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Aluna #1
Unexpected Alpha
Female Alphas are unheard of in werewolf society, and the Sapphire Pack is no different. So when Lena's father dies, no one is more shocked than she to discover that his Alpha powers have transferred to her. Lena has her hands full protecting her pack from hunters and rogue wolves, while simultaneously facing prejudices and power-hungry males who want to mate with her just to steal her title. But when the uber-sexy Kane enters the picture, Lena gets a lot more than she bargained for. He irritates her to no end, while giving her butterflies at the same time. With his interference and her new-found power bubbling under her skin, something inside her changes, leaving her confused as to what she truly is. She soon discovers that searching for answers is most difficult when the last person she can trust is the only one who has them.
208 pages, Paperback
First published October 17, 2015
235 people are currently reading
247 people want to read
About the author
Bethany Wicker
22 books98 followersMy free time is spent writing, reading, eating, watching television, playing video games or relaxing with my daughter. Fun little facts: my favorite color is blue, I'm obsessed with Disney, I watch Japanese anime, and I'm a staff reviewer at Young Adult Book Central. I am open to any questions and feedback and also enjoy recommendations. Feel free to shoot me messages.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
November 7, 2015
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to author Bethany Wicker.)
“Time to find out what you can do,”
This was an interesting werewolf story, and I liked the twists.
Lena was a character who was maybe a little too much like an alpha! She was very bossy, rude at times, and liked to be the one in charge of every situation, she really could have been a little smarter and a little more mature as well.
The storyline in this seemed a little rough around the edges, and the reader seemed to be just dropped into the middle of things. There were some things that I thought were a little odd, such as celebrating birthdays instead of sorting out problems, but I did like the twists that we got a bit later on in the story.
There was some romance in this, which was a little obvious, but it did improve as the book went along.
The ending to this was a bit of a cliff-hanger, so I look forward to the next book in the series!
7 out of 10
“Time to find out what you can do,”
This was an interesting werewolf story, and I liked the twists.
Lena was a character who was maybe a little too much like an alpha! She was very bossy, rude at times, and liked to be the one in charge of every situation, she really could have been a little smarter and a little more mature as well.
The storyline in this seemed a little rough around the edges, and the reader seemed to be just dropped into the middle of things. There were some things that I thought were a little odd, such as celebrating birthdays instead of sorting out problems, but I did like the twists that we got a bit later on in the story.
There was some romance in this, which was a little obvious, but it did improve as the book went along.
The ending to this was a bit of a cliff-hanger, so I look forward to the next book in the series!
7 out of 10
November 25, 2015
I'm worried about him not accepting me as what I am: an Alpha. Our mate situation isn't as strong as others and the only explanation I have is that it's because I'm not a normal female.
↑↑↑↑↑The above quote sums up the entire book, in my opinion.↑↑↑↑↑
Plot
The story is about a rare female Alpha(like the leader of the wolf pack), Selena, trying to search her identity and embrace new power. And also finding her mate. That's it, nothing more. If you know me well, then you'll know I don't like werewolves at all, and the reason I gave this story a shot simply because I thought the synopsis was very interesting; thus, I held pretty high expectation for it. To my disappointment, I couldn't persuade myself to enjoy this book as I initially hoped. The plot is rather blend and lacks some heart-wrenching twists. Although I could better relate to what those wolves were thinking/feeling, I hope there was some originality in the basic storyline.
Characters
What I found really, really problematic are the characters and the stereotype. I mean, the main dilemma Selena encountered was whether she could take her responsibility for her unexpected title---the Alpha, whom was supposed to be a male. A strong, fearless, tough enough male. An Alpha male. However, while she was trying to reveal her true self and proved that she had the ability to be a great leader for her pack, the author transferred the attention to other males instead. It seemed to imply that males are undoubtedly superior to females and there's no way to change it. As a result, Selena wasn't the sort of heroine I thought she would become. Somehow I guess the author did make an effort to create an alpha female with special features, but unfortunately, I didn't feel that way. She put too much unnecessary emphasis on the sense of superiority the male wolves should have and consequently shifted the specific purpose she wanted to convey.
What I
Even though the majority of the story was focused on the whole "female-alpha-issue", Selena's mate, Kane, was actually an interesting character. Particularly the last part of the book where he showed his weakness(FINALLY) and was a little emotional when he realized how helpless he was because he didn't know what to do to help her go through the aching process; he eventually acted like a
In conclusion
I'm sorry to say this, but I wouldn't recommend this book to everyone, unless you're a huge werewolf lover, nor would I read the rest of this series. However, I might be a bit capricious which means maybe one of those days I'll decide to continue reading it! Who knows? It's too hard to make a promise. But still, thanks to the author for providing me with a free ebook copy of this one in exchange for an honest review!
November 9, 2015
~ I received a copy from the author, In exchange for an honest review ~
Unexpected Alpha starts with this intriguing, innovative premise and stands out from many books of its genre presenting a strong female Alpha in charge of a Werewolves pack.
The idea itself is pretty original and IMO the story has a great potential. I didn't really like the execution, though.
The main flaw of this book is the narration – a little rushed and too superficial for my taste. Although a lot of things happen, they are often described just passing through. It’s difficult to feel the emotions behind the actions and choices of the characters and, therefore, to get attached to them.
The lack of worldbuilding does not help, too: I wanted to know something more about the werewolves society, its tradition, the backstory of the characters... I hoped to get some information by the way, but, once I finished the book, I was left with a bunch of questions and no answers.
Such a pity!
Female Alphas are unheard of in werewolf society.
However, when her father dies, Leda inexplicably
inherits his powers becoming the Lady Alpha
of the Sapphire Pack – a great shock for everyone,
but especially for Leda herself.
Unexpected Alpha starts with this intriguing, innovative premise and stands out from many books of its genre presenting a strong female Alpha in charge of a Werewolves pack.
The idea itself is pretty original and IMO the story has a great potential. I didn't really like the execution, though.
The main flaw of this book is the narration – a little rushed and too superficial for my taste. Although a lot of things happen, they are often described just passing through. It’s difficult to feel the emotions behind the actions and choices of the characters and, therefore, to get attached to them.
The lack of worldbuilding does not help, too: I wanted to know something more about the werewolves society, its tradition, the backstory of the characters... I hoped to get some information by the way, but, once I finished the book, I was left with a bunch of questions and no answers.
Such a pity!
November 7, 2015
(I received a copy from the author, In exchange for an honest review.)
I can't say I loved the main character in this, but she wasn't bad.
This was an okay read, but the pacing was rather slow. It did make the book feel longer than what it was, but the storyline was still interesting.
Overall, An okay read.
I can't say I loved the main character in this, but she wasn't bad.
This was an okay read, but the pacing was rather slow. It did make the book feel longer than what it was, but the storyline was still interesting.
Overall, An okay read.
November 7, 2015
Female Alphas are unheard of in werewolf society, and the Sapphire Pack is no different. So when Lena’s father dies, no one is more shocked than she to discover that his Alpha powers have transferred to her. Lena has her hands full protecting her pack from hunters and rogue wolves, while simultaneously facing prejudices and power-hungry males who want to mate with her just to steal her title.
But when the uber-sexy Kane enters the picture, Lena gets a lot more than she bargained for. He irritates her to no end, while giving her butterflies at the same time. With his interference and her new-found power bubbling under her skin, something inside her changes, leaving her confused as to what she truly is. She soon discovers that searching for answers is most difficult when the last person she can trust is the only one who has them.
- - - - -
Rating: 2.5/5 Stars
Quick Reasons: story feels incomplete; plot is a bit dull, driven more by “telling” than “showing”; world-building is almost nonexistant; more questions than answers; characters didn't really “pop” for me
When I read the blurb for this book, I was SO excited. For one, though I know they exist, I've never read a book about werewolves (er...well, I mean, SOLELY about werewolves. Because you know, they're kind of everywhere. You can't escape them!) I was expecting a lot of drama, a fair amount of action, and a kick ass female lead.
I don't feel like I really got any of that.
First off: the writing was awkward. The tense kept shifting between “past” and “future” in the middle of sentences, descriptors were really lacking... I just couldn't “see” into this story. And I think, if I'm honest, that's the biggest problem I had. Well, that, and the world-building, but I'll get to that in a minute. See... I'm a very tactile reader. I like my descriptors to sing. I like the world to sweep across my thoughts like a dream and root me, deeply, there until the end. This read just...didn't.
The world-building, also, is severely lacking. By the time I reached the end, I didn't feel as if any of my questions had been answered. In fact, I had about fifty more questions crop up the last few chapters than I should have, because things kept being added in instead of getting wrapped up. Imagine you're sitting in your class, taking a final exam. Except the teacher put things on the test that you never covered in your lectures, never brushed upon in your readings, never learned from your assignments. That's sort of how it feels the world-building in this read was patched together; we were given little bits and glimpses, but in the end, none of them quite matched up. It's like trying to put a puzzle together with pieces from ten OTHER puzzles that don't fit.
While our female lead IS pretty kick ass, she sort of falls flat with the perspective this was given. The first few chapters are filled with info-dumps, stereotypes, and general “too much going on, not enough building up.” There is so much packed into this read (seriously, it's like your carry-on bag after a three day vacation where lots of books were bought!) I don't feel any of it was given the chance to actually breathe and grow. Which is sad, because this story has the potential to be awesome! I can see it there... but it's bogged down with awkward tense shifts, info dumps, and general “ick.”
This definitely wasn't the read for me, unfortunately. As excited as I was going in, I lost that the farther I went. I can't personally say I'd recommend this read, but if you're into “alternative” werewolf novels, this might be for you. For me, it's on to the next one!
But when the uber-sexy Kane enters the picture, Lena gets a lot more than she bargained for. He irritates her to no end, while giving her butterflies at the same time. With his interference and her new-found power bubbling under her skin, something inside her changes, leaving her confused as to what she truly is. She soon discovers that searching for answers is most difficult when the last person she can trust is the only one who has them.
- - - - -
Rating: 2.5/5 Stars
Quick Reasons: story feels incomplete; plot is a bit dull, driven more by “telling” than “showing”; world-building is almost nonexistant; more questions than answers; characters didn't really “pop” for me
When I read the blurb for this book, I was SO excited. For one, though I know they exist, I've never read a book about werewolves (er...well, I mean, SOLELY about werewolves. Because you know, they're kind of everywhere. You can't escape them!) I was expecting a lot of drama, a fair amount of action, and a kick ass female lead.
I don't feel like I really got any of that.
First off: the writing was awkward. The tense kept shifting between “past” and “future” in the middle of sentences, descriptors were really lacking... I just couldn't “see” into this story. And I think, if I'm honest, that's the biggest problem I had. Well, that, and the world-building, but I'll get to that in a minute. See... I'm a very tactile reader. I like my descriptors to sing. I like the world to sweep across my thoughts like a dream and root me, deeply, there until the end. This read just...didn't.
The world-building, also, is severely lacking. By the time I reached the end, I didn't feel as if any of my questions had been answered. In fact, I had about fifty more questions crop up the last few chapters than I should have, because things kept being added in instead of getting wrapped up. Imagine you're sitting in your class, taking a final exam. Except the teacher put things on the test that you never covered in your lectures, never brushed upon in your readings, never learned from your assignments. That's sort of how it feels the world-building in this read was patched together; we were given little bits and glimpses, but in the end, none of them quite matched up. It's like trying to put a puzzle together with pieces from ten OTHER puzzles that don't fit.
While our female lead IS pretty kick ass, she sort of falls flat with the perspective this was given. The first few chapters are filled with info-dumps, stereotypes, and general “too much going on, not enough building up.” There is so much packed into this read (seriously, it's like your carry-on bag after a three day vacation where lots of books were bought!) I don't feel any of it was given the chance to actually breathe and grow. Which is sad, because this story has the potential to be awesome! I can see it there... but it's bogged down with awkward tense shifts, info dumps, and general “ick.”
This definitely wasn't the read for me, unfortunately. As excited as I was going in, I lost that the farther I went. I can't personally say I'd recommend this read, but if you're into “alternative” werewolf novels, this might be for you. For me, it's on to the next one!
October 18, 2020
Bethany Wicker is an author with an amazing imagination. The worlds she creates are interesting and original and her characters are fun and easy to love. With both of her books (Unexpected Alpha and Dark Lightning), I was easily sucked into the worlds and taken on a journey.
In Unexpected Alpha, a female werewolf named Lena is made into the next alpha, after the previous alpha (her father) dies. So, not only does this poor girl have to try to come to terms with the loss of her father and the emotional wreck of her mother, but she has to get over the shock of actually becoming alpha. Females are never alpha; she is the first known case of this happening.
But now that she is alpha, she has to ensure her pack's safety. She has her hands full protecting the people she loves from power hungry and sexist males, other packs, hunters, and rogue werewolves. This situation couldn't actually get crazier, right?
Nope. Kane come into the picture. Kane is an alpha from another pack who wishes to strengthen their ties with the Sapphire pack. But when every touch from Kane gives Lena a tingling feeling and her inner wolf starts to change, Lena realizes that she has got bigger problems ahead.
And she now has another thing to protect the pact against: herself.
This story was really interesting from start to finish, and I'm looking forward to the sequel, but there were some things (well, mostly one) that kind of put me off.
I thought that it was really unfortunate that there wasn't more world-building in this novel. This story had a lot more potential. If there would've been around 100 more pages at the beginning of just Lena living in this world (while her father was alive), I would've sympathized with Lena's situation a whole lot more. I also wished that the relationships between the humans and werewolves were explored more (because humans were mentioned offhandedly a few times). Honestly, I just wished that I could've had more time to love Lena and her friends before everything went down, to see how the death of her father changed her and how she grew as she had to lead her pack.
But, overall, this book was very good and very interesting. I have no regrets reading it. And I will be waiting (impatiently) for the sequel!
In Unexpected Alpha, a female werewolf named Lena is made into the next alpha, after the previous alpha (her father) dies. So, not only does this poor girl have to try to come to terms with the loss of her father and the emotional wreck of her mother, but she has to get over the shock of actually becoming alpha. Females are never alpha; she is the first known case of this happening.
But now that she is alpha, she has to ensure her pack's safety. She has her hands full protecting the people she loves from power hungry and sexist males, other packs, hunters, and rogue werewolves. This situation couldn't actually get crazier, right?
Nope. Kane come into the picture. Kane is an alpha from another pack who wishes to strengthen their ties with the Sapphire pack. But when every touch from Kane gives Lena a tingling feeling and her inner wolf starts to change, Lena realizes that she has got bigger problems ahead.
And she now has another thing to protect the pact against: herself.
This story was really interesting from start to finish, and I'm looking forward to the sequel, but there were some things (well, mostly one) that kind of put me off.
I thought that it was really unfortunate that there wasn't more world-building in this novel. This story had a lot more potential. If there would've been around 100 more pages at the beginning of just Lena living in this world (while her father was alive), I would've sympathized with Lena's situation a whole lot more. I also wished that the relationships between the humans and werewolves were explored more (because humans were mentioned offhandedly a few times). Honestly, I just wished that I could've had more time to love Lena and her friends before everything went down, to see how the death of her father changed her and how she grew as she had to lead her pack.
But, overall, this book was very good and very interesting. I have no regrets reading it. And I will be waiting (impatiently) for the sequel!
November 10, 2015
It's more 2.5 stars, really.
I received a copy from the author, In exchange for an honest review
The beginning was good and original. I liked selena and Kane, and Callus and Trevor, and Wicker's writing is good, so it was a fast reading. But... the things are just not elaborate enough, it happens a lot but the character seems to not give importance to them
All is too superficial, all pass and nothing is really happening, the author doesn't give the right importance to a lot of things and the world building is very... plain and not elaborate. The characters are good, yes, but they alone ca not make a book a good one.
I received a copy from the author, In exchange for an honest review
The beginning was good and original. I liked selena and Kane, and Callus and Trevor, and Wicker's writing is good, so it was a fast reading. But... the things are just not elaborate enough, it happens a lot but the character seems to not give importance to them
All is too superficial, all pass and nothing is really happening, the author doesn't give the right importance to a lot of things and the world building is very... plain and not elaborate. The characters are good, yes, but they alone ca not make a book a good one.
January 30, 2016
I received a copy from the author, In exchange for an honest review.
I was really drawn in when I read the description, however although the book was not bad I had difficulty getting myself into reading it - it was a bit slow paced... and don't get me wrong some slow paced books work, however for this case I felt like I was reading chapter after chapter where nothing happened. Overall I enjoyed it none the less!
I was really drawn in when I read the description, however although the book was not bad I had difficulty getting myself into reading it - it was a bit slow paced... and don't get me wrong some slow paced books work, however for this case I felt like I was reading chapter after chapter where nothing happened. Overall I enjoyed it none the less!
June 29, 2016
When the opportunity arose to read and review this title, I figured 'why not?' It's been a while since I've read a werewolf fic and I thought it was time to give it another shot.
The last werewolf fic I read was Kelley Armstrong's Bitten. She's really well known for her Otherworld series and this novel was recommended to me by multiple people so I was a little disappointed with its execution. I remember complaining that the main female protagonist whined too much while attempting to be snarky, that the info dumps were awkwardly placed and maybe a bit too much. I didn't like the love triangle. And the story didn't seem that original. (I remember being surprised at my reaction to this novel because I've really enjoyed her paranormal YA trilogies.)
Unexpected Alpha just reminded me of all of the flaws that I saw in Bitten but with a poorly done YA twist. The narration was choppy and it didn't really speak to me (like you're reading the journal of someone who lacks emotion). The main character was this weird mix of a grown-up defending her pack and a child who goes on movie dates and shops for dresses (and the on-the-town excursions just didn't really fit in the story). There wasn't really a lot of world-building except for "oh yeah, this happens" interjections from time to time. I didn't really care about the different romances that were going on. The plot line was basic and ended exactly how I thought it would.
The thing that kind of bugged me most was the overwhelming definition of gender roles. The girl werewolves were superficial and just supposed to apply makeup and chat about boys. Even the Luna, the most powerful female werewolf in the pack was supposed to be subservient to her husband. The males were overwhelmingly condescending and pretended they were superior to females. And it just felt like, Lena, who is supposed to be a careful blending of both female and male werewolf roles, who I suspect is supposed to be a statement against those gender roles, was just too superficial of a character. There wasn't a lot of depth to her and lot of this overdone defining of gender roles just rubbed me the wrong way.
Don't think I'll be picking up the sequel.
The last werewolf fic I read was Kelley Armstrong's Bitten. She's really well known for her Otherworld series and this novel was recommended to me by multiple people so I was a little disappointed with its execution. I remember complaining that the main female protagonist whined too much while attempting to be snarky, that the info dumps were awkwardly placed and maybe a bit too much. I didn't like the love triangle. And the story didn't seem that original. (I remember being surprised at my reaction to this novel because I've really enjoyed her paranormal YA trilogies.)
Unexpected Alpha just reminded me of all of the flaws that I saw in Bitten but with a poorly done YA twist. The narration was choppy and it didn't really speak to me (like you're reading the journal of someone who lacks emotion). The main character was this weird mix of a grown-up defending her pack and a child who goes on movie dates and shops for dresses (and the on-the-town excursions just didn't really fit in the story). There wasn't really a lot of world-building except for "oh yeah, this happens" interjections from time to time. I didn't really care about the different romances that were going on. The plot line was basic and ended exactly how I thought it would.
The thing that kind of bugged me most was the overwhelming definition of gender roles. The girl werewolves were superficial and just supposed to apply makeup and chat about boys. Even the Luna, the most powerful female werewolf in the pack was supposed to be subservient to her husband. The males were overwhelmingly condescending and pretended they were superior to females. And it just felt like, Lena, who is supposed to be a careful blending of both female and male werewolf roles, who I suspect is supposed to be a statement against those gender roles, was just too superficial of a character. There wasn't a lot of depth to her and lot of this overdone defining of gender roles just rubbed me the wrong way.
Don't think I'll be picking up the sequel.
October 11, 2015
Unexpected Alpha was an unexpected surprise! I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book, and having not read a werewolf story before, I didn't really know what to expect.
The main character Lena is a heroine worthy of a badass reputation. Unexpectedly announced as Alpha of her wolf pack after her alpha father dies, she has to deal with a lot of discrimination. Women alphas don't exist.
Lena is expected to find a suitable mate to bond with who will take over as alpha of the Sapphire pack. But she won't give the alpha title up so easily. No matter how hot Kane is.
I absolutely loved Kane and Lena's relationship. It was believable that he, as a man who grew up in a sexist world, would be hesitant at the idea of having to share the alpha title. It causes squabbles between them, but he's still so supportive, I never got a negative vibe from him. He wants to do what's right by Lena AND his pack. I loved that while they were falling head over heels for each other, they still respected their responsibilities to their packs and sometimes sacrificed what they wanted for the good of their pack members. They didn't fall in love and throw everything away for each other. They worked together (albeit with quite a few disagreements) in getting what they both wanted, and both of them compromised. This is something you don't see too often in YA books today. The couple usually get so wrapped up in each other, they forget about everyone else but themselves, often fight about petty things and are so stubborn, they're never willing to compromise.
This is a great book with a strong female lead and two really good role models for teens, and it was really entertaining.
This was my first werewolf story (unless you count twilight?) but after reading it, it won't be my last.
There is a cliffhanger ending which I usually hate, but this one just makes me want the second book so much more. I can't wait for it to come out.
The main character Lena is a heroine worthy of a badass reputation. Unexpectedly announced as Alpha of her wolf pack after her alpha father dies, she has to deal with a lot of discrimination. Women alphas don't exist.
Lena is expected to find a suitable mate to bond with who will take over as alpha of the Sapphire pack. But she won't give the alpha title up so easily. No matter how hot Kane is.
I absolutely loved Kane and Lena's relationship. It was believable that he, as a man who grew up in a sexist world, would be hesitant at the idea of having to share the alpha title. It causes squabbles between them, but he's still so supportive, I never got a negative vibe from him. He wants to do what's right by Lena AND his pack. I loved that while they were falling head over heels for each other, they still respected their responsibilities to their packs and sometimes sacrificed what they wanted for the good of their pack members. They didn't fall in love and throw everything away for each other. They worked together (albeit with quite a few disagreements) in getting what they both wanted, and both of them compromised. This is something you don't see too often in YA books today. The couple usually get so wrapped up in each other, they forget about everyone else but themselves, often fight about petty things and are so stubborn, they're never willing to compromise.
This is a great book with a strong female lead and two really good role models for teens, and it was really entertaining.
This was my first werewolf story (unless you count twilight?) but after reading it, it won't be my last.
There is a cliffhanger ending which I usually hate, but this one just makes me want the second book so much more. I can't wait for it to come out.
November 8, 2015
(I received this ebook in exchange for an honest review.)
2.5 - 3 stars
Okay, I would like to start off by saying that this book has amazing potential. The plotline is pretty golden, in my opinion. I think the world this takes place in is unique and something I haven't really read about in regards to werewolves.
Besides that, everything else I pretty much disliked or downright hated. First, the book really really needs to be edited. The writing style, or maybe just the way things were described, were just not for me. I just don't know many people who talk the way the characters do? I think I got a headache after trying to go through it all. There was no world building, in fact, I don't even remember where the book takes place? The pace was slow and I could tell that the author was trying to make the bond seem strong between Kane and Lena by having each chapter be months after the other but they felt super insta-love to me.
I didn't like any of the characters really. Lena was strong and different but fell short to me. Kane seemed alright at time but then would say the most asshole things and Lena would call him out on it but then she'd be like, oh, Kane, swoon. Um? What. The way the plot descended into the second book seemed odd? Dash's presence just seems forced into the book. The sexism in this book, which I 100% got the reason for but still, made me grind my teeth so hard my jaw hurt.
Honestly, the potential is there for this book - it totally is. I just don't think it's a book for me, personally. I didn't really enjoy it, I wouldn't reread it and I really don't think I'd pick up the second book.
2.5 - 3 stars
Okay, I would like to start off by saying that this book has amazing potential. The plotline is pretty golden, in my opinion. I think the world this takes place in is unique and something I haven't really read about in regards to werewolves.
Besides that, everything else I pretty much disliked or downright hated. First, the book really really needs to be edited. The writing style, or maybe just the way things were described, were just not for me. I just don't know many people who talk the way the characters do? I think I got a headache after trying to go through it all. There was no world building, in fact, I don't even remember where the book takes place? The pace was slow and I could tell that the author was trying to make the bond seem strong between Kane and Lena by having each chapter be months after the other but they felt super insta-love to me.
I didn't like any of the characters really. Lena was strong and different but fell short to me. Kane seemed alright at time but then would say the most asshole things and Lena would call him out on it but then she'd be like, oh, Kane, swoon. Um? What. The way the plot descended into the second book seemed odd? Dash's presence just seems forced into the book. The sexism in this book, which I 100% got the reason for but still, made me grind my teeth so hard my jaw hurt.
Honestly, the potential is there for this book - it totally is. I just don't think it's a book for me, personally. I didn't really enjoy it, I wouldn't reread it and I really don't think I'd pick up the second book.
October 21, 2015
After Bethany Wicker's debut book, I was expecting great things from this one and was not disappointed.
Lena is devastated when her father dies but what makes the feelings all the more complicated is that he was the alpha of their wolf pack. Werewolf packs have long standing traditions and rules when it comes to their governance. The first and foremost is that the alpha is a male with the aluna role, or mother role, reserved for the head female.
So when the alpha mark is revealed on Lena, everyone is shocked and some are appalled. Lena seems to be the only one that is happy about it. I think she's a feminist at heart and I love that about her. But how will her feminism stand when she falls for Kane, an enigmatic alpha himself. Tradition says that if they marry, he'll lead both his pack and hers, which is unacceptable to her.
I loved this book. You can tell right from the beginning that Kane and Lena are meant to be. I never once stopped rooting for them, even when the world seemed to be conspiring against them. This was my first werewolf book so I didn't know what to expect when I received the ARC. What I got was a story about loyalty, love, and trust that really struck a cord with me and another amazing story to add to my favorites list!
Lena is devastated when her father dies but what makes the feelings all the more complicated is that he was the alpha of their wolf pack. Werewolf packs have long standing traditions and rules when it comes to their governance. The first and foremost is that the alpha is a male with the aluna role, or mother role, reserved for the head female.
So when the alpha mark is revealed on Lena, everyone is shocked and some are appalled. Lena seems to be the only one that is happy about it. I think she's a feminist at heart and I love that about her. But how will her feminism stand when she falls for Kane, an enigmatic alpha himself. Tradition says that if they marry, he'll lead both his pack and hers, which is unacceptable to her.
I loved this book. You can tell right from the beginning that Kane and Lena are meant to be. I never once stopped rooting for them, even when the world seemed to be conspiring against them. This was my first werewolf book so I didn't know what to expect when I received the ARC. What I got was a story about loyalty, love, and trust that really struck a cord with me and another amazing story to add to my favorites list!
January 24, 2016
I received a copy from the author, in exchange for an honest review.
Actual Rating: 3.85
This was a great read. I like the concept of werewolves under attack by hunters and rogue werewolves. It made the story more interesting. I liked the plot twists in the book as well.
Lena was actually an okay character for me. She was bossy, rude, and she needs to learn how to work with her pack than by herself, in my opinion. Kane was actually intriguing to me because he came a long way from his usual sexist, bad boy facade. It was nice to see his journey in the book. The romance between Kane and Lena made the book more interesting and enjoyable.
The ending was a bit of a cliffhanger. . I thought the pace was a bit slow in the beginning, but it picked up as the story progressed. Can't wait to see what happens next in the series. Thank you Bethany Wicker for the opportunity to read your book.
Actual Rating: 3.85
This was a great read. I like the concept of werewolves under attack by hunters and rogue werewolves. It made the story more interesting. I liked the plot twists in the book as well.
Lena was actually an okay character for me. She was bossy, rude, and she needs to learn how to work with her pack than by herself, in my opinion. Kane was actually intriguing to me because he came a long way from his usual sexist, bad boy facade. It was nice to see his journey in the book. The romance between Kane and Lena made the book more interesting and enjoyable.
The ending was a bit of a cliffhanger. . I thought the pace was a bit slow in the beginning, but it picked up as the story progressed. Can't wait to see what happens next in the series. Thank you Bethany Wicker for the opportunity to read your book.
November 9, 2015
First of all, for the entire summer I've read only werewolf and vampire books. So when I saw this synopsis, I had to read it. I loved the idea of a female alpha and mates, so this was going to be a win-win for me.
And this didn't disappoint. While I loved the plot, the grammatical errors should be fixed. I felt at times the writing was rushed and a little sloppy. But I loved the characters. Selena was awesome. She was hotheaded and smart. Just like an Aluna should be. I loved Kane's change in beliefs. It seems natural and realistic, and I loved how they compromised on the two Alphas thing.
Overall, I would have given this book a five, if not for the writing errors. I would still recommend this book to people in a heartbeat, and I can't wait for the next book in the series.
*whispers to Ms. Wicker* If you need a reviewer for Aluna e-mail me.
And this didn't disappoint. While I loved the plot, the grammatical errors should be fixed. I felt at times the writing was rushed and a little sloppy. But I loved the characters. Selena was awesome. She was hotheaded and smart. Just like an Aluna should be. I loved Kane's change in beliefs. It seems natural and realistic, and I loved how they compromised on the two Alphas thing.
Overall, I would have given this book a five, if not for the writing errors. I would still recommend this book to people in a heartbeat, and I can't wait for the next book in the series.
*whispers to Ms. Wicker* If you need a reviewer for Aluna e-mail me.
June 4, 2018
I was bamboozled into reading another YA novel. Cringe. There was promise of werewolves and a strong female lead. Kinda fell short with that last one. When you fight the whole book with the idea that no one respects your role as “alpha” and your resolution to that in the end is to basically give up your “alpha” role, it doesn’t leave a satisfying feeling. Not for me anyway.
Also, is everyone just cool with 17 year olds running the show? I mean come on. Their conversations portray how immature they are and yet all the adults treat them as if that’s totally cool that the kids who are RUNNING THEIR SOCIETY are insecure about makeup and first kisses and can’t seem to stay on any serious topic for more than a few seconds before cracking dumb jokes or getting all hormonal. YA, man. Jeez. I’m pretty sure I still would’ve cringed at this book if I had read it when I was 17.
Still debating on whether to read the next one. The only reasons I’m considering it is because a) I can’t seem to find any decent adult werewolf/shifter romance books, and b) I literally read this in like 5 hours. I’m behind on my reading goal for the year so this would be a quick catch up.
Also, is everyone just cool with 17 year olds running the show? I mean come on. Their conversations portray how immature they are and yet all the adults treat them as if that’s totally cool that the kids who are RUNNING THEIR SOCIETY are insecure about makeup and first kisses and can’t seem to stay on any serious topic for more than a few seconds before cracking dumb jokes or getting all hormonal. YA, man. Jeez. I’m pretty sure I still would’ve cringed at this book if I had read it when I was 17.
Still debating on whether to read the next one. The only reasons I’m considering it is because a) I can’t seem to find any decent adult werewolf/shifter romance books, and b) I literally read this in like 5 hours. I’m behind on my reading goal for the year so this would be a quick catch up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2015
I received a digital copy from the author, In exchange for an honest review.
The beginning of the book was fantastic! Character development was wonderful. I love the story line, a female alpha werewolf with many challenges.
Was still enjoying the book in the middle while two werewolf territories were working together against outside forces. The additional characters were brought in wonderfully.
About two thirds through the book I started to feel the author rushing the story. Grouping events into summaries instead of elaborating on the events to keep the story moving. Some of the conversations toward the end again felt like they weren't thought through well...
As with most books, I found some grammar issues... toward the end which again made me feel that the last third of the book was rushed.
There could have been a lot more history brought into the story or expanded story lines...
I felt very unfulfilled by the end of the book and am hoping that Aluna will be more like the first two thirds of Unexpected Alpha which I loved!!!!
So some good and some not so good points for me... but over all will give it a 3.5 leaning toward a 4.
The beginning of the book was fantastic! Character development was wonderful. I love the story line, a female alpha werewolf with many challenges.
Was still enjoying the book in the middle while two werewolf territories were working together against outside forces. The additional characters were brought in wonderfully.
About two thirds through the book I started to feel the author rushing the story. Grouping events into summaries instead of elaborating on the events to keep the story moving. Some of the conversations toward the end again felt like they weren't thought through well...
As with most books, I found some grammar issues... toward the end which again made me feel that the last third of the book was rushed.
There could have been a lot more history brought into the story or expanded story lines...
I felt very unfulfilled by the end of the book and am hoping that Aluna will be more like the first two thirds of Unexpected Alpha which I loved!!!!
So some good and some not so good points for me... but over all will give it a 3.5 leaning toward a 4.
February 24, 2016
The world created is very original. I feel like I'm going on a journey to a fantasy, and that's great. Did anyone else feel this way?
I felt sorry for Lena when she has to become Alpha right after losing her father. The author did an excellent job pulling in emotional substance for us readers, and this made me want her to succeed as alpha. I thought if she could deal with this then she should be able to deal with what comes next.
I would not want her job.
Alpha is a lot of responsibility. She has to protect her pack from lone wolfs, other packs and hunters. To top it off she has to deal with sexist men that don't think she can handle to duties because she's a woman.
Realistically in a real wolf pack females aren't and cannot be alpha. I don't usually like it when they break that, but this was done well.
Kane is so supportive of Lena even though he doesn't completely like sharing the Alpha title. I like the sapphire name park. It's cool.
I felt sorry for Lena when she has to become Alpha right after losing her father. The author did an excellent job pulling in emotional substance for us readers, and this made me want her to succeed as alpha. I thought if she could deal with this then she should be able to deal with what comes next.
I would not want her job.
Alpha is a lot of responsibility. She has to protect her pack from lone wolfs, other packs and hunters. To top it off she has to deal with sexist men that don't think she can handle to duties because she's a woman.
Realistically in a real wolf pack females aren't and cannot be alpha. I don't usually like it when they break that, but this was done well.
Kane is so supportive of Lena even though he doesn't completely like sharing the Alpha title. I like the sapphire name park. It's cool.
November 23, 2015
(I received this copy from the author for an honest review.) I'm glad to have had the chance to read this book. It was a bit slow for me the first half when it was trying to understand the characters more and get a closer connection to them myself to stay interested. However, afterwards it did get interesting. A female who becomes alpha to a pack was not had before and many were against it. But you ser her passion and are sad she doesn't have much family now around her to help during these new unknown times. She does find a love with Kane, but of course it comes at the time where she's still finding out who she is and what she is capable of. Lena definitely wants t figure it out and control it, but will she in time to make a life with the mate she wants. I hope to find out once I read book 2. I did enjoy it, can't wait to know what happens.
February 22, 2016
I LOVED this book! There was so much going on in the plot. The characters were fun also. I highly recommend this book and can't wait for the sequel, since this book ended in a cliffhanger. Five glittery stars!
January 5, 2019
What a read! I was originally apprehensive about reading this novel. I’m typically nervous about reading young adult novels about kids in charge. But I was not disappointed. Selena was really an unexpected alpha and did face a lot of challenges. The author did a wonderful job at character development. The characters all had their own personalities. I also love how the relationship between Kane and Lena
Was a slow burn type of situation. She didn’t proclaim her love for him in the beginning. He had to earn her trust and friendship.
I’m giving this book five stars! It has all of the elements that I look for in a read. There is romance, coping with loss, a war, and believable characters. I also enjoy the fact that there isn’t a love triangle. Selena has loyal friends who are in healthy relationships with their own mates. The villain is also intriguing. Though, his back story is not revealed in this book. I can’t wait to read book 2, to find out what happens next.
July 14, 2017
Intriguing plot but slow. I love the idea of the novel- a female alpha and how that affects her search for a mate etc. there could have been more action scenes with hunters and a few more scenes developing the romantic relationship between Selena and her mate. In fact her decision that the guy was her mate came with very little explanation as to how she knew, so that was a bit confusing.
The novel was a tad slow for me, the scenes not quite moving the plot forward with enough purpose and the cliffhanger ending was disappointing because it left nothing resolved. The only issue even slightly resolved was that with Ryan, and still no complete answers there. Am definitely keeping an eye out for book 2 b/c I need answers!!
The novel was a tad slow for me, the scenes not quite moving the plot forward with enough purpose and the cliffhanger ending was disappointing because it left nothing resolved. The only issue even slightly resolved was that with Ryan, and still no complete answers there. Am definitely keeping an eye out for book 2 b/c I need answers!!
October 28, 2024
Mates and mating bonds and wolves and enemies and rivals… all kind of boring. There was no action packed scene. There was no spice. There was no big buildup in the big event happening.. everything moved very slow and it was all very calm and even the fights weren’t that good it was very predictable. I just wasn’t really a fan of this book. The storyline was good, but it lacked any real luster..
October 4, 2018
Ok
This book was cute but not what I’d usually read. It just dragged on without purpose. Maybe for a much younger age group though. However I will not be interested in reading the next one
This book was cute but not what I’d usually read. It just dragged on without purpose. Maybe for a much younger age group though. However I will not be interested in reading the next one
June 20, 2017
Awesome read!!
I must admit I was really surprised by how good this book was. I really enjoyed this read. I am so excited to read more of her work.
I must admit I was really surprised by how good this book was. I really enjoyed this read. I am so excited to read more of her work.
February 15, 2018
Not the best paranormal book I’ve read. Basic plot and characters. I read the entire book but couldn’t care less about the characters. 😒
June 12, 2018
loved it!
November 13, 2018
Good reed
This book was really good can't wait to see what is going one with her and I hope kane can find her
This book was really good can't wait to see what is going one with her and I hope kane can find her
July 28, 2022
Interesting book
I hope there are not too many books in this series. This book is very interesting with alpha female involved and can't wait for the next book. Enjoy
I hope there are not too many books in this series. This book is very interesting with alpha female involved and can't wait for the next book. Enjoy
March 11, 2016
This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBlast dot com.
I felt at the beginning of the book that the world and characters were not well developed. Eventually the characters gained a bit more backstory and became very likable with the exception of Dash and Ryan. This first book only gives us a glimpse of Dash and it’s not enough to find him likeable. It’s only through his mother that we learn that he might not be a total scumbag. The story of Kane and Lena was very sweet and I found myself rooting for him and liking the other two couples in the story as well. The pack mentality in this book was a bit annoying with the continual reminders that females are supposed to be submissive and can’t be alpha.
The love story makes this book worth reading and the likeable characters and investment in Lena/Kane story will bring me back for book #2.
I felt at the beginning of the book that the world and characters were not well developed. Eventually the characters gained a bit more backstory and became very likable with the exception of Dash and Ryan. This first book only gives us a glimpse of Dash and it’s not enough to find him likeable. It’s only through his mother that we learn that he might not be a total scumbag. The story of Kane and Lena was very sweet and I found myself rooting for him and liking the other two couples in the story as well. The pack mentality in this book was a bit annoying with the continual reminders that females are supposed to be submissive and can’t be alpha.
The love story makes this book worth reading and the likeable characters and investment in Lena/Kane story will bring me back for book #2.
February 24, 2016
I haven't read too many werewolves books so I really wasn't sure what to expect. But having a passion for strong female leads, what more could I ask than a female alpha? Even I know that's rare. Match that up with a kick butt cover, and Unexpected Alpha was too intriguing to pass up.
And boy am I glad I read this book. It was such a great read.
I felt sorry for Lena because it seemed she always had to prove herself. Which, yeah, that would be expected since she’s a female alpha, but she handled everything with grace. Even when she had to bare her teeth to do so.
I was frustrated with Kane in the beginning but his actions were completely believable. I wouldn't have expected him to step aside and hand over his alpha title so easily. But his beliefs idd keep everything real and Lena sharp.
But besides needing to find a mate, there's a bigger “problem” lurking for the clans that will draw Lena and Kane closer together.
There's so much that happens, and I actually felt as if I experienced the werewolves lifestyle. But that ending … it left me wanting more. There are a few questions I still have, so I'll be anxiously awaiting the next installment.
And boy am I glad I read this book. It was such a great read.
I felt sorry for Lena because it seemed she always had to prove herself. Which, yeah, that would be expected since she’s a female alpha, but she handled everything with grace. Even when she had to bare her teeth to do so.
I was frustrated with Kane in the beginning but his actions were completely believable. I wouldn't have expected him to step aside and hand over his alpha title so easily. But his beliefs idd keep everything real and Lena sharp.
But besides needing to find a mate, there's a bigger “problem” lurking for the clans that will draw Lena and Kane closer together.
There's so much that happens, and I actually felt as if I experienced the werewolves lifestyle. But that ending … it left me wanting more. There are a few questions I still have, so I'll be anxiously awaiting the next installment.
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