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Bodyguard Shifters #3
Bear in a Bookshop
He's all wrong for her.
So why do his arms feel so right?
When shy bookworm Melody daydreamed about her perfect man, "must love books" topped the list. She never dreamed of someone like Gunnar blowing into her neatly alphabetized and indexed world to turn it upside down. Finding out that her one true mate is an ex-con with a grade school education must be fate's idea of a cruel joke. Never mind that his kisses make her swoon and his touch turns her traitorous knees to jelly ...
Sent to prison for a crime he didn't commit, Gunnar is six and a half feet of gruff, dyslexic, tattooed bear shifter ex-con hiding a gentle heart. He knows he could be the man Melody deserves, if only she'll let him unleash the passionate woman hidden underneath her sexy librarian cardigans.
But with danger from both their pasts closing in fast, Gunnar is running out of time to prove to Melody that a good girl and a guy from the wrong side of the tracks just might be able to write their own happy ending.
A sweet and funny paranormal romance building to a thrilling climax, #3 in the Bodyguard Shifters series. All books in the series are standalones with a guaranteed HEA, and can be read in any order.
So why do his arms feel so right?
When shy bookworm Melody daydreamed about her perfect man, "must love books" topped the list. She never dreamed of someone like Gunnar blowing into her neatly alphabetized and indexed world to turn it upside down. Finding out that her one true mate is an ex-con with a grade school education must be fate's idea of a cruel joke. Never mind that his kisses make her swoon and his touch turns her traitorous knees to jelly ...
Sent to prison for a crime he didn't commit, Gunnar is six and a half feet of gruff, dyslexic, tattooed bear shifter ex-con hiding a gentle heart. He knows he could be the man Melody deserves, if only she'll let him unleash the passionate woman hidden underneath her sexy librarian cardigans.
But with danger from both their pasts closing in fast, Gunnar is running out of time to prove to Melody that a good girl and a guy from the wrong side of the tracks just might be able to write their own happy ending.
A sweet and funny paranormal romance building to a thrilling climax, #3 in the Bodyguard Shifters series. All books in the series are standalones with a guaranteed HEA, and can be read in any order.
182 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2018
1252 people are currently reading
317 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Esker
80 books77 followersLauren Esker writes romantic suspense and paranormal romance that’s just a little off the beaten path. Which isn’t surprising since she’s a lifelong Alaskan who is a little off the beaten path herself! (Literally and figuratively.) She also writes graphic novels and scifi/fantasy as Layla Lawlor, and m/m romance as Layla M. Wier.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews
May 25, 2022
Loved Gunnar but.....
Seeing how amazing and badass Melody seemed in the previous book, I had high Hope's for her romance story. However, I HATED her personality in this one!
***SPOILERS***
The main reason I love reading shifter romance is because of the fated mates trope. Now I can go along with a hate-to-love-you in the beginning when the pair is still getting to know each other, but I was so irked when Melody takes steps to actually undo the mate bond between herself and Gunnar after assumptions she makes after MEETING HIM THE FIRST TIME!
For me, she came off as childish, selfish, and arrogant. Gunnar was an absolute sweetheart and deserved a better mate!
Tropes: fated mates, reluctant mates, cinnamon roll hero, annoying heroine
Seeing how amazing and badass Melody seemed in the previous book, I had high Hope's for her romance story. However, I HATED her personality in this one!
***SPOILERS***
The main reason I love reading shifter romance is because of the fated mates trope. Now I can go along with a hate-to-love-you in the beginning when the pair is still getting to know each other, but I was so irked when Melody takes steps to actually undo the mate bond between herself and Gunnar after assumptions she makes after MEETING HIM THE FIRST TIME!
For me, she came off as childish, selfish, and arrogant. Gunnar was an absolute sweetheart and deserved a better mate!
Tropes: fated mates, reluctant mates, cinnamon roll hero, annoying heroine
August 10, 2022
I wasn't sure about this one when it started. Melody seemed like a snob and I hated how she didn't want to tell anyone that Gunnar was her mate. You could tell that Gunnar wasn't anything like his brother, yet they all treated him like he was worse, but wanted his help. I was glad that finally Melody saw how great Gunnar was and decided to go for being with her mate. I hated that Gunnar's brother showed up and what happened there, but it's nice that he isn't a threat any longer.
The last part of the book was fun! I loved how Tessa bullied Melody and Keegan's father and ripped into the other dragon for the "gift" and proclamation. Tessa is perfect in how she handles these overbearing dragons!
I also loved how things ended for Melody and Gunnar, it is a great way for them to start their new life.
The last part of the book was fun! I loved how Tessa bullied Melody and Keegan's father and ripped into the other dragon for the "gift" and proclamation. Tessa is perfect in how she handles these overbearing dragons!
I also loved how things ended for Melody and Gunnar, it is a great way for them to start their new life.
May 19, 2022
Not one I will be rereading. Disliked the selfish heroine and her stupid actions.
Within the first few chapters I disliked Melody and this tainted my enjoyment of this book.
Melody was such a selfish snob at the start. Even though later on she apologised for being a snob and acted nicer, I still wanted someone else to be Gunnars mate at the end of this story.
Melody wants to break the mating bond because he is not good enough and worse, she pretended she was thinking and doing it for Gunnar, when she was just thinking about her own selfish wants.
She steals a way to break the bond from her father but even after she has mated Gunnar she still keeps this item on her.
This stuff is dangerous to her brother and his mate and their unborn baby but that never crosses her mind.
She knows there is trouble brewing but just goes off dancing with Gunnar without letting anyone know, causing them all to worry and making Gunnar look bad. Selfish.
Then further on in the book when she is trying to save Gunnar, due to her stupidity she gets in trouble due to still having this dangerous item on her.
Really, who walks around with something so deadly on them. TSTL idiot who never redeemed herself for me.
Poor Gunnar, saddled with a mate with preconceived notions of what and who her mate should be. Even when they spend time together and seal the mate bond with sex I still felt no connection
Gaby, a stranger, was nicer and more honest with Gunner than Melody was.
Gaby at least asked him straight out about why he was in prison and she listened to him.
No real clarification of how they had his prison sentence dealt with. You cannot just make these things go away.
I enjoyed book one and read this in the box set through Kindle Unlimited.
Within the first few chapters I disliked Melody and this tainted my enjoyment of this book.
Melody was such a selfish snob at the start. Even though later on she apologised for being a snob and acted nicer, I still wanted someone else to be Gunnars mate at the end of this story.
Melody wants to break the mating bond because he is not good enough and worse, she pretended she was thinking and doing it for Gunnar, when she was just thinking about her own selfish wants.
She steals a way to break the bond from her father but even after she has mated Gunnar she still keeps this item on her.
This stuff is dangerous to her brother and his mate and their unborn baby but that never crosses her mind.
She knows there is trouble brewing but just goes off dancing with Gunnar without letting anyone know, causing them all to worry and making Gunnar look bad. Selfish.
Then further on in the book when she is trying to save Gunnar, due to her stupidity she gets in trouble due to still having this dangerous item on her.
Really, who walks around with something so deadly on them. TSTL idiot who never redeemed herself for me.
Poor Gunnar, saddled with a mate with preconceived notions of what and who her mate should be. Even when they spend time together and seal the mate bond with sex I still felt no connection
Gaby, a stranger, was nicer and more honest with Gunner than Melody was.
Gaby at least asked him straight out about why he was in prison and she listened to him.
No real clarification of how they had his prison sentence dealt with. You cannot just make these things go away.
I enjoyed book one and read this in the box set through Kindle Unlimited.
December 1, 2022
While still definitely a romance novel, this book takes a close look at what effect appearances, backgrounds, and expectations have on a relationship. Uneducated, ex-con polar bear shifter Gunnar is absolutely the opposite of who dragon shifter Melody dreamed of for her fated mate -- so much so that she went looking for a way to break their bond. Once they were forced together (with Gunnar protecting her from his evil brother), Melody saw beneath the surface and came to love Gunnar for who he was (including helping him with his reading, by discovering his dyslexia). The characters aren't always likable, but that's what makes them seem so real.
April 3, 2018
My Thoughts - 5 out of 5 Unicorns - I loved it!!!
***I choose what I read and review based on what intrigues me!! Yes, I received a review copy of this book, but no one tells me what to think, feel, or write about any book! I buy all of Zoe Chant’s books because I love her HEAs and her style of writing! I do own this whole series!
This is the 3rd book in the series, and it is for adults only due to the violence and steamy content. While not required, I highly recommend reading the whole series in order because the world and characters are just so much more together!
This story made me cry because Gunnar really is amazing, and Melody judged him sometimes like people do based on a fact or two but mostly against what she thought her ideal was. Gunnar holds a place dear in my heart because he is dyslexic and people don’t understand when you are trying to learn how hard it can be to remember words, spelling, reading, and it overwhelms some of the hardest workers to the point they give up on trying or start thinking they aren’t smart enough. As a teacher this breaks my heart and as a mom it is worse when you can’t make it better. Gunnar has made some bad choices, and even when he didn’t do anything wrong, he pushes through. I think both Melody and Gunnar save each other in many ways. I loved this story for all of these reasons and more! Also don’t anger a dragon because it just doesn’t end well!
I highly recommend to all shifter fans who love HEAs and people opening their hearts! Shout out to all those who struggle with dyslexia and how they uniquely process things, don’t give up!!
***I choose what I read and review based on what intrigues me!! Yes, I received a review copy of this book, but no one tells me what to think, feel, or write about any book! I buy all of Zoe Chant’s books because I love her HEAs and her style of writing! I do own this whole series!
This is the 3rd book in the series, and it is for adults only due to the violence and steamy content. While not required, I highly recommend reading the whole series in order because the world and characters are just so much more together!
This story made me cry because Gunnar really is amazing, and Melody judged him sometimes like people do based on a fact or two but mostly against what she thought her ideal was. Gunnar holds a place dear in my heart because he is dyslexic and people don’t understand when you are trying to learn how hard it can be to remember words, spelling, reading, and it overwhelms some of the hardest workers to the point they give up on trying or start thinking they aren’t smart enough. As a teacher this breaks my heart and as a mom it is worse when you can’t make it better. Gunnar has made some bad choices, and even when he didn’t do anything wrong, he pushes through. I think both Melody and Gunnar save each other in many ways. I loved this story for all of these reasons and more! Also don’t anger a dragon because it just doesn’t end well!
I highly recommend to all shifter fans who love HEAs and people opening their hearts! Shout out to all those who struggle with dyslexia and how they uniquely process things, don’t give up!!
August 14, 2020
Pros: More and better world-building. Great character development with our heroine. More back story on dragons, and we're seeing Darius become softer for a dragon mob boss. Good continuity of storyline.
Cons: I could tell Ms. Chant was desperately trying to gain sympathy for Gunnar, but she couldn't quite capture this guy's spirit despite everything she threw his direction. She even played the dyslexia sympathy card! I don't know what it was about this character that something BIG was just missing that would have made him complete. And for the life of me, I can't even tell you what that something was. And since Gunnar plays such a huge part of this story, unfortunately, I could only give this book a 3.5 star rating. Wish it could be more.
Would I read more of this series? Yes. Absolutely. Still debating on whether or not I would actually buy this or just continue to read the rest of the series via KU. For the moment, yes. I know when I'll want to buy it when I start thinking/dreaming of storylines devoted to this universe. It hasn't happened yet.
Cons: I could tell Ms. Chant was desperately trying to gain sympathy for Gunnar, but she couldn't quite capture this guy's spirit despite everything she threw his direction. She even played the dyslexia sympathy card! I don't know what it was about this character that something BIG was just missing that would have made him complete. And for the life of me, I can't even tell you what that something was. And since Gunnar plays such a huge part of this story, unfortunately, I could only give this book a 3.5 star rating. Wish it could be more.
Would I read more of this series? Yes. Absolutely. Still debating on whether or not I would actually buy this or just continue to read the rest of the series via KU. For the moment, yes. I know when I'll want to buy it when I start thinking/dreaming of storylines devoted to this universe. It hasn't happened yet.
June 3, 2018
Melody couldn't believe she found her mate on her brothers doorstep. But when Melody realizes that Gunnar has been released from jail to help find his brother, she has mixed emotions. They are total opposites but in some ways Melody and Gunnar fit and with danger lurking close they need each other more then ever.
I wanted to like this one but it just didn't have the chemistry I had hoped. I need to go back and read the others in the series because they intertwine. Liked Gunnar, but wasn't as fond of Melody.
I wanted to like this one but it just didn't have the chemistry I had hoped. I need to go back and read the others in the series because they intertwine. Liked Gunnar, but wasn't as fond of Melody.
December 5, 2018
This was just ok. The story itself was uneven but had some good scenes with a little twist in the way the story resolves itself.
The beginning dragged, and the main conflict for Melody was a good idea that stumbled in the execution. When I read a shifter rom, I have a certain expectation for the insta-love beginning. I'm usually ok with that and hope the love story builds from there. In this case, Melody's desire to sever her mate bond, even by possibly dying, was offputting precisely because it's going so against the grain of what I expect. It was harder to relate to than I had hoped. I actually like the idea of challenging that insta-love construct, but this just didn't come together in a way that I enjoyed.
But gotta say, I like the 'verse, esp Melody's brother and sister-in-law (my fave book in the series so far), and while the story/formula of this series quite uneven, sometimes really enjoyable and other times...well, boring or shallow, for lack of a better term. There's enough here that I'm willing to stick with it, especially since Darius, Ben's father is the next one up and that has some serious potential.
The beginning dragged, and the main conflict for Melody was a good idea that stumbled in the execution. When I read a shifter rom, I have a certain expectation for the insta-love beginning. I'm usually ok with that and hope the love story builds from there. In this case, Melody's desire to sever her mate bond, even by possibly dying, was offputting precisely because it's going so against the grain of what I expect. It was harder to relate to than I had hoped. I actually like the idea of challenging that insta-love construct, but this just didn't come together in a way that I enjoyed.
But gotta say, I like the 'verse, esp Melody's brother and sister-in-law (my fave book in the series so far), and while the story/formula of this series quite uneven, sometimes really enjoyable and other times...well, boring or shallow, for lack of a better term. There's enough here that I'm willing to stick with it, especially since Darius, Ben's father is the next one up and that has some serious potential.
March 23, 2021
THERE WILL BE SPOILERS BECAUSE THIS BOOK IRRITATED ME. YOU'VE BEEN WARNED.
I'm the first to admit that shifter aren't always my favorite, but occasionally I just get in the mood for a good shifter book. So when I found this one, I thought, it sounds great! *facepalm, now I sound like Tony the Tiger...but I digress*
I figured, bookish heroine, rough hero with a past and a secret love of books, this will be great!
Alas, it was not great.
I was disappointed that even though Melody "knew his soul" as soon as they made eye contact, she judged him based on his past and immediately sought out a way to break their mate bond. Even though all she wanted in life was to find her mate, her immediate response was to find a way to break the bond. And the poor guy already felt like he wasn't good enough, not just for her but for books. And Melody was seeking to rid herself of him.
I just had so many problems with that. Even as she got to know him beyond first glance/meeting of souls (or whatever you want to call it)....she knew he wasn't as bad as people believed. Yet she hung onto her easy out. It just frustrated me.
And of course, she ends up almost killing herself in the process, and he feels responsible and unworthy.
This book had so much potential but it fell short for me.
I'm the first to admit that shifter aren't always my favorite, but occasionally I just get in the mood for a good shifter book. So when I found this one, I thought, it sounds great! *facepalm, now I sound like Tony the Tiger...but I digress*
I figured, bookish heroine, rough hero with a past and a secret love of books, this will be great!
Alas, it was not great.
I was disappointed that even though Melody "knew his soul" as soon as they made eye contact, she judged him based on his past and immediately sought out a way to break their mate bond. Even though all she wanted in life was to find her mate, her immediate response was to find a way to break the bond. And the poor guy already felt like he wasn't good enough, not just for her but for books. And Melody was seeking to rid herself of him.
I just had so many problems with that. Even as she got to know him beyond first glance/meeting of souls (or whatever you want to call it)....she knew he wasn't as bad as people believed. Yet she hung onto her easy out. It just frustrated me.
And of course, she ends up almost killing herself in the process, and he feels responsible and unworthy.
This book had so much potential but it fell short for me.
November 6, 2023
Well, Melody and Gunnar aren't my favorite couple BUT I still find this amazingly addictive. And I gotta admire the fact that Melody is a book hoarding dragon. The writing style just pulls me in and I love the world Zoe Chant has built here. I've been to a tropical island, I've been part of two fire fighting crews and heck, I've enjoyed the heck out of it mostly. Definetly a guilty pleasure of mine.
April 9, 2018
ARC - I voluntarily offered to review this book with no obligations and my opinions are honest
This was a little emotional book.
Melody is a librarian + she loves to read.
Gunnar had problems w/ reading because of his dyslexia.
It was touch and go in the beginning, but they eventually made it work.
I was rooting for them.
I loved the storytelling + the characters
The storytelling + the character's build were awesome!
This was a little emotional book.
Melody is a librarian + she loves to read.
Gunnar had problems w/ reading because of his dyslexia.
It was touch and go in the beginning, but they eventually made it work.
I was rooting for them.
I loved the storytelling + the characters
The storytelling + the character's build were awesome!
July 11, 2022
Gunnar Sorenson is surprised to be called for a visitor, three years in prison and it’s his first visitor. His brother hadn’t even come. Librarian dragon Melody Keegan is shocked when she visits her brother and finds her mate is a convict and doesn’t share her love of books. Well nothing says she has to accept him, she can stop this! Can’t she?
Rating: 2.75stars
Rating: 2.75stars
August 8, 2024
Cute story!
Love that she is a dragon who hoards books.
Love the dyslexic rep in here.
Love that she is a dragon who hoards books.
Love the dyslexic rep in here.
August 22, 2021
My favorite in the series! 📚
Yup this is my favorite! I love Gunnar, he is one of the most relatable characters I've had the pleasure of reading about. Being dyslexic as well and loving books, I understand how hard it is. People saying you can't do it and putting you down. Was the worse time for me, if my mom wasn't there for me to cheer me on, welp I wouldn't be the book addict I am today. Years of hard work went into my love of reading and seeing Gunnar go through that too and getting support he needed to grow was amazing 😍 That and I felt like he needed a hug most of the time. Yes I like Melody too, who couldn't love a fellow bookworm! And this isn't the first time I've read this book. This is one of my go-to re-reads. Have it on the Nook and had to have on Kindle, it makes me happy!
Yup this is my favorite! I love Gunnar, he is one of the most relatable characters I've had the pleasure of reading about. Being dyslexic as well and loving books, I understand how hard it is. People saying you can't do it and putting you down. Was the worse time for me, if my mom wasn't there for me to cheer me on, welp I wouldn't be the book addict I am today. Years of hard work went into my love of reading and seeing Gunnar go through that too and getting support he needed to grow was amazing 😍 That and I felt like he needed a hug most of the time. Yes I like Melody too, who couldn't love a fellow bookworm! And this isn't the first time I've read this book. This is one of my go-to re-reads. Have it on the Nook and had to have on Kindle, it makes me happy!
June 29, 2021
I really liked how Melody and Gunnar work to get to know each other. It took a few tries to figure things out for them which made it an interesting read. I enjoyed getting to see the couples from the past two books of the series, but they didn't take over the book either. I liked the flaws the characters had. I loved the reference to Ferdinand! As soon as it was mentioned I thought it was perfect for that part of the story! I can't wait to find out what comes next in the overarching storyline and who the next couple will be!
December 28, 2020
redemption in a book shop
Another excellent shifter story from Zoe. Gunnar's story is very well done. A dyslexic, nonviolent, former juvenile delinquent whose loyalty to the cousin that raised him results in him going to prison is redeemed in the gray eyes of a silver dragon shifter.
Another excellent shifter story from Zoe. Gunnar's story is very well done. A dyslexic, nonviolent, former juvenile delinquent whose loyalty to the cousin that raised him results in him going to prison is redeemed in the gray eyes of a silver dragon shifter.
December 7, 2021
Melody the dragon shifter and Gunnar the bear shifter meet each other and it's fated mates!
Gunnar is the younger brother of The Ghost, an evil polar bear shifter with revenge on his brain, revenge against Melody's brother Ben and his wife. Ben is hoping for help recapturing Ghost, before he causes more trouble for his family.
Gunnar is the younger brother of The Ghost, an evil polar bear shifter with revenge on his brain, revenge against Melody's brother Ben and his wife. Ben is hoping for help recapturing Ghost, before he causes more trouble for his family.
January 9, 2020
Home is in where Mate Is
Like this story of compromise, finding your mate, and families standing together with each other. Adaptation of a different types of life, morals and understand other needs.
Like this story of compromise, finding your mate, and families standing together with each other. Adaptation of a different types of life, morals and understand other needs.
April 15, 2018
About 3.4 Goodreads; 3.9 Amazon. (I'll have to manually adjust the stars.)
I found out that "Zoe Chant" was actually a writing cooperative (Is that the right term?), and that this particular series was by Lauren Esker, whose Shifter Agents PNR I'd enjoyed under her own name, so I got the latest release, on sale.
I liked it, though as usual with a tale under 200 pages, there were places I could have wished for more. For example, the confrontation with the baddie brother was over pretty quickly; I won't discuss how because, obvsly, *spoilers*. Overall, though, it was a fun, quick read.
Melody's initial hesitation to consider herself irrevocably mated to this non-reader, ex-con stranger was certainly understandable, but her method of giving herself a sense of choice was reckless, and nearly led to disaster. Still, how can I not love a book-hoarding, near-sighted dragon?
Gunnar was rather a sweetheart, and as a reader, given a look into his thoughts and feelings from the beginning, I was won over in no time. Furthermore, the possible effect of undiagnosed dyslexia on someone's life and self-image is worth repeating.
I liked the clever solution to their seemingly incompatible dreams, in the end.
The secondary characters (whom folks who already read the previous two Bodyguard Shifters stories will be happy to see more of) were introduced and depicted well for those of us who have not.
As for proofreading/editing, I caught one iffy wording (re. "Of all the times") and one missing "to", but that's it, so Good job.
The main story ends at 89%, followed by the beginning of Sheriff Bear (Bears of Pinerock County #1, as well as links to other books by "Zoe Chant", Lauren Esker, and Lia Silver (whose Werewolf Marines I've also enjoyed). (Did she write the Pinerock series??)
I expect to read more of the Bodyguard Shifter stories, at least, though I wish the "Zoe Chant" persona didn't obscure the actual authorship of other series. Seems to me, that benefits the less-skilled writers in the group, and hurts the better ones, depending on whose book(s) a reader tries first.
I found out that "Zoe Chant" was actually a writing cooperative (Is that the right term?), and that this particular series was by Lauren Esker, whose Shifter Agents PNR I'd enjoyed under her own name, so I got the latest release, on sale.
I liked it, though as usual with a tale under 200 pages, there were places I could have wished for more. For example, the confrontation with the baddie brother was over pretty quickly; I won't discuss how because, obvsly, *spoilers*. Overall, though, it was a fun, quick read.
Melody's initial hesitation to consider herself irrevocably mated to this non-reader, ex-con stranger was certainly understandable, but her method of giving herself a sense of choice was reckless, and nearly led to disaster. Still, how can I not love a book-hoarding, near-sighted dragon?
Gunnar was rather a sweetheart, and as a reader, given a look into his thoughts and feelings from the beginning, I was won over in no time. Furthermore, the possible effect of undiagnosed dyslexia on someone's life and self-image is worth repeating.
I liked the clever solution to their seemingly incompatible dreams, in the end.
The secondary characters (whom folks who already read the previous two Bodyguard Shifters stories will be happy to see more of) were introduced and depicted well for those of us who have not.
As for proofreading/editing, I caught one iffy wording (re. "Of all the times") and one missing "to", but that's it, so Good job.
The main story ends at 89%, followed by the beginning of Sheriff Bear (Bears of Pinerock County #1, as well as links to other books by "Zoe Chant", Lauren Esker, and Lia Silver (whose Werewolf Marines I've also enjoyed). (Did she write the Pinerock series??)
I expect to read more of the Bodyguard Shifter stories, at least, though I wish the "Zoe Chant" persona didn't obscure the actual authorship of other series. Seems to me, that benefits the less-skilled writers in the group, and hurts the better ones, depending on whose book(s) a reader tries first.
April 18, 2018
Reviewed at Shifter Haven
Bear in a Bookshop brings the Bodyguard Shifters series along a bit further in the underlying thread that holds all these stories together… a very bad guy with murderous intent. Gunnar is the younger brother of the bad guy called Ghost. Right now Gunnar is in prison taking the fall for something his brother did but he could not prove. His world is about to change when he has the chance to not only get out of prison but help capture his brother. No one in this group trusts him, not truly at the beginning – it’s too easy to see him as just slightly less dangerous than his brother. The other thing Gunnar didn’t expect when he woke up behind bars this morning was that he’d come face to face with his mate… a mate who doesn’t seem to want him around, at all. I will freely admit that I fell for Gunnar. He’s a gentle giant who has spent his life being picked on, bullied and used by his brother and others mainly because of his dyslexia. It’s obvious from the very beginning that Gunnar longs to escape into the worlds that books can provide but he cannot because the words make no sense to him as they’re all jumbled up. This polar bear shifter who has been bullied and bewildered his entire life just broke and captured my heart. At the beginning I really wanted a better mate for him than Melody.
I wish I could have warmed up to Melody a bit quicker. Oh, she redeemed herself later in the story, but at first she kind of looks down on this man who is a criminal, doesn’t have any favorite books and is not at all what she’d imagined her one day mate would be. Melody lives for books, her hoard is made up of books so to her way of thinking she’d be paired with another intellectual who also loved books as much as he would love her. Surprise. Once she understands the difficulty that Gunnar has with reading she began to see him differently, but not before she’d made some foolish decisions.
Throughout Bear in a Bookshop Gunnar is seen not only as a hero but as a victim as well. He is probably one of the less alpha shifters I’ve ever read about but that doesn’t mean he’s a pushover. He’s unique and I happen to have loved him for that.
The action in this story is fast faced, we’ll meet up with the other couples from the earlier books in the series along with Ben and Melody’s father. Steamy moments, danger, a unique pairing and a very tenderhearted polar bear shifter… yeah, I loved this one. I’d recommend this story and the entire series to any Paranormal Romance or Shifter Romance reader.
I read this story through my Kindle Unlimited subscription.
Bear in a Bookshop brings the Bodyguard Shifters series along a bit further in the underlying thread that holds all these stories together… a very bad guy with murderous intent. Gunnar is the younger brother of the bad guy called Ghost. Right now Gunnar is in prison taking the fall for something his brother did but he could not prove. His world is about to change when he has the chance to not only get out of prison but help capture his brother. No one in this group trusts him, not truly at the beginning – it’s too easy to see him as just slightly less dangerous than his brother. The other thing Gunnar didn’t expect when he woke up behind bars this morning was that he’d come face to face with his mate… a mate who doesn’t seem to want him around, at all. I will freely admit that I fell for Gunnar. He’s a gentle giant who has spent his life being picked on, bullied and used by his brother and others mainly because of his dyslexia. It’s obvious from the very beginning that Gunnar longs to escape into the worlds that books can provide but he cannot because the words make no sense to him as they’re all jumbled up. This polar bear shifter who has been bullied and bewildered his entire life just broke and captured my heart. At the beginning I really wanted a better mate for him than Melody.
I wish I could have warmed up to Melody a bit quicker. Oh, she redeemed herself later in the story, but at first she kind of looks down on this man who is a criminal, doesn’t have any favorite books and is not at all what she’d imagined her one day mate would be. Melody lives for books, her hoard is made up of books so to her way of thinking she’d be paired with another intellectual who also loved books as much as he would love her. Surprise. Once she understands the difficulty that Gunnar has with reading she began to see him differently, but not before she’d made some foolish decisions.
Throughout Bear in a Bookshop Gunnar is seen not only as a hero but as a victim as well. He is probably one of the less alpha shifters I’ve ever read about but that doesn’t mean he’s a pushover. He’s unique and I happen to have loved him for that.
The action in this story is fast faced, we’ll meet up with the other couples from the earlier books in the series along with Ben and Melody’s father. Steamy moments, danger, a unique pairing and a very tenderhearted polar bear shifter… yeah, I loved this one. I’d recommend this story and the entire series to any Paranormal Romance or Shifter Romance reader.
I read this story through my Kindle Unlimited subscription.
August 27, 2024
I'm not going to lie: I didn't think I was going to like this instalment as much as I liked the first two. Mainly because I'm really not a fan of the 'shy introverted bookworm FMC who just needs a good man to uncover her inner Sandra Dee goddess and become who she REALLY is' trope, and for a little while, it looked like that was where this storyline was going - certainly, that's the vibe the cover blurb gave.
BUT. Apparently I should have trusted Ms Esker and not whoever wrote her blurb. Because, yes, technically Melody *is* a bookworm (I'd dispute the 'shy' label, but that's because I wish people would realise that 'shy' =/= 'introverted'). But that implied transformation into something she's not is nowhere to be seen.
I mean, seriously: "Gunnar is six and a half feet of gruff, dyslexic, tattooed bear shifter ex-con [...who...] knows he could be the man Melody deserves, if only she'll let him unleash the passionate woman hidden underneath her sexy librarian cardigans"? UGHHHHHHHH. First, the Gunnar in the book thinks she's damn sexy WHATEVER she's wearing. Second, he loves how much of a bookworm she is. He actively WANTS to enjoy books the same way she does. And thirdly, . That's about as far from the 'wishing he could unleash the passionate woman hidden underneath her librarian clothes' as you can get.
But more than that, there is some really, really lovely dyslexia rep in this story that literally made me cry happy tears at one point. And I defy anyone who appreciates the magic of books and stories themselves to read the scene where Melody tells Gunnar that it's perfectly, 100% FINE for him to enjoy children's books - or not read at all, if he doesn't enjoy it - and not tear up.
This was, quite simply, the shifter romance plot line I didn't know I needed. I'm am now 100% invested in the series <3
BUT. Apparently I should have trusted Ms Esker and not whoever wrote her blurb. Because, yes, technically Melody *is* a bookworm (I'd dispute the 'shy' label, but that's because I wish people would realise that 'shy' =/= 'introverted'). But that implied transformation into something she's not is nowhere to be seen.
I mean, seriously: "Gunnar is six and a half feet of gruff, dyslexic, tattooed bear shifter ex-con [...who...] knows he could be the man Melody deserves, if only she'll let him unleash the passionate woman hidden underneath her sexy librarian cardigans"? UGHHHHHHHH. First, the Gunnar in the book thinks she's damn sexy WHATEVER she's wearing. Second, he loves how much of a bookworm she is. He actively WANTS to enjoy books the same way she does. And thirdly, . That's about as far from the 'wishing he could unleash the passionate woman hidden underneath her librarian clothes' as you can get.
But more than that, there is some really, really lovely dyslexia rep in this story that literally made me cry happy tears at one point. And I defy anyone who appreciates the magic of books and stories themselves to read the scene where Melody tells Gunnar that it's perfectly, 100% FINE for him to enjoy children's books - or not read at all, if he doesn't enjoy it - and not tear up.
This was, quite simply, the shifter romance plot line I didn't know I needed. I'm am now 100% invested in the series <3
April 17, 2018
4 Star read
Setting: Autumn Grove & surrounds + a dragon’s lair
Genre: Shifter Romance
Melody is a dragon shifter who has recently moved to Autumn Grove where her panther shifter brother Ben and his human wife Tessa live (see Pet Rescue Panther), along with their friends Derek, a grizzly shifter, his human wife Gaby and her mom and son (from Bearista). Melody is trying to get her used bookstore off the ground, but Ben wants her to close down for a while because a polar bear shifter called Ghost has escaped prison and is out for revenge. She won’t close the shop, but agrees to stay at Derek & Gaby’s farm with the rest of them. Meanwhile, in hopes of helping him catch Ghost (AKA Nils Sorensen) Ben, a cop, has Nils’ brother Gunnar released from prison into his custody. Gunnar, a gentle, unassuming polar bear shifter, and Melody recognize each other as mates. But Melody feels they have nothing in common, wishing she had a choice rather than just falling in with fate’s plans.
This is a good story with interesting characters, witty dialogue, and a plot more intricate than the previous two books in the series. This one deals, not only with the tension around when/if Ghost will attack, but the complexities of the relationship between Melody and Gunnar. There are a couple scenes of somewhat explicit sex, but while they are certainly gratuitous, they are nonetheless well written.
Overall, a good Shifter romance.
Setting: Autumn Grove & surrounds + a dragon’s lair
Genre: Shifter Romance
Melody is a dragon shifter who has recently moved to Autumn Grove where her panther shifter brother Ben and his human wife Tessa live (see Pet Rescue Panther), along with their friends Derek, a grizzly shifter, his human wife Gaby and her mom and son (from Bearista). Melody is trying to get her used bookstore off the ground, but Ben wants her to close down for a while because a polar bear shifter called Ghost has escaped prison and is out for revenge. She won’t close the shop, but agrees to stay at Derek & Gaby’s farm with the rest of them. Meanwhile, in hopes of helping him catch Ghost (AKA Nils Sorensen) Ben, a cop, has Nils’ brother Gunnar released from prison into his custody. Gunnar, a gentle, unassuming polar bear shifter, and Melody recognize each other as mates. But Melody feels they have nothing in common, wishing she had a choice rather than just falling in with fate’s plans.
This is a good story with interesting characters, witty dialogue, and a plot more intricate than the previous two books in the series. This one deals, not only with the tension around when/if Ghost will attack, but the complexities of the relationship between Melody and Gunnar. There are a couple scenes of somewhat explicit sex, but while they are certainly gratuitous, they are nonetheless well written.
Overall, a good Shifter romance.
April 5, 2018
3.5 - 4 Stars
I received an ARC copy with no obligation to leave my honest review.
The 3rd book in the series was a good book which focused on Melody (dragon) and Gunnar (Polar Bear). It felt at first that their connection was a little forced and didn't have any chemistry between them, though it did change towards the end of the book and was more believable.
My heart went out to Gunnar who seemed to have had a bit of a rough time and made some bad decision (though not ones that weren't redeemable, unlike his evil brother). He really was a sweetie underneath that tough exterior.
Melody was a bit snobbish at first towards Gunnar but the pull of a mate overcame that fairly quickly. I like how the author handled the female being the bigger predatory animal when shifted, it didn't detract from Gunnar at all which was lovely.
It was great catching up again with the previous characters and to see how their lives are developing.
Overall a good addition to the series and I look forward to the next one.
I received an ARC copy with no obligation to leave my honest review.
The 3rd book in the series was a good book which focused on Melody (dragon) and Gunnar (Polar Bear). It felt at first that their connection was a little forced and didn't have any chemistry between them, though it did change towards the end of the book and was more believable.
My heart went out to Gunnar who seemed to have had a bit of a rough time and made some bad decision (though not ones that weren't redeemable, unlike his evil brother). He really was a sweetie underneath that tough exterior.
Melody was a bit snobbish at first towards Gunnar but the pull of a mate overcame that fairly quickly. I like how the author handled the female being the bigger predatory animal when shifted, it didn't detract from Gunnar at all which was lovely.
It was great catching up again with the previous characters and to see how their lives are developing.
Overall a good addition to the series and I look forward to the next one.
September 2, 2023
Traveling Books....
Melody is a dragon shifter who loves books more than anything. Gunner is a convict who was put into prison because his older brother left stolen property at his place. Gunner is a polar bear shifter. Melody's brother is a deputy sheriff who gets Gunner out of prison to help him catch his brother. Melody is told to hide out with her brother and family at a farm. When she drives up she sees Gunner and knows he is her mate. Gunner sees Melody and immediately falls in love with her. While they are out having fun Melody's brother came and found them. Gunners brother has tried to attack those at the farm. Gunner takes off to track him down. Melody shifts and follows him. She knocks his brother off of him. Melody's dad comes and kills Gunners brother because he threatened her. Gunner and Melody decide to have a traveling bookstore. Love all around....
Melody is a dragon shifter who loves books more than anything. Gunner is a convict who was put into prison because his older brother left stolen property at his place. Gunner is a polar bear shifter. Melody's brother is a deputy sheriff who gets Gunner out of prison to help him catch his brother. Melody is told to hide out with her brother and family at a farm. When she drives up she sees Gunner and knows he is her mate. Gunner sees Melody and immediately falls in love with her. While they are out having fun Melody's brother came and found them. Gunners brother has tried to attack those at the farm. Gunner takes off to track him down. Melody shifts and follows him. She knocks his brother off of him. Melody's dad comes and kills Gunners brother because he threatened her. Gunner and Melody decide to have a traveling bookstore. Love all around....
April 18, 2018
A bear and a dragon
I usually stay away from the dragon shifters. No particular reason why..I just do. She was adorable though, but I was pissed that she at first denied her mate. And I hated what she did to try and keep it about her still having a choice. Butt obviously it all worked out so it's all good. I was just a bit annoyed right from the start... She was judging him and kind of rude to him, but all in all she was a kind sweet person. Even though her dragon knew better and was trying to show her the right way.
This was the first in this series that I've read.. So I went in knowing nothing about the family members or what happened prior with Nils.
I was still able to follow the story without feeling lost and now I'll go back and fill in. The family were all great.
I usually stay away from the dragon shifters. No particular reason why..I just do. She was adorable though, but I was pissed that she at first denied her mate. And I hated what she did to try and keep it about her still having a choice. Butt obviously it all worked out so it's all good. I was just a bit annoyed right from the start... She was judging him and kind of rude to him, but all in all she was a kind sweet person. Even though her dragon knew better and was trying to show her the right way.
This was the first in this series that I've read.. So I went in knowing nothing about the family members or what happened prior with Nils.
I was still able to follow the story without feeling lost and now I'll go back and fill in. The family were all great.
June 13, 2018
A romance worth mentioning - not to judge a book by the cover "or person", one might not see the treasure within.
Your appearance can say a lot about you or it could give a false first impressions impressions. Melody is the image of a Liberian hiring herself because her father put society and appearance too high. Gunner was honor bond to save tic for his brother putting family first but any relationship has to both have to give n take and think of others. His brother did not. This story has shift and magic even if that's not for you some very moving truths inside. Violence shifter battles, sex 2 more then a clean romance ( a kiss, a touch = 1, sex for making my love romance 2, sex for experience of above vanilla or erotic =3 that's my own grading system)
More opinions, reviews on board ok and life please check out my blood g: my2centsbookreviews.com thanks!
Your appearance can say a lot about you or it could give a false first impressions impressions. Melody is the image of a Liberian hiring herself because her father put society and appearance too high. Gunner was honor bond to save tic for his brother putting family first but any relationship has to both have to give n take and think of others. His brother did not. This story has shift and magic even if that's not for you some very moving truths inside. Violence shifter battles, sex 2 more then a clean romance ( a kiss, a touch = 1, sex for making my love romance 2, sex for experience of above vanilla or erotic =3 that's my own grading system)
More opinions, reviews on board ok and life please check out my blood g: my2centsbookreviews.com thanks!
August 5, 2019
Bookshop owner and dragon, Melody, has always dreamed of finding her mate whom she believes will be just like her with a love of all books. Gunnar is a polar bear shifter and was sent to prison for a crime he didn't commit. When his brother, Nils aka Ghost, escapes from prison and goes after the shifters who put him there and their families, panther shifter Ben gets him out of prison to help find Nils. When Melody discovers Gunnar is her mate, she's initially disappointed and asks her father if there's a way to destroy the mate bond. But when she takes the time to get to know Gunnar, she changes her mind and discovers that he has dyslexia.
This was a fast and great read. I loved the build up of all the characters. I highly recommend this book and the series which I recommend you read in order.
This was a fast and great read. I loved the build up of all the characters. I highly recommend this book and the series which I recommend you read in order.
January 3, 2023
It was an enjoyable read for the most past. One issue was that the characters felt very one dimensional, which I guess is to be expected when the book is so short. The characters were unbelievably judgy about Gunnar when they had no reason to believe he was planning on contacting or assisting his brother. Keegan could sense lies and knew that yet they treated him horribly. It was honestly gross. Gunnar tried to be friendly with the others and the men spoke to him like a pompous rich dude talking to his servants. They viewed him as less than and undeserving of any form of friendliness and I hated it. Also why the heck wasn’t Gunnar upset that Melody tried to break their bond or wanted to? The way they made his character accept the bare minimum and not care when he was treated poorly was disgusting.
April 3, 2018
This is the third book in the Shifter Bodyguards series. I enjoyed this story about Gunnar and Melody. Gunnar Sorenson, a polar bear shifter who is in jail for a crime his brother committed. After serving 3 years he is approached by Melody's brother about helping him protect his sister to lower his sentence. Melody is unhappy when she learns Gunnar and she are mates and don't seem to have a love of books in common.
Will Gunnar decide to help catch his brother? Will Gunnar learn why it is hard for him to read? If Melody figures to why he has trouble reading will it change her mind? I give this story 5 stars. "I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy without pressure to do so".
Will Gunnar decide to help catch his brother? Will Gunnar learn why it is hard for him to read? If Melody figures to why he has trouble reading will it change her mind? I give this story 5 stars. "I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy without pressure to do so".
April 22, 2018
Bear in a Bookshop is the third book in the Bodyguard Shifter Series. It is not nessessary to read the first two, Bearista and Pet Rescue Panther, to enjoy this series of hot alpha shifters. Each book is a standalone. However, I would recommend reading the others as well! 😉 The others are just as steamy as this one. 🔥 Our hunky shifters and their mates from the first 2 are in this story as well.
I have read a bunch of Ms Chant’s shifter books. I am a fan! All of her books have strong hot🔥 alpha shifters looking for their mates. Each one finds a strong women to help tame the beast inside. As with most shifter books the love/lust is instant, but always hot and the sex is steamy.
I read with KU.
I have read a bunch of Ms Chant’s shifter books. I am a fan! All of her books have strong hot🔥 alpha shifters looking for their mates. Each one finds a strong women to help tame the beast inside. As with most shifter books the love/lust is instant, but always hot and the sex is steamy.
I read with KU.
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