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The Rowan Harbor Cycle #5
Stag and the Ash
Jesse Hunter is finally trying to be an adult, but still feels like an act. His place on the town council is a sham. He’s rarely called on to do anything. His boyfriend is grieving the loss of his mother, and while everyone seems to think he’s doing a great job caring for Sean, Jesse feels like he’s more of a distraction than a real help.
March is shaping up to be a bad month. First, random chance leads him to the realization that the town’s recent trouble is his fault. Then new werewolves come into town, and it turns out they’re also Jesse’s responsibility. He feels like he may be at his breaking point, and he doesn’t want to drag his friends and loved ones down with him. But how will he handle it alone?
March is shaping up to be a bad month. First, random chance leads him to the realization that the town’s recent trouble is his fault. Then new werewolves come into town, and it turns out they’re also Jesse’s responsibility. He feels like he may be at his breaking point, and he doesn’t want to drag his friends and loved ones down with him. But how will he handle it alone?
158 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 28, 2018
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162 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
May 21, 2019
4 Stars
In this fifth installment of the series (and second story focusing on MC Jesse Hunter), Jesse is slowly adjusting to his new role as town Alpha, trying his best to protect the inhabitants of Rowan Harbor (supernatural and not) from a heavy looming threat from some mysterious outsider/s who have it out for supernatural beings.
On top of his Alpha duties, Jesse is also struggling to support his mate, Sean, after the recent tragic loss of Sean’s mother during the last coordinated attack on the town. Jesse tries to be the most supporting and loving mate possible, but he holds a lot of guilt over these events, especially when he learns that someone from his past may have been heavily involved.
Things get even more complicated when a group of young desperate werewolves arrive in town seeking sanctuary. Jesse and Sean welcome them and take them in, all while keeping vigilant knowing that a threat still looms and outsiders shouldn’t be fully trusted, especially given the timing of their arrival.
Jesse tries to carry his responsibilities (and guilt) on his shoulders alone, but when his life is suddenly on the line, he must accept help and share his burdens with Sean and those closest to him if he wants to come out of this alive.
I enjoyed this installment, pretty much on par with all the stories in the series so far. I continue to love this small town setting, with its kooky and close-knit supernatural community, and I’m growing fonder of the three main couples as their relationships strengthen and their joint mission to protect the town increasingly becomes an epic affair. It’s the kind of paranormal/urban fantasy story I enjoy the most and I can’t wait to see where this series goes as it closes in on the end.
In this fifth installment of the series (and second story focusing on MC Jesse Hunter), Jesse is slowly adjusting to his new role as town Alpha, trying his best to protect the inhabitants of Rowan Harbor (supernatural and not) from a heavy looming threat from some mysterious outsider/s who have it out for supernatural beings.
On top of his Alpha duties, Jesse is also struggling to support his mate, Sean, after the recent tragic loss of Sean’s mother during the last coordinated attack on the town. Jesse tries to be the most supporting and loving mate possible, but he holds a lot of guilt over these events, especially when he learns that someone from his past may have been heavily involved.
Things get even more complicated when a group of young desperate werewolves arrive in town seeking sanctuary. Jesse and Sean welcome them and take them in, all while keeping vigilant knowing that a threat still looms and outsiders shouldn’t be fully trusted, especially given the timing of their arrival.
Jesse tries to carry his responsibilities (and guilt) on his shoulders alone, but when his life is suddenly on the line, he must accept help and share his burdens with Sean and those closest to him if he wants to come out of this alive.
I enjoyed this installment, pretty much on par with all the stories in the series so far. I continue to love this small town setting, with its kooky and close-knit supernatural community, and I’m growing fonder of the three main couples as their relationships strengthen and their joint mission to protect the town increasingly becomes an epic affair. It’s the kind of paranormal/urban fantasy story I enjoy the most and I can’t wait to see where this series goes as it closes in on the end.
February 23, 2019
3.5 Stars
Urban fantasy is a favorite of mine and this consistently hits its mark.
If one doesn't know already, this is a series of 9 books, focusing on 3 young men, 3 times each, coming into their own as prominent members of their fair town Rowan Harbor, a haven for all those who are paranormal supernatural. It’s Jesse’s turn this time around. He’s the new alpha werewolf and official protector and is still getting his feet wet, still grappling with the burden of responsibility and his hard to let go feelings of inadequacy and guilt.
When it’s revealed that the town’s evil foe has set in motion another attack that could have devastating consequences, Jesse must face his past, own up to it, and conquer it for good.
For those who want intriguing world building and interesting characters then start with Blackbird in the Reeds, as this is not a stand alone. For those who want smexy smex, you’re not going to get it here. What you will get is a group of friends and lovers working together, never wanting to be heroes in the first place but ending up being heroic nonetheless.
Urban fantasy is a favorite of mine and this consistently hits its mark.
If one doesn't know already, this is a series of 9 books, focusing on 3 young men, 3 times each, coming into their own as prominent members of their fair town Rowan Harbor, a haven for all those who are paranormal supernatural. It’s Jesse’s turn this time around. He’s the new alpha werewolf and official protector and is still getting his feet wet, still grappling with the burden of responsibility and his hard to let go feelings of inadequacy and guilt.
When it’s revealed that the town’s evil foe has set in motion another attack that could have devastating consequences, Jesse must face his past, own up to it, and conquer it for good.
For those who want intriguing world building and interesting characters then start with Blackbird in the Reeds, as this is not a stand alone. For those who want smexy smex, you’re not going to get it here. What you will get is a group of friends and lovers working together, never wanting to be heroes in the first place but ending up being heroic nonetheless.
July 5, 2018
Wow, can’t believe it is time again to review the newest addition to Sam Burns’ Rowan Harbor Cycle. I’m kinda stupidly impressed that she is able to turn out these books so fast, and yet still have them end up being so good.
Anyways, if you have been keeping up with the series (and if you haven’t, turn back now, this is a series that must be read in order), you will know that we are back again with Jesse and Sean in the second of three stories devoted to them. Book five picks up not long after the conclusion of the previous book, and we find the characters at a bit of a low point. Sean is still grieving the loss of his mother–as well as having to deal with his succubus powers kicking in–and Jesse finds out not long into the book that he might be kinda responsible for not only the events that led to Sean’s mother’s death, but some of the other shit that has taken place over the last few months. But even learning more about the threat coming towards Rowan Harbor might not be enough to save it, especially when the danger could already be inside the borders.
There is not much to say about this book that hasn’t already be stated (and restated) in the ones I wrote for the previous stories in this series. The characters remain well written and engaging, the town and its people are fun to learn about as the series progresses, and I can’t help but feel increasingly more invested in Rowan Harbor with each new book.
Sam Burns is very good at these slightly light, with just a hint of danger, tones that she writes into her stories. They are relaxing to read, but have enough going on in them that you feel compelled to keep reading to find out what happens next. While I think the twist in this book is rather heavily telegraphed, I didn’t mind what ends up happening.
Well, ok, I have a slight niggle about how cozy people were willing to get with certain other people. Being nice is all well and good, but if you think there is even a 50% chance that they might try and kill you or someone you love…maybe err on the side of caution a bit more? Nothing was certain, I’m sure, but surely there had to be other options. And the town’s folk rather horrible handling of the whole situation annoyed me enough that I didn’t quite enjoy this book as I have some of the others.
Be that as it may, I really enjoyed this, though I wish there had been a bit more Sean in this one. I think the series so far has kinda short-changed him character-wise. We don’t know nearly as much about him as we do some of the others. Which is a shame because what I do know is rather interesting. But with four more books to go, hopefully that will improve.
As always, my recommendation for this book hinges on you having read the previous books in the series. They are quick reads, I feel, and well worth picking up if you like paranormal stories that are a bit on the light side. And, hey, with how quickly they are being published, you probably won’t have to wait very long to finish up the entire series.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
Anyways, if you have been keeping up with the series (and if you haven’t, turn back now, this is a series that must be read in order), you will know that we are back again with Jesse and Sean in the second of three stories devoted to them. Book five picks up not long after the conclusion of the previous book, and we find the characters at a bit of a low point. Sean is still grieving the loss of his mother–as well as having to deal with his succubus powers kicking in–and Jesse finds out not long into the book that he might be kinda responsible for not only the events that led to Sean’s mother’s death, but some of the other shit that has taken place over the last few months. But even learning more about the threat coming towards Rowan Harbor might not be enough to save it, especially when the danger could already be inside the borders.
There is not much to say about this book that hasn’t already be stated (and restated) in the ones I wrote for the previous stories in this series. The characters remain well written and engaging, the town and its people are fun to learn about as the series progresses, and I can’t help but feel increasingly more invested in Rowan Harbor with each new book.
Sam Burns is very good at these slightly light, with just a hint of danger, tones that she writes into her stories. They are relaxing to read, but have enough going on in them that you feel compelled to keep reading to find out what happens next. While I think the twist in this book is rather heavily telegraphed, I didn’t mind what ends up happening.
Well, ok, I have a slight niggle about how cozy people were willing to get with certain other people. Being nice is all well and good, but if you think there is even a 50% chance that they might try and kill you or someone you love…maybe err on the side of caution a bit more? Nothing was certain, I’m sure, but surely there had to be other options. And the town’s folk rather horrible handling of the whole situation annoyed me enough that I didn’t quite enjoy this book as I have some of the others.
Be that as it may, I really enjoyed this, though I wish there had been a bit more Sean in this one. I think the series so far has kinda short-changed him character-wise. We don’t know nearly as much about him as we do some of the others. Which is a shame because what I do know is rather interesting. But with four more books to go, hopefully that will improve.
As always, my recommendation for this book hinges on you having read the previous books in the series. They are quick reads, I feel, and well worth picking up if you like paranormal stories that are a bit on the light side. And, hey, with how quickly they are being published, you probably won’t have to wait very long to finish up the entire series.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
June 23, 2018
Sam Burns writes just the sort of paranormal that I love - it's quirky and there's always a hint of something other worldly about even the "normal" types you find in this kind of book.
In Stag and the Ash we're back to Jesse and Sean, and things are moving on a pace even after the tragic death of Sean's mum at the hands of the troll.
When three young werewolves arrive in town after their own traumatic experiences, Jesse takes them in despite the latest warning from the mystery helper that danger in on its way to Rowan Harbor once again.
I have to say, I loved the narrative take on how the danger arose, it was a clever way to use the traditional mythos of werewolves and then twist it.
This whole series has been such a refreshing change from the typical urban fantasy/paranormal.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
In Stag and the Ash we're back to Jesse and Sean, and things are moving on a pace even after the tragic death of Sean's mum at the hands of the troll.
When three young werewolves arrive in town after their own traumatic experiences, Jesse takes them in despite the latest warning from the mystery helper that danger in on its way to Rowan Harbor once again.
I have to say, I loved the narrative take on how the danger arose, it was a clever way to use the traditional mythos of werewolves and then twist it.
This whole series has been such a refreshing change from the typical urban fantasy/paranormal.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
July 6, 2018
4.5 stars.
This is the 2nd book for Jesse and Sean, continuing shortly after where Hawk and the Rowan ended. Jesse still struggles with his place on the town council, with being the Alpha wolf, with having to be in charge of things, and he's finding it equally difficult to help Sean grieving the loss of his mother and finding his stride in dealing with his powers as a succubus.
There were some humorous moments to lighten the mood, which is mostly somber throughout the book, which was to be expected after the events of book 4, as well as considering what we find out in this book.
At around 30% or so, I had an inkling on how this would unfold, after finding out who sent the troll that killed Sean's mother, and the three young wolves showed up in town.
The book is told entirely from Jesse's POV, and he's a somewhat unreliable narrator, as his perception of how people feel about him isn't entirely accurate, something that he's starting to learn. His guilt stemming from mistakes made in the past, and how they are affecting the present, is obviously not helping him see himself clearly, and he continues to feel as if he's not good enough and can never measure up.
I would have liked to find out more about what makes Sean ticks, but perhaps that's still to come. I wish Jesse could see himself as others do, and it seems that by the end of this book, he's starting to get there. Their relationship gets a chance to grow in this book also, as Sean towards the end forces some honest conversations with Jesse instead of both of them fumbling with what needs to be said.
As the focus of this book is mostly on the new wolves in town, and Jesse struggling with his guilt and his keeping secrets from Sean and others about the true reason for the troll attack, we don't see a whole lot of the townsfolk in this book, at least not as much as we did in previous ones. Of course, all the main players make an appearance, and everyone contributes to the plot unfolding, but this book felt to some extent as a transition, a bridge, a set up for the next one. It also felt shorter than the previous ones, but certainly covered what it needed to cover.
Of course, the writing is as awesome as always, engaging and entertaining, and I continue to be fascinated with this series. Fletcher's 2nd book is next, and if the first chapter is any indication, it'll be a wild ride. I can hardly wait!
Please note: These cannot be read as standalone books and must be read in order.
** I received a free copy of this book from Signal Boost promotions as part of this tour in exchange for an honest review. **
This is the 2nd book for Jesse and Sean, continuing shortly after where Hawk and the Rowan ended. Jesse still struggles with his place on the town council, with being the Alpha wolf, with having to be in charge of things, and he's finding it equally difficult to help Sean grieving the loss of his mother and finding his stride in dealing with his powers as a succubus.
There were some humorous moments to lighten the mood, which is mostly somber throughout the book, which was to be expected after the events of book 4, as well as considering what we find out in this book.
At around 30% or so, I had an inkling on how this would unfold, after finding out who sent the troll that killed Sean's mother, and the three young wolves showed up in town.
The book is told entirely from Jesse's POV, and he's a somewhat unreliable narrator, as his perception of how people feel about him isn't entirely accurate, something that he's starting to learn. His guilt stemming from mistakes made in the past, and how they are affecting the present, is obviously not helping him see himself clearly, and he continues to feel as if he's not good enough and can never measure up.
I would have liked to find out more about what makes Sean ticks, but perhaps that's still to come. I wish Jesse could see himself as others do, and it seems that by the end of this book, he's starting to get there. Their relationship gets a chance to grow in this book also, as Sean towards the end forces some honest conversations with Jesse instead of both of them fumbling with what needs to be said.
As the focus of this book is mostly on the new wolves in town, and Jesse struggling with his guilt and his keeping secrets from Sean and others about the true reason for the troll attack, we don't see a whole lot of the townsfolk in this book, at least not as much as we did in previous ones. Of course, all the main players make an appearance, and everyone contributes to the plot unfolding, but this book felt to some extent as a transition, a bridge, a set up for the next one. It also felt shorter than the previous ones, but certainly covered what it needed to cover.
Of course, the writing is as awesome as always, engaging and entertaining, and I continue to be fascinated with this series. Fletcher's 2nd book is next, and if the first chapter is any indication, it'll be a wild ride. I can hardly wait!
Please note: These cannot be read as standalone books and must be read in order.
** I received a free copy of this book from Signal Boost promotions as part of this tour in exchange for an honest review. **
July 5, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
5 stars
This is the fifth book in Rowan Harbor Cycle series, and while this book could be read on its own as the story is somewhat self-contained, you would miss most of the overarching plot and some of the subtleties in how the characters have grown over the previous four books. Out of the five books I’ve read so far, this one is my favorite — and not just because I like Jessie more than the other characters. Devon is charmed and charming, but Jessie is someone who was a little broken and battered, who came home in disgrace and is now learning that many of his self doubts were all in his head. His family loves him, his friends support him, and his town needs him. Jessie is discovering that he’s pretty good at being the war leader of Rowan Harbor, and he’s a pretty good alpha, too.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
5 stars
This is the fifth book in Rowan Harbor Cycle series, and while this book could be read on its own as the story is somewhat self-contained, you would miss most of the overarching plot and some of the subtleties in how the characters have grown over the previous four books. Out of the five books I’ve read so far, this one is my favorite — and not just because I like Jessie more than the other characters. Devon is charmed and charming, but Jessie is someone who was a little broken and battered, who came home in disgrace and is now learning that many of his self doubts were all in his head. His family loves him, his friends support him, and his town needs him. Jessie is discovering that he’s pretty good at being the war leader of Rowan Harbor, and he’s a pretty good alpha, too.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
October 7, 2019
3.5 Stars. I liked this one although I did have one fairly big issue with the plot. However, this is a fun, easy to read and entertaining series so I'm rounding up.
I really like the characters in this series (this is a series that really needs to be read in order - so this is not a stand a lone book). The town itself is fun and by now I'm heavily invested in Rowan Harbor and all the citizens. This book brings us back to Jesse and Sean who are still dealing with the loss of Sean's mother and the emergence of more of Sean's succubus powers. Jesse is also still dealing with his past and of course the danger the town itself is in.
So this is where I have an issue with the plot. The "enemy" was horribly obvious and even the characters themselves even had suspicions about the person. However, no caution was involved at all - why open yourself up to that kind of danger with no precautions? There surely had to be other options and yet no one in the town bothered to mention that this was a bad idea? Normally the people in the town are pretty smart and yet in this book TSTL definitely came into play. So I didn't enjoy this one as much as I did the previous books (although I still liked it quite a bit). Also while this was Jesse and Sean's book it was really Jesse's book. We didn't see a lot of Sean and we didn't learn much more about him in this book. I would have liked more information on Sean and more time spent with him but maybe we will get that when the last Jesse/Sean book happens which should be book #8.
Despite these few issues this was a good book and an excellent series. I love that this series is easy/quick to read with great characters and a sense of danger that is just strong enough to keep you engaged.
Looking forward to more to come from Rowen Harbor.
I really like the characters in this series (this is a series that really needs to be read in order - so this is not a stand a lone book). The town itself is fun and by now I'm heavily invested in Rowan Harbor and all the citizens. This book brings us back to Jesse and Sean who are still dealing with the loss of Sean's mother and the emergence of more of Sean's succubus powers. Jesse is also still dealing with his past and of course the danger the town itself is in.
So this is where I have an issue with the plot. The "enemy" was horribly obvious and even the characters themselves even had suspicions about the person. However, no caution was involved at all - why open yourself up to that kind of danger with no precautions? There surely had to be other options and yet no one in the town bothered to mention that this was a bad idea? Normally the people in the town are pretty smart and yet in this book TSTL definitely came into play. So I didn't enjoy this one as much as I did the previous books (although I still liked it quite a bit). Also while this was Jesse and Sean's book it was really Jesse's book. We didn't see a lot of Sean and we didn't learn much more about him in this book. I would have liked more information on Sean and more time spent with him but maybe we will get that when the last Jesse/Sean book happens which should be book #8.
Despite these few issues this was a good book and an excellent series. I love that this series is easy/quick to read with great characters and a sense of danger that is just strong enough to keep you engaged.
Looking forward to more to come from Rowen Harbor.
July 2, 2018
I can't not like Jesse and his struggle to grow into his role as an alpha while everybody already knows that he isn't anything but. In Stag and the Ash it's even more obvious when he has to deal with those teenage wolves coming to Rowan Harbor and meeting his past in the end fight of this book.
I was a bit disappointed that the town life and the friendships got more in the backseat than I remember it from the previous parts but the biggest issue is still the relationship with Sean. Yes, they are now an established couple, even talking about marriage and children and they obviously care about each other. So I had a better feeling about them than in their first book but it's still Sean I need to know more about. He's still a blank page and although Jesse's mate he still plays no active role in defending the town and only a minor part in supporting his partner. I get it's not easy to show him as an equal while he suffers a slight depression and is blocked by Jesse's protectiveness but he's a half-succubus and we don't get further than a half reluctant BJ in 2 books and his part in the end fight is not much more than distracting the villain? That's so unfair. There seems to be so much more in him if the author would give him more space to grow.
I was a bit disappointed that the town life and the friendships got more in the backseat than I remember it from the previous parts but the biggest issue is still the relationship with Sean. Yes, they are now an established couple, even talking about marriage and children and they obviously care about each other. So I had a better feeling about them than in their first book but it's still Sean I need to know more about. He's still a blank page and although Jesse's mate he still plays no active role in defending the town and only a minor part in supporting his partner. I get it's not easy to show him as an equal while he suffers a slight depression and is blocked by Jesse's protectiveness but he's a half-succubus and we don't get further than a half reluctant BJ in 2 books and his part in the end fight is not much more than distracting the villain? That's so unfair. There seems to be so much more in him if the author would give him more space to grow.
June 30, 2018
The title is Stag and The Ash and it returns to Jesse and Sean's story.
I felt like this story was just a really well written filler. We learn who sent the troll and how it comes from Jesse's past. Sean is struggling with the death of his mother, but mostly what he's become and how it affects him with the people around him. Jesse is trying to pull Sean out of his funk, while feeling guilty about the death and the troll, and protecting the town as well.
During Jesse's perimeter checks, he runs into a large, white Stag. The purpose of said stag is unknown and why it's linked to Jesse is also a mystery. The Ash is the trees surrounding Jesse's childhood home, so I feel like there may be some importance there, between moreof his past and this white Stag.
Again, this is a wonderful story with the addition of some new pack, but I feel I didn't learn much. Atleast in what the title suggests.I guess I'll have E to wait for the next book :)
I felt like this story was just a really well written filler. We learn who sent the troll and how it comes from Jesse's past. Sean is struggling with the death of his mother, but mostly what he's become and how it affects him with the people around him. Jesse is trying to pull Sean out of his funk, while feeling guilty about the death and the troll, and protecting the town as well.
During Jesse's perimeter checks, he runs into a large, white Stag. The purpose of said stag is unknown and why it's linked to Jesse is also a mystery. The Ash is the trees surrounding Jesse's childhood home, so I feel like there may be some importance there, between moreof his past and this white Stag.
Again, this is a wonderful story with the addition of some new pack, but I feel I didn't learn much. Atleast in what the title suggests.I guess I'll have E to wait for the next book :)
June 30, 2018
I definitely loved this better than Jesse and Sean's first story, Wolf and the Holly. This time Jesse and Sean are 'established couple' -- I wasn't happy with the instant-love in Wolf and the Holly -- plus there is more emotional situation with Sean after in the previous book.
I was happy also that Jesse faced his old fear () and I loved the additional introduction of the wolf teenagers coming to Rowan Harbor.
Bring on Fletcher's book :)
I was happy also that Jesse faced his old fear () and I loved the additional introduction of the wolf teenagers coming to Rowan Harbor.
Bring on Fletcher's book :)
June 2, 2019
So, I feel like these books are either 1) getting better 2) growing on me. I think it's #1 because with the second book I was ready to throw in the towel, but who knows. I'm a little weirded out by the fact that I keep reading books that when I think about it, I don't feel that excited about, but here I am reviewing the fifth book in the series. Clearly, something is keeping me engaged. I don't do hate reads.
Anyway, I liked the introduction of the teens. They felt like nice, fleshed out characters and I legitimately cared about them. Some of the townsfolk in this series tend to blend together for me, but the teens didn't. I liked that.
On the other hand, Jesse was repeatedly an epic idiot. While parts of me understood what he did, other parts of me were really irritated. What he did was not only A) dangerous to others, but also B) Unlikely to achieve his goal. While I don't like lying, I'm fairly good at being deceptive when I need to be, and what you don't do is be deceptive about things that are both harmful and likely to come out whatever you do. Then people will both be hurt, mad at you for letting them get hurt, and mad at you for lying. Sometimes lying can potentially get you out of trouble entirely, sometimes it can potentially minimize the trouble, and sometimes it can't even hypothetically help. If you're in the last situation, don't lie. It isn't even about the ethics of lying at that point, it's just not being stupid.
Anyway, I liked the introduction of the teens. They felt like nice, fleshed out characters and I legitimately cared about them. Some of the townsfolk in this series tend to blend together for me, but the teens didn't. I liked that.
On the other hand, Jesse was repeatedly an epic idiot. While parts of me understood what he did, other parts of me were really irritated. What he did was not only A) dangerous to others, but also B) Unlikely to achieve his goal. While I don't like lying, I'm fairly good at being deceptive when I need to be, and what you don't do is be deceptive about things that are both harmful and likely to come out whatever you do. Then people will both be hurt, mad at you for letting them get hurt, and mad at you for lying. Sometimes lying can potentially get you out of trouble entirely, sometimes it can potentially minimize the trouble, and sometimes it can't even hypothetically help. If you're in the last situation, don't lie. It isn't even about the ethics of lying at that point, it's just not being stupid.
October 25, 2020
Oh, Jesse, you do take on too much responsibility for things that are out of your control.
Loved seeing the development of the relationship between Jesse and Sean and that they have to work at things despite being mates.
The overall story takes a personal turn for Jesse and he had to learn to rely on his friends to get through it.
Didn't understand the significance of the stag. But loved what happened at the end.
Let's get more of Fletcher's story now. Please. I can't believe I've caught up.
Loved seeing the development of the relationship between Jesse and Sean and that they have to work at things despite being mates.
The overall story takes a personal turn for Jesse and he had to learn to rely on his friends to get through it.
Didn't understand the significance of the stag. But loved what happened at the end.
Let's get more of Fletcher's story now. Please. I can't believe I've caught up.
January 19, 2020
In this segment we get more of Jesse and Sean.
Sean is still in mourning with Jesse wishing he could help. We meet three new additions to Rowan Harbor and one may be linked to the threat hanging over the residents.
Jesse must also learn more about himself and pass his test.
Oh, and don’t believe werewolf movies.
Sean is still in mourning with Jesse wishing he could help. We meet three new additions to Rowan Harbor and one may be linked to the threat hanging over the residents.
Jesse must also learn more about himself and pass his test.
Oh, and don’t believe werewolf movies.
February 10, 2019
We're back with Jesse and Sean as the main couple of this installment in the Rowan Harbor Cycle series. Told in Jesse's single POV, he's got a lot on his plate with new werewolves in town, the mysterious bad guy getting closer to their end game, and worry about Sean. The series is continuing to provide a bigger picture and I'm 100% down for it all. On to book 6!
Note: The Rowan Harbor Cycle is a series of 9 books - a trilogy of trilogies. The main characters (Devon and Wade, Jesse and Sean, Fletcher and Conner) will have their own book in each trilogy with happy for now endings until the final trilogy where they will finally (hopefully) get their happily ever afters.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
Note: The Rowan Harbor Cycle is a series of 9 books - a trilogy of trilogies. The main characters (Devon and Wade, Jesse and Sean, Fletcher and Conner) will have their own book in each trilogy with happy for now endings until the final trilogy where they will finally (hopefully) get their happily ever afters.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
August 22, 2019
A leeeeeetle bit predictable
So this was a bit of a predictable outcome. Reminds me of when they say people project their moves before they make them? Kinda like that for me here... you kinda know what’s gonna happen later the moment something pops up.
But I like bits and pieces of this story so it got rounded up to 4 stars, especially the bit at the end ☺️ Jesse isn’t my favourite character in this series but he’s aight 🙃
So this was a bit of a predictable outcome. Reminds me of when they say people project their moves before they make them? Kinda like that for me here... you kinda know what’s gonna happen later the moment something pops up.
But I like bits and pieces of this story so it got rounded up to 4 stars, especially the bit at the end ☺️ Jesse isn’t my favourite character in this series but he’s aight 🙃
December 1, 2021
In this book we learn more about Jesse's past and more about what shaped his current outlook. We all have things in our past we must deal with that often affect our current actions. It is now time for Jesse to step up and become the alpha everyone knows he can be. I an still really enjoying this series!!
July 22, 2024
Reseña breve:
Quinta parte de esta saga pero segunda parte de la historia de Jesse y Sean. No ha estado mal pero como he dicho en otras reseñas, siento que esta saga le falta algo y se me hacen muy ligeras y muy poca profundidad las historias.
En fin, ha sido lindo y tierno. A por el siguiente.
Quinta parte de esta saga pero segunda parte de la historia de Jesse y Sean. No ha estado mal pero como he dicho en otras reseñas, siento que esta saga le falta algo y se me hacen muy ligeras y muy poca profundidad las historias.
En fin, ha sido lindo y tierno. A por el siguiente.
July 9, 2018
~ 4.5 Stars ~
I have had the pleasure of reviewing each of the books released in this series, and I haven’t been disappointed. Now, in book five, we are back into the second installment of Jesse and Sean’s story, although at this juncture, I feel it really should be described as Jesse’s story. Though there is more Sean than when their relationship began in Wolf and the Holly, the focus remains on Jesse. This time he is facing a threat he feels is his fault for bringing upon Rowan Harbor, while being there and trying to help Sean come to terms with his loss.
I really enjoy the slow buildup of the overall plot. Not much is given away in each new book, just enough to whet the appetite and let the reader (and the main characters) know there is something big on the horizon, and it is something that they will have to face or there will be a dire outcome. As with the other books, this one has Jesse facing a threat which leads to a conclusion but adds to the overall mystery. Stag and the Ash gives yet another clue as to the mysterious villain, and how certain other events were orchestrated in prior books in this series, but not enough to really understand who or why.
Though not fast-paced in divulging the overall plot arc, each book flows effortlessly, dragging me in and keeping me glued to the page. Told from Jesse’s perspective, we follow him as he navigates his new responsibilities and instincts as the town’s Alpha and protector. He is efficient and great in his role, yet he doesn’t see it. His internal dialogue shows his insecurities and how he thought he has tried to move on from his past, he still feels inadequate and that he is stumbling through it all.
His relationship with Sean is established, but there are still roadblocks between them that he has no clue how to handle. Sean’s grief has taken its toll on him, and his newly surfaced powers make him fearful of being in public. Jesse wants to help but doesn’t know how.
When three young werewolves enter town, with grief on their shoulders and hunger gnawing at their bellies, Jesse’s Alpha instincts kick in and he can’t turn a blind eye to them. Taking them in and helping them seems a no-brainer, but with a recent threat to the town discovered, he also knows it can’t be coincidence. Or can it? He doesn’t want to put the town at risk, but he also can’t be the type of person who turns away those so obviously in need. In the end, he decides to help them because they need it, and will keep an eye on them because he can’t overlook the threat to the town and the coincidence of their arrival.
Jesse comes off as brash to his friends, but he truly has a tender, caring heart. His truthfulness with the young werewolves was refreshing. He frequently compares himself to Devon and his mother and seems to feel he falls short when his strengths just differ. He tends to take on responsibility for other people’s actions and feels guilt for what others have done or things he could not have prevented. He fears what others will think of him or that he will lose them and blame him, so he lets all his feelings tear him up inside. But within the pages of this story, he finally learns what it means to be a part of the pack and that he doesn’t have to be a lone wolf, taking everything on himself. Though the path to get there has a few stumbling blocks along the way.
Though there is more of Sean in this second installment of their story, and their relationship is more solidified to me, Sean is still not quite what I consider to be a main character. He is Jesse’s partner, and Jesse obviously adores him, but he has yet to quite reach the level of connection as Wade—Devon’s partner—has for me, and I am still not sure what his part in the upcoming threat may be if he has a distinct role at all. That is starting to be okay with me, though. It was something that I struggled with in their last book (and also Fletcher’s book, with his romantic interest), but I’m beginning to see this series as paranormal/urban fantasy with romantic sub-plots rather than the paranormal romance I thought it would originally become. The romantic elements are there, they just aren’t necessarily the main focus, and often have a purpose, such as being a catalyst for the changes in the main characters and an anchor for them. If you are a reader who prefers lots of scenes that heat up the page with sexy times, you won’t get it here. Since the romance isn’t the focus in these books, there are very few steamy scenes, and even less with Jesse and Sean. Surprisingly, considering Sean’s supernatural genetics. There is only one mildly intimate moment shown on page, and that was to show progression of the relationship and plot more than anything else.
The one thing I did miss in this book was Oak; there wasn’t nearly enough of my favorite Dryad. I have grown really fond of them, and their uniqueness and wisdom, the innocence with maturity that they bring to the other characters. I’m hoping I’ll get more Oak time with the next book (Yay for more Fletcher!).
As I tend to point out in all my reviews of this series. These are not to be read as a stand-alone; it’s a trilogy of trilogies and there will be nine books in total. This one is book five, and the second of Jesse and Sean’s book. I highly recommend it, but if you haven’t read it before, definitely do not start here. Start at Blackbird and the Reeds and enjoy.
Reviewed by Lindsey for The Novel Approach
I have had the pleasure of reviewing each of the books released in this series, and I haven’t been disappointed. Now, in book five, we are back into the second installment of Jesse and Sean’s story, although at this juncture, I feel it really should be described as Jesse’s story. Though there is more Sean than when their relationship began in Wolf and the Holly, the focus remains on Jesse. This time he is facing a threat he feels is his fault for bringing upon Rowan Harbor, while being there and trying to help Sean come to terms with his loss.
I really enjoy the slow buildup of the overall plot. Not much is given away in each new book, just enough to whet the appetite and let the reader (and the main characters) know there is something big on the horizon, and it is something that they will have to face or there will be a dire outcome. As with the other books, this one has Jesse facing a threat which leads to a conclusion but adds to the overall mystery. Stag and the Ash gives yet another clue as to the mysterious villain, and how certain other events were orchestrated in prior books in this series, but not enough to really understand who or why.
Though not fast-paced in divulging the overall plot arc, each book flows effortlessly, dragging me in and keeping me glued to the page. Told from Jesse’s perspective, we follow him as he navigates his new responsibilities and instincts as the town’s Alpha and protector. He is efficient and great in his role, yet he doesn’t see it. His internal dialogue shows his insecurities and how he thought he has tried to move on from his past, he still feels inadequate and that he is stumbling through it all.
His relationship with Sean is established, but there are still roadblocks between them that he has no clue how to handle. Sean’s grief has taken its toll on him, and his newly surfaced powers make him fearful of being in public. Jesse wants to help but doesn’t know how.
When three young werewolves enter town, with grief on their shoulders and hunger gnawing at their bellies, Jesse’s Alpha instincts kick in and he can’t turn a blind eye to them. Taking them in and helping them seems a no-brainer, but with a recent threat to the town discovered, he also knows it can’t be coincidence. Or can it? He doesn’t want to put the town at risk, but he also can’t be the type of person who turns away those so obviously in need. In the end, he decides to help them because they need it, and will keep an eye on them because he can’t overlook the threat to the town and the coincidence of their arrival.
Jesse comes off as brash to his friends, but he truly has a tender, caring heart. His truthfulness with the young werewolves was refreshing. He frequently compares himself to Devon and his mother and seems to feel he falls short when his strengths just differ. He tends to take on responsibility for other people’s actions and feels guilt for what others have done or things he could not have prevented. He fears what others will think of him or that he will lose them and blame him, so he lets all his feelings tear him up inside. But within the pages of this story, he finally learns what it means to be a part of the pack and that he doesn’t have to be a lone wolf, taking everything on himself. Though the path to get there has a few stumbling blocks along the way.
Though there is more of Sean in this second installment of their story, and their relationship is more solidified to me, Sean is still not quite what I consider to be a main character. He is Jesse’s partner, and Jesse obviously adores him, but he has yet to quite reach the level of connection as Wade—Devon’s partner—has for me, and I am still not sure what his part in the upcoming threat may be if he has a distinct role at all. That is starting to be okay with me, though. It was something that I struggled with in their last book (and also Fletcher’s book, with his romantic interest), but I’m beginning to see this series as paranormal/urban fantasy with romantic sub-plots rather than the paranormal romance I thought it would originally become. The romantic elements are there, they just aren’t necessarily the main focus, and often have a purpose, such as being a catalyst for the changes in the main characters and an anchor for them. If you are a reader who prefers lots of scenes that heat up the page with sexy times, you won’t get it here. Since the romance isn’t the focus in these books, there are very few steamy scenes, and even less with Jesse and Sean. Surprisingly, considering Sean’s supernatural genetics. There is only one mildly intimate moment shown on page, and that was to show progression of the relationship and plot more than anything else.
The one thing I did miss in this book was Oak; there wasn’t nearly enough of my favorite Dryad. I have grown really fond of them, and their uniqueness and wisdom, the innocence with maturity that they bring to the other characters. I’m hoping I’ll get more Oak time with the next book (Yay for more Fletcher!).
As I tend to point out in all my reviews of this series. These are not to be read as a stand-alone; it’s a trilogy of trilogies and there will be nine books in total. This one is book five, and the second of Jesse and Sean’s book. I highly recommend it, but if you haven’t read it before, definitely do not start here. Start at Blackbird and the Reeds and enjoy.
Reviewed by Lindsey for The Novel Approach
July 8, 2018
4.5 Stars!
Stag and the Ash is book 5 in the Rowan Harbor Cycle series, which needs to be read in order as it follows an ongoing storyline.
Jesse has been one of my favorite characters in the series ever since we met him in Blackbird in the Reeds, he's fun and sweet and really came into his own in this installment. Yes, he had a few missteps along the way, but he had his heart and his mate, pack and town's best interests in mind. And boy, poor guy had his work cut out for him in this book with Madison, Anthony and especially Josh. I loved him and Sean and how caring and loving Josh was with him, mindful that Sean had just lost his mother and allowing him the time and space to grieve her. It was so fun to see Wade and Jesse interact, Wade is so serious and Jesse is so fun-loving, one would never believe they were brothers. I also loved that Jesse got to confront one of the monsters of his past and finally move on from that.
As always, I just adore the town and all its people and how they all rally around to help each other when needed.
Overall, the book started off a bit slow, but it picked speed around the halfway mark and from then on, I couldn't put it down. It was a great addition to the series and I can't wait for the next book! Very recommendable!
*** copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Stag and the Ash is book 5 in the Rowan Harbor Cycle series, which needs to be read in order as it follows an ongoing storyline.
Jesse has been one of my favorite characters in the series ever since we met him in Blackbird in the Reeds, he's fun and sweet and really came into his own in this installment. Yes, he had a few missteps along the way, but he had his heart and his mate, pack and town's best interests in mind. And boy, poor guy had his work cut out for him in this book with Madison, Anthony and especially Josh. I loved him and Sean and how caring and loving Josh was with him, mindful that Sean had just lost his mother and allowing him the time and space to grieve her. It was so fun to see Wade and Jesse interact, Wade is so serious and Jesse is so fun-loving, one would never believe they were brothers. I also loved that Jesse got to confront one of the monsters of his past and finally move on from that.
As always, I just adore the town and all its people and how they all rally around to help each other when needed.
Overall, the book started off a bit slow, but it picked speed around the halfway mark and from then on, I couldn't put it down. It was a great addition to the series and I can't wait for the next book! Very recommendable!
*** copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
July 12, 2018
*~~*ARC kindly provided by the author to me in exchange for an honest review *~~*
Reading a new installment of the Rowan Harbor Cycle is always a great joy and I can't wait to smash myself into it. :3
This book centeres Jesse and with his POV there's more insight of his new duties as the alpha of his pack.
Continuing the events of the former books, there is a new direction with the arrival of three young people who have lost their home and their families.
It was really emotional to read about their loss and the reason for it, how it is connected to Jesse's past and what it means for the residents in Rowan Harbor.
There is also a change in the relationship between Jesse and Sam but actually not this much as I hoped for. It's sweet how they are together but a few more domestic bliss would have been cute. But as the events are, it wasn't possible and so I hope they have soon all the time to settle down a bit.
The series never gets boring and with each book in the series you get more pieces together to see the whole picture. :) 5 out of 5 stars for this amazing book in this uniquially set series. :)
Review originally posted on my blog with added content Mikku-chan / A world full of words
Reading a new installment of the Rowan Harbor Cycle is always a great joy and I can't wait to smash myself into it. :3
This book centeres Jesse and with his POV there's more insight of his new duties as the alpha of his pack.
Continuing the events of the former books, there is a new direction with the arrival of three young people who have lost their home and their families.
It was really emotional to read about their loss and the reason for it, how it is connected to Jesse's past and what it means for the residents in Rowan Harbor.
There is also a change in the relationship between Jesse and Sam but actually not this much as I hoped for. It's sweet how they are together but a few more domestic bliss would have been cute. But as the events are, it wasn't possible and so I hope they have soon all the time to settle down a bit.
The series never gets boring and with each book in the series you get more pieces together to see the whole picture. :) 5 out of 5 stars for this amazing book in this uniquially set series. :)
Review originally posted on my blog with added content Mikku-chan / A world full of words
May 2, 2025
Ooooh this was a really good installment. Sean is still grieving for him mother and Jesse is doing everything he can to take care of things and give Sean the space he needs. But word is that a new threat is on the way. Jesse may have been pushed to step into the alpha role, but it hasn't really felt like it fit his skin yet. Three kids showing up in town though, all werewolves, and clearly at the end of their rope mean that he's got to step up. Of course it still feels like too much of a coincidence considering the threat they're all under.
I love Sean and Jesse together as a couple. They have such patience with each other, but are just so sweet. Jesse is a better alpha than he gives himself credit for and ready or not he's stepping up admirably. His past has come back around and it scares him, scares him that it might upset his relationship with Sean when he finds out about it all. But the danger is real and together they'll have to face things.
Really enjoying this series. Can't wait to read the next installment.
I love Sean and Jesse together as a couple. They have such patience with each other, but are just so sweet. Jesse is a better alpha than he gives himself credit for and ready or not he's stepping up admirably. His past has come back around and it scares him, scares him that it might upset his relationship with Sean when he finds out about it all. But the danger is real and together they'll have to face things.
Really enjoying this series. Can't wait to read the next installment.
September 10, 2019
I don't what it is about this series but I'm so in love. It's the characters. Each so distinctive but the whole town is a family. All different paranormal wanting to live in peace and harmony. This was such a good story because Jesse has doubted himself for so long. He still does. His ex did a number on him. But he's getting better. He's accepting his role of where he belongs and he's growing. Changing. And with Sean he knows he has all the support he needs. Such a good story.
December 18, 2021
The threat continues
Jesse is the target this time when his past resurfaces. Still we do not know who the boss is and why they hunt the people of Rowan Harbor. Great reading!
Jesse is the target this time when his past resurfaces. Still we do not know who the boss is and why they hunt the people of Rowan Harbor. Great reading!
September 6, 2021
In Stag and Ash we are back to Jesse's point of view. He is stepping up and accepting his role as alpha and council member. A life changing event happened to his mate Sean in the last book and they are dealing with the fallout from that in this book. There are several new characters and I look forward to seeing how they fit into Rowan Harbor. Although we learn early on who one of the bad guys in this story is, I was still surprised. The big bad is still out there, so there are more dangerous times ahead. On to Fletcher's second book!
March 2, 2021
As much as I'm loving this series overall, this installment was a little shaky for me.
If you've read this far into the series then you already know about the ongoing storyline and how awesome it is. You're already familiar with Jesse and Sean, too, but something felt off. I can 100% believe how each man is feeling and why. Lots happened in the last book and they are left to deal with the fallout. What I did not understand was the choice to keep them both silent, and therefore guessing at what the other one was dealing with. Open communication and the truth have been the cornerstone of this authors writing, in all things. Her characters have confessed and admitted all kinds of things when the stereotypical thing was to have them hide it in favor of conflict down the road. And maybe this was the author shaking things up by doing the common thing this time around. It was enough to pull me out of the story for a while, even though the actions and reactions were reasonably understandable.
The storyline with the newcomers was extremely interesting, and it was great to see the main characters brainstorming this threat to their town. Oak is always a treat. And watching Jesse build confidence as alpha was nice. He's much better with people than he gives himself credit for. I'm not sure how I feel about the bad guy. Convenient for now, more personally specific to Jesse than the town, but I'm hoping we're working up to something much bigger.
If you've read this far into the series then you already know about the ongoing storyline and how awesome it is. You're already familiar with Jesse and Sean, too, but something felt off. I can 100% believe how each man is feeling and why. Lots happened in the last book and they are left to deal with the fallout. What I did not understand was the choice to keep them both silent, and therefore guessing at what the other one was dealing with. Open communication and the truth have been the cornerstone of this authors writing, in all things. Her characters have confessed and admitted all kinds of things when the stereotypical thing was to have them hide it in favor of conflict down the road. And maybe this was the author shaking things up by doing the common thing this time around. It was enough to pull me out of the story for a while, even though the actions and reactions were reasonably understandable.
The storyline with the newcomers was extremely interesting, and it was great to see the main characters brainstorming this threat to their town. Oak is always a treat. And watching Jesse build confidence as alpha was nice. He's much better with people than he gives himself credit for. I'm not sure how I feel about the bad guy. Convenient for now, more personally specific to Jesse than the town, but I'm hoping we're working up to something much bigger.
July 6, 2018
4 out of 5 stars
Description ~
Jesse Hunter is finally trying to be an adult, but still feels like an act. His place on the town council is a sham. He’s rarely called on to do anything. His boyfriend is grieving the loss of his mother, and while everyone seems to think he’s doing a great job caring for Sean, Jesse feels like he’s more of a distraction than a real help.
March is shaping up to be a bad month. First, random chance leads him to the realization that the town’s recent trouble is his fault. Then new werewolves come into town, and it turns out they’re also Jesse’s responsibility. He feels like he may be at his breaking point, and he doesn’t want to drag his friends and loved ones down with him. But how will he handle it alone?
My Review ~
Stag and the Ash is the 5th book in the Rowan Harbor Cycle and continues Jesse and Sean's story. This story is intricately tied with the rest of the books, so it really is best to read them in order as they are leading to a final conclusion for all the couples and the storyline.
I have to admit that the first part of Jesse and Sean's story was just okay for me. However Stag and the Ash was a much better story for both characters. I do still feel that there is a lot missing from Sean's story though, and I hope that the author has plans to delve into who he is a bit more. Unfortunately the way these stories are set up sharing too much of the plot will give major spoilers so I have to keep most of the story vague. I'm a firm believer in that some stories need to be read to be fully experienced, and urban fantasy stories like this series really fall into that group.
There is so much subtle myth and mythology, along with paranormal lore, tossed in with basic tenets of paganism/wicca that these are the kind of stories that I absolutely love to read. There isn't a true slow part to any of the stories in this series. There is a lot of information and a lot of people/place and action/reaction that really flesh out this series, so far. I don't see that changing in the remaining books. As I said above though, this is really a series you need to read in order to get the full effect of what is developing with both the characters, the plot, and the surrounding storyline.
I highly recommend this book and this entire series to those that love a good urban fantasy read with a large ensemble cast.
Description ~
Jesse Hunter is finally trying to be an adult, but still feels like an act. His place on the town council is a sham. He’s rarely called on to do anything. His boyfriend is grieving the loss of his mother, and while everyone seems to think he’s doing a great job caring for Sean, Jesse feels like he’s more of a distraction than a real help.
March is shaping up to be a bad month. First, random chance leads him to the realization that the town’s recent trouble is his fault. Then new werewolves come into town, and it turns out they’re also Jesse’s responsibility. He feels like he may be at his breaking point, and he doesn’t want to drag his friends and loved ones down with him. But how will he handle it alone?
My Review ~
Stag and the Ash is the 5th book in the Rowan Harbor Cycle and continues Jesse and Sean's story. This story is intricately tied with the rest of the books, so it really is best to read them in order as they are leading to a final conclusion for all the couples and the storyline.
I have to admit that the first part of Jesse and Sean's story was just okay for me. However Stag and the Ash was a much better story for both characters. I do still feel that there is a lot missing from Sean's story though, and I hope that the author has plans to delve into who he is a bit more. Unfortunately the way these stories are set up sharing too much of the plot will give major spoilers so I have to keep most of the story vague. I'm a firm believer in that some stories need to be read to be fully experienced, and urban fantasy stories like this series really fall into that group.
There is so much subtle myth and mythology, along with paranormal lore, tossed in with basic tenets of paganism/wicca that these are the kind of stories that I absolutely love to read. There isn't a true slow part to any of the stories in this series. There is a lot of information and a lot of people/place and action/reaction that really flesh out this series, so far. I don't see that changing in the remaining books. As I said above though, this is really a series you need to read in order to get the full effect of what is developing with both the characters, the plot, and the surrounding storyline.
I highly recommend this book and this entire series to those that love a good urban fantasy read with a large ensemble cast.
January 4, 2019
I am in love with this series. I love the world the author created and I love all these silly and brave people in Rowan Harbor.
But it is also difficult not to see the flaws in the "trilogy of trilogies". The first three books were great, full of surprises, interesting style, great worldbuilding, very enjoyable romance (although these books were more about personal growth of the MCs than about the romance).
The following three books (I have read them in the wrong order, oops) are ... average? I am still insterested in what happened to the characters. I finally got the romance which was in somewhat short supply in the previous three books. However, the books are losing what felt special about them. Is it me? It it the curse of the second volume?
What annoys me most is the inconsistency. In book 3, Fletcher says he knows he is, as far as parents are concerned, the ideal boyfriend. In book 6 he struggles to impress his boyfriend's parents. Ha, so he does not believe in his parent-impressing skills after all? There are also many less important things which mar the enjoyment (and re-reading - yes, I am so much in love).
Perhaps my problem is that I want this to be more that it can be. I am going to finish this series and hope that it will get out of the swamp.
But it is also difficult not to see the flaws in the "trilogy of trilogies". The first three books were great, full of surprises, interesting style, great worldbuilding, very enjoyable romance (although these books were more about personal growth of the MCs than about the romance).
The following three books (I have read them in the wrong order, oops) are ... average? I am still insterested in what happened to the characters. I finally got the romance which was in somewhat short supply in the previous three books. However, the books are losing what felt special about them. Is it me? It it the curse of the second volume?
What annoys me most is the inconsistency. In book 3, Fletcher says he knows he is, as far as parents are concerned, the ideal boyfriend. In book 6 he struggles to impress his boyfriend's parents. Ha, so he does not believe in his parent-impressing skills after all? There are also many less important things which mar the enjoyment (and re-reading - yes, I am so much in love).
Perhaps my problem is that I want this to be more that it can be. I am going to finish this series and hope that it will get out of the swamp.
July 6, 2021
Stag and Ash shows that Jesse hasn't conquered all his demons yet. While he's now at peace with his role as town protector, he risks overburdening himself by taking responsibility for tragedies he couldn't have helped, which takes another stab at his fragile self-esteem.
That isn't to say there is no progress. While struggling internally, Jesse does reach out to his circle of friends. His relationship with Sean is going strong, although reading their romance makes me feel like I skipped chapters. (When did the two fall in love? More importantly, how?) Sean is a ray of sunshine, but I still know very little about him, aside from what he looks like. Jesse and Sean are unfortunately the least developed couple in the series so far. Still waiting for that to be fixed.
As far as the mystery in this story goes, I guessed the culprit. The book gives itself away, to be honest. There weren't a lot of surprises, but a pleasant development was being in Jesse's head when he was a wolf. Let me just say: very adorable. Would subscribe to more cute wolf content.
I still don't like being in Jesse's head. I don't know if it's the angst or his character, but it's just not a fun time. Still love how much he loves Devon. #Bromance takes the cake.
That isn't to say there is no progress. While struggling internally, Jesse does reach out to his circle of friends. His relationship with Sean is going strong, although reading their romance makes me feel like I skipped chapters. (When did the two fall in love? More importantly, how?) Sean is a ray of sunshine, but I still know very little about him, aside from what he looks like. Jesse and Sean are unfortunately the least developed couple in the series so far. Still waiting for that to be fixed.
As far as the mystery in this story goes, I guessed the culprit. The book gives itself away, to be honest. There weren't a lot of surprises, but a pleasant development was being in Jesse's head when he was a wolf. Let me just say: very adorable. Would subscribe to more cute wolf content.
I still don't like being in Jesse's head. I don't know if it's the angst or his character, but it's just not a fun time. Still love how much he loves Devon. #Bromance takes the cake.
November 4, 2019
This is Jesse's story
Now I'm starting to wonder why the author throws sex scenes into these things. They could be perfectly good stories for a broader audience with no sex. Most of the stories in the cycle so far only have one sex scene.
I liked this story about Jesse confronting his past weakness and realizing that's not him anymore. The ending could've been better. This book was more cerebral than action-oriented.
Now, the romance element: Jesse and Sean get closer, in a way, but I think the piecemeal approach to following a relationship is depriving me of the bits I enjoy most about romance stories. We aren't really getting an opportunity to get to know the protagonists' partners. We aren't learning what they like about each other beyond how good looking they find each other. There is no feeling that these particular people are better together than they'd be with anyone else.
I feel like Jesse could be with Connor and Devon could be with Sean. Wade could be with Fletcher and everyone would be just as happy if not more so.
Now I'm starting to wonder why the author throws sex scenes into these things. They could be perfectly good stories for a broader audience with no sex. Most of the stories in the cycle so far only have one sex scene.
I liked this story about Jesse confronting his past weakness and realizing that's not him anymore. The ending could've been better. This book was more cerebral than action-oriented.
Now, the romance element: Jesse and Sean get closer, in a way, but I think the piecemeal approach to following a relationship is depriving me of the bits I enjoy most about romance stories. We aren't really getting an opportunity to get to know the protagonists' partners. We aren't learning what they like about each other beyond how good looking they find each other. There is no feeling that these particular people are better together than they'd be with anyone else.
I feel like Jesse could be with Connor and Devon could be with Sean. Wade could be with Fletcher and everyone would be just as happy if not more so.
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