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Ancient Ink #2

Healer's Need

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When the hunter is your mate, being prey is anything but terrifying

Coyote shifter Tate Allen has been watching. Learning his mate every possible way before he moves in. Protecting her through the night, always from afar.

He’ll be the one to teach her about her gifts. He’ll be there when she changes for the first time.

With him, she’ll fulfill her destiny.

Elise Ralston loves Tate for the patience he’s shown. The faith he’s demonstrated—denying himself what he needs sexually, even as he teaches her about pleasure.

For Tate, Elise is willing to try. To revel in touch, to give him control…and to embrace her healer’s need.

But someone unknown is still stalking the clan, threatening more than Tate and Elise’s bond. And Elise is a prime target—precious for the magic she hasn’t even learned yet.

This book is approximately 102,000 words

400 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published October 30, 2018

28 people are currently reading
200 people want to read

About the author

Rhenna Morgan

29 books1,067 followers
A native Oklahoman with two beautiful girls, Rhenna Morgan is a certified romance junkie and has a resume that reflects her passion for new experiences. Since graduating with a Bachelors in Radio, Television, and Film at Oklahoma State, she’s racked up positions ranging from on-air radio talent, skip tracer, and promotions director, to real estate agent, project manager, and business analyst.

Like most women, she’s got obligations stacked tight from dawn to dusk. To combat the crush of reality, she’s turned to romance as her primary source of escape ever since she cracked the spine on her first Christine Feehan book years ago. Whether it’s contemporary, paranormal, or fantasy you’re after, Rhenna’s stories pack new, exciting worlds, and strong, intuitive men who fight to keep the women they want.

For advance release news and exclusive content, sign up for her newsletter at http://RhennaMorgan.com. You can also find her social media links there, along with her smoking hot inspiration boards.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
Profile Image for Carol [Goodreads Addict].
3,028 reviews25.3k followers
October 6, 2018
Healer’s Need is book two in the Ancient Ink series by Rhenna Morgan. Where I really enjoyed the first book in this series, Guardian’s Bond, I loved this one. Each of these books is about a different couple but there is a story line that runs through them both. That is brought to a conclusion at the end of this book. I asked the author if there were going to be further books in this series and she said it was possible in the very distant future. But for now, we could consider this a duet.

A lovely merman.

Tate Allen! Oh Tate! I loved this coyote shifter. In the Volan race, the male knows immediately when he finds his mate. It is up to him to woo the female. She chooses whether or not to accept him. He has found his mate. But she is an innocent. She is new to their culture, their customs. But he can’t stand to be far from her. So he protects her from a distance. But he is always near, she just doesn’t realize it.

mountain coyote

Elise Ralston’s mother didn’t accept her gifts, but she always regretted it. She has told her daughter for years about the clan she would someday be a part of, of the magic that she would come into. But Elise never really believed it, until they moved to Eureka Springs and she saw it for herself. They tell her they believe she will be a healer when she accepts her gift. But no one knows for sure. Then there is Tate. Elise has no experience with men at all. She was bullied as a child and withdrew from social situations. But something about Tate calms her. He is awakening something inside her she didn’t even know was there.

“Say yes, mihara. Say you’ll come with me tomorrow. One day at a time, say you’ll take a chance and stay in this with me.”



Tate is so patient with Elise. He treats her like glass. They slowly get to know each other, have their first date, their first kiss. They start to get to know each other’s bodies. The build is slow but the heat in this book is scorching. Tate has all the words, ladies. The things he whispers into her ear!

holding each other

I loved watching Elise awaken. And after she does receive her gifts, she is amazing. She is no longer the sweet little Elise. She is a strong woman who has earned her place in this clan and beside her mate.

All while this is happening, they are still in danger of Priest’s evil brother, Draven. They are using every resource available to find him and stop him.

cabin

I loved this book. For me, it was mostly a love story. It was amazing watching Elise and Tate grow together as mates. But as I said, there is darkness waiting outside of their little bubble. Draven wants the power, all of it. Will he get it or will they find him and stop him before it’s too late?

“I’m yours.
All mine.
Only mine.”


For more about this book and so many more, come and join me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/44036...

Profile Image for Astrid - The Bookish Sweet Tooth.
796 reviews918 followers
October 26, 2018


READ MY REVIEW ON THE BLOG





Healer's Need connects directly to where Guardian's Bond ended. I don't recommend to read this installment as a standalone - the world building happens in the first book and you feel like you're missing vital information if you forgo reading Guardian's Bond.

At the end of the first installment we were left with Priest's evil brother escaping the clan's effort to neutralize him and Tate meeting his fated mate. As always in such stories the romance is pretty insta and I don't have an issue with that but of course this goes at the expense of relationship development. Such relationships just are - whether you understand it or not. In comparison, I liked Katy and Priest's relationship better because Katy didn't just accept it while Elise just took it as a fact.
Clean slate. Clean slate. Clean slate. She didn’t have to be something she wasn’t. Didn’t have to hide what she thought, or what she looked like to fit in. Not here. Not this time.

Elise was an innocent girl, a little too nice and bland for my taste and she didn't really convince me that she had what it took to lead the healer group of their clan. Granted she didn't have much self confidence but she let people take that away from her and I was only partially convinced that she reclaimed it. I loved her animal companion but also found her soul quest a little lame. Tate was a sweet man who gave Elise time and room to come into her own. He displayed the usual protective/possessive behavior we know from these alpha males and I totally got why a woman would fall in love with him.
She’s everything I never knew I wanted in a woman. Curves everywhere. Sexy as fuck, but in a way that’s so innocent all I want to do is dirty her up.

We are reunited with Priest and Katy and that was actually my highlight of the book which was a little slow in the first half. The pace picks up considerably in the second half and we get a showdown that could have had a little more action and tension.

While this one was a little disappointing for this reader many readers, especially lovers of shapeshifter romance will love Healer's Need, so please take my review, as always, with a grain of salt!

Profile Image for Mindy Lou's Book Review.
3,001 reviews799 followers
September 29, 2018
Healer's Need is the second book in the Ancient Ink series and I would suggest reading book one first. You learn everything you need to know about the clans and their history. This also picks up right where it left off in book 1.

In Healer's Need we get Elise and Tate's story. Well, it felt more like Elise's story with Tate guiding her along. Tate realizes in the beginning that there is a past trauma that Elise guards herself from which has him taking things very slowly with her.

As we learned in book two, the males recognize their mates in an instant but the women do not. Its a great mix of instant love and a slow burn love. It's instant for the male but he has to gain the love and trust from their mates to form the mate bond.

While Tate is taking things slow, it in no way means there is lack of heat for these two. In fact, I feel like the heat was on high because Tate had to constantly restrain himself. It was pretty hot.

I also really like how Tate supported her completely. When you have a heroine that has some insecurities, there is nothing better than a hero who will do anything to protect her and bring her out of her shell.

I was a bit surprised with the ending, which I won't talk about and spoil. It just makes me really curious where the author is taking this series next. I'm not even sure who will be the next couple. I like that we are left with no hints and look forward to the next installment. ARC provided by NetGalley.

Profile Image for Carvanz.
2,379 reviews896 followers
October 22, 2018
Wow, what a beautifully written story filled with so much depth and emotion. I never anticipated feeling such a connection to these characters.

I enjoyed Elise’s journey from vulnerable and innocent to fully capable and confident. Even as she experienced her soul quest I cried at the pain, the beauty, the healing that comes from choosing to let go of the past and embrace a different way. How one decision can change the outcome in so many ways. It moved me in a way I would have never expected.

Tate was the epitome of an alpha male hero. His sole focus was always on Elise. He exhibited all the alpha traits of jealousy, though there was really no reason to be jealous except if someone happened to look at Elise, possessiveness and overall protectiveness…even from his base desires. And yet that too gave me an opportunity to witness Elise’s transformation as she proves to him she is his perfect mate in every way.

The pacing here is slower, the story all the richer for it. The chemistry between the hero and heroine perfectly perfect causing the heat level to reach volcanic proportions. I loved that despite their intense desire, this couple did not fast forward into consummating their relationship. There really wasn’t much drama here, despite the background this clan has and the danger lurking, and this story is centered mostly on Elise and with her, Tate.

It’s been some time since I read the first book, Guardian’s Bond, and with the slew of books I’ve read between then and now I simply could not remember all the details of the events that led to the opening of this story. That caused a bit of trouble for me and leads me to advice readers to read the first book of the series prior to this one.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by NetGalley and Carina Press. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Profile Image for Mikky.
971 reviews275 followers
July 26, 2021
I'm not even going to bother with a "formal" review on my blog for this book. I'm that fed up with it. I read the first book in this series a while ago and felt really meh about it all. Fast forward a few years (?) and I came back to it. I didn't really remember what was so wrong with it that I never picked up the next book and I was desperate for an audio book to listen to. Oh, boy was I in for an annoying read.

This started off fine. Great, actually! The story moved at a good pace, the characters were interesting enough to make the time pass and the narrator was my favorite of all time: Nicole Poole!! That was the first half. The second half dragged on and on and on. The story just didn't hold my attention and what was there was making me have all the regrets about starting the book in the first place.

Frankly, I'm glad that it finally ended. Even if there are future books planned for the series I don't want to ever go near them. This series is clearly not for me. Even an amazing narrator couldn't make it palatable for me.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
2,512 reviews86 followers
October 6, 2018
ARC received for review

I read Ms. Morgan's Men of Haven series and loved it, so when I saw this one I requested it. And no I haven't read the first one.

I was a little lost at times since most of the back story appears to happen in book 1, but there was plenty of intrigue, chemistry, and family to keep this one interesting. Tate and Elise are mates, but only Tate knows that. I liked how he took his time and didn't force it on her, nor did he go caveman and tell her she had to mate him.

I look forward to future books in this series, and hopefully read the first one sometime when the price isn't over my self imposed e-book limit.
Profile Image for Treena.
1,343 reviews83 followers
August 29, 2018
Thank you to Carina Press and NetGalley for granting my request for an ARC of this book. The review below is purely my own opinion.

This story picks up right after where book 1 ends. But since it's been awhile since Guardian's Bond came out, I found myself pausing my read of this book for a bit, just to skim the last few chapters of book 1 to refresh my memory.

The H: Tate is Priest's ward, "brother" to Jade. His companion is a mountain coyote.

The h: Elise and her mom Jenny have just moved to the area and is just getting used to living amongst other Volcans. She never believed her mom's stories and so everything is very, very new to her.

Here's why I really enjoyed this book:

> As I mentioned in my review of book 1, I really like the different take on shifters. Each Volcan must undergo a quest to accept their gifts and their animal companion. Or like Jenny, Elise’s mom, they can refuse the quest and live as a "human".

> I liked that both Tate and Elise go through a journey --- they both grow and bloom, bringing out the best in each other.

> AND if you like stories with a protective, powerful alpha hero, then this is the book for you. Tate is growly hot. He is yummy! I love how he was so protective of Elise but so sweet to her too.

> Lastly, I said that book 1 felt like it was more of Priest's story --- but this one, book 2, is definitely more of Elise's. I loved her. She's so cool! I think after you finish reading, you'll love her too.

Can't wait for book 3!
Profile Image for Cherie.
277 reviews5 followers
September 5, 2018
New to clan life, Elise learns to overcome her insecurities with Tate's guidance. Tate is extremely gentle and patient while guiding his mate to her rightful place within the clan. Drama within the clan tests the strength of their bonds but with the help of their companions, they are able to right a decades old wrong. Rhenna Morgan has created an interesting world that I am hoping to see more of in the future. Her stories can make you laugh and cry and have you fanning yourself all within a few pages. Healer's Need is the follow up to Guardian's Bond, it can be read alone but best if you read Guardian's Bond first.
Profile Image for Karen Roma.
2,762 reviews33 followers
September 21, 2018
While some series claim that the books can be read as standalones, I would definitely recommend reading the Ancient Ink books in order. This will ensure that the reader fully understands the intricate world building and idiosyncrasies of the unique society of shifters.
 
HEALER’S NEED is the second book in the series and Tate and Elise take an interesting journey to finding their eventual HEA. While there is always an element of danger and mayhem when evil is at play, this is a fabulous story of two people destined to be together, but also trying to maintain some semblance of individuality too. I really enjoyed account of Elise’s personal growth, and realising that the love of a committed mate would only enhanced her inner strength. Tate is a true warrior, but his tender heart allows him to support his mate through good and bad.
 
Another great story that is complex, but all consuming, with action, emotion and a connection so intense it simply can’t be denied. Ms Morgan has the ability to capture the reader’s attention and hold it throughout the entire book. I can’t wait for what comes next!
Profile Image for Jewlsbookblog.
2,209 reviews74 followers
August 19, 2018
Rhenna, you have blown my expectations out of the water with Tate and Elise’s story!
I could go on about the great characters, the family dynamics with clan interactions, how I got a kick out of the ribbing Tate was taking from his friends over Elise, and how much I loved the fantastic romance and sizzling attraction between Tate and Elise. Instead, I want to say what surprised-and delighted-me most was the personal journey Elise took. It was pretty powerful stuff and made a bigger statement than anything else could! I am doubly glad you found new happy in your life ;D

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Eva Millien.
3,115 reviews45 followers
October 29, 2018
Healer’s Need is a fascinating and wonderfully unique shifter romance full of bold, convincing characters that seize readers by their imaginations and refuse to let go. The characters are bold but Elise may not end up being some readers’ favorite because of her shyness and insecurity which stems from childhood issues but Tate and Elise has some rocking chemistry that sets senses aflame as Elise works through those emotional obstacles and takes her place among the clan and building a relationship with Tate which has quite a bit of heated passion and lots of sweetness as Tate courts his mate.

The plot has a steady build up with a magnetic pull that keeps readers glued to the pages with lots of thrilling suspense and excitement with an adrenaline pumping climax. There are twists and turns throughout and while some of the suspense takes place in the relationship between Tate and Elise, the story also builds intrigue regarding their enemy and the steps the clan is taking to find him. The author has created a fascinating world with some creative and unique elements that make for an ideal change regarding shifter romances. Readers love how the characters receive their beasts through a “Soul Quest” and how the author integrated the tattoos as part of their magic and culture. This book can be read as a standalone, but to receive maximum enjoyment and understanding, they should be read in sequential order.
Profile Image for Lover of Romance.
3,712 reviews1,122 followers
October 17, 2018
This review was originally posted on Addicted To RomanceI received this book for free from Carina Press in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Healer's Need is the second book of the latest series by Rhenna Morgan...Ancient Ink. The first book "Guardian's Bond" was spectacular and I was so thrilled to my toes excited when I received the ARC of Healer's Need. Rhenna Morgan is one of those authors that I adore and I always get a kick out of her writings. Her books always seem to be so easy to connect with and Healer's Need was everything I expected and more. It continues the series and the plot that Guardian's Bond left us with. I will say that this book I read WAY too quickly. Its one of those type of books you literally read too fast and regret and makes you want to re read it again because you breezed ways too fast through and these are the books that I remember the most. And I have a feeling this book will stay with me for a long while.

Our tale begins with Tate Allen who works at the Tattoo Parlor and has a coyote as his companion. He knows that Elise is his mate, but is being patient. Wanting to give her time and to learn her but its now past time that he make his desires known to her and win her heart. He knows that it won't be easy, that she is gentle and kind hearted and will need time to accept their bond, but he is willing to wait as long as it takes to win her heart and trust. Elise is new to this world and the risks and beauty of the knowledge that she has learned. She knows that she will be learning new things and it frightens her at times. But she also knows that this is an opportunity for a change, to let the past go and her shy character and become more. She wants something different for herself and she never expected that Tate would want her like he does or that she would find her true gift and calling as a destiny of one of the most powerful healers.

At first Elise doesn't know what to make of her new destiny or the man that will become her mate, all she knows how much feeling he brings out in her and this new taste of freedom and excitement. She knows that there is a dangerous enemy out there, but she also is learning to rely on her instincts. At first she is very curious about Tate and what she feels for him. It frightens her in a way but also excites her. He brings out emotions and a physical reaction she isn't used to but she embraces every new experience. Tate is very powerful in his own right, and isn't afraid of going after what he wants which is Elise in every way. But he also understands her and is honest with her about his desires. But there is a dangerous enemy that wants to destroy them but Elise and Tate working together will find their own power and security within the clan.

This was such a edge of your seat type of read, and I had a blast with this book. Such a page turner...my goodness...I have a love hate relationship with Rhenna Morgan because seriously I read her books way too quickly hehe I love her so but dang it I wanted to just enjoy the moment...but no I pick this book up and two hours later, I am done fully satisfied but still wanting the moments to last longer.

So this book is a fated mates romance, so this might not work for everyone. However, I love a well written fated mates and Morgan really writes this so well so that it slowly builds and doesn't have that too rushed in love feel to it. It really is written in such a way that the flow is smooth and flawless and we see the slow build in emotion and chemistry between this pair. Now I would like to warn you ...the sex is HOT!! I always forget how steamy her scenes can be. But I love it at the same time because these scenes really build on the intimacy between her couples and I felt it really integrated between Tate and Elise.
Only wisdom learned through time allows us to change our responses. The pain of the past is what makes us who we are.

The plot of the story really escalates from the previous book, and the twists and a few surprises along the way that we see are quite thrilling. I loved how on edge this book put me and I never wanted it to end. We see the plot build up to its climax and its pretty powerful. Elise's character really surprised me the most in this book. She has that silent strength that we don't see to much in this genre. I loved the way she grows within herself, learning and challenging herself but also never losing that gentle and kind part of her personality. Of course, she is a powerful healer, so it makes sense but I loved the way she becomes more confident and sure of herself and proactive when you least expect it.

Overall I found that Healer's Need was unexpectedly divine in its small touches and beauty of emotion and vibrancy of passion. Its a story that captures your full attention, guaranteed to stun your senses and evoke all the feels that only this author delivers!! PACKS A SENSUAL PUNCH OF POWER, GROWTH AND DESTINY!







 



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 photo Addicted To Romance Reviews 2_zpsplp8m0tb.png
Profile Image for Bambi Unbridled.
1,297 reviews139 followers
October 23, 2018
description

Healer's Need is the second installment of Rhenna Morgan's dynamic new paranormal series, Ancient Ink. I have been totally into this series since picking up Guardian's Bond. I really like the unique aspect of the tattoos, almost with a Celtic flair, when combined with the magic and shapeshifting of our characters.

Our heroine in this installment is the shy and insecure Elise Ralston, whom everyone expects to be the next prima healer of the clan. But Elise has some things to overcome, and her hangups over her appearance and the attention is has garnered in the past. I'm not usually one for an insecure heroine, but I really liked Elise. I could identify with some of the issues she faced, and we all have similar insecurities about different aspects of our bodies. I enjoyed watching her come to the realization that she shouldn't own the issues, as they all belonged to other people.

Our hero is Tate Allen (great name), tattooist and partner to Priest (from Guardian's Bond). Tate is a mountain coyote shifter, who battles his instincts to hunt down, ravage and protect his mate. I have to say that Tate did a great job of keeping things in check and not scaring Elise out of her brain when it came to the mating issue. I loved his patience and protective instinct, he was just an all-around great alpha male.

As this is a fated mates trope, you can expect that things are going to move at a fast clip. While this relationship didn't feel like instalove, there was definitely an instant bond and chemistry that was off the freaking charts. Rhenna does a great job with imagery and painting a picture of the sparks between these too, I'm fairly sure that my kindle may have been smoking. But more than the sexytimes, I loved the dynamic between Tate and Elise. He was so supportive of her and helped her realize her potential, and Elise really came into her own as the story progressed.

Priest and Kateri played an active role in this story, as our characters are still battling an old foe that we met in the first installment. While Priest's brother didn't appear in this story quite as much as the first, his evil deeds were there in the background while the clan searched for missing members and planned to confront him. So I liked the action when we got to it, but I also liked the suspense aspect as well.

I have an inkling that the story we get next is going to be our prima seer and prima warrior... and I am super stoked about that. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from the publisher, Carina Press.
Profile Image for Suzi (Obsessive Reading Disorder).
2,232 reviews
August 26, 2018
This is the second book in the series and although it would be ok to read as a stand alone, I think you should read them in order. If anything, the world building and mythology is so very different from most paranormal tropes, you will want to be up to speed before reading this book. That said, this book starts right after book 1 ends. This is Tate and Elise's story.

Tate recognizes Elise as his mate as soon as he sees her. It scares the crap out of him and since she is new to their world, he freaks out that she will disavow his mate claim. Keeping his distance only makes him crabby and his clan mates can't help but tease him. Tate is a worthy warrior and has an even bigger heart. He is so patient with Elise and goes at her speed.

Thanks to meddling by just about everyone, they soon realize what they mean to each other and start their journey toward a life time commitment. Laid over the top of all this steamy romance is the danger of Priest's brother and what he may be up to. Lots of action around this throughout the book.

The reader knows that Tate and Elise will end up together, but what makes the story, is Elise coming into her own. She has demons from the past that threaten all that she could be. Support from the clan and love from Tate, help her to realize how strong she can be.

I really love Rhenna's take on this clan of shifters. It's unique and makes for an interesting read. She writes strong women and love crazed alpha males. That said, because it is unique, it almost may be better to read the books back to back after they come out. I found myself having to re-read the last part of book 1 to get myself back into the world again. Not that that is bad. You just won't be able to place this story line within any other paranormal trope.

LOVED!!! Can't wait for more! Jade and Alek should have interesting HEA as well.

*Complimentary copy provided via Netgalley for an honest review.
Profile Image for Christina.
632 reviews26 followers
October 9, 2018
You know when you pick up a second book in a series and everything from the first one comes rushing back to you? When the anticipation and curiosity of the unknown is so powerful, you're willing to ignore your day-to-day responsibilities, including your kids. Yep. This is that book/series for me right now....please do not tell me it's over...

Tate is a warrior within the clan. He also happens to be a coyote tattooing alpha who's been tip toeing around the one woman destined to be his mate. Seems odd, right? I would normally agree, except he's tip toeing because this woman is new to the clan. Heck, she's new to everything! So how does he stake his claim without completely messing things up?

Elise feels like she's living in la la land. It wasn't until recently her mother's stories about magical beings and power became her reality. Learning about her heritage, the magic and everyone's names are becoming easier each day. What's difficult is keeping her heart under control when ever she's around Tate. There's just something about him that keeps her calm.

I loved how the majority of this book revolved around Elise and Tate's relationship. Building on an inevitable foundation, learning about each other and trusting those moments. The lessons in this story go beyond the typical message in a book. This one almost hits too close to home for me. I think every woman can/will relate to this one.

Don't get me wrong, there are plenty of nail biting moments as well. Draven is still a presence that needs to be dealt with. So buckle up for some amazing magic, alpha dominance and most importantly, self love.
Profile Image for Meghan.
723 reviews114 followers
September 26, 2018
Just give me one second, I'm recovering from a swoon...

Wow, did I enjoy this book! I loved the hero so much, I'm not sure I'll be able to put in into terms that will adequately express my feelings. Given the culture of the Volan, the amount of stress on the hero and heroine was massive, and they still took things slow in order to get to know each other. I loved how considerate they both were towards each other, and it gave me butterflies each time they took a step further towards a completed bond in their relationship.

Tate has known Elise is his for weeks, but given her lack of knowledge surrounding her heritage, he has waited patiently for her to become used to the idea before he makes his intentions known. Now he is done waiting. Elise has been very aware of Tate ever since she joined the Volan community and learned of her potential as a prima healer. But she assumes he's not interested, since he seems to avoid being in her presence or have much to do with her at all. When he suddenly comes between her and another male at a party, she realizes that it has never been about a lack of interest at all. She has a mate, and he is ready to claim her.

Tate was a very compassionate hero, and I loved how protective he was of Elise. His personality was very alpha male, but he kept it in check for the sake of Elise and her wellbeing. He understood that he had to be patient with her, and I was so happy that he courted her before pushing her toward a relationship. Elise was sweet and shy, but at the same time, she quickly felt very possessive of Tate. She didn't realize why at first, but as time went on, their bond became strong enough that she couldn't ignore it any longer. Her relationship with Tate was borne from instinct, but they also shared a mutual respect of each other. That kind of love is what I would aspire to in real life, and I loved how their love bloomed as the story progressed. Tate and Elise were one of my favorite couples for this year, absolutely, and I was so happy with how everything turned out.

I loved the first book in this series, and this one continued that trend! I can't wait to read the next book and see where things go from here.

**I received a free copy via NetGalley and this is my honest review.**
Profile Image for Siobhan.
5,014 reviews597 followers
October 23, 2018
Healer’s Need is the second book in Rhenna Morgan’s Ancient Ink series, and it was a wonderful second book. After enjoying book one, Guardian’s Bond, so much, I was eager for this one; after loving book two, I can honestly say it’s another paranormal romance series with a lot of promise, one I’m going to be addicted to.

From the very start, I was sucked deep into this story. I was eager to read about the characters in this book after enjoying them so much in book one, and I was plenty willing to devour their story in a single sitting. Being thrown back into the Ancient Ink world was an absolute delight, and I loved every moment of it. Although this one can be enjoyed as a standalone romance story, you’ll understand the paranormal elements better if you have read book one.

If I’m being completely honest, I feel as though the paranormal elements took a bit of a backseat in Healer’s Ink. My favourite aspect of Guardian’s Bond was the wonderful new world we were introduced to, and I was eager to dig deeper into the world. With countless layers introduced in book one, with so many unique elements winning me over, I was eager for more. These elements were still around in Healer’s Need, but it wasn’t quite to the same depth. I’d been hoping for a wee bit more, and that was the only thing that disappointed me with this one. Yes, we were provided with more of the wonderful world – but, at the same time, it wasn’t to the level I’d anticipated.

With Healer’s Need, our focus is much more on the romance. As I loved the romance between the characters in this one more than I enjoyed the romance between the characters in the first book, I did not mind at all. In fact, it was a wonderful romance between the two. There was plenty to enjoy throughout the story, with their romance having a lot more depth to it than you often find in stories where there are mate elements. It was complex and layered, and I adored it. With how much I enjoyed the characters in the first book, with how eager I was to find out more, there was room for disappointed – yet, I was not disappointed.

With the way things played out in this one, with the way the storyline came together, I’m certainly even more invested in the Ancient Ink world. There were some aspects of the story that were brought to a close, yet I still have plenty of questions for the future – about characters, events, and the world – and I cannot wait to get my hands on more of the world.

If you’ve yet to dive into the Ancient Ink world, you need to do so.
Profile Image for Nikki Brooks.
3,551 reviews52 followers
October 22, 2018
Tate has known that Elise was his mate for a few weeks, although you'd never know it. He has been avoiding her. He tells himself it's been to allow her time to settle into her new life but it's more that he's not quite ready to admit she is his mate tom himself! That doesn't stop him looking out for her from a distance. But when push comes to shove, Tate recognises that Fate doesn't wait for you to be ready, you get your mate when it's time.

Elise is new to the world of magic and shifters. Her mother never accepted her gifts and she thought her mum had flown off the deep end when she explained the new reality she has landed in. But even when she sees things with her own eyes, it is still a lot to process.

Tate is one crabbit shifter when he doesn't get his own way! The banter between himself, Jade and Priest is totally believable. Taking the nick out of one another as only family can.

Elise is learning what her magic can o and her place in her new world, all whilst trying to evade Priest's brother and dodge the future he has set out for her. I loved the extended family feel of the pack and their inclusive nature of all beings, not just shifters.

Can't wait for the next one. Word to the wise - definitely read them in order!
Profile Image for Kahea.
2,261 reviews123 followers
October 19, 2018
***4 Stars***

After the very interesting reaction Tate had to Elise in Guardian’s Bond, I couldn’t wait to see how everything played out for them and I wasn’t disappointed! I was sweet, smexy and filled with a lot of heart, as well a good dose of meddling by well meaning friends and family.

I really liked Elise. She has a sweet, sassy side that most don’t get to see or experience because of the walls she has constructed around herself. Not that I could blame her after learning all she’d gone through in her short life, especially most recently. But I loved watching as those walls started to break down and evolve into a stronger version of herself. Tate, I loved. This man is all kinds of alpha AF. Protective and dominant, but compassionate and sweet all rolled up into one smexy package.

I really enjoyed Elise and Tate’s journey to their HEA. It was that strange mix of insta and slow burn all rolled into one that made the sexual tension between them off the charts all the while giving them the time needed to actually fall in to something like love to make it all work. I loved watching as their relationship evolved and the sweet and swoony moments were all kinds of heart melting.

Healer’s Need was a lot of fun. It was very much a character driven story that didn’t have a lot of angsty-ness going on. Oh, there was drama and moments, but everything was kept on an even keel. My one issue, which took me a bit to work out and when I did I’m putting it on the “It’s not you, It’s me” shelf, is that I wish there had been more of the Draven situation. This isn’t to say that he isn’t “present” in everyone’s mind or that I had any issue with where things were at with him in the end, but I would have like a little more. Other than that though, I loved hanging out with Priest, Kateri, Alek and Jade and getting to know them all better and am quite curious to see what the next book in the series brings us!

~ Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley & voluntarily reviewed ~
Profile Image for Varied Books.
1,186 reviews55 followers
December 22, 2018
3.75 Stars
One of my favorite troupe- h who learns to trust herself and grows in confidence. I loved watching the MC relationship develop & come together. The foreplay & sex scenes were spicy.
There were a few slow spots in the story but on Whole I enjoyed reading & listening to the book.
The plot was interesting.
Profile Image for D.E..
Author 129 books981 followers
October 22, 2018
Men who know who their fated mates are upon sight and go all out to claim them? Where do I sign up for that? Until I discover a parallel universe where men are all alpha protective on the outside, but sweet teddy bears on the inside, I guess I’ll have to settle for reading Morgan’s books.

I didn’t love Elise. Her background, which made her into a shy mouse, was bad but not exactly unusual enough to derail her entire life. Luckily, she gets a second chance to become the person she was always destined to be. Then, the faith the clan had in her seems justified.

Now, Tate? Tate, I did love. He’s hot, protective, and sweet as all get out. It turns out he’s a bit too protective. Fortunately, Elise had a plan to take care of that.

The story of how the clan is being hunted falls to the background here, which is a bit of a shame. Instead, this story focusses more on romance. I love me some romance so no troubles there, but the characters were a bit too introspective for me. Way too much thinking. Not enough doing. This made the story seem a bit longer than necessary.

I recommend this novel to lovers of paranormal romance. It helps if you’ve read the first story in the series but is by no means necessary.

Profile Image for Deb.
1,094 reviews
September 14, 2018
OMG! I’ve been blown away- so far away that I may never make it back again :o lol ... I give this a 6 star review- plus bonus stars!! :o "Healer's Need" is the 2nd novel in the 'Ancient Ink' world, and one of the most phenomenal PNR books I’ve ever read! And trust me, I’ve read hundreds upon hundreds and I am still reeling from the ending- but thank God for the HEA, after such an intense, page-turning, emotional roller coaster ride! ... I had heartbroken tears, to happy tears! This fresh, new & most unique storyline had me hooked from the start, kept me glued to my seat, would not let go and now has left me having withdrawals & craving more!! ... PLEASE, Ms. Morgan, I beg you to keep this world going with more fantastic stories, and soon! ... Such amazing attention to detail & well defined characters with witty dialogue pulled me into the story. *Warning* Must wear gloves due to the abundance of smoking hot romance between the H/h ;) Ice cold drinks & the A/C on high will help some, too ;) lol ... I’m talking about this is so extraordinary, that this could match or beat out bestselling stories by Nora Roberts and even be in the same league as J.K. Rowling, and other big names! ... I never write spoilers or recap blurbs, and even tho I volunteered to read this early, it was without any outside influences, and I can honestly recommend this to 18+ adult readers who love contemporary fiction, especially paranormal or fantasy like I do. You do not want to miss out on this book or series, or any other must read genres by this amazing author! Whatever Ms. Morgan writes-I guarantee I will read it!!!
Profile Image for Ang -PNR Book Lover Reviews.
1,806 reviews147 followers
September 7, 2018
Okay, WOW! I was hesitant to start this one, only because I accidently seen a few reviews say that they didn't enjoy this much, probably because they hadn't read the first one or maybe they have. I dunno I am not one for spoilers, UNLESS I am looking for them!
I kind of don't like when you hear about a book you are going to read get talked about. BUT I am happy to say I really, like really enjoyed this story.

I really enjoyed this book a lot, I am super happy it picks up right from the first one too, I really like this authors new paranormal world.

Tate and Elise, damn! what a smoking hot couple. They were seriously a delight to watch, grow and fall in love. I felt there attraction was real, I loved how Tate was with her, especially because she is a virgin in all aspects, but when she got her feet under her she gave it right back to him.

Great characters from the previous book, and the over all story arc rolling into this one, I want to talk about the ending but I cant because of spoilers, but do we think that this is the end?

What I really loved is that in paranormal romance you don't see this kind of of twist in shifter, clans with mates and magic and everything that this author gives us. I love that this is so unique and she writes strong women, and characters they you are invested in. does not hurt that her alpha mean are crazy in love with there mates when they find them!

I really hoping that we get a few more stories in this world, with Jade and Alek finding there mates too!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Darcy.
14.4k reviews543 followers
September 12, 2018
What I liked most about this book was how Tate gave Elise time and how he took the time to explain why he it seemed like he was holding back at times to Elise. It allowed Elise to keep getting acclimated to their world and give her time to see that Tate was really interested in her. As things progressed it was great to see Elise get more confident, in her relationship with Tate, with her powers and her animals and most importantly with others in their group. I especially liked how Elise dealt with a bully within the clan that picked on Elise, especially at the end when the gantlet was thrown down.

In the larger story arc things went well for the group. They finally seemed to get one over on the big bad and what looked to be a devastating price to be paid, wasn't at all.
Profile Image for Sofia Lazaridou.
2,863 reviews136 followers
October 21, 2018
Healer's need is the second book in the Ancient Ink series by Rhenna Morgan. Each book in the series features a different couple and I could say that it can be read as stand-alone. This is Tate and Elise's story. Elise is new to the paranormal world and Tate is trying to leave her room to breathe and come to terms with her new life, even though he knows she is his mate. So don't expect anything rushed when it came to them acting on their attraction. Yes, there is some insta-lust, but I have come to expect that when it comes to books where we are talking about mates. Elise's journey is a long one and she has to not only learn how to navigate into a brand new world for her, but find out if she has a quest meant for her and if she is going to become the healer the people in her family were. Her to-do list is a long one and it's about to become longer.

I liked this world that we see in this book and I hope for more books to come. It doesn't have only one kind of shifters and it painted a beautiful picture in mind where you can have different animals in the same place without knowing that they have to kill each other for survival. Alek could be the hero of the next novel, maybe with a certain lady who is introduced to us during this story and I can't say much about her. I bet that pairing will be fun. I just hope Vanessa won't get a book because I didn't like her and I don't see how she can be redeemed.
Profile Image for Latifa Morrisette.
2,578 reviews63 followers
October 22, 2018
I have been excited for this book since I have read book one. Healer's Need is Tate and Elise's book and let me tell you, these two are everything I hoped for. Of course the journey continues in the hunt for Jerrik, Preist's brother and this book does not disappoint. I highly recommend everyone read this book.
Profile Image for Karen  ⚜Mess⚜.
939 reviews69 followers
October 10, 2018
Boy meets girl.

Healer’s Need is centered on “boy meets girl” theme. Strong insta-love (as with most paranormal books) between Tate and Elise that works out exceptionally well. I want to use the word “wholesome” to describe their relationship. Crazy that Rhenna Morgan can write steamy love scenes and give Tate a dirty mouth, yet they came off as being wholesome. The honesty and dedication Tate and Elise shared was a refreshing and beautiful.

Things got so good when the paranormal action took place. I loved, loved, LOVED the paranormal aspect of going on a soul quest to receive your shifter companion. The mystery of which companion animal will choose a character was more exhilarating than finding out the magical talent.

Most of the Healer’s Need was an overabundance of lingering and unnecessary details. The first intimate encounter between Tate and Elise was approximately 8% of the story. 8% of 400 pages is a big deal for one scene. If the story was cut down to 200 pages, it would have been much better.


I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book, so I could give an honest review.

Author 5 books41 followers
July 16, 2020
Loved the Elise/Tate dynamic. He was funny and patient, while she was very strong and kind. They each helped bring out very important parts of themselves. The way things wrapped up with Draven was nice, but I'm a bit annoyed we didn't find out what happened to Jerrik. Still, I love this world, and am glad I read this series.
Profile Image for Heather andrews.
9,520 reviews162 followers
August 8, 2018
Tate doesn't like other offending him and his woman, "Tate clamped down harder. “I have a woman next to me and you dared to touch me in front of her..." Tate you know, makes his woman see the error of her threats, “I don’t think you’re thinking that one through, mihara.” His hands coasted inward, his thumbs teasing the seam where her inner thighs and *** met. “If you don’t heal me, then I can’t eff you like you need to be effed.” Tate you know doesn't like to share, "Tate caught her at the waist and hauled her back. “Woman, if you think I’m letting you answer the door in only my T-shirt , you’re out of your mind.” I liked this book, I loved Tate.
Profile Image for Margaret Fisk.
Author 21 books38 followers
October 31, 2018
Originally posted on Tales to Tide You Over

I am enjoying the Men of Haven series by Rhenna Morgan a lot, so when the publisher offered me an ARC of Healer’s Need, I decided to try this series. Trouble is much of what I like about Men of Haven is distinct to that situation and those people. Not every author is able to take me from one series into a very different one, but this time it worked. Healer’s Need is worlds away from Men of Haven, a paranormal romance where mates are fated and the only choice lies in accepting or rejecting such a gift. The book centers on a group of shifters with magic fighting to keep their people strong against one who has broken all the rules. It’s very different from the themes that I’ve enjoyed from this author before.

The other aspect of this book that differs is the connection between Elise and Tate. It is front and center, the main focus of much of the book rather than sharing the spotlight with another crisis. That’s not to say there isn’t a wider crisis, as I mentioned before with the oath-breaker. The sense of that concern is so strong that I became paranoid for Elise and just as willing as Tate to ensure she stayed where Priest, the leader of the Volán people, could ward her from his brother, the corrupted shifter. This proves the strength of Rhenna Morgan. Her ability to suck you into her world is wonderful, whether a contemporary one focused on corrupt politicians, drug dealers, and harmful laws or one where a clan of magical shifters accept their companion animal from the Keeper along with a particular magical talent.

This has largely been a review of the author rather than the book, so let me focus on Healer’s Need for a moment. This is an explicit, steamy novel about soulmates discovering why the Keeper chose to put them together. It explores the instinctual side of love and how the brain can undermine what instinct knows to be true by over-thinking. Fated mates can be used as a shortcut to creating a true bond between the main characters. That is far from the case here. The Keeper may have connected the two of them from the start with an instant, lustful bond, but that link requires both to accept and embrace it fully before it becomes firm. We get to ride along on that process, seeing all the ways people can chance losing their soulmate by failing to accept them as full and equal partners. The reasons each had for holding back make perfect sense, which makes the struggle all the more potent.

I jumped in on the series with this book, the second. It’s well able to be read as a standalone, with everything you need provided in the text. This is true, in part, because of the focus on Tate and Elise more than the crisis they must resolve, which largely doesn’t come into play beyond a shared paranoia until the last quarter or so of the book. That said, I want to go back and read Priest and Katy’s story now just because I feel a connection with the characters and want to see how their story came about.

I suppose the last sentence reveals more than anything else how this book worked for me. The clan’s world is complicated and has its own internal logic. The conflicts feel real while how each member must overcome their own challenge in a spirit walk before accepting their companion and connection to the clan’s magic is well done. Ultimately, the sense of place and people are what make Rhenna Morgan an author I’ll keep reading, along with the underlying messages of consent and a willingness to give people a chance. I’ve read most of her books as ARCs, but the writing is a little rough in such a way that should have been cleared up by this point, ARC or not. It says a lot that everything else is powerful enough to overcome that issue for me and make me a fan.

P.S. I received this ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in return for an honest review.
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