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Blackstone Mountain #3
The Blackstone Bear
Ben Walker’s bear is out of control and he can’t let anyone know, not even his family and closest friends. The darkness inside is threatening to consume him, but when he meets Penny, he knows she’s the one: his mate, the one who can calm his bear. And for once in his life, he feels he has a bright future ahead.
Even though she’s human, Blackstone has become a sanctuary for Penny Bennet. It’s the place where she could start over and escape the scorn of the people from her past. When Ben suddenly declares she’s the one his bear chose, she’s not sure if she believes him. After all, why would he want to be with the girl from the wrong side of the tracks?
When an unknown threat puts his family in danger, Ben must take the lead to protect everyone and everything he holds dear. But, can he also convince Penny she’s his forever mate, before it’s too late?
Even though she’s human, Blackstone has become a sanctuary for Penny Bennet. It’s the place where she could start over and escape the scorn of the people from her past. When Ben suddenly declares she’s the one his bear chose, she’s not sure if she believes him. After all, why would he want to be with the girl from the wrong side of the tracks?
When an unknown threat puts his family in danger, Ben must take the lead to protect everyone and everything he holds dear. But, can he also convince Penny she’s his forever mate, before it’s too late?
218 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 27, 2018
745 people are currently reading
228 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
January 27, 2019
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This was a nice quick read with likable characters. The overall narration was great and moved the story at a nice even pace. This author has potential and I'm curious to see how she evolves through the years in her books.
Penny was a nice person. She's been through quite a few bad situations in her short life and they still seem to find her from time to time. She's a hard worker and through connections eventually gets a job at a bar where she meets her mate. Their relationship/courtship was strange. They were very clingy to one another in a very short period of time (which is normal for shifter romances). There was barely any conflict between them but when it did happen it would come out of nowhere and would be resolved in the span of a chapter or two.
Ben was aloof and stoic for the first few encounters but recognized when he was being unreasonably possessive (which was a breath of fresh air compared to a lot of other novels). His animal was known for being unstable and more dangerous than average so it's understandable. Though it was strange how he went from stoic to touchy-feely in the span of a few hours. He was also quite the gentleman when it came to dating, which was a different approach than what I was expecting. I'd also like to mention that he came off as WAY creepy before he and Penny were a couple.
I would have liked the romance and the ending conflict to have been interwoven much earlier throughout the book. I didn't like that the conflict was built up and resolved in the last 3 chapters of the book. I'm so used to that not being the case in most of the stories I read that it caught me off guard in a not so good way in this story. I'd also like to mention all the girl on girl hate in the second half of this novel. All because of a few rumors someone was spreading. What's wrong with society that women feel the need to put down other women because of a rumor, a guy, or a misrepresented situation? The plotline that featured that didn't even go anywhere other than to make Penny feel like less of a human being and start hating her job.
Overall, this story was good. This author is talented and has a lot of potential but, in my opinion, still needs to hone her skills a little more. Then again, maybe I'm used to a certain way of a story told/written and that made me not love this story.
My Favorite Quotes:
"For the first time in, maybe, forever she felt calm. At peace. Whole."
"[...] sometimes when something is done, it's done. Only you get to choose when something is over and that should be closure enough."
This was a nice quick read with likable characters. The overall narration was great and moved the story at a nice even pace. This author has potential and I'm curious to see how she evolves through the years in her books.
Penny was a nice person. She's been through quite a few bad situations in her short life and they still seem to find her from time to time. She's a hard worker and through connections eventually gets a job at a bar where she meets her mate. Their relationship/courtship was strange. They were very clingy to one another in a very short period of time (which is normal for shifter romances). There was barely any conflict between them but when it did happen it would come out of nowhere and would be resolved in the span of a chapter or two.
Ben was aloof and stoic for the first few encounters but recognized when he was being unreasonably possessive (which was a breath of fresh air compared to a lot of other novels). His animal was known for being unstable and more dangerous than average so it's understandable. Though it was strange how he went from stoic to touchy-feely in the span of a few hours. He was also quite the gentleman when it came to dating, which was a different approach than what I was expecting. I'd also like to mention that he came off as WAY creepy before he and Penny were a couple.
I would have liked the romance and the ending conflict to have been interwoven much earlier throughout the book. I didn't like that the conflict was built up and resolved in the last 3 chapters of the book. I'm so used to that not being the case in most of the stories I read that it caught me off guard in a not so good way in this story. I'd also like to mention all the girl on girl hate in the second half of this novel. All because of a few rumors someone was spreading. What's wrong with society that women feel the need to put down other women because of a rumor, a guy, or a misrepresented situation? The plotline that featured that didn't even go anywhere other than to make Penny feel like less of a human being and start hating her job.
Overall, this story was good. This author is talented and has a lot of potential but, in my opinion, still needs to hone her skills a little more. Then again, maybe I'm used to a certain way of a story told/written and that made me not love this story.
My Favorite Quotes:
"For the first time in, maybe, forever she felt calm. At peace. Whole."
"[...] sometimes when something is done, it's done. Only you get to choose when something is over and that should be closure enough."
December 16, 2018
Ben such a cuddly character , with a dangerous edge , great book x
August 21, 2021
Sweet
Beauty tamed the mad bear!
Could not help it🙂
Loved the mated pair and their slow courtship and eventual matehood
Beauty tamed the mad bear!
Could not help it🙂
Loved the mated pair and their slow courtship and eventual matehood
Want to read
December 25, 2019🎁 Blackstone Mountain Series (Books 1 - 5) are FREE on Amazon today (12/25/2019)! 🎁
March 2, 2018
>Book Review – The Blackstone Bear
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the 3rd in the Blackstone Mountain series and ends with an HEA. Ben is a bear shifter losing control of his bear. He meets sees waitress, Penny, at the local bar and recognizes his mate. He tries to date the human, Penny, even though she is skittish due to a trauma in her past. There are a lot of characters from previous stories in the series that interact with both Penny and Ben, creating some interest. There is a super funny scene at the diner where Penny is trying to seduce Ben and everything is going wrong.
>The story stalls as Ben and Penny fall into a routine. The day to day interactions and dinners and such really slow the story down. There is a threat to Ben involving a rival pack, but the threat is neutralized so quickly, the threat didn’t seem too bad. Maybe if the rival group actually kidnapped Penny or something, the threat level would have increased. The rivals had people in place near Ben’s work and at Penny’s work, but other than Mia drugging Ben, there weren’t any real threats. Even the threats from Penny’s past could have showcased Ben’s alpha tendencies by having a scene where he confronts Penny’s attacker.
>This book is appropriate for an adult audience. I am giving this book 3 stars. The characters of Ben and Penny were interesting, but more could have been done to give the story more depth.
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the 3rd in the Blackstone Mountain series and ends with an HEA. Ben is a bear shifter losing control of his bear. He meets sees waitress, Penny, at the local bar and recognizes his mate. He tries to date the human, Penny, even though she is skittish due to a trauma in her past. There are a lot of characters from previous stories in the series that interact with both Penny and Ben, creating some interest. There is a super funny scene at the diner where Penny is trying to seduce Ben and everything is going wrong.
>The story stalls as Ben and Penny fall into a routine. The day to day interactions and dinners and such really slow the story down. There is a threat to Ben involving a rival pack, but the threat is neutralized so quickly, the threat didn’t seem too bad. Maybe if the rival group actually kidnapped Penny or something, the threat level would have increased. The rivals had people in place near Ben’s work and at Penny’s work, but other than Mia drugging Ben, there weren’t any real threats. Even the threats from Penny’s past could have showcased Ben’s alpha tendencies by having a scene where he confronts Penny’s attacker.
>This book is appropriate for an adult audience. I am giving this book 3 stars. The characters of Ben and Penny were interesting, but more could have been done to give the story more depth.
March 2, 2018
I love shifters, and when the third in the series released, I had to snatch it up. Ben and Penny's story had me very excited. I think this is my favorite in the series so far. We travel back in time a bit to when Ben and Penny first encounter each other. This was handled beautifully, to interweave the time they met in previous stories, to the present time. I wasn't lost and thought it flowed nicely into the present day.
Penny comes back home and finds a job as far away from her nightmare as possible. She was written as a kind character with a lot of heart and compassion. She was genuine and vulnerable. How she grew in the story was sweet beyond words. Her strength and smarts came out at the end and showed her just who she really was. I love how her personality was written. The author did a fantastic job of making Penny's issues shine without feeling like it was the ONLY thing in the story. I like backstory and growth, and Penny had that.
Ben, the bear, is one of my favorite characters in this series. One thing I find enjoyable is how his personality fit that of a bear. If that makes sense... Ben had this loveable personality and just wanted to provide comfort and protect those he considers family. Even the tiny mention about how much he sleeps, had me chuckling thinking, 'yup, he's all bear.' How he comes to be there for Penny, moves me as a reader. He was patient, kind, and had such love for Penny. All he was willing to do just so she could feel safe, made your heart swell.
The author surprised me with this story. There were moments where the characters had the willies, and I was thinking 'oh no, what's going to happen.' I was surprised as a reader, and that doesn't happen often. There were different layers and threats in this story, that wove together and overlapped. It really was very well written and leads to the feeling that something bigger is coming.
Penny comes back home and finds a job as far away from her nightmare as possible. She was written as a kind character with a lot of heart and compassion. She was genuine and vulnerable. How she grew in the story was sweet beyond words. Her strength and smarts came out at the end and showed her just who she really was. I love how her personality was written. The author did a fantastic job of making Penny's issues shine without feeling like it was the ONLY thing in the story. I like backstory and growth, and Penny had that.
Ben, the bear, is one of my favorite characters in this series. One thing I find enjoyable is how his personality fit that of a bear. If that makes sense... Ben had this loveable personality and just wanted to provide comfort and protect those he considers family. Even the tiny mention about how much he sleeps, had me chuckling thinking, 'yup, he's all bear.' How he comes to be there for Penny, moves me as a reader. He was patient, kind, and had such love for Penny. All he was willing to do just so she could feel safe, made your heart swell.
The author surprised me with this story. There were moments where the characters had the willies, and I was thinking 'oh no, what's going to happen.' I was surprised as a reader, and that doesn't happen often. There were different layers and threats in this story, that wove together and overlapped. It really was very well written and leads to the feeling that something bigger is coming.
April 30, 2018
My rating: 4/5 stars!
Ahhhh. I love discovering series' that's so consistent. Another enjoyable, fun read.
The previous book was all about the funny, confident, flirty shifter. This one...is quite the opposite. Ben is a bear shifter and probably the sweetest amongst the group. He's caring and thoughtful and very protective of everyone he loves! So you can just imagine what he would be like one when he finds his mate.
Penny is human and just sweet as pie. She's quiet, keeps to herself and just wants to be left alone.
**Heads Up: Trigger Warning! This story contains realistic issues (violence, domestic and sexual abuse).
They both have pasts they would rather forget but can't seem to run away from. There's a lot more intrigue in this book.
Previously having read two of the other shifters find their loves, and then reading Ben's story... this is probably by far the most perfect pairing of characters. They compliment each other so well and are mindful of each other's past, their feelings and their personalities mesh!
He's the over 6 feet tall, strong, husky bear shifter and she's the teeny tiny, hard working human who just wants to be left alone to live her life -- Now, call me crazy but this two remind me of another fave couple of mine ... *cough* Elide/ Lorcan *cough* ... hehe.
Although this was another short story, it felt like it had more character development, further backstory and more of a plot line.
My second fave read from the series. This has easily become one of my fave series of short stories. I can picture myself rereading any one of the books whenever I need a quick mood booster.
Ahhhh. I love discovering series' that's so consistent. Another enjoyable, fun read.
The previous book was all about the funny, confident, flirty shifter. This one...is quite the opposite. Ben is a bear shifter and probably the sweetest amongst the group. He's caring and thoughtful and very protective of everyone he loves! So you can just imagine what he would be like one when he finds his mate.
Penny is human and just sweet as pie. She's quiet, keeps to herself and just wants to be left alone.
**Heads Up: Trigger Warning! This story contains realistic issues (violence, domestic and sexual abuse).
They both have pasts they would rather forget but can't seem to run away from. There's a lot more intrigue in this book.
Previously having read two of the other shifters find their loves, and then reading Ben's story... this is probably by far the most perfect pairing of characters. They compliment each other so well and are mindful of each other's past, their feelings and their personalities mesh!
He's the over 6 feet tall, strong, husky bear shifter and she's the teeny tiny, hard working human who just wants to be left alone to live her life -- Now, call me crazy but this two remind me of another fave couple of mine ... *cough* Elide/ Lorcan *cough* ... hehe.
Although this was another short story, it felt like it had more character development, further backstory and more of a plot line.
My second fave read from the series. This has easily become one of my fave series of short stories. I can picture myself rereading any one of the books whenever I need a quick mood booster.
February 21, 2018
Ben is a bear shifter and he's realising that he has not been able to control his bear lately . He would wake up bloodied and battered ,instead of telling his family, he push it away until one incident at the Den that triggered his bear into a "monster mode" . Penny was a smalltown waitress , trying to run away from her past and making a brand new life on her own . Blessed with a beautiful body, she often gets hit on by men. One night during Jason & Christina's engagement party at the Den, someone from her past shows up and pushed her too far. That's when Ben's bear went overboard . No one hurts his ...mate . Ben realising that Penny is his mate tried to convince her to go out with him, being the nice guy that he is and understanding her past , he takes it at her own pace. But is their romance all sunshine and butterflies ? No . Of course there's conflict from both their past and a little mean biitch . This book has plenty of sweet/steamy romance and of course the drama/action . I absolutely love the backstory of Ben and both their growth throughout this story . You managed to keep me guessing especially with his grandfather's last words . I can't wait to see how it all unfolds in the books to come . It seems that there's more coming to Blackstone . Overall , this was a really good book and will definitely keep you entertained . Alicia has done incredibly well in this book , this might probably be my favourite one so far .
I received an ARC and i'm voluntarily leaving an honest review .
I received an ARC and i'm voluntarily leaving an honest review .
February 24, 2018
Alicia's books just keep getting better and better as the Blackstone series moves on. We are now on book three and i honestly don't think I have shouted, scowled or threatened to hit someone so much before. Ben is the main operating boss at the mine and cousin to Matthew and Jason but he thinks he has bad blood in him when he can't control his bear properly. Penny is a new bar keep at The Den bar and just wants to work and get on with her life. She befriends Heather they get talking about olive who is jealous because she wanted Matthew.
As the book progresses we find Ben and Penny are mates but because of penny's younger years Ben wants to be the gentleman and take things slowly with her. It all comes crashing down when everyone at the bar refuses to talk to her and the new girl wants to talk. Then Mia the new girl sets it up so it looks like her and Ben were and item. A past Ben didn't really know about comes to threaten them until family come to help. A magnificent book from start to finish and I really did want to smack one of the characters. And ooooh for the little tidbit near the end for the next one to fall. I voluntarily reviewed this book as an advanced reader copy
As the book progresses we find Ben and Penny are mates but because of penny's younger years Ben wants to be the gentleman and take things slowly with her. It all comes crashing down when everyone at the bar refuses to talk to her and the new girl wants to talk. Then Mia the new girl sets it up so it looks like her and Ben were and item. A past Ben didn't really know about comes to threaten them until family come to help. A magnificent book from start to finish and I really did want to smack one of the characters. And ooooh for the little tidbit near the end for the next one to fall. I voluntarily reviewed this book as an advanced reader copy
February 27, 2018
The Blackstone Bear is the third book in Ms. Montgomery’s Blackstone Mountain Series. Ben’s bear has been out of control lately, and the only thing that soothes it is the scent of berries. Finally finding the source, Ben soon realizes that Penny is his mate. But she’s human with a past that’s left emotional scars. Can he convince her that she’s the perfect person for him and his bear, or will the darkness from both of their pasts poison any happiness?
Oh my goodness, once I started this book, I could not put it down! I absolutely loved Ben and Penny and have been waiting for their book since the hint at the end of the first book in the series. Penny had a terrible past, but doesn’t let the fear overwhelm her and is so sweet to everyone around her. Ben is strong and caring, but does worry about his out-of-control monster bear. I love that they have similar insecurities, but together find a peace and happiness and the perfect feeling of everything just being right. Plus, add in a mix of intrigue, action, and ghosts from their pasts, and it all added up to a great book! I received and advanced reader copy to voluntarily provide an honest review.
Oh my goodness, once I started this book, I could not put it down! I absolutely loved Ben and Penny and have been waiting for their book since the hint at the end of the first book in the series. Penny had a terrible past, but doesn’t let the fear overwhelm her and is so sweet to everyone around her. Ben is strong and caring, but does worry about his out-of-control monster bear. I love that they have similar insecurities, but together find a peace and happiness and the perfect feeling of everything just being right. Plus, add in a mix of intrigue, action, and ghosts from their pasts, and it all added up to a great book! I received and advanced reader copy to voluntarily provide an honest review.
February 27, 2018
Another absolutely amazing addition to a great series by Alicia Montgomery!!! I love reading love stories about all shifter's, dragons, or anything paranormal. Why do I love these kinds of books you may ask? Because they are sexy, fun and exciting as hell!! And this action packed book did not let me down. This story was entertaining as hell and kept me on the edge of my seat. The character’s were well written and in great detail. They were written so well in fact that I could visualize them in my mind as I read the story and it was as if I, the reader could hear them talking. I felt as if I was part of the story and that I was there watching and sometimes participating in what was going on. I could almost feel the character's emotion's. For me, this is what make’s a book great. That is why I love this author’s writing so much. This book was very hard to out down and is a MUST READ. I am excited to see what Alicia Montgomery has planned for the future of this great series. I voluntarily read this book as an ARC.
March 1, 2018
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader’s Copy of this book
Holy bearded brooding bear!!!
Ben is the Lennox’s cousin, he is a bear shifter, and works at the mines with his cousins.
I love a brooding bearded man and that he is a bear shifter just makes it all the more awesome.
Penny is a new waitress at the bar in town called The Den. She had moved back into the area to take care of her dying dad and now that he has passed she has to stay until she builds her funds back up before she can return to Texas. She is a shy girl and has thought that Ben was hot since they bumped into each of their at his cousin’s bachelor party at the bar, but he has no clue she’s around. Until he gets a whiff of her, then he and his bear notice her as their mate.
In this story Montgomery gives us a man who is sure that his other side is a monster and a woman that can calm that monster, that man taking the time to woo that woman (not just take her and mate her), another Lennox wedding, and some crazy a** relatives.
I love Montgomery’s shifters, she always leaves me wanting more.
March 9, 2018
Ben and Penny
Penny is a new waitress at The Den. She has met almost everyone from the Blackstone group except Ben. He picked her up and moved her out of his way one night but they never met.
Ben is having troubles with his bear. His bear is wanting to take over and destroy things all the time lately. He has also been noticing a sweet smell that seems to calm his bear but he doesn't know where it comes from.
Ben interferes when a customer starts harassing Penny at the bar. His bear takes over. Thus behind a courtship of sorts between these to individuals.
They each take turns thinking that they aren't good enough for the other. Penny has had a rough childhood and terrible parents. Ben has is problems with his bear because of his birth mom(or so he thinks). But, somebody is out to hurt them. They just have to figure out who and why. There is a hint of a new threat that could be emerging soon too.
This is a very good book. I like how the previous characters are still involved in the stories that follow. Give this series a try and you may be pleasantly surprised.
Penny is a new waitress at The Den. She has met almost everyone from the Blackstone group except Ben. He picked her up and moved her out of his way one night but they never met.
Ben is having troubles with his bear. His bear is wanting to take over and destroy things all the time lately. He has also been noticing a sweet smell that seems to calm his bear but he doesn't know where it comes from.
Ben interferes when a customer starts harassing Penny at the bar. His bear takes over. Thus behind a courtship of sorts between these to individuals.
They each take turns thinking that they aren't good enough for the other. Penny has had a rough childhood and terrible parents. Ben has is problems with his bear because of his birth mom(or so he thinks). But, somebody is out to hurt them. They just have to figure out who and why. There is a hint of a new threat that could be emerging soon too.
This is a very good book. I like how the previous characters are still involved in the stories that follow. Give this series a try and you may be pleasantly surprised.
February 27, 2018
A fantastic book to read
I really enjoy reading this book. It brought tears to my eyes more than the other two but it also made me laugh. I really enjoy Alicia books they always entertain and I could read them again. Plus bears are my favorite shifters. Ben is just the type of bear shifter I enjoy reading about he is protective and loving. Penny Bennet is who will bring tears to your eyes, it's one thing that I can't understand is how a mother can be jealous her own daughter and side with a man against her own flash and blood child. I enjoyed that she got her own family that loved her. The one thing I dislike about Penny is I know it's hard to stand up for your self after a trauma happen in your life but you still need to protect yourself. That's why I enjoy the fact that her friends help her to have courage and love. This is another great book for your TBR list. Believe me it's a satisfying enjoyable book to add to your list.
I really enjoy reading this book. It brought tears to my eyes more than the other two but it also made me laugh. I really enjoy Alicia books they always entertain and I could read them again. Plus bears are my favorite shifters. Ben is just the type of bear shifter I enjoy reading about he is protective and loving. Penny Bennet is who will bring tears to your eyes, it's one thing that I can't understand is how a mother can be jealous her own daughter and side with a man against her own flash and blood child. I enjoyed that she got her own family that loved her. The one thing I dislike about Penny is I know it's hard to stand up for your self after a trauma happen in your life but you still need to protect yourself. That's why I enjoy the fact that her friends help her to have courage and love. This is another great book for your TBR list. Believe me it's a satisfying enjoyable book to add to your list.
March 5, 2018
4.5 stars. Background story that was building from previous books slightly overlooked.
Good story and enjoyable read.
Poor Penny, traumatised at 16 and then treated as a slut due to her mother’s bad choices.
Not much happening re the shifter hunters. Lykos pack came as security for the wedding of Jason and Christina but weren’t really in this book.
Ben was just such a sweetie pie, trying to take it slow so as not to traumatise Penny. Then having to deal with his horrible relatives. Loved him and it was sad he was carrying such a burden re his mother but it was nicely tidied up.
Nice to have a heroine with brains, driving to a safe place when followed and phoning for help when there was trouble.
Did like what happened to the stepfather and Penny’s mother.
Will be interesting to read how Nathan is going to get on with the snooty doctor.
Good story and enjoyable read.
Poor Penny, traumatised at 16 and then treated as a slut due to her mother’s bad choices.
Not much happening re the shifter hunters. Lykos pack came as security for the wedding of Jason and Christina but weren’t really in this book.
Ben was just such a sweetie pie, trying to take it slow so as not to traumatise Penny. Then having to deal with his horrible relatives. Loved him and it was sad he was carrying such a burden re his mother but it was nicely tidied up.
Nice to have a heroine with brains, driving to a safe place when followed and phoning for help when there was trouble.
Did like what happened to the stepfather and Penny’s mother.
Will be interesting to read how Nathan is going to get on with the snooty doctor.
August 22, 2018
This is the 3rd book in the series and just as good as the two previous books. The author has that magic that draws you in from the very beginning and keeps you reading until the very end. I didn't want to put this book down but as it's not a short novella type book I had no choice, but I soon picked it back up the following day. This book is a standalone but there are characters from the first two books present and you would miss out on so much by not reading them first. This book and the series has an original storyline and believable characters that draw you into their lives and keeps you reading to find out how their lives progress. This one did have me shedding a few tears. But I always say if a book can make me smile, laugh or cry then it is a good book. If you enjoy Paranormal Romance with shifters then you will truly love this book and this series.
May 12, 2023
No Mate Wanted
Penny Bennett came back from Houston after her grandmother passed away. She came back to Greenville to take care of her dying father. Her father left her the trailer.
Penny went to The Den for a job, and was asked to start same night. While going to serve a table she bump into a guy, he just picked her up and moved her.
Penny went out back on her break, guy went to attack her and Christina took care of the guy.
Ben Walker was not himself, his bear was restless and didn't know why. Penny was so taken with Ben but he didn't see her. Ben felt like something was off.
Ben figured out Penny was his mate and decided to date her. They were taking it slow.
During Jason and Christina wedding reception, Ben and Penny left to go to his place. While there Ben natural father and group shows up. They wanted Ben to go with them. He refused and chaos erupts.
Penny Bennett came back from Houston after her grandmother passed away. She came back to Greenville to take care of her dying father. Her father left her the trailer.
Penny went to The Den for a job, and was asked to start same night. While going to serve a table she bump into a guy, he just picked her up and moved her.
Penny went out back on her break, guy went to attack her and Christina took care of the guy.
Ben Walker was not himself, his bear was restless and didn't know why. Penny was so taken with Ben but he didn't see her. Ben felt like something was off.
Ben figured out Penny was his mate and decided to date her. They were taking it slow.
During Jason and Christina wedding reception, Ben and Penny left to go to his place. While there Ben natural father and group shows up. They wanted Ben to go with them. He refused and chaos erupts.
February 28, 2018
Oh my heart, this was such a sweet love story! Ben is an honorable man who is troubled by his inner bear, until he meets Penny and finds that she calms the beast within. Penny has her own troubled past to overcome, and I was absolutely charmed by Ben's patient attentions to her as he convinced her that not only was she his mate, but that he could be her perfect mate too.
Along the way we have lots of drama and intrigue surrounding Ben and the Lennox family, where we're given Ben's backstory and more insight into the history of Blackstone Mountain. But the heart of this book is Ben and Penny's romance, and it's a heartwarming story with a beautiful HEA. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Along the way we have lots of drama and intrigue surrounding Ben and the Lennox family, where we're given Ben's backstory and more insight into the history of Blackstone Mountain. But the heart of this book is Ben and Penny's romance, and it's a heartwarming story with a beautiful HEA. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
February 24, 2018
Well, wasn't this interesting! Ben's book was a lot different than I was expecting. Poor guy is fighting against himself and holding back, even when it comes to love. And Penny? That girl just needed to be understood and pulled out of her shell. I love how everyone in that group is so welcoming to others and just nice!
This had some surprises and suspense, and thought Ben and Penny get their happy ever after, this is definitely not the end of everything as more trouble is hinted at coming to Blackstone! This series is so good, and the couples are all awesome in their own ways. Like these two- I think they are adorable with each other. Can't wait for book 4!
This had some surprises and suspense, and thought Ben and Penny get their happy ever after, this is definitely not the end of everything as more trouble is hinted at coming to Blackstone! This series is so good, and the couples are all awesome in their own ways. Like these two- I think they are adorable with each other. Can't wait for book 4!
March 1, 2018
Amazing
Loved this book. This is Ben and Penny's story. Penny is timid and seems quite lost. her father and grandmother have both recently passed away and she doesnt really know what to do with herself. She has had a traumatic past that still effects her now and makes her feel as if no one could love or want her. You cant help but want her to be happy. Ben describes himself as a monster, his bear is abnormally huge and out of control thanks to his dragon blood and that means that some people want to take the advantage of having such a huge bear in their clan. When it comes to Ben and Penny together then there is no one sweeter or more gentle than Ben. Their story is just so innocent with all the dates and penny being shy and Ben being respectful. They are so cute together. I highly recommend this book and author.
Loved this book. This is Ben and Penny's story. Penny is timid and seems quite lost. her father and grandmother have both recently passed away and she doesnt really know what to do with herself. She has had a traumatic past that still effects her now and makes her feel as if no one could love or want her. You cant help but want her to be happy. Ben describes himself as a monster, his bear is abnormally huge and out of control thanks to his dragon blood and that means that some people want to take the advantage of having such a huge bear in their clan. When it comes to Ben and Penny together then there is no one sweeter or more gentle than Ben. Their story is just so innocent with all the dates and penny being shy and Ben being respectful. They are so cute together. I highly recommend this book and author.
February 27, 2018
Ben and Penny's Story
I enjoyed reading about Ben and Penny for the most part. Both have issues from their respective pasts to overcome in order for their love to thrive. A minor negative for me is the internal angst of both characters feeling unworthy of the other.
Kate brought the humor as usual. Loved meeting her friend, Dutchy, who is a fashion designer. Hopefully, she’ll be around in future books.
It was nice to briefly “see” some of the previous characters, especially Luke. He’s still his mysterious self, but it was obvious he cared about his cousin.
Disclosure: I received a free ARC and also pre-ordered the book.
I enjoyed reading about Ben and Penny for the most part. Both have issues from their respective pasts to overcome in order for their love to thrive. A minor negative for me is the internal angst of both characters feeling unworthy of the other.
Kate brought the humor as usual. Loved meeting her friend, Dutchy, who is a fashion designer. Hopefully, she’ll be around in future books.
It was nice to briefly “see” some of the previous characters, especially Luke. He’s still his mysterious self, but it was obvious he cared about his cousin.
Disclosure: I received a free ARC and also pre-ordered the book.
February 27, 2018
Love this series of books. The whole family in each book is just great. They always are there for each other. Too bad their is always someone out there to get them. Ben, the big quite bear shifter is having troubles controlling his bear. He fears he is becoming a monster. Penny is the sweetest thing. But because of her mother’s reputation with men and some very mean rumors from her teenage years, she has folded in on herself. She looks down on her self and can’t believe a man like Ben would ever want anything to do with her. But fate doesn’t make mistakes with mates.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of the book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of the book.
February 27, 2018
"I volunteered to read an advanced review copy of this book". Penny goes to the den to get a job. Ben sort of ignores Penny when she first comes to work at the Den but he wasn’t looking for a mate. Neither of them thinks they are good enough for the other one but they are what the other one needs. Ben didn’t know very much about his mother’s family until the incident in high school when he turned into a monster. He has no idea that he has a family on his maternal side. I love that the stories always have twists and turns that you expect. It’s what makes the story so good and fun to read. Thank you for another wonderful story.
April 8, 2018
Blackstone Bear is the third book in the series and these books just keep getting better and better. This book is amazing from start to finish, it is my favourite so far. I love the Blackstone family but Ben wormed a way into my heart. There are times you just want to hug them all but in the next breath there where those that I just wanted to strike them down. Shifter's of any kind are one of my weaknesses and Alicia does them so well. She writes a story that is action packed and entertaining with characters that are fun and sexy, loving and caring. I always feel a part of and a connection to the stories Alicia writes.
October 3, 2020
The more I read this series, the more it reminds me of the Blackclaw dragons series by Roxie Ray. There's a very similar progression through the series in terms of pairs. It's a little hard for me to get into these books, since I tend to prefer the other series. In this, I don't know, it just doesn't gel with me as well.
Ben seems like a big softy, but again a lot of the plot and drama of this book comes from people not telling each other the truth, which is one of my least favorite tropes.
That all said, I will probably keep going and read more in the series. Thank heavens for Kindle Unlimited ;)
Ben seems like a big softy, but again a lot of the plot and drama of this book comes from people not telling each other the truth, which is one of my least favorite tropes.
That all said, I will probably keep going and read more in the series. Thank heavens for Kindle Unlimited ;)
July 13, 2021
Ben never even noticed Penny the first time they met, but his bear sure did.
It took weeks of his bear chewing at him from the inside before he met her again and heard what his bear was howling, "Mine!". Penny was a virgin , but she'd also had a close scare as a teen when her mothers " boyfriend" tried to attack her. Since her mother had no morals, Penny took the brunt of her mothers poor behavior, making school a living hell. Ben has his own demons, his bear is bigger than any other and more feral, at least Ben thinks so. Can Ben and Penny get past their baggage and see through what roadblocks other people are putting in their way?
It took weeks of his bear chewing at him from the inside before he met her again and heard what his bear was howling, "Mine!". Penny was a virgin , but she'd also had a close scare as a teen when her mothers " boyfriend" tried to attack her. Since her mother had no morals, Penny took the brunt of her mothers poor behavior, making school a living hell. Ben has his own demons, his bear is bigger than any other and more feral, at least Ben thinks so. Can Ben and Penny get past their baggage and see through what roadblocks other people are putting in their way?
February 22, 2018
i enjoyed this book , Ben is a bear shifter and penny is a waitress that is trying to start over will they both let love in. Ben's bear is out of control at times and penny's has a trouble life, and when they are put together things get interesting. this book was full of adventure, action and yes love. the characters were great and the story was very well written. i had a hard time putting it down, wanted to see what happen next. all the books in this series are great but can be read alone. i have received a copy of this book for my honest review and very glad i read it. cant wait for book 4
February 24, 2018
WOW!! What a interesting and entertaining read I wasn't expecting Ben's book to be like that all. I absolutely love Ben and Penny . The struggle they both had to endure but to see them grow and come together as a couple was amazing. A fantastic book from start to finish with plenty of intrigue, suspense, action, and of course steamy romance. Looking forward to reading more books in this series. I voluntarily read and review this ARC no minority compensation was received the opinions I have expressed are my own.
February 26, 2018
Oh I'd love to live in Blackstone...between the Dragon's, bear, lion and wolf how could you go wrong. Ok two dragon's down with mates there's a female Dragon left, a Wolf, lion and the Bear..Ben has been having a tough time with his bear...and his bear is big! In walks a new waitress at the Den and all of a sudden the Bear is acting different...hmm. But along with that there's trouble brewing in Blackstone! Ben can sense it but is unsure what's going on.
Again this author brought us a great story and a lot of the same awesome characters. Must read...
Again this author brought us a great story and a lot of the same awesome characters. Must read...
February 27, 2018
Ben
Ben is the strong one, the responsible one. But when he meets his mate, all bets are off. Penny has not had an easy life and has trust issues. But in Ben she sees trust, kindness, love, things she has not had. There are trials throughout their relationship but they face them together with the help of their family. Something is coming.....they will need to be strong as a family. Loved this book! Looking forward to next one!!!
"I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book” and then purchased it for my collection.
Ben is the strong one, the responsible one. But when he meets his mate, all bets are off. Penny has not had an easy life and has trust issues. But in Ben she sees trust, kindness, love, things she has not had. There are trials throughout their relationship but they face them together with the help of their family. Something is coming.....they will need to be strong as a family. Loved this book! Looking forward to next one!!!
"I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book” and then purchased it for my collection.
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