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Ice Age Shifters #1
Shifter Mate Magic
A lonely bear shifter meets his mate. She’s running for her life and doesn’t have time for romance.
Pregnant Jackie Breton just escaped from a corrupt feline pack intent on selling her half-shifter baby to the highest bidder. She’s smart, independent, and has a desperate plan to keep her baby Get away from the pride as fast and far as possible.
Trevor Hammond, prehistoric bear shifter, has been rejected by everyone in his life for… being born, basically. Well, except for the beloved aunt who raised him. He’s built a career as an independent trucker, but life would be much better with someone he can hold in his arms and claim as his own.
When Jackie meets Trevor at a truck stop, his bear demands he help her. His aunt even calls with a dire Get Jackie to the magical sanctuary town in Wyoming before she’s killed.
Jackie thinks he’s sexy as hell, but too good to be true. She doesn’t trust shifters. With the feline pride hot on her trail, however, Trevor and the quirky town of Kotoyeesinay might be her only chance for survival. Even Trevor’s indomitable bear may be no match for the dangerous enemy seeking retribution.
If you love hot alphas, magic, and thrilling chase scenes, you'll love Shifter Mate Magic, the first book in USA TODAY bestselling author Carol Van Natta's fun, action-filled, steamy-hot Ice Age Shifters™ series.
Pregnant Jackie Breton just escaped from a corrupt feline pack intent on selling her half-shifter baby to the highest bidder. She’s smart, independent, and has a desperate plan to keep her baby Get away from the pride as fast and far as possible.
Trevor Hammond, prehistoric bear shifter, has been rejected by everyone in his life for… being born, basically. Well, except for the beloved aunt who raised him. He’s built a career as an independent trucker, but life would be much better with someone he can hold in his arms and claim as his own.
When Jackie meets Trevor at a truck stop, his bear demands he help her. His aunt even calls with a dire Get Jackie to the magical sanctuary town in Wyoming before she’s killed.
Jackie thinks he’s sexy as hell, but too good to be true. She doesn’t trust shifters. With the feline pride hot on her trail, however, Trevor and the quirky town of Kotoyeesinay might be her only chance for survival. Even Trevor’s indomitable bear may be no match for the dangerous enemy seeking retribution.
If you love hot alphas, magic, and thrilling chase scenes, you'll love Shifter Mate Magic, the first book in USA TODAY bestselling author Carol Van Natta's fun, action-filled, steamy-hot Ice Age Shifters™ series.
118 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 15, 2018
488 people are currently reading
452 people want to read
About the author
Carol Van Natta
32 books314 followersCarol Van Natta writes science fiction and fantasy, including
Overload Flux, Minder Rising, Zero Flux, Pico's Crush,
and
Jumper's Hope,
the first five books in a space opera series;
In Graves Below (Magic, NM)
, a paranormal romance; and
Hooray for Holopticon
, a retro science fiction comedy. She shares her Fort Collins, CO home with a sometime mad scientist and various cats. Any violations of the laws of physics in her books is the fault of the cats, not the mad scientist. Be the first to know about new releases by signing up for her newsletter at bit.ly/CVN-news or read her blog at Author.CarolVanNatta.com, or find her on Facebook at CarolVanNattaAuthor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews
March 2, 2022
I received a free copy of this book from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.
I recently started the sci-fi series by author Carol Van Natta and the series totally grabbed my attention. So when I heard she was writing a new Paranormal Romance series I jumped on the chance to read an advance readers copy of the book. This book was so good! I had a lot of fun reading it and I am already looking forward to the rest of this series!
Shifter Mate Magic is one of the best shifter books I read on a long time. It has a rich world filled with magic that we're slowly getting intruded to, smart and capable characters that aren't afraid to ask for help when they need it, an unique take on shifters and magic and a great and believable romance.
This book follows the story of Jackie and Trevor. Told in dual point of view we get both their sides of the story. Jackie is running from a corrupt shifter pack who wants to sell her unborn baby to the highest bidder. She has nowhere to go and her plan is to keep running as fast and far as she can and hope the shifter tribunal might be able to help her. Then she meets Trevor and despite their instant attraction Jackie knows she doesn't have time for romance and continues on her journey, but when she lands in a pickle later on she has no one to ask for help, but him.
I liked reading about Jackie and Trevor, both are smart and capable characters. I also liked how different they were and similar too in other aspects. They clicked immediately and I liked seeing them interact with each other. They have an instant attraction, but also much more. They acre about each other and work well together. I also appreciated that getting to safety took priority over exploring the romantic tension between them when the danger increased. While at the same time the romance did got furthered a long a bit as they got to know each other a bit while trying to reach safety. I also thought it was interetsing Trevor was a trucker as I don't think I've read of anyone with that job before and it was fun how his job played a role in the story as well. There are some great scenes with the two of them and I really liked how much they cared about each other.
The romance between the two of them develops pretty fast, but it didn't feel rushed to me. They just fit together really well and they spend a lot of time together in a few days where they got to know each other. They also stood by the other through some tough times and I think that helped grow their romance pretty quickly. They also have the mate bond, but only Trevor feels that at first and it doens't get solidified until they actually mate. I really felt their romance and thought they were great together. They really cared about the other, quickly opened up and were honest with each other and I just enjoyed reading about them a lot. I am hoping we'll be seeing more of them in later books.
The world building was well done. It's clear the author knows how her world works really well, but we don't get all that information at once. It was nicely done how we got pieces so you weren't overwhelmed with all the information and only got the parts relevant for this story. Although I wouldn't have minded even more world building, but that's because I am really intrigued by all the paranormal creatures we meet.
I liked the unique twist on shifters in how they had magic to shift and some had some free magic to use for other things. I also liked Jackie's magic and the things like the maps she created, it was original and very handy. And the whole ice age shifter thing was great too. I liked how it was unique to have some shifters shift into ice age creatures instead of modern age ones and a hint later in the book hints that there is some relevance of this as well. Later in the story you realize there is so much more to this world and while we get introduced to a bunch of creatures, it never gets overwhelming. I can't wait to read more of this world and the characters in it.
To summarize: I had so much fun reading this book and really enjoyed the story of Jackie and Trevor. It's one of the best shifter stories I read in a long time and I can't wait to read the rest of the series. I really like Carol Van Natta's writing style and the story and characters grabbed my attention from the start. I liked Jackie and Trevor both as individuals and as a couple. I liked how both were smart and capable and I liked how the romance took a bit of a backseat when the danger grew. The author gave an unique twist on shifter stories with the addition of ice age shifters and how the magic works, which was great! And it seems there is a lot more to this world still to find out. I can't wait for the next book in this series! I would recommend this one to everyone who likes a good paranormal romance book with an unique twist!
I recently started the sci-fi series by author Carol Van Natta and the series totally grabbed my attention. So when I heard she was writing a new Paranormal Romance series I jumped on the chance to read an advance readers copy of the book. This book was so good! I had a lot of fun reading it and I am already looking forward to the rest of this series!
Shifter Mate Magic is one of the best shifter books I read on a long time. It has a rich world filled with magic that we're slowly getting intruded to, smart and capable characters that aren't afraid to ask for help when they need it, an unique take on shifters and magic and a great and believable romance.
This book follows the story of Jackie and Trevor. Told in dual point of view we get both their sides of the story. Jackie is running from a corrupt shifter pack who wants to sell her unborn baby to the highest bidder. She has nowhere to go and her plan is to keep running as fast and far as she can and hope the shifter tribunal might be able to help her. Then she meets Trevor and despite their instant attraction Jackie knows she doesn't have time for romance and continues on her journey, but when she lands in a pickle later on she has no one to ask for help, but him.
I liked reading about Jackie and Trevor, both are smart and capable characters. I also liked how different they were and similar too in other aspects. They clicked immediately and I liked seeing them interact with each other. They have an instant attraction, but also much more. They acre about each other and work well together. I also appreciated that getting to safety took priority over exploring the romantic tension between them when the danger increased. While at the same time the romance did got furthered a long a bit as they got to know each other a bit while trying to reach safety. I also thought it was interetsing Trevor was a trucker as I don't think I've read of anyone with that job before and it was fun how his job played a role in the story as well. There are some great scenes with the two of them and I really liked how much they cared about each other.
The romance between the two of them develops pretty fast, but it didn't feel rushed to me. They just fit together really well and they spend a lot of time together in a few days where they got to know each other. They also stood by the other through some tough times and I think that helped grow their romance pretty quickly. They also have the mate bond, but only Trevor feels that at first and it doens't get solidified until they actually mate. I really felt their romance and thought they were great together. They really cared about the other, quickly opened up and were honest with each other and I just enjoyed reading about them a lot. I am hoping we'll be seeing more of them in later books.
The world building was well done. It's clear the author knows how her world works really well, but we don't get all that information at once. It was nicely done how we got pieces so you weren't overwhelmed with all the information and only got the parts relevant for this story. Although I wouldn't have minded even more world building, but that's because I am really intrigued by all the paranormal creatures we meet.
I liked the unique twist on shifters in how they had magic to shift and some had some free magic to use for other things. I also liked Jackie's magic and the things like the maps she created, it was original and very handy. And the whole ice age shifter thing was great too. I liked how it was unique to have some shifters shift into ice age creatures instead of modern age ones and a hint later in the book hints that there is some relevance of this as well. Later in the story you realize there is so much more to this world and while we get introduced to a bunch of creatures, it never gets overwhelming. I can't wait to read more of this world and the characters in it.
To summarize: I had so much fun reading this book and really enjoyed the story of Jackie and Trevor. It's one of the best shifter stories I read in a long time and I can't wait to read the rest of the series. I really like Carol Van Natta's writing style and the story and characters grabbed my attention from the start. I liked Jackie and Trevor both as individuals and as a couple. I liked how both were smart and capable and I liked how the romance took a bit of a backseat when the danger grew. The author gave an unique twist on shifter stories with the addition of ice age shifters and how the magic works, which was great! And it seems there is a lot more to this world still to find out. I can't wait for the next book in this series! I would recommend this one to everyone who likes a good paranormal romance book with an unique twist!
March 27, 2019
I associate this author with sci fi so was very intrigued by the concept of her writing a shifter series. This first book features a lonely trucker and a damsel in distress. Well obviously it's much more complicated than that because Trevor is in many ways an outcast and Jackie is on the run and pregnant !
There's a surprising amount of world building here as we don't just meet shifters but all manner of paranormal creatures. Trevor is just a rock and such a gentleman to boot. Whilst Jackie is an intelligent woman perfectly capable of sorting out her own problems. Add in crazy Mad Max wannabes and thoroughly nasty types and it sets up very nicely for the rest of the series. I very much enjoyed the romance between the couple as although in many ways fated it didn't feel instant or forced but alas for this reader the ending felt incomplete.
There's a surprising amount of world building here as we don't just meet shifters but all manner of paranormal creatures. Trevor is just a rock and such a gentleman to boot. Whilst Jackie is an intelligent woman perfectly capable of sorting out her own problems. Add in crazy Mad Max wannabes and thoroughly nasty types and it sets up very nicely for the rest of the series. I very much enjoyed the romance between the couple as although in many ways fated it didn't feel instant or forced but alas for this reader the ending felt incomplete.
April 13, 2019
Note that this is not historical PNR - the Ice Age refers to a type of shifter, not the setting. That said, it is a wonderfully creative love-on-the-run story. Trevor is a gallant truck driver, and laid back alpha shifter who only fights to defend. Jackie is sharp, resourceful and an alpha alpha when it comes to taking charge of her situation. Throw in a mad-dash to a fae sanctuary while pursued by the villains and it becomes a super fun love-on-the-run story. My only quibble was it was a bit too much insta-love for a woman who had been kidnapped and traumatized.
September 16, 2022
I love the author's Space Opera books, so when I saw this on sale I jumped at the chance to buy it. What can I say? If you enjoy a light and frothy, super steamy, sweetly romantic shifter romance then I'm sure you will love this.
I felt this lacked depth and challenge, two things that are essential for me to love a book. My emotions remained detached from the story, everything felt very "nice" but also very bland. The main characters are likeable, the problems are quite quickly resolved and everything is fairly swiftly tied up with a neat bow.
I did read it all, it was that bad I couldn't finish the book, but it was instantly forgettable too. Oh well, you win some, you lose some.
I felt this lacked depth and challenge, two things that are essential for me to love a book. My emotions remained detached from the story, everything felt very "nice" but also very bland. The main characters are likeable, the problems are quite quickly resolved and everything is fairly swiftly tied up with a neat bow.
I did read it all, it was that bad I couldn't finish the book, but it was instantly forgettable too. Oh well, you win some, you lose some.
September 30, 2019
4 stars
February 8, 2019
A lonely over the road trucker and a woman terrified of who is chasing not far behind her have a memorable encounter at a truck stop in Wyoming introducing a new and exciting paranormal world. I was right in this story and engaged with the main characters from the moment I encountered them on the page and I stayed hooked through this quick and easy, yet exciting and spicy read to the finish.
Jackie Breton is on the run for her life. The last few months of her life have been a nightmare that few would believe- not that any of her life has been easy growing up the bi-racial child in a small southern community who condemned her mother for marrying her father for the different color of their skin. She shakes loose of that town and uses her work as an accountant to save for the time she can move her mother to live with her far from there until she makes the mistake of trusting and thinking she was in love with the wrong man who wasn't even human. Then, an encounter with a gentle bear shifter who rescues her from trouble at a truck stop asking nothing in return other than to get her to safety shows her that she's been carrying around her own prejudices against all shifters because of the ones who mistreated and abused her and one left her pregnant with his child before leaving her with worse of his kind.
Trevor has always been alone save for the aunt who took him in when his parents didn't even want him because his bear side was nothing like any bear they had ever seen. Most shifters fear him and think there is something wrong about him so they keep their distance. He just wants to belong- and have a mate and family of his own. He knows Jackie is his true mate, but he knows she hates his kind and wouldn't believe him about the mate thing so he puts aside his own hopes and wants to do whatever it takes to make sure she is safe even if that means she leaves him.
This book really wasn't that long and yet it was developed so well. The world of shifters, fae, magical humans, vampires and more is introduced, a few possible series-long conflicts are begun, and the main characters are given a deep background and an opportunity for personal growth and healing as well as spicy hot romance while racing for safety together. The book felt complete and wrapped up the central issues, but also left me eager to dive in for more from the series.
All in all, this was a good one and I can heartily recommend it to those who enjoy fated mates spicy shifter stories set in a world of many paranormal types.
Jackie Breton is on the run for her life. The last few months of her life have been a nightmare that few would believe- not that any of her life has been easy growing up the bi-racial child in a small southern community who condemned her mother for marrying her father for the different color of their skin. She shakes loose of that town and uses her work as an accountant to save for the time she can move her mother to live with her far from there until she makes the mistake of trusting and thinking she was in love with the wrong man who wasn't even human. Then, an encounter with a gentle bear shifter who rescues her from trouble at a truck stop asking nothing in return other than to get her to safety shows her that she's been carrying around her own prejudices against all shifters because of the ones who mistreated and abused her and one left her pregnant with his child before leaving her with worse of his kind.
Trevor has always been alone save for the aunt who took him in when his parents didn't even want him because his bear side was nothing like any bear they had ever seen. Most shifters fear him and think there is something wrong about him so they keep their distance. He just wants to belong- and have a mate and family of his own. He knows Jackie is his true mate, but he knows she hates his kind and wouldn't believe him about the mate thing so he puts aside his own hopes and wants to do whatever it takes to make sure she is safe even if that means she leaves him.
This book really wasn't that long and yet it was developed so well. The world of shifters, fae, magical humans, vampires and more is introduced, a few possible series-long conflicts are begun, and the main characters are given a deep background and an opportunity for personal growth and healing as well as spicy hot romance while racing for safety together. The book felt complete and wrapped up the central issues, but also left me eager to dive in for more from the series.
All in all, this was a good one and I can heartily recommend it to those who enjoy fated mates spicy shifter stories set in a world of many paranormal types.
October 6, 2018
You Can Run, But You Can't Hide....
Woman who are mate material, able to attract shifters and bear them children are sold to the highest bidder in order to take their child at birth to sell. There is a certain hidden magical town with extraordinary beings where sanctuary can be obtained.....The town of Kotoyeesinay in Wyoming.
Jackie is a human with certain witchy powers running from an evil alpha who has his sites on taking her unborn child. Her experience with shifters has been very bad so far and this makes her very weary of any, even one that is being very strangely opposite to any shifters she has ever come across.
Trevor is a very different kind of bear shifter, even he doesn't understand why he is so different and why his parents turned their backs on him. Now however he is only worried about one thing, the very pregnant girl he has to protect above all, his mate. Will she accept this knowing how she feels about shifters?
Woman who are mate material, able to attract shifters and bear them children are sold to the highest bidder in order to take their child at birth to sell. There is a certain hidden magical town with extraordinary beings where sanctuary can be obtained.....The town of Kotoyeesinay in Wyoming.
Jackie is a human with certain witchy powers running from an evil alpha who has his sites on taking her unborn child. Her experience with shifters has been very bad so far and this makes her very weary of any, even one that is being very strangely opposite to any shifters she has ever come across.
Trevor is a very different kind of bear shifter, even he doesn't understand why he is so different and why his parents turned their backs on him. Now however he is only worried about one thing, the very pregnant girl he has to protect above all, his mate. Will she accept this knowing how she feels about shifters?
August 17, 2018
Fluff, but a good, very palatable kind of fluff, it has a bit of everything. A bit of insta- love, a bit of insta- lust, a bit of drama, a bit of smexy and a rather large bit of magic. Overall, it was a sweet, charming easy read with likable characters . Will read more.
March 18, 2020
The intriguing concept of shifters which are throwbacks to prehistoric mammals is highly original and fun. A truck driver in this book is an ice age bear alter ego, and he comes to the rescue of a young woman being set on by jerks. She's pregnant and on the run, but he still thinks she'd be an ideal girlfriend. Now, this does worry me that the man likes women who are insecure and would be totally dependent on him - not a good sign in a guy. However, he then takes the lady off to a town of shifters in the mountains. Again, good and bad. He's providing her with protection but taking her away from anyone she might know and from law enforcement.
Once the pair arrive in town, for me the tension ended and became mere politics. Now there were so many others on their side that it seemed the pair could not lose. What I really didn't like however was that the extremely vulnerable young woman (for the reasons mentioned above) is obliged to do something 'because that is how it's done here' which was unnecessary to the plot, and she is not given a genuine choice. Ask yourself if a hetero man is ever going to be in that position.
Maybe the adult romance tale works out for the best. The writing is good and full of character.
I downloaded a free offer book. This is an unbiased review.
Once the pair arrive in town, for me the tension ended and became mere politics. Now there were so many others on their side that it seemed the pair could not lose. What I really didn't like however was that the extremely vulnerable young woman (for the reasons mentioned above) is obliged to do something 'because that is how it's done here' which was unnecessary to the plot, and she is not given a genuine choice. Ask yourself if a hetero man is ever going to be in that position.
Maybe the adult romance tale works out for the best. The writing is good and full of character.
I downloaded a free offer book. This is an unbiased review.
April 8, 2019
4.5-5 stars
This was a great story. I liked both Jackie and Trevor very much and enjoyed their story. This is the first story I've read by this author and I liked it well enough that I'd like to read more by this author.
Jackie is an accountant that chose the wrong boyfriend, one who sold her when she got pregnant. Jackie is a smart woman and she figured out how to escape but the pack that bought her is on her tail. Jackie heard about the Shifter Tribunal in Chicago so she's heading there, hoping for help, even if she's distrustful of all shifters now.
Trevor is a bear shifter but not a normal bear, a prehistoric version. This prompted some to shun him, even his parents, which is why Trevor was raised by his aunt. When Trevor grew up, he made a life as a long haul truck driver.
The story is short and the book description pretty much explains all the basics of the story so this will be short. Trevor and Jackie meet at a truck stop while they're both on the road. Jackie is understandably cautious so things look iffy at first, even though they're fated mates. Fate does intercede though and Trevor and Jackie end up together with him helping her and as she gets to know Trevor, Jackie comes to trust him. There are some issues for them to get past but the drama factor isn't too high and Trevor and Jackie end with a nice HEA.
I really enjoyed this story a lot. Jackie was a great heroine...smart and resourceful and willing to do whatever she has to to save her baby. Trevor is a real sweetheart who was just happy to have found his mate...someone that will love him for himself. Overall, I thought this was a great story with characters I really liked so I'd recommend it. :D
This was a great story. I liked both Jackie and Trevor very much and enjoyed their story. This is the first story I've read by this author and I liked it well enough that I'd like to read more by this author.
Jackie is an accountant that chose the wrong boyfriend, one who sold her when she got pregnant. Jackie is a smart woman and she figured out how to escape but the pack that bought her is on her tail. Jackie heard about the Shifter Tribunal in Chicago so she's heading there, hoping for help, even if she's distrustful of all shifters now.
Trevor is a bear shifter but not a normal bear, a prehistoric version. This prompted some to shun him, even his parents, which is why Trevor was raised by his aunt. When Trevor grew up, he made a life as a long haul truck driver.
The story is short and the book description pretty much explains all the basics of the story so this will be short. Trevor and Jackie meet at a truck stop while they're both on the road. Jackie is understandably cautious so things look iffy at first, even though they're fated mates. Fate does intercede though and Trevor and Jackie end up together with him helping her and as she gets to know Trevor, Jackie comes to trust him. There are some issues for them to get past but the drama factor isn't too high and Trevor and Jackie end with a nice HEA.
I really enjoyed this story a lot. Jackie was a great heroine...smart and resourceful and willing to do whatever she has to to save her baby. Trevor is a real sweetheart who was just happy to have found his mate...someone that will love him for himself. Overall, I thought this was a great story with characters I really liked so I'd recommend it. :D
November 3, 2024
3.5 stars
Shifter romance where the action was fast-paced and the romance was pretty sweet.
The FMC is pregnant with a shifter baby and on the run, and the MMC is a lonely bear shifter who instantly recognises her as his mate. I liked how Trevor’s instincts were saying “mine!” but his brain was saying “okay, but how do I win her over without scaring her off?” He waited for Jackie to come to him, and didn’t immediately cart her off, which was a nice surprise with fated mates!
The story mostly focussed on the external plot, and I wanted more relationship development, but it was still a quick and enjoyable read.
Shifter romance where the action was fast-paced and the romance was pretty sweet.
The FMC is pregnant with a shifter baby and on the run, and the MMC is a lonely bear shifter who instantly recognises her as his mate. I liked how Trevor’s instincts were saying “mine!” but his brain was saying “okay, but how do I win her over without scaring her off?” He waited for Jackie to come to him, and didn’t immediately cart her off, which was a nice surprise with fated mates!
The story mostly focussed on the external plot, and I wanted more relationship development, but it was still a quick and enjoyable read.
September 15, 2020
For a shorter story this one packed quite a bit into it. You kinda had to go with the insta-love/mating thing, but it worked. They didn't jump into bed right away, there were more pressing issues, like finding safety for Jackie. I loved the sanctuary town, loved all the crazy people there and how they knew who to trust and who not to and how they all welcomed Trevor and Jackie.
June 17, 2018
Shifter Mate Magic: Ice Age Shifters Book 1 by Carol Van Natta is a great 4-Star read.
I really did enjoy this book, being into shifters, I wish it was longer! It has a great storyline and the characters are very nicely designed into the book.
I love Jackie’s character and how she is on the run, escaping from some bad news shifters to save not only herself but her baby as well.
Meeting Trevor started getting me excited for the story’s progress. You don’t see a lot of bear shifters so I am completely enthralled with Trevor and his manliness. The willingness and love he shows by protecting Jackie and wanting to help her and her unborn child makes him that much more fantastic.
I really enjoyed the background on the secondary characters and the story behind why Jackie is running away. The shifters she is running from are evil. Overall a great read and I can’t wait to delve into more by this author! I will mention the Wiley Coyote bit had me laughing out loud. Thank you for that!
I really did enjoy this book, being into shifters, I wish it was longer! It has a great storyline and the characters are very nicely designed into the book.
I love Jackie’s character and how she is on the run, escaping from some bad news shifters to save not only herself but her baby as well.
Meeting Trevor started getting me excited for the story’s progress. You don’t see a lot of bear shifters so I am completely enthralled with Trevor and his manliness. The willingness and love he shows by protecting Jackie and wanting to help her and her unborn child makes him that much more fantastic.
I really enjoyed the background on the secondary characters and the story behind why Jackie is running away. The shifters she is running from are evil. Overall a great read and I can’t wait to delve into more by this author! I will mention the Wiley Coyote bit had me laughing out loud. Thank you for that!
July 2, 2018
The first book in the fun, exciting and steamy Ice Age Shifters series is an exhilarating adventure. This fast paced story is filled with action and romance as a pregnant Jackie Breton escapes from a corrupt feline pack and lands in the lap of large shaggy bear whom stirs up quite a sizzling attraction. Trevor Hammond has been rejected by everyone because of his pre-historic bear self and he is determined to declare Jackie as his own. The romance is sweet and the passion is hot and steamy and while the story is on the fun side, the non-stop events that take place from the very first word to the last keeps readers on the edge of their seats with lots of thrilling suspense as the couple race to the quirky and cool town Kotoyeesinay which is may be the only place where Jackie will be safe.
Well, this is one series that is super fun and full of wonderful, wickedly cool and quirky characters with exciting lives that just invite readers to join right in and stay for a while and I can’t wait until I visit the Ice Age shifter and the fascinating world again.
Well, this is one series that is super fun and full of wonderful, wickedly cool and quirky characters with exciting lives that just invite readers to join right in and stay for a while and I can’t wait until I visit the Ice Age shifter and the fascinating world again.
June 16, 2018
Shifter Mate Magic by Carol Van Natta a four-star read that will make you roar. This is the first book in the Ice age shifters series and it really starts the series with a bang, I can’t wait to find out what happens with the rest of the series. The world building was slow and steady, and filled with great details. Jackie and Trevor each get to take turns telling their stories. Both stories are filled with passion and drama, tinged with sadness and Jackie has a story that will make you want to punch someone. I will say that yes this is a shifter book, and if you love the genre you will love this book, but on the same hand it’s so much more than being just a book about shifters. I am sure this series will go from strength to strength.
September 22, 2019
Love Ice Age shifters!
POSSIBLE SPOILERS! I love how Trevor has no idea what type of bear he is. I am also in love with the human pregnant with shifter baby concept. Especially when it's not the mates' baby. It shows how much love there can be in blended families. It also has some humor, to keep us smiling.
POSSIBLE SPOILERS! I love how Trevor has no idea what type of bear he is. I am also in love with the human pregnant with shifter baby concept. Especially when it's not the mates' baby. It shows how much love there can be in blended families. It also has some humor, to keep us smiling.
May 17, 2018
Good start to a new series! Magical story line!
May 15, 2018
Shifter Mate Magic: Ice Age Shifters Book 1
By: Carol Van Natta
5 out of 5 stars
The story Shifter Mate Magic: Ice Age Shifters Book 1 by Carol Van Natta is a paranormal romance book. It is a story that I loved reading. I am a big fan of the paranormal and shifters. It is a perfect example of why I love the genre. The story revolves around the characters of Jackie Breton and Trevor Hammond. When these two first meet Trevor believes that he has found his true mate. Jackie is alone and on the run. While she appreciates when Trevor assists her from a dangerous situation, she is not one to trust shifters. Trevor’s determination to help Jackie intensifies when he receives a warning of just how much danger she is in. They soon find themselves traveling to a town which may be the only safe place for her. Trevor has vowed that nothing will happen to Jackie or the child that she carries. Will they make it to the town in time? Will Jackie find safety there? Will Trevor and Jackie find an HEA together? Read this book to find out. Jackie and Trevor are wonderful characters. Jackie is a strong and smart woman who is trying to save herself and the child that she is carrying. Trevor is a successful independent trucker who wants to find the one that he can spend his life with. Sparks fly between these two. Magic is used frequently in this book and you are introduced to many magical creatures. This book is a wonderful way to spend the afternoon. It is the first story in a series and I can’t wait to read the next book.
By: Carol Van Natta
5 out of 5 stars
The story Shifter Mate Magic: Ice Age Shifters Book 1 by Carol Van Natta is a paranormal romance book. It is a story that I loved reading. I am a big fan of the paranormal and shifters. It is a perfect example of why I love the genre. The story revolves around the characters of Jackie Breton and Trevor Hammond. When these two first meet Trevor believes that he has found his true mate. Jackie is alone and on the run. While she appreciates when Trevor assists her from a dangerous situation, she is not one to trust shifters. Trevor’s determination to help Jackie intensifies when he receives a warning of just how much danger she is in. They soon find themselves traveling to a town which may be the only safe place for her. Trevor has vowed that nothing will happen to Jackie or the child that she carries. Will they make it to the town in time? Will Jackie find safety there? Will Trevor and Jackie find an HEA together? Read this book to find out. Jackie and Trevor are wonderful characters. Jackie is a strong and smart woman who is trying to save herself and the child that she is carrying. Trevor is a successful independent trucker who wants to find the one that he can spend his life with. Sparks fly between these two. Magic is used frequently in this book and you are introduced to many magical creatures. This book is a wonderful way to spend the afternoon. It is the first story in a series and I can’t wait to read the next book.
May 19, 2018
Good but flawed
Carol is an excellent author. This is not her best work. The excerpt at the back of the book of the next book in the series actually has more potential.
My problem is that the mated pair met too quickly. While there was still tension and unresolved problems, it felt as if the book was mostly over at the truck stop. Which is the first scene in the book. Her backstory was revealed by her telling bits and pieces *as a story* which robbed it of any immediacy. The problem is, her backstory was the whole buildup ^to^ the truck stop.
****Spoiler*****
*
*
*
Waking up pregnant at an auction and being sold to a brutal shifter, the half-feral tiger chained by the front gate, stealing a secret ledger and escaping after slicing one of your “owner’s” throats...all of that should have brought us *to* the truck stop. She meets and is saved from two coyote shifters by her mate that she runs from before having to call him for help...that should have been act II.
*
*
*
***End Spoiler***
My version may have been too trope-ish, but it has the advantage of a solid foundation.
I will buy anything Carol writes. I simply wish this had been better.
Carol is an excellent author. This is not her best work. The excerpt at the back of the book of the next book in the series actually has more potential.
My problem is that the mated pair met too quickly. While there was still tension and unresolved problems, it felt as if the book was mostly over at the truck stop. Which is the first scene in the book. Her backstory was revealed by her telling bits and pieces *as a story* which robbed it of any immediacy. The problem is, her backstory was the whole buildup ^to^ the truck stop.
****Spoiler*****
*
*
*
Waking up pregnant at an auction and being sold to a brutal shifter, the half-feral tiger chained by the front gate, stealing a secret ledger and escaping after slicing one of your “owner’s” throats...all of that should have brought us *to* the truck stop. She meets and is saved from two coyote shifters by her mate that she runs from before having to call him for help...that should have been act II.
*
*
*
***End Spoiler***
My version may have been too trope-ish, but it has the advantage of a solid foundation.
I will buy anything Carol writes. I simply wish this had been better.
February 23, 2019
2.5
Ok idea, but it's very skimmy. Skims across most of everything to get to the next bit, and then skips time to get to the next bit, and tells us 'oh, all that happened during that time'... so there's no real way for there to be any interest in the characters. I guess we actually see the characters actively for maybe 2 days, spread over 3 or 4 days. The rest is just skipped. The whole storyline only takes about 8-9 days total. And it's thrown in several 'badbadbad' plot points to up the 'ooo, look at the bad happening' factor, but pretty much brushes over all of them. She's sold into slavery, told the baby's to be sold, and I think there are a few other point, but they are mostly handled by several 'ooo, badbadbad' comments and then dropped cause we are moving on until we need to be reminded of the 'ooo, badbadbad' again.
I LOVE the idea of magical Sanctuaries, but this is the first one that didn't really grab me cause we pretty much never saw any of it. Just some 'telling' about how wonderful it was and how many weird species there were.
0219
Ok idea, but it's very skimmy. Skims across most of everything to get to the next bit, and then skips time to get to the next bit, and tells us 'oh, all that happened during that time'... so there's no real way for there to be any interest in the characters. I guess we actually see the characters actively for maybe 2 days, spread over 3 or 4 days. The rest is just skipped. The whole storyline only takes about 8-9 days total. And it's thrown in several 'badbadbad' plot points to up the 'ooo, look at the bad happening' factor, but pretty much brushes over all of them. She's sold into slavery, told the baby's to be sold, and I think there are a few other point, but they are mostly handled by several 'ooo, badbadbad' comments and then dropped cause we are moving on until we need to be reminded of the 'ooo, badbadbad' again.
I LOVE the idea of magical Sanctuaries, but this is the first one that didn't really grab me cause we pretty much never saw any of it. Just some 'telling' about how wonderful it was and how many weird species there were.
0219
April 16, 2019
Kind of weird short story.
Want to read
April 21, 2019 🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/21/2019)! 🎁
October 6, 2021
No no no. Didn’t care for ANY of these characters and the plot was beyond confusing. I enjoy paranormal premises but this one was all over the place.
June 11, 2018
5 Stars
This book is a great twist on a shifter story. Shifter Mate Magic is the first book in the Ice Age Shifters series by Carol Van Natta. This is my first book by Ms. Van Natta, and I am happy to say that it definitely won’t be the last. It is a spellbinding paranormal romance, with an insta-love, shifters, magic, witches, fairies, elves, wizards, drama, tension, and a lot of other mystical creatures….
Jackie Breton is on the run, having escaped from a very violent shifter pack- who want her back, dead or alive. They will be tracking her down and Jackie can’t afford to get caught. She has a lot to protect, not just her life, but the life of her unborn baby. You see Jackie, is pregnant. When she runs into trouble at a truck stop, a handsome stranger comes to her rescue. He leaves an impression on her, but she can’t allow herself to be drawn to him, or to ever trust him after she realises he’s a shifter. She’s had it with shifters, they only spell trouble- so she leaves him and the truck stop behind. But not long after, he once again helps her out of a difficult situation and promises to take her to a safe haven.
Trevor Hammond has worked hard to build his independent trucking business. He’s certainly one-of-a-kind… but very lonely. He has lost hope of ever finding his mate, so he’s completely unprepared when he bumps into her at a truck stop. He can tell she was in trouble and he really wanted to help- but it was also very obvious that she didn’t like or trust shifters. When trouble strikes, he leaps in to protect her- determined to do whatever it takes to keep her safe. When he receives a warning from a trusted source, he has no choice but to whisk Jackie to the safety of the sanctuary town of Kotoyeeesinay, high in the Rocky Mountains. This becomes a race against time, as danger closes in on them. Will they reach the safe haven in time? This story really held my attention from beginning to end, as I raced through the pages to discover what would happen to Jackie and Trevor.
This is a very quick and easy read. It has a fast pace and a smooth flow. I really enjoyed the authors rich, warm and romantic style. The story is emotional, and heart-warming. Her characters are wonderful, fully developed individuals who are very endearing- I quickly became invested in them and the outcome of their story, rooting for them the whole way through. This is a superb start to what is shaping up to be a brilliant series. Now I will be exploring all the other books she’s released to date…. And I can’t wait to dive into “Shift of Destiny”, the second book in the Ice Age Shifters series.
Thank you, Ms. Van Natta!
This book is a great twist on a shifter story. Shifter Mate Magic is the first book in the Ice Age Shifters series by Carol Van Natta. This is my first book by Ms. Van Natta, and I am happy to say that it definitely won’t be the last. It is a spellbinding paranormal romance, with an insta-love, shifters, magic, witches, fairies, elves, wizards, drama, tension, and a lot of other mystical creatures….
Jackie Breton is on the run, having escaped from a very violent shifter pack- who want her back, dead or alive. They will be tracking her down and Jackie can’t afford to get caught. She has a lot to protect, not just her life, but the life of her unborn baby. You see Jackie, is pregnant. When she runs into trouble at a truck stop, a handsome stranger comes to her rescue. He leaves an impression on her, but she can’t allow herself to be drawn to him, or to ever trust him after she realises he’s a shifter. She’s had it with shifters, they only spell trouble- so she leaves him and the truck stop behind. But not long after, he once again helps her out of a difficult situation and promises to take her to a safe haven.
Trevor Hammond has worked hard to build his independent trucking business. He’s certainly one-of-a-kind… but very lonely. He has lost hope of ever finding his mate, so he’s completely unprepared when he bumps into her at a truck stop. He can tell she was in trouble and he really wanted to help- but it was also very obvious that she didn’t like or trust shifters. When trouble strikes, he leaps in to protect her- determined to do whatever it takes to keep her safe. When he receives a warning from a trusted source, he has no choice but to whisk Jackie to the safety of the sanctuary town of Kotoyeeesinay, high in the Rocky Mountains. This becomes a race against time, as danger closes in on them. Will they reach the safe haven in time? This story really held my attention from beginning to end, as I raced through the pages to discover what would happen to Jackie and Trevor.
This is a very quick and easy read. It has a fast pace and a smooth flow. I really enjoyed the authors rich, warm and romantic style. The story is emotional, and heart-warming. Her characters are wonderful, fully developed individuals who are very endearing- I quickly became invested in them and the outcome of their story, rooting for them the whole way through. This is a superb start to what is shaping up to be a brilliant series. Now I will be exploring all the other books she’s released to date…. And I can’t wait to dive into “Shift of Destiny”, the second book in the Ice Age Shifters series.
Thank you, Ms. Van Natta!
September 24, 2019
First in series, so the special marketing price to pick it up. Not that I need much incentive to get a Carol Van Natta book, having read her science fiction romance thriller/mystery/police procedurals. The woman can write, her characters are intelligent, and diversity among her character - even the romantic leads - is common.
This book delivers on everything I have come to expect based on the other series I read by her.
One down side, it is short and there is some jumps that are abrupt. Usually related to when the romantic couple needs to be apart - since the story is about their relationship, what they do individually when they are apart for a week isn't addressed. A quick gloss of "she got to know the town" and "he missed her".
But again, this is when the couple is apart - so I understand the choice to focus on the relationship when they are together. Still, I think the book would have been better showing their development separately as well as together. Living with a void can be equally telling as living with a person.
The paranormal romance with shifters and magic users, elves, sanctuary, monsters, and dragons comes with a rich world all set to be developed throughout the Ice Age Shifter series. Great fun by a very good writer.
Addition - Meant to talk about what a WONDERFUL Alpha Trevor is. Recently I've been getting tired with shifter stories because the Alphas so often run right over the females. The instanta-love of "fated mates" means the guy can pretty much do whatever he likes and the woman will do doe-eyes. Not here. I mean Trevor could - they are fated mates. But he stops himself everytime his protective instinct would have him tossing her behind him and growling at the world. He lets her face her battles, protecting her back. He stops his instincts from overriding her emotional needs. Yet you never doubt if she needed him, he would be there, because he is. But he is there for the slow parts as well as the danger - the cuddles alongside the fights. I might actually start reading shifter romances again, or at least Ms. Van Natta's.
This book delivers on everything I have come to expect based on the other series I read by her.
One down side, it is short and there is some jumps that are abrupt. Usually related to when the romantic couple needs to be apart - since the story is about their relationship, what they do individually when they are apart for a week isn't addressed. A quick gloss of "she got to know the town" and "he missed her".
But again, this is when the couple is apart - so I understand the choice to focus on the relationship when they are together. Still, I think the book would have been better showing their development separately as well as together. Living with a void can be equally telling as living with a person.
The paranormal romance with shifters and magic users, elves, sanctuary, monsters, and dragons comes with a rich world all set to be developed throughout the Ice Age Shifter series. Great fun by a very good writer.
Addition - Meant to talk about what a WONDERFUL Alpha Trevor is. Recently I've been getting tired with shifter stories because the Alphas so often run right over the females. The instanta-love of "fated mates" means the guy can pretty much do whatever he likes and the woman will do doe-eyes. Not here. I mean Trevor could - they are fated mates. But he stops himself everytime his protective instinct would have him tossing her behind him and growling at the world. He lets her face her battles, protecting her back. He stops his instincts from overriding her emotional needs. Yet you never doubt if she needed him, he would be there, because he is. But he is there for the slow parts as well as the danger - the cuddles alongside the fights. I might actually start reading shifter romances again, or at least Ms. Van Natta's.
July 2, 2023
Feels More Like a Prequel, But Great Couple!
Audiobook Review:
I've been reading more shifter romance lately, and I thought this book had a few unique twists. For one thing, the paranormal world is much broader than we typically see. There aren't just animal shifters, humans, and vampires, as I typically see, but the world also includes magical beings, like witches and elves. For some reason, I found the elf addition the most interesting, even though it plays a minor role in this story. Loved the strong female elf leader of the council! I didn't feel like this story had much to it, unfortunately. It was just starting to get interesting when it ended. It feels like more of a prequel to me, as a lot of it was about the backstories of the hero and heroine. I absolutely adored the hero, a kind-hearted, protective, decent bear-man whose life is altered at the beginning of the story when he discovers his fated mate in peril in the very human yet witchy heroine. He's an Ice Age bear shifter, something I haven't yet seen in shifter stories, which makes him very strong and the most alpha of alphas. The heroine had some interesting magic, like the ability to use maps in unusual ways. Fun stuff. But she, and ultimately he, are in grave danger because of her not-too-distant past. She got mixed up with the wrong kind of shifters and has been paying for it ever since. Parts of the book get surprisingly dark, especially her remembrances of what's happened to her, for a shifter romance—trafficking, non-governmental imprisonment, and threat of child abduction. I particularly like the end, when the hero and heroine find a new home, and after all they’ve been through, are both treated so wonderfully by others in their paranormal world.
I received a promo code for this audiobook, but that did not affect my review.
Audiobook Review:
I've been reading more shifter romance lately, and I thought this book had a few unique twists. For one thing, the paranormal world is much broader than we typically see. There aren't just animal shifters, humans, and vampires, as I typically see, but the world also includes magical beings, like witches and elves. For some reason, I found the elf addition the most interesting, even though it plays a minor role in this story. Loved the strong female elf leader of the council! I didn't feel like this story had much to it, unfortunately. It was just starting to get interesting when it ended. It feels like more of a prequel to me, as a lot of it was about the backstories of the hero and heroine. I absolutely adored the hero, a kind-hearted, protective, decent bear-man whose life is altered at the beginning of the story when he discovers his fated mate in peril in the very human yet witchy heroine. He's an Ice Age bear shifter, something I haven't yet seen in shifter stories, which makes him very strong and the most alpha of alphas. The heroine had some interesting magic, like the ability to use maps in unusual ways. Fun stuff. But she, and ultimately he, are in grave danger because of her not-too-distant past. She got mixed up with the wrong kind of shifters and has been paying for it ever since. Parts of the book get surprisingly dark, especially her remembrances of what's happened to her, for a shifter romance—trafficking, non-governmental imprisonment, and threat of child abduction. I particularly like the end, when the hero and heroine find a new home, and after all they’ve been through, are both treated so wonderfully by others in their paranormal world.
I received a promo code for this audiobook, but that did not affect my review.
June 9, 2018
Shifter Mate Magic: Ice Age Shifters Book 1 (Ice Age Shifters #1) by Carol Van Natta was a fast pace, heart pounding romance that has me reading this wonder in just a few hours.
I love shifter books, and I love when an author takes the shifter genera and makes it their own. This book was chock-full of unique goodness that made this story shine. There was a good mix of the common shifter and new, and even animals from the ice age. It add that something special making this shifter story set a new bar.
I had such a fun time reading about Jackie and Trevor, they are just perfect for one another. Told in dual POV, we get a look inside both their heads. I love it when authors do this. Having that extra perspective, heightens the story and adds a layer of depth, making the story more interactive and engaging.
What I really loved was that though our power couple had that insta-attraction, they had enough common sense to keep in mind that, the danger that Jackie was in, out weight their need to, you know, in the words of Brooklyn Nine Nine, smush. It was the perfect mix of staying on plot and adding in romance, at the proper times. Making this stressful dangerous story, sweet and giddy.
Overall, I have to say this book is probably one of the best shifter books I've have read so far. Everything makes sense, I loved all the characters and at no point did I want to strangle the MC.
The writing was easy to follow, the world building was richly detailed and the twist and turns makes this story a must read for any shifter lover, and even new readers to the genera. This is a high recommend from me, and I am going to be getting my hands on the other books in this series ASAP.
Happy Reading
-E.A. Walsh
I love shifter books, and I love when an author takes the shifter genera and makes it their own. This book was chock-full of unique goodness that made this story shine. There was a good mix of the common shifter and new, and even animals from the ice age. It add that something special making this shifter story set a new bar.
I had such a fun time reading about Jackie and Trevor, they are just perfect for one another. Told in dual POV, we get a look inside both their heads. I love it when authors do this. Having that extra perspective, heightens the story and adds a layer of depth, making the story more interactive and engaging.
What I really loved was that though our power couple had that insta-attraction, they had enough common sense to keep in mind that, the danger that Jackie was in, out weight their need to, you know, in the words of Brooklyn Nine Nine, smush. It was the perfect mix of staying on plot and adding in romance, at the proper times. Making this stressful dangerous story, sweet and giddy.
Overall, I have to say this book is probably one of the best shifter books I've have read so far. Everything makes sense, I loved all the characters and at no point did I want to strangle the MC.
The writing was easy to follow, the world building was richly detailed and the twist and turns makes this story a must read for any shifter lover, and even new readers to the genera. This is a high recommend from me, and I am going to be getting my hands on the other books in this series ASAP.
Happy Reading
-E.A. Walsh
May 15, 2018
Shifter Mate Magic: Ice Age Shifters Book 1
By Carol Van Natta
5 Stars
Shifter Mate Magic is just what it says. A book about shifters, mates, and magic and Carol Van Natta does a fantastic job blending all three. This book takes you on a magical journey and will keep the reader immersed until the very end.
At the beginning of the book, you meet Jackie Breton and you just can’t help but empathize with her plight. Pregnant, alone and on the run, Jackie must stay one step ahead of the corrupt feline pride that wants to take her baby. Trevor Hammond hasn’t had the easiest life. Other than his doting aunt, Trevor doesn’t have any real family and longs to meet someone he can call his own. Trevor and Jackie race towards a magical town in Wyoming and with the feline pride right on their tails as they struggle to trust each other and must come to realize that love can happen at any time.
Carol Van Natta brings to life not only the wonderful characters in this book but allows the reader to fall into this magical world and all it holds. With the engaging storyline, the edge of your seat action and suspense I found myself quickly devouring this book. Ms. Van Natta has a unique view of the shifter world from most paranormal books and took me on a roller coaster ride with this book. Jackie and Trevor were believable characters because Ms. Van Natta allows the reader to not only see their good sides but also their faults. I loved how the romance part of the story was there but not at the forefront of the entire book. This book had it all and I look forward to more books in this series by Ms. Van Netta.
By Carol Van Natta
5 Stars
Shifter Mate Magic is just what it says. A book about shifters, mates, and magic and Carol Van Natta does a fantastic job blending all three. This book takes you on a magical journey and will keep the reader immersed until the very end.
At the beginning of the book, you meet Jackie Breton and you just can’t help but empathize with her plight. Pregnant, alone and on the run, Jackie must stay one step ahead of the corrupt feline pride that wants to take her baby. Trevor Hammond hasn’t had the easiest life. Other than his doting aunt, Trevor doesn’t have any real family and longs to meet someone he can call his own. Trevor and Jackie race towards a magical town in Wyoming and with the feline pride right on their tails as they struggle to trust each other and must come to realize that love can happen at any time.
Carol Van Natta brings to life not only the wonderful characters in this book but allows the reader to fall into this magical world and all it holds. With the engaging storyline, the edge of your seat action and suspense I found myself quickly devouring this book. Ms. Van Natta has a unique view of the shifter world from most paranormal books and took me on a roller coaster ride with this book. Jackie and Trevor were believable characters because Ms. Van Natta allows the reader to not only see their good sides but also their faults. I loved how the romance part of the story was there but not at the forefront of the entire book. This book had it all and I look forward to more books in this series by Ms. Van Netta.
May 15, 2018
Shifter Mate Magic: Ice Age Shifters Book 1 by Carol Van Natta is the first book in her Ice Age Shifters series. This is my first book by this author and I loved it. It is full of paranormal characters and hot, steamy romance. I loved how she pulled me right into her story and I couldn't put it down until I was finished. This story is fast paced and easy following. Her attention to details are such that she made me feel as if I was right there with the characters. Her characters are both lovable and connectable. This is a story about a woman who is running from her past only to find a future. Jackie is pregnant and running from the evil pack that has every intention of selling her baby. Trevor is a bear shifter who runs his own trucking business. They meet under a horrible situation that happens to Jackie and Trevor offers to help her out. What they weren't expecting is the strong bond pulling them together. Will they get sanctuary before it is to late? I loved both of these characters. They are both strong and have a feisty side to them. She isn't someone to mess with and he certainly isn't anyone one to mess with. Their attraction for each other is off the charts. They took me on a few twists and turns that I didn't see coming. The secondary characters in this book are not the nicest but they certainly made the story into something that left me on the edge of my seat. I highly suggest this book. Find out what happens with Jackie and Trevor as a past is faced.
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