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Shadowborn #1
Hunted by Shadows
They say not to jump at shadows. That’s all well and good, but what if you are being hunted by one?
Trying to escape her past, Ari is working to atone for her actions and have a normal human life. The only problem with that? She isn’t human. Unlike most werewolves, she avoids as much contact with the supernatural world as possible, building a life for herself in the human world.
Until one day her past catches up with her, and she is forced to immerse herself in the supernatural world. Offered protection from the local wolf pack, she is forced to accept it, but nothing in the supernatural world comes for free.
For highly independent lone wolf Ari, this is her worst nightmare, especially as several Alpha males start vying for her affections. Ari will have to decide whether her independence is more important to her than her life.
*Please note this is an 18+ reverse harem novel and may include triggers for some readers*
Trying to escape her past, Ari is working to atone for her actions and have a normal human life. The only problem with that? She isn’t human. Unlike most werewolves, she avoids as much contact with the supernatural world as possible, building a life for herself in the human world.
Until one day her past catches up with her, and she is forced to immerse herself in the supernatural world. Offered protection from the local wolf pack, she is forced to accept it, but nothing in the supernatural world comes for free.
For highly independent lone wolf Ari, this is her worst nightmare, especially as several Alpha males start vying for her affections. Ari will have to decide whether her independence is more important to her than her life.
*Please note this is an 18+ reverse harem novel and may include triggers for some readers*
242 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 30, 2018
673 people are currently reading
1646 people want to read
About the author
Erin O'Kane
66 books487 followersErin O'Kane is an independent author from the UK. She used to work within healthcare, but now is able to follow her dream as a full time author. Writing is her escape and a dream she never thought possible until she was given a push from her friends and family.
She has an addiction to coffee, Lucozade and baked goods. When not writing she will be found on adventures with her husband, reading a book or watching bad romance movies.
She has an addiction to coffee, Lucozade and baked goods. When not writing she will be found on adventures with her husband, reading a book or watching bad romance movies.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 260 reviews
March 12, 2019
Rating: 4 stars
Cleaning up my Kindle and getting rid of Book Ones can sometimes be tricky as I don't know if the next books in each series are out or not. Fortunately, book two of the Shadowborn series comes out in a couple of days. Or I would probably die or eagerness.
Hunted by Shadows was about the perfect amount of romance, action, broken and sexy time. Each main character was noticeably different -some still more in the background than others- and the supporting cast was not only looking pretty but actively part of the story.
I have a soft spot for shifter RH. They are so intense, their emotions all over the place and strong, that it usually makes everything borderline epic and my inner self can't help for more possessive overbearing alpha male behavior.
Then I get sick of it when the female becomes a pathetic little wimp showing her belly every turn.
Ari doesn't do weak. Her upbringing made her incredibly wary, she doesn't bow and is dangerously stubborn but I loved her for it. She reminded me a lot of Raven from Electric Storm ; selfless, strong willed, powerful and protective, and I hope she is going to stay that way as she learns to open up.
You might also like:
+ Finding Somewhere to Belong
+ Electric Storm
+ Academy of Assassins
Trigger warning: PTSD, abuse, attempted assault
Cleaning up my Kindle and getting rid of Book Ones can sometimes be tricky as I don't know if the next books in each series are out or not. Fortunately, book two of the Shadowborn series comes out in a couple of days. Or I would probably die or eagerness.
Hunted by Shadows was about the perfect amount of romance, action, broken and sexy time. Each main character was noticeably different -some still more in the background than others- and the supporting cast was not only looking pretty but actively part of the story.
I have a soft spot for shifter RH. They are so intense, their emotions all over the place and strong, that it usually makes everything borderline epic and my inner self can't help for more possessive overbearing alpha male behavior.
Then I get sick of it when the female becomes a pathetic little wimp showing her belly every turn.
Ari doesn't do weak. Her upbringing made her incredibly wary, she doesn't bow and is dangerously stubborn but I loved her for it. She reminded me a lot of Raven from Electric Storm ; selfless, strong willed, powerful and protective, and I hope she is going to stay that way as she learns to open up.
You might also like:
+ Finding Somewhere to Belong
+ Electric Storm
+ Academy of Assassins
Trigger warning: PTSD, abuse, attempted assault
November 29, 2019
I FOUND MY NEW FAVORITE SHIFTER AUTHOR.
Normally, I have an issue with the majority of Shifter stories, especially ones with wolf shifters. It's because the society is so inherently misogynistic and I cannot stand it. But this series, holy shit. It still had some of it, but it was so much better!!! There were still some packs that were awful, but between Ari and the Moon River Pack it was amazing. They were hella open minded and I AM SO HERE FOR IT.
Ari has been abused and tortured for most of her life until she was able to escape from her pack in the UK. She found amazing friends in Tori, a witch, and Garret, a bear shifter bartender. When a human turns up at Ari's emergency room with the symbol of her old pack carved into his flesh, she knows she's in danger. Enter the Moon River wolf pack. They bring in Ari in order to be their Nurse and offer her protection. What she ends up getting is a lot more than she bargained for.
I loved this story so much. Ari's power over being Shadow born was incredibly fascinating. While we don't learn a lot about it, I enjoyed seeing what Ari could do with it and her incredible amount of Alpha power. I loved seeing her relationship with her different guys evolve. I don't think I can pick a favorite, I love them all. But I am so here for this shifter RH!!
Normally, I have an issue with the majority of Shifter stories, especially ones with wolf shifters. It's because the society is so inherently misogynistic and I cannot stand it. But this series, holy shit. It still had some of it, but it was so much better!!! There were still some packs that were awful, but between Ari and the Moon River Pack it was amazing. They were hella open minded and I AM SO HERE FOR IT.
Ari has been abused and tortured for most of her life until she was able to escape from her pack in the UK. She found amazing friends in Tori, a witch, and Garret, a bear shifter bartender. When a human turns up at Ari's emergency room with the symbol of her old pack carved into his flesh, she knows she's in danger. Enter the Moon River wolf pack. They bring in Ari in order to be their Nurse and offer her protection. What she ends up getting is a lot more than she bargained for.
I loved this story so much. Ari's power over being Shadow born was incredibly fascinating. While we don't learn a lot about it, I enjoyed seeing what Ari could do with it and her incredible amount of Alpha power. I loved seeing her relationship with her different guys evolve. I don't think I can pick a favorite, I love them all. But I am so here for this shifter RH!!
July 6, 2020
2.5
I didn't really like this one
It was boring and slow and it didn't catch my attention. It was dull, I could barely bring myself to finish it (only reason I did, it was there and I didn't really want to leave it like that; I kept waiting for the 'wow' moment).
Maybe it was me and not this book's fault, dunno (and too bored to care too much)
I didn't really like this one
It was boring and slow and it didn't catch my attention. It was dull, I could barely bring myself to finish it (only reason I did, it was there and I didn't really want to leave it like that; I kept waiting for the 'wow' moment).
Maybe it was me and not this book's fault, dunno (and too bored to care too much)
December 16, 2024
Painful read
Have you ever sat in a class that’s so painfully boring that you count every second and feel like you’re going to die before it’s over? That’s exactly how I felt reading this book.
Unfortunately, this is the second attempt to finish this book. I didn’t even realize it until several chapters in. The first time, I got to about 75% before I quit, but I never marked it as “read” on Goodreads. This time I did manage to finish the story, barely.
I didn’t like a single character in this book. Not one. The FMC is a hair-trigger lunatic who picks fights with literally everyone—romantic interests and otherwise. She’s not tough or badass; she’s just mean and unstable. She pushes everyone away and acts downright cruel to anyone who dares to breathe wrong in her direction. I can’t root for her to get a romantic happily-ever-after because that’s the last thing she needs. What she really needs is intensive inpatient counseling and therapy.
Then there are the men. Killian is a jerk who’s perpetually mean to the FMC. Sure, he has a tragic backstory involving Shadowborn, but hating her just because she’s the same species as the person who killed his previous mate? That’s flat-out racist. Garret seems nice one minute, but the next he’s pressuring her or picking fights. Seb feels more like the stereotypical gay best friend (though he’s not written as one), and he isn’t particularly interesting. And Alex ? He only wants her body. To top it all off, all the men hate each other. Fun times.
The plot is weak and boring. I hate hate hate when main characters let the bad guys get away repeatedly when they have every chance to kill them. That’s weak storytelling. The world-building is poorly done and half-hearted at best.
This is a crappy reverse harem. It doesn’t even have good sex to make it interesting. There was one sex scene that was like a pump-and-dump situation. It wasn’t sexy. Honestly, though, this girl is so messed up and broken she probably shouldn’t even be having sex anyway. It’s hard to root for sexy times when the FMC keeps having debilitating flashbacks that send her into seizures - this happens practically any time the guys talk to her.
What this FMC needs isn’t romance or a harem. Therapy. She needs intensive therapy, not men.
Have you ever sat in a class that’s so painfully boring that you count every second and feel like you’re going to die before it’s over? That’s exactly how I felt reading this book.
Unfortunately, this is the second attempt to finish this book. I didn’t even realize it until several chapters in. The first time, I got to about 75% before I quit, but I never marked it as “read” on Goodreads. This time I did manage to finish the story, barely.
I didn’t like a single character in this book. Not one. The FMC is a hair-trigger lunatic who picks fights with literally everyone—romantic interests and otherwise. She’s not tough or badass; she’s just mean and unstable. She pushes everyone away and acts downright cruel to anyone who dares to breathe wrong in her direction. I can’t root for her to get a romantic happily-ever-after because that’s the last thing she needs. What she really needs is intensive inpatient counseling and therapy.
Then there are the men. Killian is a jerk who’s perpetually mean to the FMC. Sure, he has a tragic backstory involving Shadowborn, but hating her just because she’s the same species as the person who killed his previous mate? That’s flat-out racist. Garret seems nice one minute, but the next he’s pressuring her or picking fights. Seb feels more like the stereotypical gay best friend (though he’s not written as one), and he isn’t particularly interesting. And Alex ? He only wants her body. To top it all off, all the men hate each other. Fun times.
The plot is weak and boring. I hate hate hate when main characters let the bad guys get away repeatedly when they have every chance to kill them. That’s weak storytelling. The world-building is poorly done and half-hearted at best.
This is a crappy reverse harem. It doesn’t even have good sex to make it interesting. There was one sex scene that was like a pump-and-dump situation. It wasn’t sexy. Honestly, though, this girl is so messed up and broken she probably shouldn’t even be having sex anyway. It’s hard to root for sexy times when the FMC keeps having debilitating flashbacks that send her into seizures - this happens practically any time the guys talk to her.
What this FMC needs isn’t romance or a harem. Therapy. She needs intensive therapy, not men.
January 16, 2020
Well I had a pretty decent time reading this, but none of the guys really jumped out at me as interesting love interests...except maybe Seb...a bit. Sorry.
Also, I didn't really see why all the guys were so head over heels for Ari in such a quick amount of time besides the Bear shifter...
So while this is meh for me I would say it was interesting to finally have a shifter/werewolf book where the lead h is not an Omega, and that she has power of her own to back her up. So kudos on that point, because you don't see that often in these kind of books.
Also, I didn't really see why all the guys were so head over heels for Ari in such a quick amount of time besides the Bear shifter...
So while this is meh for me I would say it was interesting to finally have a shifter/werewolf book where the lead h is not an Omega, and that she has power of her own to back her up. So kudos on that point, because you don't see that often in these kind of books.
July 23, 2020
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This was an enjoyable story and the shadowborn aspect of it intrigued me a lot. The shifter world was explained well and I found the story easy to get into which was good. The romance is where the book went a little meh for me. None of Ari's love interests were all that interesting and I didn't actually see a connection with any of them.
I actually didn't realize this was a trilogy when I started the book but I do think that I'll continue with the series. At the very least I need to find out what happens with Ari and I'm holding out hope that the romance will pick up in the next book.
Amazon US Amazon UK
This was an enjoyable story and the shadowborn aspect of it intrigued me a lot. The shifter world was explained well and I found the story easy to get into which was good. The romance is where the book went a little meh for me. None of Ari's love interests were all that interesting and I didn't actually see a connection with any of them.
I actually didn't realize this was a trilogy when I started the book but I do think that I'll continue with the series. At the very least I need to find out what happens with Ari and I'm holding out hope that the romance will pick up in the next book.
July 23, 2020
I thought I'd like this one after reading another series from this author, I thought wrong. The characters were lackluster, I didn't know why they were all lusting after her. I didn't like how sanctimonious she acted towards Eric. I think I'm just going to stick with the series I liked.
January 14, 2020
So far so good... on to book 2
Overall rating:
3* ~ I like it!
Overall rating:
3* ~ I like it!
March 13, 2019
Oh, wow.
NOT BAD!
Starting the book you get the typical MC:
Doesn’t feel she deserves love.
Loner.
One or two friends.
Doesn’t like company.
Traumatic past.
Daddy issues
But she QUICKLY evolves to the even more bothersome MC:
Self-sacrificing
Insta-feelings
Only cares about others and gets a little selfish (did that make sense???)
Arrogant-ish.
But the book wasn’t all that bad.
I’d even wager it was... good.
The men:
Garett: hot bear. And every time I picture him in bear mode on his hind legs I just conjure up a picture of my fat cat on his hind legs when he’s angry because I’ve taken away his tuna and I can’t take it seriously.
Alex: hmm, need more development with this one.
Seb: the funny, lighthearted one. My vote is he has the largest package.
Killian: I haven’t seen this name in awhile but it’s the usual: hot, broody bastard with muscles for days. Goes full Neanderthal mode when Ari gets in trouble.
The plot:
Things start slow and then quickly progress and then slow down again. The ending was a little anti-climatic STRAIGHT to cliffhanger and that was... awk.
We need to work that sweetie. You’re doin great so far tho Erin. Proud of you.
Why yes, I do wanna read the next one.
NOT BAD!
Starting the book you get the typical MC:
Doesn’t feel she deserves love.
Loner.
One or two friends.
Doesn’t like company.
Traumatic past.
Daddy issues
But she QUICKLY evolves to the even more bothersome MC:
Self-sacrificing
Insta-feelings
Only cares about others and gets a little selfish (did that make sense???)
Arrogant-ish.
But the book wasn’t all that bad.
I’d even wager it was... good.
The men:
Garett: hot bear. And every time I picture him in bear mode on his hind legs I just conjure up a picture of my fat cat on his hind legs when he’s angry because I’ve taken away his tuna and I can’t take it seriously.
Alex: hmm, need more development with this one.
Seb: the funny, lighthearted one. My vote is he has the largest package.
Killian: I haven’t seen this name in awhile but it’s the usual: hot, broody bastard with muscles for days. Goes full Neanderthal mode when Ari gets in trouble.
The plot:
Things start slow and then quickly progress and then slow down again. The ending was a little anti-climatic STRAIGHT to cliffhanger and that was... awk.
We need to work that sweetie. You’re doin great so far tho Erin. Proud of you.
Why yes, I do wanna read the next one.
December 11, 2018
This was a surprisingly good read. I enjoyed all the characters & the small twists in the plot made it that much more entertaining. I hope book 2 is released soon. This series has a potential. 4 stars
Cliffhanger ending.
BTW I’m not sure why she’s upset at her male coworker. He’s not so much an incubus as more an angel of mercy imho
Cliffhanger ending.
BTW I’m not sure why she’s upset at her male coworker. He’s not so much an incubus as more an angel of mercy imho
November 14, 2019
Ari is a Shadowborn wolf who was born into an abusive pack. Somehow she escaped and has created a new life for herself. Just as she is beginning to get comfortable and make real friends, her former pack appears and they are willing to kill to get her back. Ari is coerced into joining the Moon River pack for protection. There she is tempted by a handful of men that grow in importance as the plot develops but their budding relationships with Ari will put a target on their backs as well.
This was a good introduction to the series. I admit I am still a little confused about what being a Shadowborn really entails and which other characters have those powers. However, I can look past that a little in the hopes that things will become clearer in future books. I do like all the guys that Ari has accumulated and even one that she hasn't yet. Ari herself is ok. She's a bit broken by the abuse she sustained in her previous pack and she holds back from forming any relationships and stubbornly clings to wanting to be alone. At times I thought her reactions to things were a little over the top to make this point, but she slowly changes as the plot progresses so perhaps by the next book she will behave differently. I'm willing to read the next one to find out.
This was a good introduction to the series. I admit I am still a little confused about what being a Shadowborn really entails and which other characters have those powers. However, I can look past that a little in the hopes that things will become clearer in future books. I do like all the guys that Ari has accumulated and even one that she hasn't yet. Ari herself is ok. She's a bit broken by the abuse she sustained in her previous pack and she holds back from forming any relationships and stubbornly clings to wanting to be alone. At times I thought her reactions to things were a little over the top to make this point, but she slowly changes as the plot progresses so perhaps by the next book she will behave differently. I'm willing to read the next one to find out.
February 6, 2019
Definitely got better with each page.. but Ari was eh.
Hunted by Shadows was an interesting book. In it you will meet, Ari - yes, the eh girl. She's a werewolf that doesn't like shifting.. because she's a shadowborn. Now this whole shadow business makes me think of vampire academy but it was a bit different. She didn't die to become this way, nope - she was born this way. Which makes her very unique.
Okay so Ari definitely went through some shit. Her old pack abused the crap out of her because they wanted to use her power for bad things. Eventually she got away from this pack and is now a loner. However, they've found her and they want her back.
Besides that drama, she has a couple of love interests. She's also basically a new born baby because she knows jack shit about packs, mates, and the whole world. She's tough though and has alpha blood - so she's a bad ass bitch. The chemistry between her and her mates were so cute. I definitely have a favorite right now (maybe two) but I definitely want to dive into the next book before I mention it.
This book also delivered some good twists and turns. I had no idea the bad guy would be someone that close to her. Then what happened after that whole thing - damnnnnn! Again, she's a bad ass. THE one thing I hated was the damn cliffhanger. I hate those things and that is why I need to dive into the next book!
Hunted by Shadows was an interesting book. In it you will meet, Ari - yes, the eh girl. She's a werewolf that doesn't like shifting.. because she's a shadowborn. Now this whole shadow business makes me think of vampire academy but it was a bit different. She didn't die to become this way, nope - she was born this way. Which makes her very unique.
Okay so Ari definitely went through some shit. Her old pack abused the crap out of her because they wanted to use her power for bad things. Eventually she got away from this pack and is now a loner. However, they've found her and they want her back.
Besides that drama, she has a couple of love interests. She's also basically a new born baby because she knows jack shit about packs, mates, and the whole world. She's tough though and has alpha blood - so she's a bad ass bitch. The chemistry between her and her mates were so cute. I definitely have a favorite right now (maybe two) but I definitely want to dive into the next book before I mention it.
This book also delivered some good twists and turns. I had no idea the bad guy would be someone that close to her. Then what happened after that whole thing - damnnnnn! Again, she's a bad ass. THE one thing I hated was the damn cliffhanger. I hate those things and that is why I need to dive into the next book!
Read
January 22, 2019DNF 50%
The MC is annoying af so I’m giving up on this.
The MC is annoying af so I’m giving up on this.
Want to read
June 4, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (6/4/2020)! 🎁
December 12, 2018
OK
This one was harder to rate. There were some aspects I liked but other aspects were extremely annoying.
What I liked:
The characters though they need a lot more fleshing out in future books so they won't feel so one dimensional.
The idea of the shadow born.
What I didn't like:
Ari's "I don't need protection, I can protect myself" statements when she gets beat almost every fight. I love a strong FMC but besides her aura being strong the girl was weak. This was not satisfying.
The shadow born aspect needed to be explained better because for most of the book we get bits and pieces insinuating how dangerous it is but we are not told why. At the end we finally get a vague glimps of the repercussions but this info was needed sooner to fully understand why she doesn't use this ability.
Ari. I liked her at first but she ended up coming off as witchy instead of strong. Not to mention she was wishy washy and her reactions didn't make sense half the time.
Overall, the enjoyable aspects of this book kept me reading. Usually, I find that I enjoy a series more after several books when I am really connected to the characters. I will read the next book but I hope that Ari shows some growth and consistency.
This one was harder to rate. There were some aspects I liked but other aspects were extremely annoying.
What I liked:
The characters though they need a lot more fleshing out in future books so they won't feel so one dimensional.
The idea of the shadow born.
What I didn't like:
Ari's "I don't need protection, I can protect myself" statements when she gets beat almost every fight. I love a strong FMC but besides her aura being strong the girl was weak. This was not satisfying.
The shadow born aspect needed to be explained better because for most of the book we get bits and pieces insinuating how dangerous it is but we are not told why. At the end we finally get a vague glimps of the repercussions but this info was needed sooner to fully understand why she doesn't use this ability.
Ari. I liked her at first but she ended up coming off as witchy instead of strong. Not to mention she was wishy washy and her reactions didn't make sense half the time.
Overall, the enjoyable aspects of this book kept me reading. Usually, I find that I enjoy a series more after several books when I am really connected to the characters. I will read the next book but I hope that Ari shows some growth and consistency.
January 3, 2019
Hmmm. In all honesty, this was definitely interesting but came across super rushed and the romance aspect felt forced to me. Its almost like there just wasn't enough time to progress at a normal pace so bam lemme just pick 5 guys real quick... It didn't sit well with me especially with everything the FMC, Ari has been through. If she needs anything its time, not to rush into making decisions, since all of her young decisions were taken from her. The speed at which everything is being thrust upon her is giving me anxiety lol.
World building wise, though the story does seem very rushed, it wasn't hard to sink into the world. The characters seem fleshed in the very short capacity at which we have to judge them. Ari, a shadowborn shifter, has spent most of her life a captive of her previous pack, where she was abused and forced to do all kinds of unspeakable things. Finally escaping she has been on the run for quite some time when bam her old pack catches up, a new pack wants her to join, she has feelings for all these dudes, one of them says hes her mate, and a whole mess of other crap... Deep breaths..
Interested to see where this is headed for sure... especially interested in the McDreamy Incubus Doc...lol
World building wise, though the story does seem very rushed, it wasn't hard to sink into the world. The characters seem fleshed in the very short capacity at which we have to judge them. Ari, a shadowborn shifter, has spent most of her life a captive of her previous pack, where she was abused and forced to do all kinds of unspeakable things. Finally escaping she has been on the run for quite some time when bam her old pack catches up, a new pack wants her to join, she has feelings for all these dudes, one of them says hes her mate, and a whole mess of other crap... Deep breaths..
Interested to see where this is headed for sure... especially interested in the McDreamy Incubus Doc...lol
February 12, 2019
Dnf 21%. Nothing here was too unforgivable, but I just wasn't feeling it.
November 13, 2019
This was an amazing start to the Shadowborn trilogy! Ariana is special- she’s a wolf shifter and Shadowborn, but has been used and abused for her whole life by the Shadow Pack. When she finally escapes across the pond, she meets Tori, an outcast witch, and Garrett, a bartender bear shifter. The Shadowpack has come to take her back, but she’s not going down without a fight.
Ari is an internally strong willed character who is more bark than bite and I loved her feistyness even though at times I wanted to slap her for the decisions she made. She’s broken and has PTSD, but I love how her new network tries to help her throughout the book. I loved the connection she had with all of her guys- they were each different in their own way and brought many emotions out of her. Alex is the beta, flirty yet distant, and smells constantly of brandy. Garrett feels like an outsider in her life once she finds the Moon River Pack and he’s caring, understanding, and protective of Ari. Killian is an ex-alpha, broody, moody, and possessive. Sebastian is a lighthearted sweetheart with a sense of humor that will steal your heart right away. As much as I love the guys, I think Gloria, Seb’s mother, and Tori were my favorite characters. Gloria was a mother figure to everyone- she was extremely loving, caring, loyal, and always there for you no matter what. Tori is Ari’s only family and she’ll do anything to keep Ari safe; I also loved her eccentric personality.
Erin did an awesome job creating this world, it’s politics, and characters. Ari, Killian, and Alex were the most developed of the characters, but I’m hoping to see more of each as the series continues. Id love to learn more about Tori, Seb, and Eric (her doctor friend/ ex boss).
*I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review
Ari is an internally strong willed character who is more bark than bite and I loved her feistyness even though at times I wanted to slap her for the decisions she made. She’s broken and has PTSD, but I love how her new network tries to help her throughout the book. I loved the connection she had with all of her guys- they were each different in their own way and brought many emotions out of her. Alex is the beta, flirty yet distant, and smells constantly of brandy. Garrett feels like an outsider in her life once she finds the Moon River Pack and he’s caring, understanding, and protective of Ari. Killian is an ex-alpha, broody, moody, and possessive. Sebastian is a lighthearted sweetheart with a sense of humor that will steal your heart right away. As much as I love the guys, I think Gloria, Seb’s mother, and Tori were my favorite characters. Gloria was a mother figure to everyone- she was extremely loving, caring, loyal, and always there for you no matter what. Tori is Ari’s only family and she’ll do anything to keep Ari safe; I also loved her eccentric personality.
Erin did an awesome job creating this world, it’s politics, and characters. Ari, Killian, and Alex were the most developed of the characters, but I’m hoping to see more of each as the series continues. Id love to learn more about Tori, Seb, and Eric (her doctor friend/ ex boss).
*I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review
October 23, 2021
This was a different take on the world of shifters. The shadow-born element was particularly intriguing but I felt that I didn't fully understand what it meant. I wish we got more understanding of what it meant to be shadow-born, how they came to be, etc. In general, some parts of the story felt incomplete or lackluster. I know this is a series, but there wasn't enough world building in this first book to help me have a solid grasp on the world. For example, you'd think that Eric would have a bigger role or that they would explain more about him, but his presence seemed more like an afterthought.
As far as the romance, I only felt a natural progression with Garrett. With Seb, the chemistry was there but it was definitely insta-love. Killian was hate-to-love. And Alex.... I was really interested in hearing more about his relationship with Ari, but it seemed like every time we were going to get somewhere, he was cut off by someone.
The concept of this book was cool but the execution wasn't my favorite. But, I still might continue on with the series.
As far as the romance, I only felt a natural progression with Garrett. With Seb, the chemistry was there but it was definitely insta-love. Killian was hate-to-love. And Alex.... I was really interested in hearing more about his relationship with Ari, but it seemed like every time we were going to get somewhere, he was cut off by someone.
The concept of this book was cool but the execution wasn't my favorite. But, I still might continue on with the series.
December 2, 2018
Oh I'm loving these strong female characters.
Paranormal. Rh. 4 Shifters. 3 Wolf Shifters. Bear Shifter. And maybe? in the future a Pain Eater. Cliffhanger. Kick a** Shadow Wolf Heroine. Slowburnish. Dark Childhood. Hiding out from her old pack, Ari finds herself in the city with a outcast witch best friend and a hot bear bartender. When the local Beta asks for help with sicknesses in their pack, she excepts after they save her life when some wolves attack her. This was an awesome tale. I love love love how strong Ari is and really looking forward to getting to know all the guys. This book was focused on set up and getting to know who Ari is and how she ticks. Recommended read.
Paranormal. Rh. 4 Shifters. 3 Wolf Shifters. Bear Shifter. And maybe? in the future a Pain Eater. Cliffhanger. Kick a** Shadow Wolf Heroine. Slowburnish. Dark Childhood. Hiding out from her old pack, Ari finds herself in the city with a outcast witch best friend and a hot bear bartender. When the local Beta asks for help with sicknesses in their pack, she excepts after they save her life when some wolves attack her. This was an awesome tale. I love love love how strong Ari is and really looking forward to getting to know all the guys. This book was focused on set up and getting to know who Ari is and how she ticks. Recommended read.
January 4, 2019
I tried to like it, to really, really finish it. It has too much of mental talking, less emotions and interactions it almost bore me to death. I like the story settings but could have been really better to have more suspense, actions and interactions instead of too much narration. It’s as if all cards were presented from the start, leaving no room of suspense because the narrative writing gave out all information. No thrill or excitement. Sorry, I tried but I don’t think I’ll continue to read the next book. I skipped reading a lot of self talking in this book.
January 31, 2019
Hunted by Shadows by Erin O’Kane had my attention right from the start. I was so absorbed in this story, that I just didn’t want it to end.
Ari (the MC) is a dominate and captivating character that will have you addicted to every movement she makes. As an Alpha wolf this is perfectly represented and her emotions that come off the page.
This is the first solo book that I’ve read by Erin O’Kane and I was extremely impressed with the well written characters and storyline.
I highly recommend the first book in the Shadowborn Series, and can’t wait to read the following books in the series.
Ari (the MC) is a dominate and captivating character that will have you addicted to every movement she makes. As an Alpha wolf this is perfectly represented and her emotions that come off the page.
This is the first solo book that I’ve read by Erin O’Kane and I was extremely impressed with the well written characters and storyline.
I highly recommend the first book in the Shadowborn Series, and can’t wait to read the following books in the series.
April 1, 2019
This was an interesting beginning to a new series, I had a few issues with Ari. Her actions and reactions were inconsistent so it wasn’t always easy to relate to her. I always want to enjoy an RH book more than I do, I never get enough from of the main H’s......just not enough page space to do them justice
I’m intrigued enough to read book 2
I’m intrigued enough to read book 2
August 16, 2024
This was definitely a good first book. I wasn't expecting bears but I'm all for it!
This is up there with favourite books that have shifters in there.
Straight on to book two for me 😊
This is up there with favourite books that have shifters in there.
Straight on to book two for me 😊
January 24, 2020
I read all three books yesterday between 2 a.m. and 9 p.m. they are fun little reads ........... broken people get a family took now I have to wait for the next one to come out
April 4, 2024
4.5 stars
November 26, 2019
Fantastic
I lover her brokenness. Like I get it. To feel strong yet scared. Angry but caring. A bundle of contradicting emotions just boiling up her insides. Man I get it
I lover her brokenness. Like I get it. To feel strong yet scared. Angry but caring. A bundle of contradicting emotions just boiling up her insides. Man I get it
February 26, 2019
Interesting start with potential
This story was indeed interesting even if it wasn't necessarily original. Arianna/ Ari is a rare dominant wolf shifter who is also Shadowborn. This has not been seen for 100+yrs. on. She is not willing to submit to anyone. Her Shadowborn quality makes her magical and unique - making others covet her power, frighten of her, or want to kill her. I wish there was more info about the elusive Shadowborn. You kind of get the idea, but then nothing is really clear. I get that Ari was "raised" in an abusive and secluded condition. It leaves us just as confused as she is as to what she can really do. I hope book 2 will help flesh out a bit more about what Ari's limitations are and more of her Shadow nature.
So the cons: Ari was just down right irritating at times. She is such a contradiction. I really tire of FMC who have such bada$$ bravado with nothing substantial to back it up with. She can barely hold her own in a fight or ventures out alone and let's others get the drop on her. I mean other than her "Alpha" like dominance and Shadowborn nature, she is so not able to take care of herself. She constantly says this and in the next turn it proves otherwise. She also verbally lashes out at every turn to all guys around her. I get she had a tumult upbringing, but she can't seem to not be an A$$hat and act out when angered.
Aside from a somewhat unlikesble FMC, there are 4 men who are attracted to Ari (not sure why other than paranormal reasons. Cough...Mate bond...cough). We have Garrett (protective bear shifter), Killian (reclusive/broody Alpha), Alex (local hot/cold Beta), and Seb (fun-loving submissive when he wants to be lol, but oh what a surprise in the end). As far as character development, Erin didn't delve into all of them equally. You clearly see more of Killian and Alex at least in regards to backstory with a sprinkling of Garret thrown in. Seb is like the supporting character rather than a MC, as little as he is illustrated. Garret doesnt fair much better, but has more "book time".
I hope to see more interactions between Ari and her harem of guys. Ari seemed to somewhat stable out a bit towards the end. I hope this continues for book 2 and we can become more endeared toward her and the guys. That cliffhanger was crazy by the way...
Overall 3.5/5
(would have been a 4 if Ari had less anger issues/bravado and more substance other than a tormented childhood)
This story was indeed interesting even if it wasn't necessarily original. Arianna/ Ari is a rare dominant wolf shifter who is also Shadowborn. This has not been seen for 100+yrs. on. She is not willing to submit to anyone. Her Shadowborn quality makes her magical and unique - making others covet her power, frighten of her, or want to kill her. I wish there was more info about the elusive Shadowborn. You kind of get the idea, but then nothing is really clear. I get that Ari was "raised" in an abusive and secluded condition. It leaves us just as confused as she is as to what she can really do. I hope book 2 will help flesh out a bit more about what Ari's limitations are and more of her Shadow nature.
So the cons: Ari was just down right irritating at times. She is such a contradiction. I really tire of FMC who have such bada$$ bravado with nothing substantial to back it up with. She can barely hold her own in a fight or ventures out alone and let's others get the drop on her. I mean other than her "Alpha" like dominance and Shadowborn nature, she is so not able to take care of herself. She constantly says this and in the next turn it proves otherwise. She also verbally lashes out at every turn to all guys around her. I get she had a tumult upbringing, but she can't seem to not be an A$$hat and act out when angered.
Aside from a somewhat unlikesble FMC, there are 4 men who are attracted to Ari (not sure why other than paranormal reasons. Cough...Mate bond...cough). We have Garrett (protective bear shifter), Killian (reclusive/broody Alpha), Alex (local hot/cold Beta), and Seb (fun-loving submissive when he wants to be lol, but oh what a surprise in the end). As far as character development, Erin didn't delve into all of them equally. You clearly see more of Killian and Alex at least in regards to backstory with a sprinkling of Garret thrown in. Seb is like the supporting character rather than a MC, as little as he is illustrated. Garret doesnt fair much better, but has more "book time".
I hope to see more interactions between Ari and her harem of guys. Ari seemed to somewhat stable out a bit towards the end. I hope this continues for book 2 and we can become more endeared toward her and the guys. That cliffhanger was crazy by the way...
Overall 3.5/5
(would have been a 4 if Ari had less anger issues/bravado and more substance other than a tormented childhood)
March 14, 2019
The only reason I didn't give this a one-star rating is because I liked the concept of the shadow born. It was cool as shit. I also thought the nuances of the world were well thought out.
However, this read like it had no editor. There were a few times when it switched between tenses, and there was some serious adjective abuse. It became redundant, and if there was an editor worth their weight in literature they should have caught these mistakes. You know what they say, use words wisely. Aka, stop incessantly referencing your thesaurus and double downing on your descriptive language.
Also, the dialogue felt awkward about 50% of the time. The other 50 was solid though.
I think a little more research regarding the anatomy of wolves was needed. Phrases like "Back legs" sounded off when describing a wolf.
Regardless, I think if the author shows potential! Especially if they pay more attention at the line level. The creativity is good, and once the writing improves Erin O'Kane will be a knockout.
However, this read like it had no editor. There were a few times when it switched between tenses, and there was some serious adjective abuse. It became redundant, and if there was an editor worth their weight in literature they should have caught these mistakes. You know what they say, use words wisely. Aka, stop incessantly referencing your thesaurus and double downing on your descriptive language.
Also, the dialogue felt awkward about 50% of the time. The other 50 was solid though.
I think a little more research regarding the anatomy of wolves was needed. Phrases like "Back legs" sounded off when describing a wolf.
Regardless, I think if the author shows potential! Especially if they pay more attention at the line level. The creativity is good, and once the writing improves Erin O'Kane will be a knockout.
January 9, 2019
Really good.
This is what I like in a reverse harem, well other than I don't know who all of the guys will be and I'm worried not everyone will make the cut. There are some clear bad guys and some people you don't know. When sex does happen it's not a hey I just met you, and this is crazy, but we are destined, so shag me baby sort of thing. The main character is strong and abrasive while still being vulnerable and likeable. She doesn't just accept everything that she is told to do. Eagerly waiting for book 2. I like the world that is being built. If you like paranormal RH with an actual story, character and world development, and don't mind cliffhangers then this one is for you. Honestly the cliffhanger isn't that bad though unless O'Kane goes all Game of Thrones on us, and then I'm not really sure how the story could play out.
This is what I like in a reverse harem, well other than I don't know who all of the guys will be and I'm worried not everyone will make the cut. There are some clear bad guys and some people you don't know. When sex does happen it's not a hey I just met you, and this is crazy, but we are destined, so shag me baby sort of thing. The main character is strong and abrasive while still being vulnerable and likeable. She doesn't just accept everything that she is told to do. Eagerly waiting for book 2. I like the world that is being built. If you like paranormal RH with an actual story, character and world development, and don't mind cliffhangers then this one is for you. Honestly the cliffhanger isn't that bad though unless O'Kane goes all Game of Thrones on us, and then I'm not really sure how the story could play out.
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