The Somber Call

The Ariane Trilogy #2

by Michelle Dare

A tragic loss. A broken pack. A lone wolf.The pack war was drawing closer, and Ariane found herself at a crossroad amid the chaos that was her life.Which road should she follow? One gave her a chance at normalcy, while the other threw her deeper into turmoil.She had new powers, a shifter for a boyfriend, and blood on her hands.There was also the lone wolf who had been cast out and sought solace with Ari as he fought to return home.This wasn’t how she thought her life would play out.Nevertheless, a decision had to be made. And in the middle of it was Orion, wondering which road Ari would follow.

Genres: Paranormal, Fantasy, Romance, Shapeshifters, Paranormal Romance, Vampires, Magic

274 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 30, 2018

About the author

Michelle Dare is a USA Today Bestselling Author. Her stories range from sweet to sinful and from paranormal to contemporary. There aren’t enough hours in the day for her to write all the story ideas in her head. When not writing or reading, she’s a wife and mom living in eastern Pennsylvania. One day she hopes to be writing from a beach where she will never have to see snow or be cold again.

https://www.michelledare.com/links

Reviews

[Candace Tidwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm going to keep my review short and sweet. The Somber Call is the second installment in the Ariane trilogy. It's a good read and, in my opinion, it will be popular among many young adults. The storyline is interesting and it does have a few highlights that set it apart from the many cookie cutter shifter romances. Ari and Orion are wonderful characters that many readers will fall in live with.
I do think the author has room to grow though. The writing is a bit repetitive and inconsistent. I'm going to try not to give any spoilers away so bare with me. Michelle Dare wrote a lovely storyline as Ari being our kick butt heroine, which is great. The issue I kept running into is her characters evolution could have been written smoother. For every strength Ari gained she would take two steps back. Im referring to the dialogues being repetitive and or immature. I guess I was looking for Ari to gain wisdom along with her physical strength. Again, this is a good book but it needs a little work. I believe Michelle has a gift for writing and that as time goes on the better author she will become. My rating for this book is 3.5 stars.

[Jenn __Garden Of REden · Rating 2 out of 5]

Amy’s Review
2.5 stars

I had such a hard time with this series. The main characters Rion and Ariane were just not likeabke to me. Rion had a one tracked mind and beyond claiming her as his mate I don’t think he had an original thought or idea. Ariane began to get stronger, though she didn’t really earn any of her power, and she got cocky. Making sure to tell everyone she met all the powers she held. I just couldn’t like her. Ford and Wake were by far my favorite characters in this series. They were interesting and intriguing. While we got a lot of each of them I would have preferred one of them be the main focus of the book.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really love this series so far and the characters. Michelle Dare brings so much to these stories and reminds me why I fell in love with reading in the first place. It's been a while since I have been able to get lost in a story and be so entranced with the characters and their world. Michelle Dare really knows how to pull her readers in and leaving them wanting so much more from each and every character. I love the drama, the romance, and of course Ford LOL This is one series that is a must read for 2018 and one you will want to fall in love with over and over again. Can't wait to see what else she has in store for her readers, I just know itll be phenomenal.

[Glenna Maynard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ford and his smart mouth. He had me laughing and gripping my kindle with the tension gah. The second installment of this series was just as gripping as the first. A real page turner. I had to immediately start book :)

[Andrea Heltsley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love

I’m so loving this trilogy! Ari and Rion are awesome. And all the twists? Fantastic. Can’t wait to read the conclusion. Five glittery stars!

[Hopelessly Addicted To Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

We pick up the story where we left them in book one which you really need to read first. This series has reawakened my love for every thing paranormal thank you Michelle.

I love everything about these books, the covers the story the characters and most of all the writing because it's phenomonal. Ari has had so much to deal with and the action doesn't let up in at all. She is faced with tough decisions with more surprises revealed. Orion is my man but oh did Ford make me giggle.

I can't wait to get my hands on book three.


reviewed by Sweet Spot Sisterhood

[Lorie Glowania · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 in this trilogy. This picks up where we ended with more thrilling adventures and more is being revealed. I’m absolutely loving these characters especially Ari who we see grow from the 1st book. Between romance there is strong family and sadness that she battles through. And a revelation is revealed. Can’t wait for the 3rd book.

[Becky Rendon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Squeeeeeeee!!! Squee! Squeeeeeeeeee!
No, those aren't mouse squeaks. Those are straight up squeaks of delight, frustration, and righteous indignation. Squeaks of love, happiness, and hope.

This series is going to kick ass while taking names.

The Somber Call is full of feels, angst, and everything a bookworm needs for their happy place. Struggles with relationships, fear of making a negative impsct, and fear of not being enough. Ari struggles with the typical insecurities we all face but in a much grander level.

It is imperative you read this series in order. There is no way to grasp what is happening otherwise. Heed The Somber Call. Realize that nothing will ever be the same and embrace that which you know is right...

Reviewed for Sweet Spot Sisterhood

[doreen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Arianne is a 18yr old thinks I'm so smart paranormal and she tells everyone that and all her abilities she can do. I feel that a inexperienced author wrote this series. The dialog is lacking and the emotions. Orion to me doesn't have any character. His only purpose is to protect Arainne. For me this series doesn't flow.......

[Luna Jordan · Rating 1 out of 5]

TBA

[Suzanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, if you have read my review for the first book, you know that this one cannot be touched till you have read book one! Don’t worry, I will wait. Well sort of. The Somber Call picks up right after The Ash Moon so all these books have to be read in order. But holy smokes does this story pack a punch like the first! I think what really got me with this book is that you can really feel the raw pain and emotions that Ari feels. How she feels responsible for everything that has happened and that she has blood on her hands regardless of what everyone tells her. Rion just wants to keep her safe and she pushes his limits a lot. Especially when it comes to Ford and for Wake. But things are revealed that make your jaw drop and ask yourself “Did that just happen???” But there are some really raw moments that make you want to bawl.
One of the amazing things about this story is the attention to detail that Dare has put into this. The unique take on shifters and how the paranormal work. There is so much depth in this book as well as the first. It is so vivid that you can honestly see this playing out in front of you or be on the big screen. I mean, hello, this would be EPIC as a movie series or tv show!
As with book one, this book was brilliant! I could not put it down once I started, regardless of a swollen eye! The character build and the fluidity of the story has you gripping your ereader because you are dying to know what will happen next. Once this one ended, I was like NOOOO I need more. I have to say I am hoping there will be stories for Ford and Wake. Those two are amazing. They make me giggle and make me swoon. My heart breaks for both of them. Ari and Rion are solid. More than some realize. So bring on book three because I NEED TO KNOW!!! How will this all play out?!?! Will Travis get what he deserves?? What will happen to the packs? Will Ari and Rion get their happily ever after? GAH SO MUCH!

[Letty (Cover to Cover Book Blog Reviewer) · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Somber Call starts where The Ash Moon left off. There are some instances where events from the first book are referenced, but I would highly recommend reading them in order to get a better feel for the story.

As Ari is drawn deeper into the paranormal world, she is still somewhat reluctant to accept her importance in the events that are coming. She is in love with Orion, and although their relationship is growing quickly, she feels that connection with Ford that confuses her. He continues to bring the humor in this dark world, providing some levity to the intensity that Orion provides.

The emotion and flow in the story were just as great as in the first book, but somehow more engaging. All the characters had a specific role to play and as more and more paranormal beings surfaced, Ari and her friends were drawn deeper into the dangerous paranormal world.

The flow is perfect, like watching a movie, and the tension keeps you glued to your e-reader to see what comes next.

I have to say that I was intrigued by Wake and the relationship that he had with Ari. I’m glad it went the way it did and can’t wait to see how she helps him.

As with The Ash Moon, the cliffhanger leaves you gripping your e-reader and crying out for more.

[Mariela · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to say I’m really enjoying this series. Arie and Orion love triangle with Ford now we add Wake to the mix. So many characters to fall in love with. The story is taking an amazing turn and even a sad one that shocked me. The pack war is coming and they’re all trying to prepare. So much loss has happened but they must push on. And now that Arie has decided to stick around so much to come. Great series can’t wait for the next book

[Melinda Salazar]

The second book was great! I really feel for the characters, as a reader I always transport myself into the new universe that's laid before me harnessing emotions for each character as the story unfolds. This series has made me find a new love for paranormal romance. The characters are awesome and the plot keeps you wanting more♡

[Cindy Fong · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is getting so good. Ari is thrown for a loop at the end of Book 1 (The Ash Moon) and has to deal. with the aftermath. She finds herself straddling two worlds, trying to make them both work for her. Travis is set on war and Ari is still smack dab in the middle, but now more of her family and friends are now involved and she has a purpose to try to end the Diaminsey pack. As Ari navigates her new world and the men and revelations that come with it, she grows more powerful and more resolute with her feelings for Orion and her role in the pack.

This story is so entertaining and there are so many feels. Be prepared to go on a a journey with this book. I cannot wait to see what happens in the Third book.

[Lisa McDermott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

This is the best series I have read in along time. I can't put the books down. I fixing to start on the last book...

[Gladys · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book picks up right were book one left off, so you must read book one first. As Ari's story continues unfolds here life gets no easier. Guilt and hard choices weigh heavily on Ari's mind as tension grows all around her. The relationship between Ari and Orion continues to deepen and the threat of war looms on the horizon. A very engaging PNR read with an intense story with lots of twists. I am posting an impartial and independent review.

[Crystal Spieker · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Somber Call picks up right where The Ash Moon left off. In Book 2 of this trilogy we get a much deeper dive into our characters. Ari and Orion’s connection just keeps getting stronger. Yet, her connection with Ford adds an extra unexpected spice to the mix. I felt the emotion in this book was much deeper. Almost primal. The writing had me completely enveloped in every word, and my emotions running rampant as I cried as they cried, and then through the comedic relief that only Ford can offer found myself laughing out loud at his sarcastic take on everything. What I liked most about this book was there was so much unexpected. When I hit the twist I had to pick myself up off the floor! Talk about a game changing shocker! The Somber Call is a Must Must Read (be sure to read The Ash Moon first)!

[Linda Rea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well I was so happy to read the second installment in the Ariane trilogy. Poor Ari has more power than ever and more family but her emotions are bringing her down and she knows how lucky she is that Rion is right there for her but she won’t be happy till everyone is happy. The pack war is still coming and in trying to prepare for it she needs to get all the wolves on the same side and the vampires too. For a girl that no one ever noticed she is becoming awfully popular with humans and paranormals alike but along with that comes some paranormals that would rather see her dead. This story puts you right into Ari’s world as if you were the character yourself, I can’t wait to read the conclusion to the trilogy.

[Veronica LaRoche · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely a MUST READ. I absolutely love Ari, Rion and Ford. My heart crushes for Ford but I know Ari belongs to Rion. This series just gets better and better and definitely tugs on your heartstrings. With Travis still coming after them, they need every paranormal on their side. Amazing characters that will have you wanting more books of these characters especially Wake. Amazing 5 Star read and the ending OMG I can’t wait too read the next book.

I voluntarily reviewed this Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

[Christina Oswald · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Ariane Trilogy is fast becoming a favorite YA Paranormal Romance. The writing is fantastic and the storyline keeps you engaged. The second book in this trilogy is an emotional one. It will have you both laughing and crying.
Not a standalone and ends in a cliffhanger. Michelle has a special talent with leaving you wanting for the next book. Even if you're not a fan of cliffhangers, this series is worth it!

[Michelle "Chelle" Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can’t put these books down. They are absolutely amazing!!! The characters are some of the absolute best characters I’ve read! This story has pulled me in so much that I can truly picture the scenes, feel the emotions, and I can feel myself in the book with the characters so much that I WANT to be there with them. Absolute perfection!!!

[Karen Hrdlicka · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book two of the Ariane Trilogy and so much happens in this installment. Ari and her friends are drawn further into the paranormal world, which is on the brink of war. Apparently, Ari is the catalyst of the conflict as well as the key to resolving it. Ari feeling guilty contemplates going back to her "normal" life but her love for Rion pulls at her heart and tests her resolve. Battle lines are drawn, allies are rallied, and secrets are revealed. The pack may have more of an ally than they realize from an surprise source.
The layers of the story keep the flow of the plot moving along. The relationships show more growth in this book and the hero and heroine are truly finding their relationship and building it. There is a lot of potential for more stories in this world with Ms. Dare's secondary characters. I can't wait to read the final installment of this series and see how this storyline plays out.

[Catie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Listen, I have reviewed very few books and it’s normally to say how awesome a book is. But, not this one. Ash Moon was enjoyable enough for me to continue to this book but holy shit did it go south for me. The idea of these books is wonderful, I enjoy a good paranormal YA series but these characters just really didn’t do it for me. I DNF about half way through because I couldn’t listen to Ari anymore. She’s the worst - selfish, childish, whiny and annoying. I can’t tell you how many times I rolled my eyes at her dialogue. I kept waiting for Rion to finally say, “ok, maybe I’ll try this mate thing when you grow up a bit.” I understand the author wanted to show her struggle with coming to terms with what was happening but Jesus! Her yelling, “I don’t care!” Or “you won’t tell me what I can and can’t do” or my favorite was her being told another facet of the vampires and her saying to herself “well I wish someone had told me that before” Bitch - everyone’s been trying to tell you what’s best and you just ignore everyone because it’s “what you want to do.” Rion needed to man up, Ford should have manned up and Ari should have manned up and been a little more mature - even if she is just 18. I’m sad I won’t find out what happened with Wake but I can’t continue this book. This one just did not do it for me.

I will say (even though the main characters sucked) the authors writing and story telling were great. And her idea was fun and new. This had so much potential but completely fell flat for me.

[J.J. · Rating 1 out of 5]

Tempted to DNF at 19% with all this drama with Wake and the back and forth with Rion. Lots of eye rolling happening on my part with so much unnecessary drama.

Chapter 12 was absolutely pointless. It’s things like this that I’m like what was the point? And of course now she has yet another power from Ford. And blah blah blah why can’t you trust me and why must you both always fight and why can’t you understand I don’t like Ford like that? It just keeps on going and going.

Why is every other chapter about some convoluted drama with Wake? Also, doesn’t it seem like Ari is just over her dad dying like it’s expected and it happened and that’s that?

There is sooooooo much repetition throughout. Like here, let me tell you the same background info again that I just told you two chapters ago.

Will update my rating as I progress.

[Mandy Sawyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg I have shivers up my arms!! This whole world is captivating. I can’t get enough. Excellent action and adventure. Brilliant writing skills from Michelle. This is a must for your book shelf or library. Make sure you have enough time to read without interruption as you won’t be able to put it down!!!

[Annabelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is awesome! Continuing on I her new life as a paranormal, Ariane must face some crazy stuff and learn to accept her life. She is also stuck in the middle of a war she wants no part of. Ford must also deal with his feelings for Ariane. Definitely a must read!!

[Stefanie Kral · Rating 5 out of 5]

✯✯5 Action Packed Stars!!!✯✯

Whoah!!! After the way The Ash Moon ended I couldn’t wait to start this book. You should not read this book without reading the first book already.

We pick up right where we left off. This pact war has left the Avynwood pact down one and the Diaminsey pack with a bit of an advantage.

Ari is left feeling miserable and she feels fully responsible for the death. Rion, Wake, Aries and the rest of the pack continue letting her know it wasn’t. Part of being a wolf is to protect your fellow pact members and always always protect the women and children.

Ari and Rion still haven’t fully mated. But, everyday they’re together their bond becomes closer and closer. Rion is ready for it to be complete but will give Ari her space and go at the speed she’s ready to go at.

Ari’s also got an intense connection to her vampire best friend Ford and Rion’s cousin Wake. Rion and Ari can read each other’s minds, have conversations and know what the other is feeling. Ari also has that same connection with Ford. I will say their conversations both out loud and telepathically is legit hilarious.

Ford’s very open with Ari on his feelings for her. He’s not afraid to tell her he loves her. Ari loves Ford and she’s open with it to him. But, she lets him know she loves him as a friend and that her heart belongs to Rion.

If those two beautiful, complicated, alpha men weren’t enough add Wake into the situation. He was first kicked outta Avynwood pack and now he’s been kicked out of the Diaminsey pack which leaves him completely alone. Luckily for him he’s got two people in his corner. Ford and Ari.

Wake wants him family back. His pack back. If he can’t have them back he wants to die. Ari won’t let him kill himself or let anybody else kill him. She’s constantly going against Rion and everybody else.

Ari is still the person everybody says will be the person behind the stop of this pack war. But, these jerk offs from the Diaminsey pack continue going to crazy lengths to get ahead of the Avynwood pack including going after humans and lying to other paranormal communities in order to get allies.

Ari is new into the world of the paranormal and she’s young ok too of it. But, Ari in my opinion is selfish and she’s doing whatever she wants with whoever and making decisions & getting advantages to get ahead in this war. Except she’s not taking Rion’s or Ford’s opinions or feelings into consideration.

But, they’re all on the same page. Stick together, make allies and get rid of the Diaminsey pack once and for all. When I tell you the last sentence of the book made my jaw break from dropping so damn fast and hard that it’s an understatement lol.

I can’t wait to read the last book The Crucial Shift . I’m glad there will be spin off books to this series. Bc, umm I need inside Ford and Wake mind. I just hope in the next book Ari stop thinking of herself. If it wasn’t for Rion, Ford and Wake I’d of liked this less. But, man they’re amazing and make this whole story.

[Marina · Rating 2 out of 5]

!!SPOILERS!!

DNFing the series. The first book was okay enough for me to continue to book 2 but book 2 wasn't good enough to make me want to finish this trilogy. The characters can all be very juvenile and I feel like we keep having the same fights over and over again, it's very repetitive. It got boring very quickly and I just don't see myself finishing the last book.

I got tired of the FMC pretty quickly. She whined a lot and is stubborn to a fault. She is also very cocky and is gaining abilities too easily. It doesn't add to her character because she just gets gifted them and can easily use them so she never has to put it any work on her part. If we saw her have to gain control of the abilities at least, then it would allow us to root for her more. Instead she gets handed powers left and right and brags about them to every Tom, Dick and Harry.

Another thing that was stupid is that every man she comes into contact with is just instantly enamoured with her and willing to fight along side her and die for her 🙄✋️

I honestly don't think she would choose Rion over Ford romantically if she wasn't Rion's mate. Their mate bond is the main thing keeping their relationship together. If they weren't mates I don't think they would be interested in each other 🤷‍♀️ She has a stronger connection with Ford than Rion, hell she even has a stronger connection with Wake than Rion.

I don't like how she handles the Ford being in love with her stuff and I don't like that she gets jealous when she doesn't have a right to especially after everything. I don't really like how Ford's been dealing with it either, he comes off as if he feels entitled to her which I dont like. Though, outside of that I do like Ford's character. He's funny and always stirring the pot which keeps things interesting.

I'm also getting tired of Rion's over protectiveness, it's really his only personality trait at this point. I honestly get Rion being jealous because if my partner was acting the way Ari was with Ford and with Wake, I'd probably be jealous too. Her scenes with the other guys feels very intimate for them being "just friends" 🤷‍♀️

I just don't really care what happens with the last book. If I'm bored maybe I'll listen to the last audiobook when I don't have anything else to read

[Andra Shaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Somber Call is the second book in the Ariane Trilogy, and it is an awesomely entertaining and compelling book. The characters are witty, gritty, entertaining, and engaging from book one to this one. I wondered what the Somber Call might be, and I guessed correctly, though the outcome was a delightful surprise. Ari and Orion are still figuring out what it means for them to be mated and her part in the Pack War, and then there is Ford.

This book has so many levels that you will not put it down. There is paranormal action, romance, different kinds of romance, angst, surprises, intense losses, betrayals, suspense, many secrets, and more. It is great to have a book that truly reflects what is in your head when you read these paranormal romance books. Michelle Dare is a genius in how she made this storyline a believable read. She got into her reader's head and made it a reality. So now, I am looking at my neighbors much more closely. LOVE THIS BOOK!

The last book in the trilogy is coming up. I am sure that Ariane will figure out her life and her place in this world as she and Orion settle. I do want to see their ultimate happily ever after. Yes, I want Ford to get him as well. Okay, the next and last book in the series is The Crucial Shift. I love this series, love this Pack, and love these characters...perhaps I should seek out Laella/Michelle to see if you read the books, well, you know.....

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.