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Dark Moon Shifters #1
Unleashed
One woman on the run. Four dangerously sexy bodyguards. And a war brewing that will change the shifter world forever…
I’m living on borrowed time, fighting for survival against a deadly new virus that has no cure and a cult doing its best to brainwash me. But when a mysterious note shows up on my windowsill one night, its chilling message--Run, Wren--launches me out of the frying pan and into the fire.
Within hours, everything I thought I knew about my life, my family, and my origins is obliterated, and I'm racking up enemies at an alarming rate. Between the cult I've just escaped, a violent shifter faction out for my blood, and an ancient evil who eats "chosen ones" like me for breakfast, my last hope is to join forces with four dangerous-looking men who claim they were sent to guard my life.
Luke, a werewolf with a rap sheet. Creedence, a lynx shifter who never met a mark he couldn’t con. Kite, a bear kin with a mean right hook and heart of gold. And Dust, my childhood best friend and dude voted least likely to be a secret shape-shifting griffin.
But are these men really what they seem?
Or are my alpha guardians hiding a secret agenda of their own?
I’m not sure, but one thing is for certain—choosing the right allies will mean the difference between life and death. For me, and everyone I love.
UNLEASHED is book one in the Dark Moon Shifter’s series. It is a true reverse harem featuring one woman and her four mates.
I’m living on borrowed time, fighting for survival against a deadly new virus that has no cure and a cult doing its best to brainwash me. But when a mysterious note shows up on my windowsill one night, its chilling message--Run, Wren--launches me out of the frying pan and into the fire.
Within hours, everything I thought I knew about my life, my family, and my origins is obliterated, and I'm racking up enemies at an alarming rate. Between the cult I've just escaped, a violent shifter faction out for my blood, and an ancient evil who eats "chosen ones" like me for breakfast, my last hope is to join forces with four dangerous-looking men who claim they were sent to guard my life.
Luke, a werewolf with a rap sheet. Creedence, a lynx shifter who never met a mark he couldn’t con. Kite, a bear kin with a mean right hook and heart of gold. And Dust, my childhood best friend and dude voted least likely to be a secret shape-shifting griffin.
But are these men really what they seem?
Or are my alpha guardians hiding a secret agenda of their own?
I’m not sure, but one thing is for certain—choosing the right allies will mean the difference between life and death. For me, and everyone I love.
UNLEASHED is book one in the Dark Moon Shifter’s series. It is a true reverse harem featuring one woman and her four mates.
370 pages, Paperback
First published August 17, 2018
1882 people are currently reading
1621 people want to read
About the author
Bella Jacobs
36 books267 followersBella Jacobs loves pulse-pounding action, fantasy, and supernaturally high stakes, mixed with swoon-worthy romance and unforgettable heroes.
She adores trips to the dark side and can't wait to take you on her next adventure.
She adores trips to the dark side and can't wait to take you on her next adventure.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 187 reviews
October 15, 2018
The first half of this book was so boring.
Unleashed: A Reverse Harem Shifter Urban Fantasy was one of those books that made me so freaking happy when it was over. The first half of this book was so freaking boring. I honestly didn't care about this girl and her family. Nor the guys in her life. I just wanted this book to be over.
I feel like I'm definitely in the minority for this book. In the beginning, you meet Wren. Pretty name for a pretty girl but she's sick. Mostly because her parents are basically drugging her to be sick.. so when she's free from her parents evil grasp - she magically starts to feel better. I'm talking hours later she's stronger than she was weeks ago.
From there, you meet the guys in her harem. Kite is the first guy you meet and he's honestly okay. Nothing really special about him in my eyes but then again, I've read a bunch of reverse harem books. I wish I would've connected more with a character in this book because the cover was what got me so interested. I was pumped for this book but then I just ended up being bored and disappointed.
Overall, I probably wont dive into the second book - unless everyone says it's freaking amazing and will make me rich.
Unleashed: A Reverse Harem Shifter Urban Fantasy was one of those books that made me so freaking happy when it was over. The first half of this book was so freaking boring. I honestly didn't care about this girl and her family. Nor the guys in her life. I just wanted this book to be over.
I feel like I'm definitely in the minority for this book. In the beginning, you meet Wren. Pretty name for a pretty girl but she's sick. Mostly because her parents are basically drugging her to be sick.. so when she's free from her parents evil grasp - she magically starts to feel better. I'm talking hours later she's stronger than she was weeks ago.
From there, you meet the guys in her harem. Kite is the first guy you meet and he's honestly okay. Nothing really special about him in my eyes but then again, I've read a bunch of reverse harem books. I wish I would've connected more with a character in this book because the cover was what got me so interested. I was pumped for this book but then I just ended up being bored and disappointed.
Overall, I probably wont dive into the second book - unless everyone says it's freaking amazing and will make me rich.
August 20, 2018
Book one has me thirsty for more…
I’m still trying to get my thoughts together, to share how much I loved this first book in the new Dark Moon Shifters series. It is an amalgamation of romance, futuristic, shifter, reverse harem plus with a healthy dose of mythic gods to round it all out. Sounds overwhelming? Too busy? Not at all. There is so much going on here that you may think it would be overwhelming, exhaustingly too busy but, in fact, the secrets, the drama, the emotions, are all laid out with a deft hand…
Wren is a beautiful, compassionate woman who loves her job and her family. Living in a world ravaged by climate change (who knew??), she is ill, getting through each pain-ravaged day with the loving and caring support of the people who love her. Kite, handsome and sexy as well as intelligent, makes her wish she wasn’t sick - that she could dream of a future… When her world is turn violently upside down, Kite is the first at her side, though he isn’t alone. Luke, Creedence and Dust, an old friend, pledge to help her in the biggest struggle of her life…
It was somehow easy to make a connection to these likable characters that are slowly revealing their inner selves during harrowing and gut-wrenching situations. Surprises were around every page and chapter, but Wren and her tight-knit group of protectors weathered each blow. So far… Each character is very different but, coming together in a common goal, they battle through, around or over their disagreements. They all know what is at stake…
This story had EVERYTHING I look for in a good read. And even when betrayal brought Wren to her darkest moments, compassion and empathy won out, even when anger and violence would have been an understandable reaction. Their journey has just begun and I can’t wait to find out what comes next in their quest as well as their relationships…. ~Diane, 5 stars
I’m still trying to get my thoughts together, to share how much I loved this first book in the new Dark Moon Shifters series. It is an amalgamation of romance, futuristic, shifter, reverse harem plus with a healthy dose of mythic gods to round it all out. Sounds overwhelming? Too busy? Not at all. There is so much going on here that you may think it would be overwhelming, exhaustingly too busy but, in fact, the secrets, the drama, the emotions, are all laid out with a deft hand…
Wren is a beautiful, compassionate woman who loves her job and her family. Living in a world ravaged by climate change (who knew??), she is ill, getting through each pain-ravaged day with the loving and caring support of the people who love her. Kite, handsome and sexy as well as intelligent, makes her wish she wasn’t sick - that she could dream of a future… When her world is turn violently upside down, Kite is the first at her side, though he isn’t alone. Luke, Creedence and Dust, an old friend, pledge to help her in the biggest struggle of her life…
It was somehow easy to make a connection to these likable characters that are slowly revealing their inner selves during harrowing and gut-wrenching situations. Surprises were around every page and chapter, but Wren and her tight-knit group of protectors weathered each blow. So far… Each character is very different but, coming together in a common goal, they battle through, around or over their disagreements. They all know what is at stake…
This story had EVERYTHING I look for in a good read. And even when betrayal brought Wren to her darkest moments, compassion and empathy won out, even when anger and violence would have been an understandable reaction. Their journey has just begun and I can’t wait to find out what comes next in their quest as well as their relationships…. ~Diane, 5 stars
August 13, 2018
I absolutely loved this new reverse harem from Bella Jacobs! Wren just might be my new favorite MC I loved how her character started out and how through the story she’s finding herself but, also keeping the good parts of who she was! And the boys? All the swoons! Also the story was fantastic I loved that it was a bit paranormal and a bit almost post apocalyptic! I can’t wait for book 2 I need it now!!
July 29, 2022
2.5.
Ok, not a bad start of the series.
Not sure if this author is at the beginning (it kinda feels like it), but it's not an awful read. True, a bit immature and lacks depth, for maybe a younger audience, but it's not bad. I'm not annoyed or pissed off, I don't wanna throw the book out the window, and I'm a little bit curious about the next book.
The characters? Well, like the book: lacking depth, but not bad.
The plot? Has potential.
Writing? Meh, feels like a novice author.
Chemistry? Ish.
Coherence? A little bit; lots of questions, but it's still only the 1st book in the series.
All in all, not awful. Will check the next one.
Ok, not a bad start of the series.
Not sure if this author is at the beginning (it kinda feels like it), but it's not an awful read. True, a bit immature and lacks depth, for maybe a younger audience, but it's not bad. I'm not annoyed or pissed off, I don't wanna throw the book out the window, and I'm a little bit curious about the next book.
The characters? Well, like the book: lacking depth, but not bad.
The plot? Has potential.
Writing? Meh, feels like a novice author.
Chemistry? Ish.
Coherence? A little bit; lots of questions, but it's still only the 1st book in the series.
All in all, not awful. Will check the next one.
October 28, 2018
Oh to be naive and young again.
I feel like this book was trying to become a cross between RH x modern issues x self help.
Because I mean why did some topics revolving around human emotions and actions and shit have to be explained so thoroughly.
*yawn*
The religious cult issue was very much at play with some modern issues today- which roping in with RH, I was slightly impressed.
The naive mind of Wren throughout most of the book was actually extremely cringeworthy. Let’s be honest. NO ONE wants to read about goody-two-shoes Sally getting ceremoniously fucked by a dude and know fully well she’s gonna experience it with 3 other dudes in the future.
The transition is always a little rough. It’s like finding out your little sister isn’t a virgin. Just *cringe*
The kindness theme was nice though. It IS true that not EVERYTHING needs to be solved with war and violence. It’d be nice if the USA could figure that out.
AMIRIGHT???
Anyway, there was just something about this book that didn’t have me thoroughly hooked. Will I read the next installment? I’m not sure.
Right now I’m just trying to find the will to get outta bed to cook dinner.
Reviews of the men:
Luke: I bet he has dick piercings. Who wants to bet with me on this?
Cree: also betting on piercings.
Kite: not sure I’m a fan of the name but he seems nice
Dust: also VERY not sure I’m a fan of the name because all I picture with his name vs persona is a suit-wearing accountant with... wait for it..... killer bedroom antics. See? Just doesn’t sound right.
I feel like this book was trying to become a cross between RH x modern issues x self help.
Because I mean why did some topics revolving around human emotions and actions and shit have to be explained so thoroughly.
*yawn*
The religious cult issue was very much at play with some modern issues today- which roping in with RH, I was slightly impressed.
The naive mind of Wren throughout most of the book was actually extremely cringeworthy. Let’s be honest. NO ONE wants to read about goody-two-shoes Sally getting ceremoniously fucked by a dude and know fully well she’s gonna experience it with 3 other dudes in the future.
The transition is always a little rough. It’s like finding out your little sister isn’t a virgin. Just *cringe*
The kindness theme was nice though. It IS true that not EVERYTHING needs to be solved with war and violence. It’d be nice if the USA could figure that out.
AMIRIGHT???
Anyway, there was just something about this book that didn’t have me thoroughly hooked. Will I read the next installment? I’m not sure.
Right now I’m just trying to find the will to get outta bed to cook dinner.
Reviews of the men:
Luke: I bet he has dick piercings. Who wants to bet with me on this?
Cree: also betting on piercings.
Kite: not sure I’m a fan of the name but he seems nice
Dust: also VERY not sure I’m a fan of the name because all I picture with his name vs persona is a suit-wearing accountant with... wait for it..... killer bedroom antics. See? Just doesn’t sound right.
November 25, 2018
LOVED IT!!!!
I'm a huge fan of PNR but things have gotten a little stale and repetitive in that genre so this book was a real treat. It was nothing like what I was expecting but it immediately pulled me in and had me wanting more.
Wren has spent her life on drugs to fight a degenerative virus for which there's no cure. Just when it seems she may be a candidate for a new medical procedure her life is turned upside down. Kidnapped from her adoptive parents, Wren is thrust into a world filled with shifters, gods and imaginable evil. She has no other option than to adapt to this new world and her place in it.
While this book has all of the paranormal elements I love it also has a sexually charged romance between several of the characters. This book is a must read and I can't wait to see how things play out in the next one.
I'm a huge fan of PNR but things have gotten a little stale and repetitive in that genre so this book was a real treat. It was nothing like what I was expecting but it immediately pulled me in and had me wanting more.
Wren has spent her life on drugs to fight a degenerative virus for which there's no cure. Just when it seems she may be a candidate for a new medical procedure her life is turned upside down. Kidnapped from her adoptive parents, Wren is thrust into a world filled with shifters, gods and imaginable evil. She has no other option than to adapt to this new world and her place in it.
While this book has all of the paranormal elements I love it also has a sexually charged romance between several of the characters. This book is a must read and I can't wait to see how things play out in the next one.
March 21, 2021
DNF at 57%. I couldn't connect with the main character Wren and get on her side, and the concept of Fata Morgana with a necessary shifter harem for power was too special snowflake for me. There was lots of insta-lust/insta-love with most harem members, and Wren's resistance to see the culpability of her parents while also accepting that she needs to be a world savior was a little too unbelievable and frustrating.
She's also a 24-year-old virgin, and the intimate scene I managed to read through before quitting was way too cringy and awkward for me.
She's also a 24-year-old virgin, and the intimate scene I managed to read through before quitting was way too cringy and awkward for me.
August 21, 2018
No grey area...you’ll probably love it or hate it
It’s really hard to rate this book. The author is a strong writer and the story was intriguing and engaging enough that I quickly devoured the book. That being said the love, forgiveness, holding onto ones morals under duress themes were so heavy handed at points it sometimes made the story feel unbalanced. The proselytizing was not subtle at all. I hope the next book doesn’t spend so much valuable real estate on this. We get it and appreciate what the author’s trying to convey, but there is a line where it begins to feel like an author is trying to force you into their way of thinking to the detriment of your enjoyment of the story. I feel the author danced on that line one too many times and it became a little frustrating. Also, Wren wow that moment when innocent people are actively being killed and she was searching for ways to distract instead of using her abilities to the extent necessary to protect & stop the threat. No words. She doesn’t forgive her parents for their mistake with her sister, then perhaps the relatives of the dead shouldn’t forgive her. She put her value system above the innocent people who were losing their lives simply because she was there. It should be hard to feel self righteous about your values when people are dying. Doing nothing or the least possible can be just as bad as the alternative. She didn’t murder anyone, but how many lives were extinguished because of her convictions. Still even though you can see I clearly also have a strong opinion about Wren, this was one of the best reads I read this month and I’m looking forward to the next book.
It’s really hard to rate this book. The author is a strong writer and the story was intriguing and engaging enough that I quickly devoured the book. That being said the love, forgiveness, holding onto ones morals under duress themes were so heavy handed at points it sometimes made the story feel unbalanced. The proselytizing was not subtle at all. I hope the next book doesn’t spend so much valuable real estate on this. We get it and appreciate what the author’s trying to convey, but there is a line where it begins to feel like an author is trying to force you into their way of thinking to the detriment of your enjoyment of the story. I feel the author danced on that line one too many times and it became a little frustrating. Also, Wren wow that moment when innocent people are actively being killed and she was searching for ways to distract instead of using her abilities to the extent necessary to protect & stop the threat. No words. She doesn’t forgive her parents for their mistake with her sister, then perhaps the relatives of the dead shouldn’t forgive her. She put her value system above the innocent people who were losing their lives simply because she was there. It should be hard to feel self righteous about your values when people are dying. Doing nothing or the least possible can be just as bad as the alternative. She didn’t murder anyone, but how many lives were extinguished because of her convictions. Still even though you can see I clearly also have a strong opinion about Wren, this was one of the best reads I read this month and I’m looking forward to the next book.
Read
April 18, 2019As I read it yesterday and already forgot what it was about, reviewing it or even rating it might be a tad difficult.
August 24, 2018
A bit wordy
Unleashed is a well written book with an intriguing storyline, unfortunately it was a little too wordy and lacked enough character growth in all the characters for me to want to continue on with the series.
Unleashed is a well written book with an intriguing storyline, unfortunately it was a little too wordy and lacked enough character growth in all the characters for me to want to continue on with the series.
August 17, 2018
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: https://bookbriefs.net**
Unleashed is the first book in the urban fantasy series by Bella Jacobs. It is the first book in the Dark Moon Shifters series, and I have to say the overall plot line for the series sounds excellent. Unleashed was a solid first book, but it did a lot of groundwork laying before any of the real fun started. As a result, I felt like most of the time I was reading, waiting to get to the next parts. But I don't think that will be the case in the second book and any of the other books, because now we really know who all of the players in the story are and we know what they are trying to accomplish. And it is a big plot line. They are trying to basically save the world.
In Unleashed we meat our heroine, Wren, who is pretty happy living in a cult. It seemed bizarre to me, but she was. Then she is taken from her house and is on the run with her captors, who open her eyes up to a whole new world of snifters and magic and a whole new level of bad guy. I think Unleashed will really resonate with plot driven readers because the plot took front and center. I am a character driven reader, so I was constantly looking for more character interaction. I did get more character interaction, but it took a while to get there. I know there will be a ton more interaction with each of the guys in the next book, and I am super excited about it. I can't wait to get to know them all so much better!
Wren is an interesting character. I can't quite pin her down. She wants to do the right thing, that's for sure. And on one hand she is really brave, but on the other hand she is pretty stubborn. Even though I can't get a read on her 100% of the time, I do know one thing. I really liked her.
Overall, Unleashed was a good read, but I think it is setting the stage for a fantastic book 2. I am so excited to jump into the next book in the Dark Moon Shifters series because I think it will have everything I love- action, swoony guys and kick butt romance. While, this book took a while for the story to build for me, the end result was so worth it. Bring on book 2!
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Unleashed is the first book in the urban fantasy series by Bella Jacobs. It is the first book in the Dark Moon Shifters series, and I have to say the overall plot line for the series sounds excellent. Unleashed was a solid first book, but it did a lot of groundwork laying before any of the real fun started. As a result, I felt like most of the time I was reading, waiting to get to the next parts. But I don't think that will be the case in the second book and any of the other books, because now we really know who all of the players in the story are and we know what they are trying to accomplish. And it is a big plot line. They are trying to basically save the world.
In Unleashed we meat our heroine, Wren, who is pretty happy living in a cult. It seemed bizarre to me, but she was. Then she is taken from her house and is on the run with her captors, who open her eyes up to a whole new world of snifters and magic and a whole new level of bad guy. I think Unleashed will really resonate with plot driven readers because the plot took front and center. I am a character driven reader, so I was constantly looking for more character interaction. I did get more character interaction, but it took a while to get there. I know there will be a ton more interaction with each of the guys in the next book, and I am super excited about it. I can't wait to get to know them all so much better!
Wren is an interesting character. I can't quite pin her down. She wants to do the right thing, that's for sure. And on one hand she is really brave, but on the other hand she is pretty stubborn. Even though I can't get a read on her 100% of the time, I do know one thing. I really liked her.
Overall, Unleashed was a good read, but I think it is setting the stage for a fantastic book 2. I am so excited to jump into the next book in the Dark Moon Shifters series because I think it will have everything I love- action, swoony guys and kick butt romance. While, this book took a while for the story to build for me, the end result was so worth it. Bring on book 2!
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
August 17, 2018
*I received a free copy of this book which I voluntarily chose to write an honest review for.
There is so much going on in this book I'm not sure where to start. It all begins with the sweetest girl woman who thinks she dying from an incurable disease. Instead she had been drugged to keep a secret and when her life is danger the enemies really start piling up. The slow intro of the guys was nice letting us meet them slowly. The action really keeps the story moving while keep you guessing about what was going to happen next. Overall a great start and I look forward to reading book two. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
There is so much going on in this book I'm not sure where to start. It all begins with the sweetest girl woman who thinks she dying from an incurable disease. Instead she had been drugged to keep a secret and when her life is danger the enemies really start piling up. The slow intro of the guys was nice letting us meet them slowly. The action really keeps the story moving while keep you guessing about what was going to happen next. Overall a great start and I look forward to reading book two. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
August 6, 2024
Re-read audiobook. 1 female, 1 male narrator. Both good for the characters.
FMC is good and kind. Weak physically in the beginning due to an “illness” but after she is rescued and learns the truth about herself she slowly develops in strength… physically and mentally… but still retains her compassionate nature.
Guys are fine. Usual harem personalities; nothing really unique but nothing awful either.
The “big bad” in this one is interesting.
FMC is good and kind. Weak physically in the beginning due to an “illness” but after she is rescued and learns the truth about herself she slowly develops in strength… physically and mentally… but still retains her compassionate nature.
Guys are fine. Usual harem personalities; nothing really unique but nothing awful either.
The “big bad” in this one is interesting.
August 27, 2018
KU
DNF 55%
Despite the fabulous cover I just couldn’t get into this novel. Too wordy, too much detail, I couldn’t identify with the protagonist, and all up? Just no. The story is a decent one, with plenty happening, but the pace is prohibitive. After trying to stick it out, stooping to a bit of skimming to give it a chance, there wasn’t enough in it for me to persevere.
DNF 55%
Despite the fabulous cover I just couldn’t get into this novel. Too wordy, too much detail, I couldn’t identify with the protagonist, and all up? Just no. The story is a decent one, with plenty happening, but the pace is prohibitive. After trying to stick it out, stooping to a bit of skimming to give it a chance, there wasn’t enough in it for me to persevere.
Want to read
April 14, 2024🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/9/2022)! 🎁
August 20, 2018
Really, I was between a 3 and a 4, but I decided to go with a 4 because I felt like Jacobs' take on shifters was a bit unique to what I've been reading lately.
First off, there's a division in the world of shifters between the born and created shifters which has created violence and fear between the two groups and each of their allies. On top of that, there's something special about Wren, our MC. While she can take on animal form, there are also these elemental aspects to her power that make her into something new, something that I haven't yet encountered in my urban fantasy obsession.
Unleashed is one of those books where you learn along with what the narrator knows. So, to start off with, we have zero knowledge, really, about the paranormal world. Since Wren's POV is our lead, we're limited to what she's been exposed to throughout her life which is really quite sheltered. As a member of a conservative religious group [cult], her knowledge has been restricted, and she's very much been led down a very specific view of the world.
Despite being raised under the guise of illness, Wren has a strong spirit. She's got some passion and fire to her, particularly when it comes to her moral compass. I like that she speaks her mind and makes her values/position clear even when the others disagree with her. She's standing her ground, which is admirable considering she's kind of just thrown (well, kidnapped) into this entire shifter world.
Jacobs' shifters seem to have two things going for them- their animal forms and the bonuses that come along with that (speed, strength, etc), but there also is a mystical component. Although we don't quite figure out yet what each of the four men's gifts are, we learn a little bit of what they can do.
Wren's potential mates: Kite, Dust, Creedence, and Luke, are a study in surface contrasts. We're getting the full range of personalities from stuffy to flirty, soulful, and dangerous. The balance is nice, giving us variety in their dynamic instead of her falling into relationships with four of the same men.
So far, I think Creedence may be my favorite. Although he's flirty and funny, the glimpses into his perspective point to deeper waters running beneath the surface. He seems like a man that doesn't think too much of himself, and I really want to learn more about why. Dust, Wren's childhood friend, seems kind of trapped by his responsibility and the mantle of his alter form. Beneath the stuffiness lurks bits of humor, and it's clear that he cares about Wren, at least the girl that he used to know. Kite, our soulful bear, is kind and seems to have a good innate understanding of what drives Wren, his values appearing to be closest to hers as we enter into this mayhem. Last but not least, Luke. I'm reserving judgment on him for now; he definitely intrigues me, and I think that he's going to be more valuable and faithful than the other men suspect, but I guess time will tell.
I like that time is being taken to develop the relationships. Although there's definitely some instant lust and ogling between Wren and her men, she's not jumping straight into bed with all of them. She's not very experienced, but her lust for life, and the men, makes it clear that things will likely get steamier in book two. Already in book one we get to see some progress the more comfortable she is with the men, so fans of the romance will definitely get some satisfaction.
Overall, a solid opener to a new series.
First off, there's a division in the world of shifters between the born and created shifters which has created violence and fear between the two groups and each of their allies. On top of that, there's something special about Wren, our MC. While she can take on animal form, there are also these elemental aspects to her power that make her into something new, something that I haven't yet encountered in my urban fantasy obsession.
Unleashed is one of those books where you learn along with what the narrator knows. So, to start off with, we have zero knowledge, really, about the paranormal world. Since Wren's POV is our lead, we're limited to what she's been exposed to throughout her life which is really quite sheltered. As a member of a conservative religious group [cult], her knowledge has been restricted, and she's very much been led down a very specific view of the world.
Despite being raised under the guise of illness, Wren has a strong spirit. She's got some passion and fire to her, particularly when it comes to her moral compass. I like that she speaks her mind and makes her values/position clear even when the others disagree with her. She's standing her ground, which is admirable considering she's kind of just thrown (well, kidnapped) into this entire shifter world.
Jacobs' shifters seem to have two things going for them- their animal forms and the bonuses that come along with that (speed, strength, etc), but there also is a mystical component. Although we don't quite figure out yet what each of the four men's gifts are, we learn a little bit of what they can do.
Wren's potential mates: Kite, Dust, Creedence, and Luke, are a study in surface contrasts. We're getting the full range of personalities from stuffy to flirty, soulful, and dangerous. The balance is nice, giving us variety in their dynamic instead of her falling into relationships with four of the same men.
So far, I think Creedence may be my favorite. Although he's flirty and funny, the glimpses into his perspective point to deeper waters running beneath the surface. He seems like a man that doesn't think too much of himself, and I really want to learn more about why. Dust, Wren's childhood friend, seems kind of trapped by his responsibility and the mantle of his alter form. Beneath the stuffiness lurks bits of humor, and it's clear that he cares about Wren, at least the girl that he used to know. Kite, our soulful bear, is kind and seems to have a good innate understanding of what drives Wren, his values appearing to be closest to hers as we enter into this mayhem. Last but not least, Luke. I'm reserving judgment on him for now; he definitely intrigues me, and I think that he's going to be more valuable and faithful than the other men suspect, but I guess time will tell.
I like that time is being taken to develop the relationships. Although there's definitely some instant lust and ogling between Wren and her men, she's not jumping straight into bed with all of them. She's not very experienced, but her lust for life, and the men, makes it clear that things will likely get steamier in book two. Already in book one we get to see some progress the more comfortable she is with the men, so fans of the romance will definitely get some satisfaction.
Overall, a solid opener to a new series.
December 4, 2021
Wren thought she knew what was in store for the rest of her life- a slow and painful death thanks to a disease known as the Meltdown virus given to her by her drug addict mother. She is living with her adoptive parents and working at a shelter for disadvantaged kids set up by her church-when everything changes.
She gets a phone call telling her not to take her medicine because that it's whats making her sick, and that she needs to be prepared to run. But how can that be? Her parents, the church elders, the doctors...couldn't have been lying to her all her life right....?
Religious cults, supernatural shifters, family secrets, and the fate of the world at stake. This is what 24 year old Wren has to deal with when four men enter her life and completely flip it upside down. But when everything rests on these 5 practical strangers forming a deep irrevocable bond- can they really come together in time to stop an ancient evil?
So plot aside I don't know what is up with RH's and stupid different nicknames for the lead h from each of the guys? In this one we've got--Bird Girl, Snow, Slim, Princess? i yi yi.
Also the guys have nicknames for each other too--Tigger, Pooh-Bear, Pooh-bie, Harry Potter ect
Was an okay read but don't think i'll read on
She gets a phone call telling her not to take her medicine because that it's whats making her sick, and that she needs to be prepared to run. But how can that be? Her parents, the church elders, the doctors...couldn't have been lying to her all her life right....?
Religious cults, supernatural shifters, family secrets, and the fate of the world at stake. This is what 24 year old Wren has to deal with when four men enter her life and completely flip it upside down. But when everything rests on these 5 practical strangers forming a deep irrevocable bond- can they really come together in time to stop an ancient evil?
So plot aside I don't know what is up with RH's and stupid different nicknames for the lead h from each of the guys? In this one we've got--Bird Girl, Snow, Slim, Princess? i yi yi.
Also the guys have nicknames for each other too--Tigger, Pooh-Bear, Pooh-bie, Harry Potter ect
Was an okay read but don't think i'll read on
Read
March 11, 2019 DNF @10%
The Leading Lady is apart of this "Church" which forces the kids to sign a document and agree to their terms to get food and shelter. I 100% agree with Kite (one of the H's) they sound more like a Cult not a Church and a pretty shitty thing to require these kids to follow your faith or they are kicked back on to the street.
Besides that she has some weird disease which makes her weak and she may soon die from.
Anyways I was bored. Turned off by a LL who was so into this Cult... I mean "Church" and I just prefer a quicker intro into the Shifters then what I was getting; so I am moving on.
I just didn't feel any connections to the characters. - Maybe it is a Me not You thing...
I L-O-V-E the Cover though!
The Leading Lady is apart of this "Church" which forces the kids to sign a document and agree to their terms to get food and shelter. I 100% agree with Kite (one of the H's) they sound more like a Cult not a Church and a pretty shitty thing to require these kids to follow your faith or they are kicked back on to the street.
Besides that she has some weird disease which makes her weak and she may soon die from.
Anyways I was bored. Turned off by a LL who was so into this Cult... I mean "Church" and I just prefer a quicker intro into the Shifters then what I was getting; so I am moving on.
I just didn't feel any connections to the characters. - Maybe it is a Me not You thing...
I L-O-V-E the Cover though!
September 5, 2018
This is one amazing start to a new series for this new author! I have read the book front to back in my two days off of work, first book I picked up and held in my hands in a month! Seriously can not wait for the next one!
This is the story of a young woman who has been brought up on lies and a part of a church and family most people are calling a cult. One special young woman with the weight of protecting and saving the world on her shoulders, with her four mates by her side.
This is the story of a young woman who has been brought up on lies and a part of a church and family most people are calling a cult. One special young woman with the weight of protecting and saving the world on her shoulders, with her four mates by her side.
October 30, 2018
At first, I had a hard time getting into this.
But within a few paragraphs, I was starting to get hooked.
By the third chapter, I was all in.
This is a dystopian, mystery, thriller romance...
Does that sound like a thing?
Wren in living on borrowed time, or so she thought.
Her entire life has been a lie.
One she doesn't know who to blame for.
Her parents? Her church? Society in general?
The only people she can fully trust now are the four men who are her mates.
A man she had come to care for while he was working with her, and ultimately kidnapped her-Kite.
A long-lost childhood friend that she didn't know what happened to-Dust.
A werewolf that went to prison for killing people-Luke.
And a laid-back, ex-con lynx shifter- Creedence.
This book is CRAZY!
I never know what to expect when I turn the page.
Which is awesome!
I liked the fact I was kept guessing and on the edge of my seat.
Just wish I would have found this sooner!
Wren is pretty strong woman, considering the struggles she faces on a day-to-day basis.
And she takes everything in stride after she is "kidnapped."
Is it still kidnapping if its to help you??
Probably.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book.
It was a different take on shifters.
As well as a dystopian world.
I'm interested to see how the second book goes.
I would recommend reading it
But within a few paragraphs, I was starting to get hooked.
By the third chapter, I was all in.
This is a dystopian, mystery, thriller romance...
Does that sound like a thing?
Wren in living on borrowed time, or so she thought.
Her entire life has been a lie.
One she doesn't know who to blame for.
Her parents? Her church? Society in general?
The only people she can fully trust now are the four men who are her mates.
A man she had come to care for while he was working with her, and ultimately kidnapped her-Kite.
A long-lost childhood friend that she didn't know what happened to-Dust.
A werewolf that went to prison for killing people-Luke.
And a laid-back, ex-con lynx shifter- Creedence.
This book is CRAZY!
I never know what to expect when I turn the page.
Which is awesome!
I liked the fact I was kept guessing and on the edge of my seat.
Just wish I would have found this sooner!
Wren is pretty strong woman, considering the struggles she faces on a day-to-day basis.
And she takes everything in stride after she is "kidnapped."
Is it still kidnapping if its to help you??
Probably.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book.
It was a different take on shifters.
As well as a dystopian world.
I'm interested to see how the second book goes.
I would recommend reading it
November 27, 2019
I've been waiting for a while now for something a bit new and different to come out in the paranormal romance genre and Unleashed definitely fits the bill. I loved it!! I was intrigued from cover to cover and am really looking forward to getting to know Wren and her mates better throughout the series. In this first book we are introduced to our heroine Wren who that word will come to mean so much more as you read. She was living her life thinking she was dying until one fateful night wakes her up to her reality. We also meet Kite, Dust, Creedence and Luke. The four shifters who will be by her side in her journey. I don't want to give anything away but let me just say that she has herself a band of sexy beasts. I can't wait to get to know each of them better and watch their relationships blossom.
Wonderful characters, great world building and excellent writing made this a joy to read and left me wanting the next book now!
Wonderful characters, great world building and excellent writing made this a joy to read and left me wanting the next book now!
September 14, 2018
Why did I start this?!!
Now I have to wait for the other books!!!!! This theme has been played in multiple books I have read. I really enjoyed the characters and can’t wait to get the know the men. It would have been nice to not have seen the surly wolf, flirty cat, tender bear, and smart winged creature. I know they are playing off of the ‘normal’ features. But these guys keep me interested. Wren did seem to accept EVERYTHING reaaaaaaaaaly fast. But I love her heart. The dangers were a bit fuzzy, evil scientists, crazy no shifter humans, and then crazy shifters. I don’t understand the crazy shifters part. The why was a bit fuzzy for me. The only other thing I wish was explained more was the mate bond. All the men have been with other women sexually but no bond formed. There were no bites or scratches to initiate the bond. It wasn’t clear how the bond formed. All in all a good book. Some great quotes and laughs. I can’t wait for the next one.
Now I have to wait for the other books!!!!! This theme has been played in multiple books I have read. I really enjoyed the characters and can’t wait to get the know the men. It would have been nice to not have seen the surly wolf, flirty cat, tender bear, and smart winged creature. I know they are playing off of the ‘normal’ features. But these guys keep me interested. Wren did seem to accept EVERYTHING reaaaaaaaaaly fast. But I love her heart. The dangers were a bit fuzzy, evil scientists, crazy no shifter humans, and then crazy shifters. I don’t understand the crazy shifters part. The why was a bit fuzzy for me. The only other thing I wish was explained more was the mate bond. All the men have been with other women sexually but no bond formed. There were no bites or scratches to initiate the bond. It wasn’t clear how the bond formed. All in all a good book. Some great quotes and laughs. I can’t wait for the next one.
August 8, 2018
LOVED IT!!!!
I'm a huge fan of PNR but things have gotten a little stale and repetitive in that genre so this book was a real treat. It was nothing like what I was expecting but it immediately pulled me in and had me wanting more.
Wren has spent her life on drugs to fight a degenerative virus for which there's no cure. Just when it seems she may be a candidate for a new medical procedure her life is turned upside down. Kidnapped from her adoptive parents, Wren is thrust into a world filled with shifters, gods and imaginable evil. She has no other option than to adapt to this new world and her place in it.
While this book has all of the paranormal elements I love it also has a sexually charged romance between several of the characters. This book is a must read and I can't wait to see how things play out in the next one.
I'm a huge fan of PNR but things have gotten a little stale and repetitive in that genre so this book was a real treat. It was nothing like what I was expecting but it immediately pulled me in and had me wanting more.
Wren has spent her life on drugs to fight a degenerative virus for which there's no cure. Just when it seems she may be a candidate for a new medical procedure her life is turned upside down. Kidnapped from her adoptive parents, Wren is thrust into a world filled with shifters, gods and imaginable evil. She has no other option than to adapt to this new world and her place in it.
While this book has all of the paranormal elements I love it also has a sexually charged romance between several of the characters. This book is a must read and I can't wait to see how things play out in the next one.
January 11, 2022
DNF @ 52%
The story became boring due excessive filler scenes. It took away from getting to know the FMC and her harem. Making the story drag in order to write an unnecessary trilogy.
The story became boring due excessive filler scenes. It took away from getting to know the FMC and her harem. Making the story drag in order to write an unnecessary trilogy.
August 22, 2023
2.75 ⭐
Book #1
(Completed series)
‼️Very small spoilers ‼️
🆗 Animal shifters & humans
🆗 Unknown background
🆗 RH romance (slow..ish)
⬇️ Bond (sorta)
⬇️ Chosen/Special one
⬇️ Virgin, innocent, fragile FMC
⬇️ Religious cult (kinda)
❗ Children unknowingly being drugged (with medicine)
❗Killing
***
Wren knows she has not long to live.
At 24, she realizes she is lucky to still be alive.
Those with the same disease hardly live to reach adulthood and very rarely see their 30s.
Frail, always pale and tired but still she fills her day by helping at a shelter belonging to the Church of Humanity, a group she and her parents are part of.
But one day her world turns upside down.
Taken from her home, she starts to learn that maybe everything she knew was a lie.
These men tell her she does not have a disease. That she is not dying.
That she is special.
That she has a destiny.
And they are shifters and their job is to protect her.
But there are those who do not wish to see her gain strength.
***
Notes:
A bit confusing to read for 2/3 of the book.
It lacked some context at times.
Others it seemed a bit all over the place.
Overall there is a lack of emotional depth and chemistry.
- Here is a girl who was drugged all her life, always lied to and unable to experience a lot of things but she just calmly accepts everything.
She had her life completely torned apart.
Everything she knew and what she believed was a lie.
And she is just: 'okay'.
And all the 'violence is never the answer', 'let's be kind to one another' and 'I would never do something so violent'...
Don't get me wrong, every once in a while I do like to read about an innocent, shy, naive girl who sees the best in everything and everyone surrounded by strong, protective alpha males.
But not like this.
Even those girls feel hurt, betrayal and anger. That does not mean they stop being innocent, sweet and stop wanting to be good.
It just means they are human and have natural reactions.
In this book, this was not quite right.
- She knows 2 of the men who have kidnapped her but she barely feels betrayed.
- She declares her love for 1 of them a bit too quickly. They barely had a couple of conversations after the truth came out and they have been on the run. But okay, sure, love.
- the guys... it's a bit weird. It's like they have been sentenced but they accept it and end up liking it. But no one ever actually says it.
Not the most romantic plot.
- and for a group of experts and professionals...in whatever it is they are part of (another thing that Wren never asked about)... not a single part of the plan (did they have one?) has gone right and they obviously have no way of getting help or contacting their supervisors and coworkers.
***
As always my respect to the author.
No hate nor hurt intended with this review.
Book #1
(Completed series)
‼️Very small spoilers ‼️
🆗 Animal shifters & humans
🆗 Unknown background
🆗 RH romance (slow..ish)
⬇️ Bond (sorta)
⬇️ Chosen/Special one
⬇️ Virgin, innocent, fragile FMC
⬇️ Religious cult (kinda)
❗ Children unknowingly being drugged (with medicine)
❗Killing
***
Wren knows she has not long to live.
At 24, she realizes she is lucky to still be alive.
Those with the same disease hardly live to reach adulthood and very rarely see their 30s.
Frail, always pale and tired but still she fills her day by helping at a shelter belonging to the Church of Humanity, a group she and her parents are part of.
But one day her world turns upside down.
Taken from her home, she starts to learn that maybe everything she knew was a lie.
These men tell her she does not have a disease. That she is not dying.
That she is special.
That she has a destiny.
And they are shifters and their job is to protect her.
But there are those who do not wish to see her gain strength.
***
Notes:
A bit confusing to read for 2/3 of the book.
It lacked some context at times.
Others it seemed a bit all over the place.
Overall there is a lack of emotional depth and chemistry.
- Here is a girl who was drugged all her life, always lied to and unable to experience a lot of things but she just calmly accepts everything.
She had her life completely torned apart.
Everything she knew and what she believed was a lie.
And she is just: 'okay'.
And all the 'violence is never the answer', 'let's be kind to one another' and 'I would never do something so violent'...
Don't get me wrong, every once in a while I do like to read about an innocent, shy, naive girl who sees the best in everything and everyone surrounded by strong, protective alpha males.
But not like this.
Even those girls feel hurt, betrayal and anger. That does not mean they stop being innocent, sweet and stop wanting to be good.
It just means they are human and have natural reactions.
In this book, this was not quite right.
- She knows 2 of the men who have kidnapped her but she barely feels betrayed.
- She declares her love for 1 of them a bit too quickly. They barely had a couple of conversations after the truth came out and they have been on the run. But okay, sure, love.
- the guys... it's a bit weird. It's like they have been sentenced but they accept it and end up liking it. But no one ever actually says it.
Not the most romantic plot.
- and for a group of experts and professionals...in whatever it is they are part of (another thing that Wren never asked about)... not a single part of the plan (did they have one?) has gone right and they obviously have no way of getting help or contacting their supervisors and coworkers.
***
As always my respect to the author.
No hate nor hurt intended with this review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 20, 2018
Unleashed is really different. I do not know what I was expecting when I started reading the book, but what came as a surprise to me was how much I loved it!
A lot of times, I know from the blurb, if I am going to be into a book or not. What attracted me here was the mention of a brainwashing cult, well that is an uncommon element in “paranormaly” book and the whole ancient evil and breakfast business!
I mean come on… that got me really curious, and I jumped right into it!
No regrets what so ever!
Actually, I was really surprised at how great it was, how original and quite unique!
I mean I do read quite a bit of paranormal novels and this one really stood out, especially when I take into account that I am not commonly attracted to shifters stories as the main characters! We can safely say that Unleashed pretty much changed my mind on that bit and my first question is, when is the next book coming out?
How many books are planned in the series? For the love of all that is good, someone please tell me I am not going to have to wait a year for the next book!!
But let us go back into the book and let’s talk about Wren and all the characters we got to meet, I say this because I have a feeling there are a few more to come in the following volumes. Wren is truly lovely and a really decent human being. It is really sad when you meet her at first and you discover that she is terminally ill.
As we progress, we discover more about her illness, but no matter because by that time, you already empathized with her and cannot help but be in her corner. I am not going to talk too much about the guys, because I feel we are getting to know them as there are 4 of them and digging into each will cannot be done in a book alone, well you can if it was triple the size (which I would not object to!).
Plus, I cannot forget that we have a bit of Greek Myth being threaded here, so we all know I do live for those stories!
So overall, this is a fantastic starter book of a series, and I already need book 2 in my hands! I say that all the time, and it is the truth! I really dislike waiting and as much as I enjoy series, sometimes I want my book in one and not in 3 saving me the aggravation of waiting!
I am a pain like that!
But no matter what, this is looking to be really promising and I am going to very much highly recommend Unleashed to you all! I really hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
A lot of times, I know from the blurb, if I am going to be into a book or not. What attracted me here was the mention of a brainwashing cult, well that is an uncommon element in “paranormaly” book and the whole ancient evil and breakfast business!
I mean come on… that got me really curious, and I jumped right into it!
No regrets what so ever!
Actually, I was really surprised at how great it was, how original and quite unique!
I mean I do read quite a bit of paranormal novels and this one really stood out, especially when I take into account that I am not commonly attracted to shifters stories as the main characters! We can safely say that Unleashed pretty much changed my mind on that bit and my first question is, when is the next book coming out?
How many books are planned in the series? For the love of all that is good, someone please tell me I am not going to have to wait a year for the next book!!
But let us go back into the book and let’s talk about Wren and all the characters we got to meet, I say this because I have a feeling there are a few more to come in the following volumes. Wren is truly lovely and a really decent human being. It is really sad when you meet her at first and you discover that she is terminally ill.
As we progress, we discover more about her illness, but no matter because by that time, you already empathized with her and cannot help but be in her corner. I am not going to talk too much about the guys, because I feel we are getting to know them as there are 4 of them and digging into each will cannot be done in a book alone, well you can if it was triple the size (which I would not object to!).
Plus, I cannot forget that we have a bit of Greek Myth being threaded here, so we all know I do live for those stories!
So overall, this is a fantastic starter book of a series, and I already need book 2 in my hands! I say that all the time, and it is the truth! I really dislike waiting and as much as I enjoy series, sometimes I want my book in one and not in 3 saving me the aggravation of waiting!
I am a pain like that!
But no matter what, this is looking to be really promising and I am going to very much highly recommend Unleashed to you all! I really hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
August 16, 2018
Unleashed is the first book in the Dark Moon Shifters series. And it’s actually my first shifter book! And now I want more. Thanks Bella for popping that cherry. I will make this fast since the synopsis explains it perfectly.
Wren has been sick since the moment she was born. She is now twenty-four and is a shelter coordinator. She loves helping the children and teens. It keeps her going but she doesn’t feel alive. She feels weak until the end of the night when she walks home with Kite. And then one night everything changes...
She is taken from her home. To be protected by four men. Four shifters. She is bewildered. Why do these men feel the need to protect her? Why does she feel better without her medications? Who can she truly trust? She has only known Kite for the last few months. Dust was a childhood friend who vanished. Creedence is a shameless flirt and Luke is not happy to be here. So why is he?
Yeah. That’s all I can say about that.
Overall...I was hooked from the very beginning until the very end. It is a unique story full of action, passion, heart, and laughter. I love Wren. She is stronger than she thinks and has a beautiful soul. I also loved that each man who is protecting her has their own personality. I love them all but I do have my favorite but I won’t say.
P.S. Fine. I will say it...Creedence.
Quotes:
“Good. Keep trusting me, Bird Girl, and I’m going to show you a whole new world. A world where you can be the powerhouse you are on the inside.”
“Ugh, wolves,” Lena says, rolling her eyes with a huff. “Why must they be so cranky and sexy and utterly irresistible?”
It’s going to show her pain, I have no doubt of that—that’s the nature of the world, and her path is going to be darker and more dangerous than most. But there will also be pleasure along the way.
Wren has been sick since the moment she was born. She is now twenty-four and is a shelter coordinator. She loves helping the children and teens. It keeps her going but she doesn’t feel alive. She feels weak until the end of the night when she walks home with Kite. And then one night everything changes...
She is taken from her home. To be protected by four men. Four shifters. She is bewildered. Why do these men feel the need to protect her? Why does she feel better without her medications? Who can she truly trust? She has only known Kite for the last few months. Dust was a childhood friend who vanished. Creedence is a shameless flirt and Luke is not happy to be here. So why is he?
Yeah. That’s all I can say about that.
Overall...I was hooked from the very beginning until the very end. It is a unique story full of action, passion, heart, and laughter. I love Wren. She is stronger than she thinks and has a beautiful soul. I also loved that each man who is protecting her has their own personality. I love them all but I do have my favorite but I won’t say.
P.S. Fine. I will say it...Creedence.
Quotes:
“Good. Keep trusting me, Bird Girl, and I’m going to show you a whole new world. A world where you can be the powerhouse you are on the inside.”
“Ugh, wolves,” Lena says, rolling her eyes with a huff. “Why must they be so cranky and sexy and utterly irresistible?”
It’s going to show her pain, I have no doubt of that—that’s the nature of the world, and her path is going to be darker and more dangerous than most. But there will also be pleasure along the way.
August 21, 2018
Unleashed is a paranormal RH set in a future earth where the ice caps have melted, sea levels have risen, and shifters are an open secret amongst the different groups of humanity. For those who are a fan of UF like me, this is definitely more Paranormal fantasy than Urban fantasy due to the love interests (mates) being the primary focus - slightly misleading calling it an UF. Come on people, the romance in UF’s are a side note not the main event.
There is a lot going on in this book. Wren is endearing as the sweet terminally ill girl who has a big heart and a great outlook on life - really knows how to stop and smell the roses. Wren has a naivety about her, mainly thanks to the restraints her illness has had on her life growing up and the constraints of growing up in a church, or cult really. This naivety suits her and the life she’s lived but annoyed me a bit, think I needed a little bit more sass and steel. However, this book is definitely good and the men are diverse and interesting.
I really enjoyed the parallels Jacob’s drew from this world, from the obvious use of referencing Hitler’s persecution of the Jews to climate change and the infighting between different factions of people. Jacob’s has certainly done a good job of creating this world of megalomaniacs and shifters, but in parts I felt that the world building was a little lacking.
Unleashed is a mid burn RH with a couple of steamy scenes, darker content and a plethora of different shifters. There is not a cliffhanger ending as such part this series is definitely only just starting to warm up. I enjoyed Unleashed enough to finish it but by the midway point I was ready for it to be finished so am unsure at this stage if I’ll continue with this series.
There is a lot going on in this book. Wren is endearing as the sweet terminally ill girl who has a big heart and a great outlook on life - really knows how to stop and smell the roses. Wren has a naivety about her, mainly thanks to the restraints her illness has had on her life growing up and the constraints of growing up in a church, or cult really. This naivety suits her and the life she’s lived but annoyed me a bit, think I needed a little bit more sass and steel. However, this book is definitely good and the men are diverse and interesting.
I really enjoyed the parallels Jacob’s drew from this world, from the obvious use of referencing Hitler’s persecution of the Jews to climate change and the infighting between different factions of people. Jacob’s has certainly done a good job of creating this world of megalomaniacs and shifters, but in parts I felt that the world building was a little lacking.
Unleashed is a mid burn RH with a couple of steamy scenes, darker content and a plethora of different shifters. There is not a cliffhanger ending as such part this series is definitely only just starting to warm up. I enjoyed Unleashed enough to finish it but by the midway point I was ready for it to be finished so am unsure at this stage if I’ll continue with this series.
January 16, 2020
Unleashed: A Reverse Harem Urban Fantasy Romance by Bella Jacobs is the first book in her
Dark moon Shifters
series. Told in multiple POV's mostly from Wren's POV, this was my first foray into a reverse-harem story. Equally cautious about the Urban Fantasy aspect as I am a bit of a fantasy genre snob I was beyond wowed by the world-building and introduction to the characters and the rules of this world. The story was fluid, the information parsed out as and when needed without taking away from the ACTUAL storyline. Wren's thought process and feelings always seemed genuine and validated based on the seriousness of the situation she finds herself in and the attention of not one but four men destined to be her mates who will make her the strongest she can be to defeat the big bad was handled so well. Their emotions and views on the dynamics of their own relationship with wren as well as with each other - floored. Super hot when it was called for but also what a great story! I devoured this book and immediately went on and devoured books 2 & 3, Untamed: A Shifter Urban Fantasy & Unbroken: A Reverse Harem Urban Fantasy Romance. Loved it! Enjoy!
August 23, 2018
Amazing!
This is a slow burn reverse harem! Bella Jacobs does an amazing job at bringing her world to life. Some might say its slow paced, but really all it is is great story telling. So many authors like to speed through information, to the point that something is easily missed, but not Mrs. Jacobs! The first book sets up this world beautifully!
We meet Wren and the four sexy men sent to save and protect her. She doesn't magically change over night (personality wise, it wouldn't be a shifter story if she didn't physically right), her characterization develops over the course of the book, growing into something else wonderful and yet keeping parts of herself that would be realistic to keep.
Note that nothing to hot and heavy happens in this book, like I said, its a slow burn romance. I will say that a nice sexy scene take place later in the book though. With that said; the men in this book are great! They're realistic in the way that they understand what/why they're doing what they are, but also so open minded about sharing one woman between them and what it means to do so. Each man has a different personality that separates them from each other, but they work so well together! Wren will definitely have her hands full when they all come together and she claims them all! (Hopefully in more than one way!)
All in all this is a great first part to a new series and you should read this. If you love shifters read this. If you love reverse harems read this. If you love the main character finding herself and her place in the world READ THIS! I promise you won't regret it!
This is a slow burn reverse harem! Bella Jacobs does an amazing job at bringing her world to life. Some might say its slow paced, but really all it is is great story telling. So many authors like to speed through information, to the point that something is easily missed, but not Mrs. Jacobs! The first book sets up this world beautifully!
We meet Wren and the four sexy men sent to save and protect her. She doesn't magically change over night (personality wise, it wouldn't be a shifter story if she didn't physically right), her characterization develops over the course of the book, growing into something else wonderful and yet keeping parts of herself that would be realistic to keep.
Note that nothing to hot and heavy happens in this book, like I said, its a slow burn romance. I will say that a nice sexy scene take place later in the book though. With that said; the men in this book are great! They're realistic in the way that they understand what/why they're doing what they are, but also so open minded about sharing one woman between them and what it means to do so. Each man has a different personality that separates them from each other, but they work so well together! Wren will definitely have her hands full when they all come together and she claims them all! (Hopefully in more than one way!)
All in all this is a great first part to a new series and you should read this. If you love shifters read this. If you love reverse harems read this. If you love the main character finding herself and her place in the world READ THIS! I promise you won't regret it!
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