of multiple animals in the same pack is not explained ,nor are the logistics of off spring. The sex scenes in particular were just not thought through well at all as from one sentence to the next it was like two different scenarios going on.
The author seemed to take for granted you would know how the shifter world of her world worked, however there were too many mixed together to begin to figure it out. None of the main characters seemed to stay true to who they were suppose to be. Much of the characters thoughts were repetitive.
This book had potential it never quite lived up to.
The author seemed to take for granted you would know how the shifter world of her world worked, however there were too many mixed together to begin to figure it out. None of the main characters seemed to stay true to who they were suppose to be. Much of the characters thoughts were repetitive.
This book had potential it never quite lived up to.
February 5, 2018
This is a wonderful story full of romance, regret, second chances and action. Archer is a bear shifter on the outs with his father and former pack. Joanna is a lynx shifter that Archer abandoned on the eve of their wedding. When Archer received a strange call summoning him to return to his father and former pack, he expects to find nothing had changed but he is so wrong. Everything has changed and now it's up to him to make it all better again. I loved this story. I really felt for the characters throughout the book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 27, 2018
GreAt Bear story
I loved this book and all the surprising stories held within. This book is for adults only as there is some very adult content inside!!! This is a good author but some of her work needs a new editor! But other than that I recommend her work and this book.
Great storyline! Archer a good man/shifter has a life but has to pickup and return to the home he left far behind. That was his old life one he was glad to leave behind. He rather was an Alpha that treated his son's cruelly. They return to find not the home that was before or a father that had changed!! A new life they find and brothers Archer did not expect.
I loved this book and all the surprising stories held within. This book is for adults only as there is some very adult content inside!!! This is a good author but some of her work needs a new editor! But other than that I recommend her work and this book.
Great storyline! Archer a good man/shifter has a life but has to pickup and return to the home he left far behind. That was his old life one he was glad to leave behind. He rather was an Alpha that treated his son's cruelly. They return to find not the home that was before or a father that had changed!! A new life they find and brothers Archer did not expect.
December 27, 2018
When the past calls all must answer
The rash decisions of youth often shape the lives around us without our knowledge. This book is a perfect example of how one decision, not really a selfish one, but one made without thought of the consequences can change the course of so many lives. This book contains more than one strong alpha female who has to hide her strength until she feels she has none. Only the return of three alpha bears can right the wrongs of past decisions. On the way, each will find a renewal of friendship, family and above all love. May the other brothers save their women in time so they can all enjoy their own HEA.
The rash decisions of youth often shape the lives around us without our knowledge. This book is a perfect example of how one decision, not really a selfish one, but one made without thought of the consequences can change the course of so many lives. This book contains more than one strong alpha female who has to hide her strength until she feels she has none. Only the return of three alpha bears can right the wrongs of past decisions. On the way, each will find a renewal of friendship, family and above all love. May the other brothers save their women in time so they can all enjoy their own HEA.
February 4, 2018
This was very well written. There is alot of action, mystery, and danger. Archer and his brothers rebelled against their father and was kicked out of the pack. Years later a separate mystery call to each brother has them going back to their old pack seperately. Since they left things have gone horribly wrong can their return fix things, will the pack let them?
I was given an advanced reader copy on booksprout and I voluntarily leave this review
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I was given an advanced reader copy on booksprout and I voluntarily leave this review
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 5, 2018
*squeal!!!!!!!!!!
When is the next book in the series coming out? Please tell me this is book 1 of a series. Its perfect and wonderful and oh so HOT!!! I'm too happy to come up with more words. Its all pretty much squealing in my head. Lol.
Since I can't write a review with squeals, I will say this. I HIGHLY recommend this book if you are already a lover of shifter books or if you are curious about them. Happy reading!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When is the next book in the series coming out? Please tell me this is book 1 of a series. Its perfect and wonderful and oh so HOT!!! I'm too happy to come up with more words. Its all pretty much squealing in my head. Lol.
Since I can't write a review with squeals, I will say this. I HIGHLY recommend this book if you are already a lover of shifter books or if you are curious about them. Happy reading!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 5, 2018
Years ago, Archer left his home pack, determined to get out of his arranged marriage. When the man she loved, left her at the alter, Joanna was left to question what she did wrong. One call brings him home. Will Archer be willing to open up his heart to see what is in front of him? Will Joanna be able to rescue her pack before it is to late?
Loved these two. I was happy that both characters recognized what led them to the path they were on. Archer surprised me when he in the end decided to take a chance. I loved Joanna steal and determination to do what it took. Great read!
Loved these two. I was happy that both characters recognized what led them to the path they were on. Archer surprised me when he in the end decided to take a chance. I loved Joanna steal and determination to do what it took. Great read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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