What do you think?
Shift #0.5
Bearly Married
Love is a great reason to marry someone, but so is desperation.
Alexandre Thibault needs to marry an heiress: his clan’s finances are decimated, and his cousin is challenging him for leadership. He has even found the perfect woman—a pure-blood bear shifter with a hefty dowry—though he never expected the attraction between them.
Christine Bergeron will do anything to escape her family home, though exchanging the city for the Canadian wilderness isn’t as easy as she’d imagined. Especially when she’s in danger of losing her heart to a man who might never love her back.
But as enemies threaten their family, Alexandre and Christine will risk everything to keep their safe haven.
Alexandre Thibault needs to marry an heiress: his clan’s finances are decimated, and his cousin is challenging him for leadership. He has even found the perfect woman—a pure-blood bear shifter with a hefty dowry—though he never expected the attraction between them.
Christine Bergeron will do anything to escape her family home, though exchanging the city for the Canadian wilderness isn’t as easy as she’d imagined. Especially when she’s in danger of losing her heart to a man who might never love her back.
But as enemies threaten their family, Alexandre and Christine will risk everything to keep their safe haven.
114 pages, Unknown Binding
About the author
Zoe Ashwood
44 books971 followersZoe Ashwood writes sexy paranormal romance for women who believe in magic and true love.
She's in love with the art of making up stories - and making her characters fall in love.
Get a FREE orc romance by joining her newsletter !
You can also find her on: Facebook - Instagram - Pinterest.
She's in love with the art of making up stories - and making her characters fall in love.
Get a FREE orc romance by joining her newsletter !
You can also find her on: Facebook - Instagram - Pinterest.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
![Profile Image for Carol [Goodreads Addict].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1626057011i/10717098._UX200_CR0,33,200,200_.jpg)
February 26, 2021
RATING 4.5 STARS
Bearly Married is book #0.5 in the Shift series by Zoe Ashwood. This is my very first book by Zoe.
Alexandre Thibault is a bear shifter. He has been forced to become alpha of his clan after the disappearance of his sister and the inability of his father to take care of things. But his job is full of challenges with disappearing finances and so much that needs doing. His cousin is challenging him for leadership so Alexandre needs to find a wife to strengthen his position and she needs to be a pureblood shifter. This doesn’t leave him many choices. He’s down to his last possibility which is how he came to be on Christine’s family’s doorstep.
Christine Bergeron is also a bear shifter. After growing up under the controlling thumb of her father, she needs to get away. If the only way to do that is through an arranged marriage, she’ll risk it. When she met Alexandre, though, her hopes blossomed. He was not only handsome, he seemed like a good man. Not to mention that he seemed as attracted to her as she was to him.
As Christine transitions to life in Alexandre’s clan, their relationship strengthens. But, she is also trying to find her place here, to finally spread the wings that her father kept restrained. Being the clan’s alpha’s wife, though, can also be dangerous. Not everyone is happy with Alexandre’s position and will do whatever it takes to achieve their own goals.
This was a great introduction to this series! The writing pulled me in. The author quickly made me care for these two characters. It was surprisingly suspenseful as well, something I didn’t expect. I enjoyed this very much and look forward to checking out more of this series.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Bearly Married is book #0.5 in the Shift series by Zoe Ashwood. This is my very first book by Zoe.
Alexandre Thibault is a bear shifter. He has been forced to become alpha of his clan after the disappearance of his sister and the inability of his father to take care of things. But his job is full of challenges with disappearing finances and so much that needs doing. His cousin is challenging him for leadership so Alexandre needs to find a wife to strengthen his position and she needs to be a pureblood shifter. This doesn’t leave him many choices. He’s down to his last possibility which is how he came to be on Christine’s family’s doorstep.
Christine Bergeron is also a bear shifter. After growing up under the controlling thumb of her father, she needs to get away. If the only way to do that is through an arranged marriage, she’ll risk it. When she met Alexandre, though, her hopes blossomed. He was not only handsome, he seemed like a good man. Not to mention that he seemed as attracted to her as she was to him.
As Christine transitions to life in Alexandre’s clan, their relationship strengthens. But, she is also trying to find her place here, to finally spread the wings that her father kept restrained. Being the clan’s alpha’s wife, though, can also be dangerous. Not everyone is happy with Alexandre’s position and will do whatever it takes to achieve their own goals.
This was a great introduction to this series! The writing pulled me in. The author quickly made me care for these two characters. It was surprisingly suspenseful as well, something I didn’t expect. I enjoyed this very much and look forward to checking out more of this series.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
December 3, 2019
Filled with surprising heart, heat and action, this was a great setup for future books
After taking a break from the internet over the holiday weekend, I feel renewed and ready to continue binge-reading all things KU. This novel was a short and sexy shifter novella that contained surprisingly deep characters and multiple (and unconventional) villains. I loved the tenderness and protectiveness that developed between Christine and Alexandre; even though theirs was a marriage of convenience, they were both open to the love and freedom that the other represented. Their hesitant but undeniable courtship was sweet but not perfect, and I really enjoyed it. I will definitely be continuing on in the series as I have really come to love Zoe's simple but harmonious writing style.
After taking a break from the internet over the holiday weekend, I feel renewed and ready to continue binge-reading all things KU. This novel was a short and sexy shifter novella that contained surprisingly deep characters and multiple (and unconventional) villains. I loved the tenderness and protectiveness that developed between Christine and Alexandre; even though theirs was a marriage of convenience, they were both open to the love and freedom that the other represented. Their hesitant but undeniable courtship was sweet but not perfect, and I really enjoyed it. I will definitely be continuing on in the series as I have really come to love Zoe's simple but harmonious writing style.
November 27, 2018
This is the first paranormal romance novel that I genuinely enjoyed and didn't make me cringe! I'm looking forward to more.
November 26, 2018
Bear with me while I tell you just how great this novella is. Sorry, couldn't avoid the pun because the hero and heroine of this awesome story are black bear shifters! A very important point as, in fact, Christine is one of the last pure blood black bear shifters around. Alexandre, a tall, dark, and handsome, and somewhat serious man, needs a wife, otherwise his cousin has good grounds to challenge his leadership of their clan.
But when Alexandre meets Christine, he can't believe his luck. Not only is she willing to marry a stranger but she's also super gorgeous and lovely.
Can you just imagine the pretty baby bears they'll make together?
But she's fleeing a bad situation and needs him as much as he needs her.
Ahhh, I can't tell you how much I adore this series. I've had the privilege of reading the first full novel that this precedes - Trust the Wolf - and I can't get enough of Ashwood's PNR world. Light on the angst, heavy on the story telling, it's a pacy and chemistry-filled tale. The little touches Ashwood adds as background detail are to die for. I rooted for Alexandre and Christine to find true love despite the arranged start to their marriage. You will, too.
Best of all? It's FREE to newsletter subscribers.
But when Alexandre meets Christine, he can't believe his luck. Not only is she willing to marry a stranger but she's also super gorgeous and lovely.
Can you just imagine the pretty baby bears they'll make together?
But she's fleeing a bad situation and needs him as much as he needs her.
Ahhh, I can't tell you how much I adore this series. I've had the privilege of reading the first full novel that this precedes - Trust the Wolf - and I can't get enough of Ashwood's PNR world. Light on the angst, heavy on the story telling, it's a pacy and chemistry-filled tale. The little touches Ashwood adds as background detail are to die for. I rooted for Alexandre and Christine to find true love despite the arranged start to their marriage. You will, too.
Best of all? It's FREE to newsletter subscribers.
January 6, 2019
I really liked this prequel. You had me at MATH.
It did a nice job of defining characters and setting up the world. The characters felt authentic. I'll be interested to see where the series goes from here. I don't read very much PNR these days but I'm looking forward to the next one.
It did a nice job of defining characters and setting up the world. The characters felt authentic. I'll be interested to see where the series goes from here. I don't read very much PNR these days but I'm looking forward to the next one.
September 21, 2024
A good bear shifter story😍 Easy to read, very little angst❤️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
January 26, 2019
Reviewed at Shifter Haven
“Bearly Married” is the prequel to Zoe Ashwood’s Shift series… and it introduces us to an intriguing world filled with interesting characters, dangerous situations, family strife and a couple that is believable, even relatable from the very start. On a side note, “Bearly Married” is only available (at the time of this review) through Ms. Ashwood’s website … so head to Zoe Ashwood (dot) com to get more details on that. “Trust the Wolf”, the first novel in this series is also considered to be Ms. Ashwood’s debut novel… and if the prequel is any indication then we’re in for a treat (which I will be devouring once this review is done)
I’m a reader who needs to start at the beginning, so finding “Bearly Married” before starting “Trust the Wolf” was important — for me. Christine and Alexandre set the stage for the coming series with a story that touches the heart and captures the imagination as well. It delivers characters, situations that I want to know more about… and that is what a prequel should do, whet my appetite for more.
Both Christine and Alexandre seek an arranged marriage but for far different reasons – one to escape her cruel father’s control, the other to save his floundering clan and make the best of the fact that he is now the heir that must carry on traditions and the livelihood, safety, and security of his clan. Neither expected to become so quickly emotionally involved in their solution or to fit so perfectly together as mates. Outside forces, one vile villain and interfering parents will make their first days together rather difficult. Yet the attraction between them is growing stronger each day. Now it only has to continue in strength in order for them to face the difficulties that are on the horizon.
“Bearly Married” is a story that was easy to fall into, with a world that is believable and one I want to know more about. Ms. Ashwood’s writing is smooth, concise and easy to follow. She is a natural born storyteller, and if I wasn’t aware that these stories are her first ventures into the Paranormal Romance / Shifter Romance world I would not have noticed any difference from an established author. But because I did know I was looking for those “tells” that would give that fact away… and I found none, which tells me this is an author that I will be following to see how their career develops over time.
If you want to get in on the beginning of a compelling, intriguing series… or start off with a new author on her journey, then “Bearly Married” is a perfect way to start that adventure. I’d definitely recommend this story — and now I’m off to read “Trust the Wolf”. And I suggest you do the same.
I own a copy of this title, which is available through Ms. Ashwood’s website.
“Bearly Married” is the prequel to Zoe Ashwood’s Shift series… and it introduces us to an intriguing world filled with interesting characters, dangerous situations, family strife and a couple that is believable, even relatable from the very start. On a side note, “Bearly Married” is only available (at the time of this review) through Ms. Ashwood’s website … so head to Zoe Ashwood (dot) com to get more details on that. “Trust the Wolf”, the first novel in this series is also considered to be Ms. Ashwood’s debut novel… and if the prequel is any indication then we’re in for a treat (which I will be devouring once this review is done)
I’m a reader who needs to start at the beginning, so finding “Bearly Married” before starting “Trust the Wolf” was important — for me. Christine and Alexandre set the stage for the coming series with a story that touches the heart and captures the imagination as well. It delivers characters, situations that I want to know more about… and that is what a prequel should do, whet my appetite for more.
Both Christine and Alexandre seek an arranged marriage but for far different reasons – one to escape her cruel father’s control, the other to save his floundering clan and make the best of the fact that he is now the heir that must carry on traditions and the livelihood, safety, and security of his clan. Neither expected to become so quickly emotionally involved in their solution or to fit so perfectly together as mates. Outside forces, one vile villain and interfering parents will make their first days together rather difficult. Yet the attraction between them is growing stronger each day. Now it only has to continue in strength in order for them to face the difficulties that are on the horizon.
“Bearly Married” is a story that was easy to fall into, with a world that is believable and one I want to know more about. Ms. Ashwood’s writing is smooth, concise and easy to follow. She is a natural born storyteller, and if I wasn’t aware that these stories are her first ventures into the Paranormal Romance / Shifter Romance world I would not have noticed any difference from an established author. But because I did know I was looking for those “tells” that would give that fact away… and I found none, which tells me this is an author that I will be following to see how their career develops over time.
If you want to get in on the beginning of a compelling, intriguing series… or start off with a new author on her journey, then “Bearly Married” is a perfect way to start that adventure. I’d definitely recommend this story — and now I’m off to read “Trust the Wolf”. And I suggest you do the same.
I own a copy of this title, which is available through Ms. Ashwood’s website.
March 21, 2019
Bearly Married is the story of Alexandre and Christine, bear shifters who get married within weeks of their first meeting for separate reasons. Though it’s far from happily ever after. I loved the characters, especially our main couple. Both are well developed and clearly care for each other, but is put in doubt as the plot sets in motion. But despite that, they do their best to make it work out. The rest of the cast fills out well, and I can see them as real people with real problems.
The prose was vivid and easy to read and had great emotional depth. The settings of both the city and country were clear and I really wanted to run around the area and get away from it all sometimes. The plot wasn’t predictable and I actually enjoyed it, with a fast pace and tension throughout from several factions. There is some sexy times as well. It’s a paranormal romance after all, but that’s not the only part of the plot.
At the end is a preview to Trust the Wolf, the first full length novel in the series. This is a great place to start the Shift series and I look forward to more of Zoe Ashwood’s works.
The prose was vivid and easy to read and had great emotional depth. The settings of both the city and country were clear and I really wanted to run around the area and get away from it all sometimes. The plot wasn’t predictable and I actually enjoyed it, with a fast pace and tension throughout from several factions. There is some sexy times as well. It’s a paranormal romance after all, but that’s not the only part of the plot.
At the end is a preview to Trust the Wolf, the first full length novel in the series. This is a great place to start the Shift series and I look forward to more of Zoe Ashwood’s works.
February 15, 2023
I'm already a huge fan of Zoe Ashwood's books so I was super excited to dive into her shifter series. BEARLY MARRIED was cute with just a touch of drama and plenty of steam for a novella. I liked how gentle Alexandre was with Christine and that he has no problem apologizing right away when he makes a mistake. It was also really nice to see Christine grow into herself once she's away from controlling and abusive father.
Content Warning: abusive parent
Content Warning: abusive parent
April 14, 2019
I really enjoyed this prequel novella. It is well written and detailed. The book gives you great background into the characters and the start of the family that are seen later in the series. The romance is sweet and steamy. The characters are interesting, strong and lovable. This is a wonderful start to the series.
November 26, 2018
I liked it! Enjoyable paranormal romance novella. You know how you later regret clicking on some freebies? This isn't that. This was a good freebie I was glad I clicked on. :) I felt like it was the right length for this couple's story, and I'm looking forward to Ashwood's first full-length novel in this series.
November 26, 2018
A fast, fun, action-packed read. This is a really promising start (though the story is complete, don't worry, no cliff hanger!) to a new series. Sexy, fun and fresh, I read it in one sitting-well, one treadmill session.
Lots of interesting side characters that would make for their own great stories, and hints at a bigger storyline that may be developed?
Lots of interesting side characters that would make for their own great stories, and hints at a bigger storyline that may be developed?
December 5, 2018
Great Novella! Well-written, well-paced with fun, strong characters that aren't afraid to show their vulnerability too. A very believable, sweet and HOT take on the arranged marriage trope! Pick it up now!
December 17, 2018
This cute and saucy prequel novella from indie writer Zoe Ashwood has me hooked from page 1. The pacing was perfect, the characters endearing and the plot unique and addicting. I look forward to reading more in the series!
September 16, 2024
No ha estado mal. Precuela de la saga Shift de Zoe Ashwood. Yo conocía a esta autora por su saga de orcos. Sin embargo, esta no ha estado mal. Ha estado entretenida.
December 12, 2018
A very cute romance. it starts out as a marriage of convenience but turns nto a forever type of love. Deals with abuse and kiddnapping. I enjoyed this story very much and recommend it. You won't be disappointed. I received this arc and volunteered to review it.
December 23, 2018
Bearly Married by Zoe Ashwood
Shift #0.5
I loved this book. I haven’t read as many paranormal books as I would have liked this years and but I’m really glad i read this. This is a prequel in Zoe’s shift series and after reading this book I can’t wait to dive in to the next book. Alexandre and Christine’s story starts off as a girl who wants out of her bad family life and a guys who will do anything to help his clan after his sister went missing even if that mean marrying someone he doesn’t know. After one intense wedding night they realise that maybe this arranged marriage isn’t just for convince, it’s for love as well. I highly suggest reading this book and it’s free! All you need to do is subscribe to Zoe’s Newsletter and it’s all yours.
Shift #0.5
I loved this book. I haven’t read as many paranormal books as I would have liked this years and but I’m really glad i read this. This is a prequel in Zoe’s shift series and after reading this book I can’t wait to dive in to the next book. Alexandre and Christine’s story starts off as a girl who wants out of her bad family life and a guys who will do anything to help his clan after his sister went missing even if that mean marrying someone he doesn’t know. After one intense wedding night they realise that maybe this arranged marriage isn’t just for convince, it’s for love as well. I highly suggest reading this book and it’s free! All you need to do is subscribe to Zoe’s Newsletter and it’s all yours.
December 3, 2018
I don't typically go for this genre, but I got a free copy when I signed up for Zoe's newsletter and I thought why not give it a go. I was pleasantly surprised by this book, and I'm interested to read more by the author!
I have to admit, I'm trash for the 'arranged marriage' trope, and I loved the levels of consent that were still present in this book. I thought the two characters had a really healthy relationship, and even though it was a paranormal erotica, there was none of that overly-macho alpha-male bullshit that I see in a lot of romances nowadays. Both characters were good people, really sweet, and I liked seeing their romance develop. I also liked that there was a legitimate plot to it, too. I'm excited to see where the series goes!
read this book if you like: paranormal romance, erotica, short & easy reads, healthy relationships, and the arranged marriage trope.
don't read this book: if you hate romance/sex in books, if you want a long epic fantasy, if you aren't into shifters, OR if you thought this was going to be like a kinky furry erotica....the whole shifter aspect doesn't really have anything to do with the sex lol (which is part of why I was pleasantly surprised)
Like I said, this isn't a book I'd normally reach for, but it was pretty enjoyable!
I have to admit, I'm trash for the 'arranged marriage' trope, and I loved the levels of consent that were still present in this book. I thought the two characters had a really healthy relationship, and even though it was a paranormal erotica, there was none of that overly-macho alpha-male bullshit that I see in a lot of romances nowadays. Both characters were good people, really sweet, and I liked seeing their romance develop. I also liked that there was a legitimate plot to it, too. I'm excited to see where the series goes!
read this book if you like: paranormal romance, erotica, short & easy reads, healthy relationships, and the arranged marriage trope.
don't read this book: if you hate romance/sex in books, if you want a long epic fantasy, if you aren't into shifters, OR if you thought this was going to be like a kinky furry erotica....the whole shifter aspect doesn't really have anything to do with the sex lol (which is part of why I was pleasantly surprised)
Like I said, this isn't a book I'd normally reach for, but it was pretty enjoyable!
January 2, 2019
Good 👍book, tells of a couple marrying for the good of their families. Tells how they find love together. I can't wait for more from this author. I received this book as a FREE copy to read and I voluntarily leave this review.
May 31, 2021
Bearly Married is a sweet little story to introduce you to the Shift series. If you enjoy reading paranormal romance, this is right up your alley.
Christine and Alexandre get married weeks after they first meet each other, each for a different reason (that they don't keep secret from one another), and soon fall in love. But once Alexandre takes his new bride back home trouble arises and things get touch and go for a while.
I loved both main characters. Christine is sweet and good at math (it's important in the story) and Alexandre is strong and considerate, which is a breath of fresh air considering how many paranormal romance books feature alpha men wannabes that are actually cavemen. Alpha men are hot, cavemen put me off.
The story is intriguing, well-paced, the characters well fleshed out and endearing and the villains get what they deserve. What starts off as a marriage of convenience turns into true love. Expect some delicious sexy time to seal the deal!
Rest assured, the couple will get their happily ever after (this isn't really a spoiler, is it? If a book doesn't have a HEA, I want to know).
I look forward to reading this series and I'm curious to see if characters from Bearly Married make a cameo in other novels. I'd love that a lot.
Christine and Alexandre get married weeks after they first meet each other, each for a different reason (that they don't keep secret from one another), and soon fall in love. But once Alexandre takes his new bride back home trouble arises and things get touch and go for a while.
I loved both main characters. Christine is sweet and good at math (it's important in the story) and Alexandre is strong and considerate, which is a breath of fresh air considering how many paranormal romance books feature alpha men wannabes that are actually cavemen. Alpha men are hot, cavemen put me off.
The story is intriguing, well-paced, the characters well fleshed out and endearing and the villains get what they deserve. What starts off as a marriage of convenience turns into true love. Expect some delicious sexy time to seal the deal!
Rest assured, the couple will get their happily ever after (this isn't really a spoiler, is it? If a book doesn't have a HEA, I want to know).
I look forward to reading this series and I'm curious to see if characters from Bearly Married make a cameo in other novels. I'd love that a lot.
August 16, 2020
providing an honest review after receiving a complementary copy from the author.
I could not finish this book.
whats with the arranged marriages? this book was not set in the past. Why couldn't the characters decide if they wanted to marry with out dowries being involved.
I hated that the Christine stayed with her family and endured he fathers overbearing/ abusive behaviour so that he didn't take it out on her mother. WTF? what is that telling people let your dad treat you like shit so he doesn't treat your mum like shit. How about if he is an arsehole you both leave and then he can treat no one like that. Plus if she marries the guy he wants will he magically just stop be abusive towards the mother? And she will no longer be there to defend the mother how i that helping anything.
I hated that Alexandre decided straight out that women can be of no help unless it evolves house work. Just assumes his new wife would have no idea about paper work and when she offers to help just dismisses her as if women are stupid.
no idea how the book ends and don't care I found this unreadable.
I could not finish this book.
whats with the arranged marriages? this book was not set in the past. Why couldn't the characters decide if they wanted to marry with out dowries being involved.
I hated that the Christine stayed with her family and endured he fathers overbearing/ abusive behaviour so that he didn't take it out on her mother. WTF? what is that telling people let your dad treat you like shit so he doesn't treat your mum like shit. How about if he is an arsehole you both leave and then he can treat no one like that. Plus if she marries the guy he wants will he magically just stop be abusive towards the mother? And she will no longer be there to defend the mother how i that helping anything.
I hated that Alexandre decided straight out that women can be of no help unless it evolves house work. Just assumes his new wife would have no idea about paper work and when she offers to help just dismisses her as if women are stupid.
no idea how the book ends and don't care I found this unreadable.
June 14, 2021
Alexandre needs to marry to save his clan of black bear shape shifters... He needs to find a rich pure blood as soon as possible.
Christine is his last option and seems pleasantly surprised by his handsome face and youth. She is so keen to leave home that she will be anything he wants her to be.
Through the wedding and beyond, we see a real intimacy between them that isn't usually present with arranged marriages... Is this the kindling setting on fire and producing the flames of love?
I enjoyed this book and all I can say is... Zoe has done it again... Drawn me in so deep that I can't put it down and it has my fingers itching to read more.
They open their hearts to each other in an emotional exchange.
This author has a magical talent when it comes to romance and you can feel the heat, the connection and sometimes the pain of the characters.
I am keen to read everything by this amazing writer and can't wait to dive in.
Christine is his last option and seems pleasantly surprised by his handsome face and youth. She is so keen to leave home that she will be anything he wants her to be.
Through the wedding and beyond, we see a real intimacy between them that isn't usually present with arranged marriages... Is this the kindling setting on fire and producing the flames of love?
I enjoyed this book and all I can say is... Zoe has done it again... Drawn me in so deep that I can't put it down and it has my fingers itching to read more.
They open their hearts to each other in an emotional exchange.
This author has a magical talent when it comes to romance and you can feel the heat, the connection and sometimes the pain of the characters.
I am keen to read everything by this amazing writer and can't wait to dive in.
February 12, 2019
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of "BEARLY MARRIED" This a very interesting, entertaing, drama filled storyline so well written it had you turning page after page of this intriguing prequel. Alexander Thibault's cousin is challenging him to be leader of the Clan these are black bear shifters and in dire need of funds. Christine Bergeron is a pure blood black bear and gorgeous she having problems with her family so when Alexander asks her to marry him she agrees to get away. This is a captivating short read the chemistry is steamy and Christine just hopes that if she gives her heart to Alexander he will in return. Their are enemies after Alexander and Christine they need to work together to save their clan I highly recommend to read this book I've read other from Zoe Ashwood and I enjoyed this book as much as previous books it's a must read you don't want to miss.
October 5, 2023
Series: Shift #0.5
Rating: 4 stars - It was really good
This was a beautiful marriage of convenience story. Alexandre was super sweet and gentle with Christine and I loved how he took care of her. He also had no problem apologizing when he made a mistake. Christine was a beautiful woman who really grew once she was away from her controlling and abusive father. I loved seeing her open up and talk about what she wanted for her future. Also I loved that Alexandre wanted to help her mother get away from her father as well.
This was my first book by Zoe Ashwood but I really enjoyed it and plan on reading more of this series now.
CW: abusive parent; alcoholic parents; PTSD; threat of death; death of a parent briefly mentioned;
Rating: 4 stars - It was really good
This was a beautiful marriage of convenience story. Alexandre was super sweet and gentle with Christine and I loved how he took care of her. He also had no problem apologizing when he made a mistake. Christine was a beautiful woman who really grew once she was away from her controlling and abusive father. I loved seeing her open up and talk about what she wanted for her future. Also I loved that Alexandre wanted to help her mother get away from her father as well.
This was my first book by Zoe Ashwood but I really enjoyed it and plan on reading more of this series now.
CW: abusive parent; alcoholic parents; PTSD; threat of death; death of a parent briefly mentioned;
August 3, 2026
Upon reading the first chapter I had to scroll back and check the settings year. I was convinced it was a typo and should have read 1891 not 1991 haha... Silly me! How dare I question the amazing Zoe *sorry*
The scene of an arranged marriage and the politeness of society, made me read it like it was from the 1800's all the way through. But I loved it. It was so cute how they trusted in each other from the onset. I also loved how straightforward and practical the female lead was and how the male was a traditional gentleman. Another yes from me. I'm off to re read all the orc books again as they are the goat
The scene of an arranged marriage and the politeness of society, made me read it like it was from the 1800's all the way through. But I loved it. It was so cute how they trusted in each other from the onset. I also loved how straightforward and practical the female lead was and how the male was a traditional gentleman. Another yes from me. I'm off to re read all the orc books again as they are the goat
July 12, 2019
Sweet romance arising from an arranged marriage sets the scene, but they are not just Alexandre and Christine wedding by contract, but Alexandre and his mate, black bear shifters. That their union becomes more grows naturally as their characters are masterly revealed, her sweetness and strength allow a partnership to grow rather than a marriage of convenience. This story has passion, tension, character depth, and enough blood, biting and battle to keep the action moving. I enjoyed it.
November 23, 2019
Bearly Married (Shift, #0.5) by Zoe Ashwood is a story I have had the privilege to read and fell in love with it from the first page. I love reading about bar shifters and this story is now one of my favorites. I can not wait to see what she writes next cause I am sure I will love all her book. I highly recommend this story to everyone who loves reading about bear shifters and paranormal romances.
January 13, 2024
Fast and enjoyable.
I had fun with this book and it’s a fast and nice read. It’s a bit too insta-love for me but I did like the progression of the plot and how Alexandre and Christine found their HEA.
The setting of the 90's isn’t too much explored but I liked the little nods towards the era, especially with Christine’s wedding dress and the lack of cellphones. It makes a fun backdrop to the story.
I had fun with this book and it’s a fast and nice read. It’s a bit too insta-love for me but I did like the progression of the plot and how Alexandre and Christine found their HEA.
The setting of the 90's isn’t too much explored but I liked the little nods towards the era, especially with Christine’s wedding dress and the lack of cellphones. It makes a fun backdrop to the story.
March 8, 2019
Great novella, definitely got me hooked on Zoe Ashwood! Can't wait to read the rest of the series. And, side note, it really made me want to go to Canada and spend a weekend in a cabin with my hubby... I'll be looking at flights for this summer!
November 30, 2019
The cover on this book describes the main character, who is actually a complex character. He needs to marry into money to help his clan. He meets his intended mate and plans to claim her, all without her knowing at first. This is a good book. I got this copy and give it my honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews