The Crucial Shift

The Ariane Trilogy #3

by Michelle Dare

A bond sealed. A new reality. A pack war.Since she met Orion, Ariane’s life had been anything but calm. With the threat of war looming only days away, ensuring victory for the Avynwood Pack was her primary focus. Some of her new friends would lose their lives in the fight, a fact she already accepted.But what if along the way, she uncovered new details about herself? What if becoming Orion’s mate revealed more than she ever imagined possible?A new shifter was in town, and she was thirsty for revenge.

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

263 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 14, 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]

So, if you follow my reviews, you know that if I start a book or series I have to finish it no matter what. After I fi ished reading the Somber Call, I was on the fence about jumping right into the final book of the Ariane trilogy. Obviously, since I'm writing this review, you know my decision. I am happy to say that The Crucial Shift was much better than its predecessor. I'm still going to give this book 3.5 stars but the writing did improve. Ari's character had more depth. The storyline was more consistent and flowed smoother. I look forward to following Michelle Dare and exploring what she publishes next.

[Maria Merced · Rating 4 out of 5]

Out of the 3 books, this was my fave. A lot of action. Finally Ari matured and was not driving me crazy.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series! There is so much excitement, drama and swoon!! You just can't help but get swept up in to the world of Ariane. This world Michelle Dare has built is just phenomenal. There is always something going on at each turn of the page, you have to keep going to see what's to come. Rion will definitely have you swooning from book one, but I feel like him and Ari have grown so much since their initial meeting that your heart just feels so much for him. Definitely good book boyfriend material lol So much happens in book three, that I cant get into but books one and two builds so much and three just brings it all together. I really loved the characters, Ford is still my fave and my heart just breaks for him even more in this book. I really wouldn't mind reading his story or any of the other characters stories within this trilogy. Definitely my new fave YA Series!

[Tish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!! Best one of the trilogy!! This trilogy took me on a crazy rollercoaster ride!! So much was revealed in this final installment. Very dramatic and swoonworthy. It had me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end.

[Suzanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my heart. This journey I have been on with this trilogy has been a roller coaster that makes your heart race, your breath catch and so much more. The uniqueness and the concept are something that blew me away. This final installment added so much more and honestly made my jaw drop! While the connection between Ari and Rion streghthens, there are so many things that come to light. Things they never knew would be or could be possible. My jaw literally dropped with one thing that happens. NOPE! No spoilers from me but OMG it will make you go WTF just happened!
As this story flows and the war rages, things get crazy with little details that end up exploding and becoming something huge! How will they defeat Travis? How will peace come to the packs? Ari is pulled in so many ways because she is so emotionally involved with everyone who has come to help as well as who they are up against. How things finally play out to get things done was utterly brilliant as well and beating those nasty paranormal at their own game.
The one thing I have to say about this series is the strong supporting characters that Dare has created within this series. While the focus is on Ari and Rion, you cannot help but fall in love with the whole pack. But there is also Ford, his brother whom you will meet, Kylest as well as Wake who you find out why and what happened to him!. They have great chemistry and banter with Ari as she can lean on them aside from Rion. The connection she has with them is deep and her love for them can be conflicting at times but also she is someone that they can count on. I need Ford to come alive. I need him to find his happily ever after. Same with Wake. and Kylest intrigues me so much!
This final book has such a punch that makes your head spin but makes you swoon and fall in love with what Ari and Rion have as well. There are a lot of things that come to light. There are a lot of things that happen. But in the long run, it is about finding the one you are meant to be with and protecting the ones that you love. This whole trilogy is beyond intense between the epic characters, the in depth details about everything and how vivid the story is as a whole. It comes full circle in this final book. Trust me it will leave you begging for more. I will quit rambling now, but please know this, Ford is mine. ALL MINE! I have staked my claim. No one can have him!

[Anne Dwyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ari's life was completely changed when she met Orion, and found out a lot of secrets - about her family, about herself, and about the world around her. There is evil out there trying to destroy her - she has found her mate, and now needs to do all that she can to save those she loves. This third book in an amazing series begins exactly where the last one finished, and has all of the elements that make it an exceptional read.

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

[Glenna Maynard · Rating 5 out of 5]

No spoilers here but this series is a must read. I wasn't sure how things would play out and there is a surprising twist that shifts things and changes my feelings on certain relationships. I cannot wait to see what is in store for the side characters I have grown so attached to.

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

What a journey this Ariane Trilogy has been. Michelle Dare created a paranormal world that I fully immersed myself in after being away from this genre for so long.

We have followed Ari, Orion, and Ford as they navigate this world trying to prepare themselves for the pack war that is coming. Wake has joined their group, although some in the pack are still reluctant to welcome him. Ford’s brother has turned up and also brings some humor to this crazy bunch.

The story has so much action, humor, love, intensity, hate, revenge, friendship, and so on and so on… it is the type of story that grabs you and doesn’t let go. You don’t want it to, not until you are completely done with it, and even then, you want more.

So many secrets are revealed in this last installment, and you will be left open-mouthed at a few.

Although the story has centered mainly on Ari and Orion, the supporting characters have been a prominent part of the plot and now get some revelations regarding their story. The chemistry between Ari and Orion is off the charts, and although there were times when he tried to be a bit too controlling, you can’t help admiring his devotion to her. Ford is also another one that is always there for her. Throughout this whole journey he has been a constant in her life and someone she knows she can depend on. His feelings made things awkward at times, but I like the way their relationship went. Wake, now there is a character that needs more story. I loved the way he cared for Ari and the way she defended him against everyone. He’s had it rough and I was glad to see that he was coming back home.

I can go on and on with a little something about all the characters, but I’ll end it here. All I have to say is that the way the secrets were revealed, the way the pack came together to prepare for the fight against Travis and his group of nasty creatures, the way that Ari fought to make sure her loved ones suffered the least possible, all that was done in such a way that I was on the edge of my seat holding my breath. Michelle Dare managed to build on the excitement and now I am waiting to see her write about Wake and Ford. They need their own book!!!!!!!

[Mandy Sawyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing, truly amazing. This has EVERYTHING. Action, adventure, humour, love, hate, revenge...oh it’s just so so good. I really wanted to call in sick at work so I could read this 3rd and final book! But I also never wanted it to end. I can’t tell you how much these three books consumed my life. Highly addictive and highly recommended. Michelle, these are your best work so far. I’m looking forward to seeing where this shifter/vampire/fae from these books go on to.

[Andrea Heltsley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect HEA

I loved this book and the entire trilogy. So fun getting to know Ari and her paranormal world. And hot guys! So glad to learn about the upcoming spinoff series! Five glittery stars!

[Jennifer Lloyd · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not a reviewer that leaves spoilers in my reviews just for the simple fact that I as a reader tend to read them before I read a book or series I'm dying for. When I read the review it tends to spoil the book for me and when I do finally read it, I'm so disappointed in the story because it doesn't live up to what I have in my head. So with all that being said. This is an absolute must read series from the start of the first book to the end of the third. This is a series that took me to different places then what I figured and wasn't expecting which doesn't happen often. I haven't had a series this year that sucked me into the fictional world to the point of ignoring everything and everyone but the pages on my reading device. You cannot go wrong reading this series and I cannot wait to see where the spin off goes. I'll will definitely be one of those readers stalking for more information about this series because it's a MUST READ!! GO BUY YOUR COPY! You definitely can't go wrong diving into the world of Ariane and Orion!!!

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

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this series. This is the last book in the series. It was so good, I could not put the book down. This is a 5star book! I don't want let any spoilers out, but the way it ended was exciting. Lots of action and love. It does not get better then this.

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

[Melinda Salazar · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't think I can say it enough I loved this trilogy. It was a quick read because I allowed myself to get whisked away in the story line. I really loved the characters. I can't wait to read the spin off of this trilogy!! ♡

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

Amy’s Review
2.5 stars

I didn’t finish this book. I made it to about 90% and had to be done. This series just wasn’t for me.

[Killion Jay · Rating 1 out of 5]

This might be the worst thing I’ve ever read. This physically hurt my soul to finish.

[Ola Adamska · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an amazing read full of Secrets, twists and turns that will bring you to your knees!
Ariane found some family secrets, yes those will be important. War is comming FAST and they need as Many allies as they can get!
Emotions are palpable and fans of Good YA paranormal will be happy with it just like I am!

[Lorie Glowania · Rating 5 out of 5]

The third book in this series. The adventure continues. Love, revenge,war, family, friends and romance continues. This has it all. Absolutely love the continuous growth of Ari and Orion. There has been a rollercoaster of emotions that continue and more to story to unravel leaving you on the edge of your seat. A must read series. Can’t wait to see more

[Becky Rendon · Rating 5 out of 5]

My bookworm self is wiggling in glee. I have devoured, submerged, and reveled in Ariane Trilogy. The world created by Michelle Dare is full of hope, promise, and mischief. Shifters, Vampires, and Fae - oh my!

I have zero remorse for binge reading these. I couldn't stop myself and I "Dare" you to even try. The Crucial Shift is the end of the trilogy but there's no way these characters will be contained.

Filled with sass, snark, and opinions - no one can silence these creatures. I bet even the author has trouble getting a word in edgewise!

I loved, loved, loved these books. It has the excitement of a choose your own adventure novels from when we were kids but without the disappointment of choosing the wrong page. Never are we led down the lame path in the Dr psges. Everything has a purpose and no matter how mad you get, you will see it.

I am now rocking in a corner. Sad and looking for Ford. I need someone to keep me company while the author writes the next story about Avynwood. And FYI, I'm totally Ari. Lol. This is totally autobiographical. Just in case you were wondering, I'm speaking to Michelle about signings...😂

Reviewed for Sweet Spot Sisterhood

[Cindy Fong · Rating 5 out of 5]

The conclusion of the Ariane Trilogy finds Ari, Orion, Ford and the pack at the cusp of war. As with each of the books Ari finds there is more to learn about herself and her abilities. Ari has matured throughout the books and now finds her inner drive and strength to be at the center and to end the war by any means possible. There are so many levels of relationships in the story. I am sad for these characters to go on their way into the book world. There is a barrage of stunning imagery of the locations and fight scenes that had me holding my breath at times to heartbreaking tenderness and sadness with every emotion in between. Congrats on another amazing series!

[Christina Oswald · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not a standalone and the final book of Ari's story. This series is amazing! The Crucial Shift is full of twists and turns and action packed. Hold on for an emotional rollercoaster. I couldn't put it down and needed to know what happens next.
I loved Ari's story and am super excited that Michelle is going to continue with other character stories.

[Dayna R · Rating 5 out of 5]

I of course needed to consume this book in one day! What an ending to an amazing trilogy... although there will be a spin off! Woo! This was a great conclusion of Rion and Ari’s story! I can’t wait to see what’s next... especially for Wake! He’s definitely my favorite! I have read everything this author has produced and I am never disappointed! Looking forward to more!

[Elen · Rating 2 out of 5]

*2.5

[Veronica LaRoche · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am absolutely in love with this series. The characters, the story, everything about this book I love. This series will definitely pull on your heartstrings, will make you swoon for Rion and Ford and I’m so excited there will be a spin off series. Michelle has a way of making you feel like you’re in the characters world. Another amazing series that every paranormal lover should one click.

I voluntarily reviewed this Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

[Linda Rea · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the last book in the Trilogy but it answered a lot of questions you have. I loved this trilogy and all of the characters but I think the heroine Ariane is my favorite as she goes from naive high schooler to being immersed in a paranormal world. The book does hint that maybe some of the other characters will have a story and I will be first in line to buy it. The author did an awesome job on this series and even if you don’t like YA give this series a try you won’t be sorry.

[Karen Hrdlicka · Rating 5 out of 5]

This final installment of the Ariane Trilogy will have readers on the edge of their seats. With a pack war quickly approaching, Ari, Rion, and Ford gather more paranormals to fight on the side of right. Secrets held from decades ago are revealed, long lost friends and are found, new alliances are made, broken hearts have a chance at mending, and love and relationships are cemented. The action is fast and the world that Ms. Dare has built adds to the excitement of the plot. Her characters are drive the action and are so well-developed at times the reader forgets they are fictional. I have really enjoyed this series and hope that some of the other characters–Ford–gets to resolve his love life in a future offering.

[Kristy Mills · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have never loved and hated a book so much.

I loved the story.

I hated Ari.

Ugh as this series went on I liked her less and less. She wasn’t whiney or weak. It was exactly opposite. She got a couple powers and then she was in everyone’s face with them. Threatening and telling them they didn’t know who they were messing with. She did all this without once ever training or actually being in a fight. Also, she felt the need to tell everyone she met exactly what powers she had. She would list them all to prove how tough she was, over and over. And if you are getting ready to go to war STOP telling everyone the ONE way to kill you!! For the love!

But despite her annoying me throughout the entire book. I liked the other characters, and I loved the story telling. Not the narrator so much, but the actual story was good.

Oh and it did get a bit annoying how everyone seemed to be connected to Ari, every new character had a connection to her, or fell in love with her. So annoying. But if you can past all that. The story was great.

I didn’t feel the pull to Ari and Orion though. They were mates and it was accepted that they were to be together forever, but I think the author fell back on that a little too much because I think she spent more time cultivating Ari and Fords relationship in the previous book, and I craved him. I knew they would never be together but I loved when they had honest talks and when he would touch her. I never really felt that with Orion unfortunately. I didn’t dislike him or wish she was with Ford, but I never felt the yearning for them to be together.

[Nicole Dunton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: The Crucial Shift
Author: Michelle Dare
Release Date: December 14th, 2018
Page Count: 263
Format: Audiobook
Start Date: April 14th, 2022
Finish Date: April 14th, 2022

Review: 5 Stars

Review:

The final installment of this trilogy. Man oh man what a bittersweet way to conclude it all. One of my favorite things about this author is that she knows just how to lure you in and beg for more. I have read many books by her. To say that she's one of my favorite authors of all times is a true understatement. I haven't read them all though. I do plan to. I couldn't recommend this trilogy enough. I recommend the entire series as well. Be prepared for a wonderful world and characters. Also, be prepared to laugh loudly at many places.

[Ari’s Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay... that's the ending I needed but definitely didn't want.I'm so indecisive it annoys me. Anyways I can't stop gushing over Ford I mean how can you not love him? Ford is funny sweet annoying but so caring, he is an ultimate package. I gained so much more respect for Ari in the novel and the way she stood by not only Ford but also Wake. Rion is her mate but for me personally, I couldn't find myself rooting for him. But I did love the storyline, I do wish there were some better descriptions for certain scenes.

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

I swear this is one of the best trilogies I’ve read!!! I could not put it down!! The story, the characters, absolutely everything was perfect. I was pulled into this world and the characters buried themselves in my heart. This is one of those stories I wish I could read a hundred times like I was reading it for the first time!!

[Annabelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!! What an intense series!! The perfect ending for Travis as well. I absolutely loved the whole this from beginning to end! Arianes and Orion’s story leads to so much more! I need to find out what happens to Wake and Ford! Can’t wait to find out what’s next in the series!!