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Vale Valley, Season 1 #8
Breakable Faith
One night equals a test of faith for Father Lance…
Trouble always finds Mateo and he’s succumbed to it several times with or without help. However, after running with the wrong kinds of people, he’s decided to turn a new leaf. His attention to detail lands him a job as a tattoo artist, making people’s dreams come true through body art. With this steady gig and his grandmother’s support, Mateo is convinced he can live mostly anxiety free.
Father Lance has always suppressed his needs to care for others. The older alpha is Vale’s most handsome and available bachelor, but Lance has no interest in hooking up. Instead, he puts all his energies into his church. Although loneliness is a constant partner, Lance refuses to let it stand in the way of his goal.
One wintery night, Lance spots a man in need of assistance and immediately calls for help. Despite Lance’s instincts crying out to the victim, he ignores those desires.
As he's being rushed to the emergency room, Mateo feels his destined mate near. Once he recovers, he’s determined to find his forever partner to build the relationship that will stabilize the young omega’s life.
Warning: On page violence and a near death experience.
Breakable Faith is the eighth book in a multi-author series about Vale Valley, a small town open to everyone in need of love and a home. Each installment can be read as a standalone
This story features a tattooed omega that has the hots for the priest. Naughtiness and general unholy thoughts are the running themes in this book. Be prepared to clutch your rosary and have a fan nearby.
Trouble always finds Mateo and he’s succumbed to it several times with or without help. However, after running with the wrong kinds of people, he’s decided to turn a new leaf. His attention to detail lands him a job as a tattoo artist, making people’s dreams come true through body art. With this steady gig and his grandmother’s support, Mateo is convinced he can live mostly anxiety free.
Father Lance has always suppressed his needs to care for others. The older alpha is Vale’s most handsome and available bachelor, but Lance has no interest in hooking up. Instead, he puts all his energies into his church. Although loneliness is a constant partner, Lance refuses to let it stand in the way of his goal.
One wintery night, Lance spots a man in need of assistance and immediately calls for help. Despite Lance’s instincts crying out to the victim, he ignores those desires.
As he's being rushed to the emergency room, Mateo feels his destined mate near. Once he recovers, he’s determined to find his forever partner to build the relationship that will stabilize the young omega’s life.
Warning: On page violence and a near death experience.
Breakable Faith is the eighth book in a multi-author series about Vale Valley, a small town open to everyone in need of love and a home. Each installment can be read as a standalone
This story features a tattooed omega that has the hots for the priest. Naughtiness and general unholy thoughts are the running themes in this book. Be prepared to clutch your rosary and have a fan nearby.
147 pages, ebook
First published December 15, 2018
81 people are currently reading
113 people want to read
About the author
Michael Mandrake
57 books181 followersMichael Mandrake pens complex characters already comfortable with their sexuality. Through these, he builds worlds not centered on romance but rather the mainstream and/or obscure plots we might encounter in everyday life and beyond. To find out more please visit https://michaelmandrake.wordpress.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
December 16, 2018
Book 8 in the multi-author Vale Valley series.
I was really intrigued with the blurb on this one. An alpha priest who's taken a vow to God meets his fated omega mate. Definitely a taboo element there. How's this going to work out? The author states in the beginning to suspend belief. Rightly so. The church recognizes gay marriage here and the town accepts that their priest is gay and will be married with children. However, I never really felt any type of taboo other than the two have sex before marriage in the church. Oh well.
But God give me patience not to throw my iPad across the room. Mateo was the worst most selfish character I think I've ever read! He didn't give two shits that Lance told him no or he might lose his job. He pushed and pushed and pushed until Lance gave in. Lance repeatedly asked him to back off but he didn't. And of course, the author has Mateo realize it was his fault and maybe trying to redeem him?? It was definitely too little too late for me. And by little I mean "I'm sorry". Next scene. That was it.
At first, I liked that Mateo pursued Lance. The omega was more the aggressor. But then he just kept on and on and I realized all he cared about was sex. He talked about it all the time. And heaven forbid he go longer than two weeks without it 🙄. Which was another thing. He kept saying how he had dreamed about meeting his alpha and wanted this fairytale where he was swept away. But that sure didn't stop him from getting around the block time and again. And he enjoyed it. Even with his leader in the gang who was a nut case he talked about how much he enjoyed sex with him and others. Meanwhile, Lance had zero sexual experience. It just didn't work for me. I'm not saying Mateo had to be a virgin too, just why did he have to come across as a sex addict?
So really, I felt like Lance deserved someone a little better than a spoiled selfish brat.
I was really intrigued with the blurb on this one. An alpha priest who's taken a vow to God meets his fated omega mate. Definitely a taboo element there. How's this going to work out? The author states in the beginning to suspend belief. Rightly so. The church recognizes gay marriage here and the town accepts that their priest is gay and will be married with children. However, I never really felt any type of taboo other than the two have sex before marriage in the church. Oh well.
But God give me patience not to throw my iPad across the room. Mateo was the worst most selfish character I think I've ever read! He didn't give two shits that Lance told him no or he might lose his job. He pushed and pushed and pushed until Lance gave in. Lance repeatedly asked him to back off but he didn't. And of course, the author has Mateo realize it was his fault and maybe trying to redeem him?? It was definitely too little too late for me. And by little I mean "I'm sorry". Next scene. That was it.
At first, I liked that Mateo pursued Lance. The omega was more the aggressor. But then he just kept on and on and I realized all he cared about was sex. He talked about it all the time. And heaven forbid he go longer than two weeks without it 🙄. Which was another thing. He kept saying how he had dreamed about meeting his alpha and wanted this fairytale where he was swept away. But that sure didn't stop him from getting around the block time and again. And he enjoyed it. Even with his leader in the gang who was a nut case he talked about how much he enjoyed sex with him and others. Meanwhile, Lance had zero sexual experience. It just didn't work for me. I'm not saying Mateo had to be a virgin too, just why did he have to come across as a sex addict?
So really, I felt like Lance deserved someone a little better than a spoiled selfish brat.
December 31, 2018
This was book 8 in the
"Vale Valley"
series. For some reason I didn't think I would like this book about a priest and an omega, but I did. Mateo Delacruz came to the Valley along with the grandmother who raised him to get away from the gang that he was in. Mateo is an omega he is also a tattoo artist while walking home he is attacked by his former gang leader Yello and left for dead near a church. Father Lance is an Alpha is older has never been with anyone he thinks he has nothing to offer Mateo they are fated mates. Mateo agrees to take it slow with his Alpha and with Yello on the loose they must be careful. When everyone he knows tells him that they are glad he found his omega Father Lance begins to give into Mateo and although the church is ok with them marrying they must not have sex before marriage they do and it was hot Mateo wasn't going to be denied. This was a good read I liked both of these characters. This book was well written with no errors in grammar or spelling. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
July 4, 2019
Possible triggers: attempted murder on several occasions
I liked this story but sometimes it seemed a bit forced? I don't know if that's the right word. It's like the interactions didn't flow for me. And yes, I know they weren't exactly supposed to seeing as it's a priest. Ugh. I wish I could explain better. It was still a pretty good story though. Mateo cracks me up. He is such a pistol and don't back down for anything.
Mateo didn't grow up in the best of circumstances. Being in a gang in New York, he was tired of all the wrong they did and wanted out. But a threat to his family had him terrified. Once you're in, you don't leave. So they had to move to get away. But the leader, Yello, found them and almost killed Mateo. But Father Lance found him and got him help in time. And also found his fated mate in Mateo. But the church is his life and he can't do it. But Mateo knows his fated mate is near and when he finds out it's Lance, he doesn't back down. He goes full throttle to get to Lance to see they are meant to be. And he's not giving up. Eventually, Lance agrees but they have to go slow because of the church. But slow is the last thing on Mateo's mind. Lance accepts the punishment from the church of having sex before they're married, but when Yello keeps popping up to kill them, they may not get their fairy tale. Because Yello never intends to stop.
I've always heard that once you're in a gang it's stay in or die trying to leave. I hate that it's like that. People should be allowed to make decisions on whether to move on to better lives. And even if some manage to get out, they have to fear for a bit on their lives or their families. It's sad.
For Mateo to have to run to start over, it was a shame. But at least in Vale, he had a place where he had a good job and friends. And he was holding out hope for his fated. Until Yello messed everything up. It was a blessing and a curse. A curse because he almost died. But a blessing because he met his fated one. He was out of it so he doesn't remember much but he knows it was his mate. And when he meets Lance, it takes all he can not to climb him like a tree. The funny part is he's not backing down with Lance. Lance tries so hard to stay in the priest mode, but he's no match for the Wiles of Mateo lol. And I love it! So funny.
A good start to these two. And a bonus little story for their honeymoon at the end.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
I liked this story but sometimes it seemed a bit forced? I don't know if that's the right word. It's like the interactions didn't flow for me. And yes, I know they weren't exactly supposed to seeing as it's a priest. Ugh. I wish I could explain better. It was still a pretty good story though. Mateo cracks me up. He is such a pistol and don't back down for anything.
Mateo didn't grow up in the best of circumstances. Being in a gang in New York, he was tired of all the wrong they did and wanted out. But a threat to his family had him terrified. Once you're in, you don't leave. So they had to move to get away. But the leader, Yello, found them and almost killed Mateo. But Father Lance found him and got him help in time. And also found his fated mate in Mateo. But the church is his life and he can't do it. But Mateo knows his fated mate is near and when he finds out it's Lance, he doesn't back down. He goes full throttle to get to Lance to see they are meant to be. And he's not giving up. Eventually, Lance agrees but they have to go slow because of the church. But slow is the last thing on Mateo's mind. Lance accepts the punishment from the church of having sex before they're married, but when Yello keeps popping up to kill them, they may not get their fairy tale. Because Yello never intends to stop.
I've always heard that once you're in a gang it's stay in or die trying to leave. I hate that it's like that. People should be allowed to make decisions on whether to move on to better lives. And even if some manage to get out, they have to fear for a bit on their lives or their families. It's sad.
For Mateo to have to run to start over, it was a shame. But at least in Vale, he had a place where he had a good job and friends. And he was holding out hope for his fated. Until Yello messed everything up. It was a blessing and a curse. A curse because he almost died. But a blessing because he met his fated one. He was out of it so he doesn't remember much but he knows it was his mate. And when he meets Lance, it takes all he can not to climb him like a tree. The funny part is he's not backing down with Lance. Lance tries so hard to stay in the priest mode, but he's no match for the Wiles of Mateo lol. And I love it! So funny.
A good start to these two. And a bonus little story for their honeymoon at the end.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
January 14, 2019
Vale Valley Book 8
Mateo is running from a past he doesn't want to be a part of anymore. That run leads him straight to Father Lance. He is a sexy, take all kind of Omega, who won't take no for an answer. Father Lance isn't sure he is the right Alpha for the young, spirited Omega. But he knows he can't be whole or the Minister Vale Valley believes he is if he is willing to turn his back on his fated mate.
Gorgeous, sweet, cute and every other synonym you can think of describes this book and couple.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book
Mateo is running from a past he doesn't want to be a part of anymore. That run leads him straight to Father Lance. He is a sexy, take all kind of Omega, who won't take no for an answer. Father Lance isn't sure he is the right Alpha for the young, spirited Omega. But he knows he can't be whole or the Minister Vale Valley believes he is if he is willing to turn his back on his fated mate.
Gorgeous, sweet, cute and every other synonym you can think of describes this book and couple.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book
January 10, 2019
Wahhh!
This book is genius! It has hot sex scenes, a loveable couple, burgeoning love, and a deep sense of pride. Both Father Lance and Mateo are very well fleshed out and believable. Plus they seem like a genuine couple! Opposite in a lot of ways they make an effort to find or make commom ground, which is so very real. I loved this book. Definitely worth the read!
This book is genius! It has hot sex scenes, a loveable couple, burgeoning love, and a deep sense of pride. Both Father Lance and Mateo are very well fleshed out and believable. Plus they seem like a genuine couple! Opposite in a lot of ways they make an effort to find or make commom ground, which is so very real. I loved this book. Definitely worth the read!
December 28, 2018
This book and I got off to a rocky start... however as I read the story and the continuity got better and better. In the end, I ended up liking this book very much. Of the two MCs Lance is defintely my favorite, though Mateo takes a close second. I thought the story was very well done and the use of the secondary characters worked well to complement the main storyline. All in all this was a very good Christmas read!
December 16, 2018
Not for me *spoilers*
I did not enjoy this one. Mateo was a selfish, self centered 20 yr old omega, who was obsessed with sex. Like nothing else mattered except him having sex. He was just stabbed in the chest and stomach and while he did have nightmares and a tad bit of anxiety, his biggest complaint was his alpha wanting to wait to have sex, because he hadn’t gotten laid in (gasp) two weeks. The alpha in question, Lance, read more like a teenager then an almost 40 yr old man, who just happened to be a virgin because he was a priest. But he didn’t want to open his heart to anyone because someone he had a CRUSH on like 10+ urs ago got together with someone else. It’s never clear if they dated and the guy cheated on him or what. It just makes it sound like he had a crush from afar. It apparently ruined him for any other type of intimacy. He put the church above his relationship, which you can kind of understand given it’s been his life and is his career. What really bothered me about this book, however, was Mateo’s selfishness. Lance is a virgin and his vow to not have premarital sex is important to him and one that could cost him his priesthood and job. Something he is passionate about and absolutely loves. He is nervous about sex and wants to take it slow and wait until they get married, which was only a month away. Mateo doesn’t CARE! He is constantly badgering Lance to have sex. Trying to touch him and kiss him and rub on him. His is ‘flirting’ and be inappropriate in the church, which Lance has repeatedly asked him not to disrespect. He doesn’t listen at all. He ends up literally attacking Lance IN the freaking church. Lance repeatedly says NO and this isn’t right and we only have to wait a little longer until the wedding. And how does Mateo respond??? By stripping naked in the church and coaxing Lance to give in and have sex with him. And it’s played off as ‘cute’ or him being ‘precocious’. It didn’t come off that way for me. I mean if we switched the characters where Lance was the virginal omega and Mateo was the aggressive sex obsessed alpha who kept pressuring and pressuring until he FINALLY got a reluctant acceptance, it wouldn’t be cute or acceptable. I don’t know, maybe I’m over reacting, but I couldn’t even really read the second scenes because it was kind of gross to me. :-/
The story doesn’t really go into the claiming and no knotting or mpreg. Also the antagonist can get through the vale even though he wants to kill someone and he is there for WEEKS and attacks them at least three times and isn’t caught until the very end of the book. Just not a great story. However, there weren’t any mistakes that I caught, and the grammar was good. The story had promise, it just didn’t play out like I thought it would.
I did not enjoy this one. Mateo was a selfish, self centered 20 yr old omega, who was obsessed with sex. Like nothing else mattered except him having sex. He was just stabbed in the chest and stomach and while he did have nightmares and a tad bit of anxiety, his biggest complaint was his alpha wanting to wait to have sex, because he hadn’t gotten laid in (gasp) two weeks. The alpha in question, Lance, read more like a teenager then an almost 40 yr old man, who just happened to be a virgin because he was a priest. But he didn’t want to open his heart to anyone because someone he had a CRUSH on like 10+ urs ago got together with someone else. It’s never clear if they dated and the guy cheated on him or what. It just makes it sound like he had a crush from afar. It apparently ruined him for any other type of intimacy. He put the church above his relationship, which you can kind of understand given it’s been his life and is his career. What really bothered me about this book, however, was Mateo’s selfishness. Lance is a virgin and his vow to not have premarital sex is important to him and one that could cost him his priesthood and job. Something he is passionate about and absolutely loves. He is nervous about sex and wants to take it slow and wait until they get married, which was only a month away. Mateo doesn’t CARE! He is constantly badgering Lance to have sex. Trying to touch him and kiss him and rub on him. His is ‘flirting’ and be inappropriate in the church, which Lance has repeatedly asked him not to disrespect. He doesn’t listen at all. He ends up literally attacking Lance IN the freaking church. Lance repeatedly says NO and this isn’t right and we only have to wait a little longer until the wedding. And how does Mateo respond??? By stripping naked in the church and coaxing Lance to give in and have sex with him. And it’s played off as ‘cute’ or him being ‘precocious’. It didn’t come off that way for me. I mean if we switched the characters where Lance was the virginal omega and Mateo was the aggressive sex obsessed alpha who kept pressuring and pressuring until he FINALLY got a reluctant acceptance, it wouldn’t be cute or acceptable. I don’t know, maybe I’m over reacting, but I couldn’t even really read the second scenes because it was kind of gross to me. :-/
The story doesn’t really go into the claiming and no knotting or mpreg. Also the antagonist can get through the vale even though he wants to kill someone and he is there for WEEKS and attacks them at least three times and isn’t caught until the very end of the book. Just not a great story. However, there weren’t any mistakes that I caught, and the grammar was good. The story had promise, it just didn’t play out like I thought it would.
December 15, 2018
I loved mateo💜💙 4.5💫🌟❄
I received this book by the author and this is my honest opinion.
As soon as I read the book description, I've been eagerly waiting for this book to fall in to my hands and oh my I loved it. This book had certain troupes I absolutely love from may/december relationship, the omega being the more experienced lover whereas the alpha was a virgin and of course the slightly taboo subject that one of the main characters was a priest though in the vale valley world this is allowed but still it had that slightly naughty edge. I think one of the main reasons I loved this book was because of the character Mateo the omega, he was so feisty yet compassionate and such a lovable rogue I instantly warmed to him.
"Absence makes the heart grow fonder and the blue balls bigger. Without me around, maybe my priest would understand how much he needed me to relieve him of some of that pressure. With all my experience, I had plenty of ideas on how to do it."
Father lance was a bit hoity toity at times and I felt like shouting at him to pull his head out of his behind and to put Mateo first but it added that extra angst and his struggle between his love for the church and mateo.
I enjoyed reading about there story though I would of liked just a little more rounding off with the plot lines from yello and of course this bear shifter though I think I can guess who this was. It almost feels as if this book was the start of a series and that there was some characters left open ended to find there love matches. I would love more of this duo. Good read.
I received this book by the author and this is my honest opinion.
As soon as I read the book description, I've been eagerly waiting for this book to fall in to my hands and oh my I loved it. This book had certain troupes I absolutely love from may/december relationship, the omega being the more experienced lover whereas the alpha was a virgin and of course the slightly taboo subject that one of the main characters was a priest though in the vale valley world this is allowed but still it had that slightly naughty edge. I think one of the main reasons I loved this book was because of the character Mateo the omega, he was so feisty yet compassionate and such a lovable rogue I instantly warmed to him.
"Absence makes the heart grow fonder and the blue balls bigger. Without me around, maybe my priest would understand how much he needed me to relieve him of some of that pressure. With all my experience, I had plenty of ideas on how to do it."
Father lance was a bit hoity toity at times and I felt like shouting at him to pull his head out of his behind and to put Mateo first but it added that extra angst and his struggle between his love for the church and mateo.
I enjoyed reading about there story though I would of liked just a little more rounding off with the plot lines from yello and of course this bear shifter though I think I can guess who this was. It almost feels as if this book was the start of a series and that there was some characters left open ended to find there love matches. I would love more of this duo. Good read.
December 18, 2018
🌟🌟🌟🌟 4 stars
🔥🔥🔥 Heat Level: 3.5
Sassy, sexy and fated, I loved Lance and Mateo!
This story was my first foray into the worlds of Alphas and Omegas (and possible mpreg) and I was surprised to find I loved it. The Alpha and Omega dynamics hooked me from the start and I was interested to see where they would go. I liked Mateo’s sassiness and hopeless romanticism that he would find his destined mate, and he does! I liked sweet, innocent, Father Lance. He was a virgin priest trying to do the right thing but had no hopes of resisting Mateo – ensuring sexy times 🔥.
Each character endeared me to them and I found the whole world intriguing, so much so, now I need to read the rest of the Vale Valley series. I’m still not entirely sure I understand the alpha and omega elements outside of shifters and I’ve got to admit I kind of kept expecting Lance and Mateo to shift into something. Regardless, this was a great book to wet my appetite for the world of Alphas and Omegas and even Mpreg. I never thought I’d like that but now I’m intrigued, thanks Micheal for opening this world up to me!
This was a great story and I look forward to more like it!
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚
🔥🔥🔥 Heat Level: 3.5
Sassy, sexy and fated, I loved Lance and Mateo!
This story was my first foray into the worlds of Alphas and Omegas (and possible mpreg) and I was surprised to find I loved it. The Alpha and Omega dynamics hooked me from the start and I was interested to see where they would go. I liked Mateo’s sassiness and hopeless romanticism that he would find his destined mate, and he does! I liked sweet, innocent, Father Lance. He was a virgin priest trying to do the right thing but had no hopes of resisting Mateo – ensuring sexy times 🔥.
Each character endeared me to them and I found the whole world intriguing, so much so, now I need to read the rest of the Vale Valley series. I’m still not entirely sure I understand the alpha and omega elements outside of shifters and I’ve got to admit I kind of kept expecting Lance and Mateo to shift into something. Regardless, this was a great book to wet my appetite for the world of Alphas and Omegas and even Mpreg. I never thought I’d like that but now I’m intrigued, thanks Micheal for opening this world up to me!
This was a great story and I look forward to more like it!
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚
December 16, 2018
•´¨) ¸.•¨)¨¯`*Finding his forever partner
(¸.•´(¸.•´ (¸.•
I am enjoying my visit in Vale Valley. Every couple has their own way of finding each other.
For Father Lance, he had long since given up on finding a mate. After all, he was a Catholic priest who had given himself over to the church. Gasp!!! For Lance, his temptation came the night he rescued Mateo, the Afro-American omega who'd been attacked on the church doorstep.
So, as much as I enjoyed this story and the taboo-ness of it all, here is what I gave a heavy sigh over. Mateo. Young, tatted, and demanding. Once he found Lance, he was determined to have him, hell or high water. For Mateo, he and his grand had escaped the gang-filled city and moved to the Valley for peace. But one night an attack almost cost him his life. And finding his alpha in the midst of it all was the icing on the cake.
Now it wasn't just Mateo fighting for his happiness, but Lance fighting for his soul. He was an alpha who wanted to deny his fated mate, but with a pushy omega, would he cave and yield to temptation? Or was his faith strong enough to overcome?
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author.
(¸.•´(¸.•´ (¸.•
I am enjoying my visit in Vale Valley. Every couple has their own way of finding each other.
For Father Lance, he had long since given up on finding a mate. After all, he was a Catholic priest who had given himself over to the church. Gasp!!! For Lance, his temptation came the night he rescued Mateo, the Afro-American omega who'd been attacked on the church doorstep.
So, as much as I enjoyed this story and the taboo-ness of it all, here is what I gave a heavy sigh over. Mateo. Young, tatted, and demanding. Once he found Lance, he was determined to have him, hell or high water. For Mateo, he and his grand had escaped the gang-filled city and moved to the Valley for peace. But one night an attack almost cost him his life. And finding his alpha in the midst of it all was the icing on the cake.
Now it wasn't just Mateo fighting for his happiness, but Lance fighting for his soul. He was an alpha who wanted to deny his fated mate, but with a pushy omega, would he cave and yield to temptation? Or was his faith strong enough to overcome?
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author.
December 23, 2018
My fav of this wonderful series
This whole series has rocked. Some had too much sex for me but for the most part the series is about love, family, community n loyalty. I absolutely loved it.
This whole series has rocked. Some had too much sex for me but for the most part the series is about love, family, community n loyalty. I absolutely loved it.
December 22, 2018
4.25 stars
This is one of the better VVW romance books. I really enjoyed the characters and the story.
This is one of the better VVW romance books. I really enjoyed the characters and the story.
January 3, 2019
Ok but really, really sappy.
January 23, 2019
I liked Mateo and Lance and their story. I really liked how Lance was the one to save Mateo from Yello's attack and how their relationship built slowly. There were some really sweet moments between them. I liked their passion too but most of all, I liked seeing Lance become the alpha he needed to be. I'd like to see them become a family now.
January 18, 2019
Representation Matters!
I’m so happy a POC was included in this series. While I’ve enjoyed every book so far, this was my favorite. Mateo and Lance were great together. I loved Lance’s struggle between his love for Mateo and his commitment to God.
I’m so happy a POC was included in this series. While I’ve enjoyed every book so far, this was my favorite. Mateo and Lance were great together. I loved Lance’s struggle between his love for Mateo and his commitment to God.
January 13, 2019
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wow so good!
Because of who wrote this I knew I'd like it. My only concern was that one of the MC's is a priest. I tend to avoid those kind of reads. Being that it's part of the Vale Valley series and by this author, I had to read it. Not in glad I did. Maybe it's because it's in an omegaverse world but the priest thing was My an issue at all loved every minute of Mateo and Lance's story. I can't wait to start the next book.
Wow so good!
Because of who wrote this I knew I'd like it. My only concern was that one of the MC's is a priest. I tend to avoid those kind of reads. Being that it's part of the Vale Valley series and by this author, I had to read it. Not in glad I did. Maybe it's because it's in an omegaverse world but the priest thing was My an issue at all loved every minute of Mateo and Lance's story. I can't wait to start the next book.
January 5, 2019
A stilted, droning novel with atrocious writing
While nothing is wrong with the basic storyline of Breakable Faith, a short novel about a 22 year old omega who is a former gang member and his 39 year old fated alpha, a Catholic priest. But the writing is atrocious, simple minded, stiff and lacking in detail. The author attempts to include dramatic events (e.g. stabbing) but treats them superficially, either from lack of knowledge, lack of imagination, or laziness. Far from being dramatic, the story has the feel of an impersonal news report - and makes for groan-worthy journalism just as much as it makes for cringe-worthy fiction.
The author fails in the most basic criterion for fiction, portraying characters' authentic responses under imaginative circumstances. For instance, at the beginning Mateo is stabbed on the steps of a church, and yet we are to believe that the earnest and sincere priest, deeply concerned for the young man's life while wrestling with the simultaneous stirrings of sexual attraction, has a dry, mocking smile on his face. First, this reaction is completely at odds with the character of the priest and inconsistent with the seriousness of the situation. Perhaps the author doesn't know what the word wry means? In any event, this is one tiny example of the author not thinking through what he is writing. Too often, the characters' responses are mechanical, incongruent or simply not believable.
Further, the author shifts descriptive burden onto the characters' dialogue so that when they speak they sound like novice actors self-consciously performing for an audience. It's the literary equivalent of over-enunciating and over-acting; conversations don't flow between characters but are awkward and stilted, constructed to inform the reader first and foremost rather than to breathe life into the character. They don't talk to each other in a genuine, believable way. It gives the writing a flavor of being crafted by a middle school student, and it's extraordinarily tedious.
I typically try to finish whatever novel I start, no matter how painful. I found that simply reading the first sentence of each paragraph when it became too droning made the story much more palatable. Even if it didn't make it a better novel, at least I wasn't being pummeled by the author's lack of skill and tone-deaf word-craft. But to give credit where it's due, the cover is what sold me on the book. My weakness has alleyways been a pretty face, and the young man in the foreground on the cover is stunning. Picturing him as young Mateo helped me finish the book. Also, despite the drawbacks mentioned above, the relationship between Mateo and his madre comes through as rather sweet.
Interspersed throughout the book is occasional sociopolitical pap that, I presume, is meant to add depth and contribute to the book's world-building. It doesn't. In the hands of this author it comes across as superficial and as unconsidered as the rest of the work. Despite the graphic sex and a little violence, there's a strong "Leave it to Beaver" or Mickey Mouse Club streak of purity and politeness that rings false. Most everyone is just a bit too good to be true, with the exception of the villain Yello, whom the author fails to imbue with a sense of true gut wrenching menace.
Finally, not much happens in this book. Not that I want every book to send my amygdala into endocrine overdrive, but, really, nothing happens (well, in 95% plus of the text); it reads a bit like an obsessive compulsive recording minor daily activities in their journal, e.g. "I stood in front of the oven; I opened the oven; I pulled the oven rack out of the oven.... In the hands of a more skillful writer, the everyday ups and downs of a new relationship could be riveting and insightful. Instead, I wonder why the author bothered writing this story. There is no serious attempt at exploring the tension between the priest, his religion and vows, and his need to claim his omega other than a few lame lines about "doing the right thing." The omega's past as a gang member is glossed over, like everything else, superficially. Any tension in this Happy Valley of shifters, witches, and humans is likewise resolved in a superficial gloss. Nor do the sex scenes redeem it; like the rest of the text they are stilted and luke warm at best. The only thing that makes them marginally interesting is imagining the models on the book's cover getting down and dirty.
In short, this book epitomizes the old adage "Don't judge a book by its cover." It's only value is in looking at the beautiful men before opening it
While nothing is wrong with the basic storyline of Breakable Faith, a short novel about a 22 year old omega who is a former gang member and his 39 year old fated alpha, a Catholic priest. But the writing is atrocious, simple minded, stiff and lacking in detail. The author attempts to include dramatic events (e.g. stabbing) but treats them superficially, either from lack of knowledge, lack of imagination, or laziness. Far from being dramatic, the story has the feel of an impersonal news report - and makes for groan-worthy journalism just as much as it makes for cringe-worthy fiction.
The author fails in the most basic criterion for fiction, portraying characters' authentic responses under imaginative circumstances. For instance, at the beginning Mateo is stabbed on the steps of a church, and yet we are to believe that the earnest and sincere priest, deeply concerned for the young man's life while wrestling with the simultaneous stirrings of sexual attraction, has a dry, mocking smile on his face. First, this reaction is completely at odds with the character of the priest and inconsistent with the seriousness of the situation. Perhaps the author doesn't know what the word wry means? In any event, this is one tiny example of the author not thinking through what he is writing. Too often, the characters' responses are mechanical, incongruent or simply not believable.
Further, the author shifts descriptive burden onto the characters' dialogue so that when they speak they sound like novice actors self-consciously performing for an audience. It's the literary equivalent of over-enunciating and over-acting; conversations don't flow between characters but are awkward and stilted, constructed to inform the reader first and foremost rather than to breathe life into the character. They don't talk to each other in a genuine, believable way. It gives the writing a flavor of being crafted by a middle school student, and it's extraordinarily tedious.
I typically try to finish whatever novel I start, no matter how painful. I found that simply reading the first sentence of each paragraph when it became too droning made the story much more palatable. Even if it didn't make it a better novel, at least I wasn't being pummeled by the author's lack of skill and tone-deaf word-craft. But to give credit where it's due, the cover is what sold me on the book. My weakness has alleyways been a pretty face, and the young man in the foreground on the cover is stunning. Picturing him as young Mateo helped me finish the book. Also, despite the drawbacks mentioned above, the relationship between Mateo and his madre comes through as rather sweet.
Interspersed throughout the book is occasional sociopolitical pap that, I presume, is meant to add depth and contribute to the book's world-building. It doesn't. In the hands of this author it comes across as superficial and as unconsidered as the rest of the work. Despite the graphic sex and a little violence, there's a strong "Leave it to Beaver" or Mickey Mouse Club streak of purity and politeness that rings false. Most everyone is just a bit too good to be true, with the exception of the villain Yello, whom the author fails to imbue with a sense of true gut wrenching menace.
Finally, not much happens in this book. Not that I want every book to send my amygdala into endocrine overdrive, but, really, nothing happens (well, in 95% plus of the text); it reads a bit like an obsessive compulsive recording minor daily activities in their journal, e.g. "I stood in front of the oven; I opened the oven; I pulled the oven rack out of the oven.... In the hands of a more skillful writer, the everyday ups and downs of a new relationship could be riveting and insightful. Instead, I wonder why the author bothered writing this story. There is no serious attempt at exploring the tension between the priest, his religion and vows, and his need to claim his omega other than a few lame lines about "doing the right thing." The omega's past as a gang member is glossed over, like everything else, superficially. Any tension in this Happy Valley of shifters, witches, and humans is likewise resolved in a superficial gloss. Nor do the sex scenes redeem it; like the rest of the text they are stilted and luke warm at best. The only thing that makes them marginally interesting is imagining the models on the book's cover getting down and dirty.
In short, this book epitomizes the old adage "Don't judge a book by its cover." It's only value is in looking at the beautiful men before opening it
February 15, 2021
Breakable Faith is the eighth book in the Vale Valley Season One series. Although it is part of a series, this book can be read as a standalone – in fact I highly recommend reading this book by itself even though I’ve been reading this series in order. The quality of Vale Valley books varies depending on the author, and Michael Mandrake is one of the better writers in my opinion.
Mateo is an omega who’s been through some difficult situations. His grandmother decides that living in the city is no longer the best option and moves herself and Mateo to Vale Valley – but even this move can’t get rid of some the dangers from Mateo’s past. Lance is an alpha and a priest who prioritizes his faith and community above all else. A chance meeting with Mateo completely changes Lance’s priorities, but change can be difficult for everyone. Yet no matter how difficult the changes are or how dangerous the enemies from the past may be, the love these two men have for each other is strong and powerful.
I really liked this book. The only reason I’m deducting one star is because there were some parts of the plot that I wished were more developed; however, the book had a nice flow overall. Michael Mandrake crafted two very different characters with believable strengths and flaws. Mateo is young and has his faults – he’s a bit self-centered with a quick temper and impulsiveness, but he’s also a man who feels deeply and places his faith in love. Lance is a dedicated priest who has strong convictions, but he has a hard time with change and placing his personal life first. These faults cause some conflict in their relationship, but with the support of their friends and family and the deep love they have for each other, no conflict can derail their relationship. I also found it really interesting to see how the religious aspects of the plot fit in with the romance. I am not a religious person, but I thought the way Michael Mandrake incorporated religion was respectful and interesting and helped to explain some of the viewpoints and behaviors of the characters.
The audiobook was narrated by Nick J. Russo who did a fantastic job. Nick not only voiced all the characters perfectly, but also gave a wonderful performance. The audio performance had just the right amount of energy to make the book engaging without it being over the top. The audiobook production was also well done which made for a wonderful listening experience.
Mateo is an omega who’s been through some difficult situations. His grandmother decides that living in the city is no longer the best option and moves herself and Mateo to Vale Valley – but even this move can’t get rid of some the dangers from Mateo’s past. Lance is an alpha and a priest who prioritizes his faith and community above all else. A chance meeting with Mateo completely changes Lance’s priorities, but change can be difficult for everyone. Yet no matter how difficult the changes are or how dangerous the enemies from the past may be, the love these two men have for each other is strong and powerful.
I really liked this book. The only reason I’m deducting one star is because there were some parts of the plot that I wished were more developed; however, the book had a nice flow overall. Michael Mandrake crafted two very different characters with believable strengths and flaws. Mateo is young and has his faults – he’s a bit self-centered with a quick temper and impulsiveness, but he’s also a man who feels deeply and places his faith in love. Lance is a dedicated priest who has strong convictions, but he has a hard time with change and placing his personal life first. These faults cause some conflict in their relationship, but with the support of their friends and family and the deep love they have for each other, no conflict can derail their relationship. I also found it really interesting to see how the religious aspects of the plot fit in with the romance. I am not a religious person, but I thought the way Michael Mandrake incorporated religion was respectful and interesting and helped to explain some of the viewpoints and behaviors of the characters.
The audiobook was narrated by Nick J. Russo who did a fantastic job. Nick not only voiced all the characters perfectly, but also gave a wonderful performance. The audio performance had just the right amount of energy to make the book engaging without it being over the top. The audiobook production was also well done which made for a wonderful listening experience.
March 10, 2019
3.7 STARS
I finally got around to this first season Vale Valley story that I had not read yet. I deliberately didn't read it initially because I thought there might be some triggers for me. While I know many Christians have a big problem with people in the LGBTQ+ community - I am definitely NOT one of them! To me Christianity is about love and acceptance, NOT hate.
I have a strong faith that sustains me especially during trying times. As I write this review I am listening to gospel music. It soothes, consoles, and uplifts me. Of course there are non-believers or non-practitioners as is one of the MCs (Mateo) in this book.
While overall I enjoyed the book there were scenes that bothered me. Because while it was deemed just "a building" I see churches, temples, & mosques as sacred places. It's a place of refuge and sanctuary. A place to pray, fellowship with others, and speak privately to God.
Mateo didn't have the same beliefs and convictions as the priest Lance, but I felt Mateo could have respected what was Lance's Calling and how strongly Lance felt about his duties, responsibilities, and the sacredness of his place worship with his congregation. I can understand Mateo's frustration at Lance's initial denial of their mate bond. But despite his youth and gang past his mother and
aunt raised all their children in the church and to practice what was taught at home.
Mateo strayed away from his upbringing and he proved to be a great temptation to his fated Alpha. I liked how Mateo had a positive impact on Lance getting him out of the church and out into the community, without it being for a church related community service.
But Mateo seemed to pressure Lance to have sex despite promising to go as slow as Lance needed. It seemed more manipulative then seductive. Lance wanted to do right based on tenants of his church and morality. Lance confessed his lack of ability to resist Mateo, but he wanted to be the best mate yet standby his religious convictions and strong beliefs.
Lance's faith was extremely important almost keeping him from allowing the possibility of love, desire, and potential children to slip away. This is an erotic story so don't be surprised by the amount of intimacy, seduction, and emphasis on the carnal aspect of mating .
I finally got around to this first season Vale Valley story that I had not read yet. I deliberately didn't read it initially because I thought there might be some triggers for me. While I know many Christians have a big problem with people in the LGBTQ+ community - I am definitely NOT one of them! To me Christianity is about love and acceptance, NOT hate.
I have a strong faith that sustains me especially during trying times. As I write this review I am listening to gospel music. It soothes, consoles, and uplifts me. Of course there are non-believers or non-practitioners as is one of the MCs (Mateo) in this book.
While overall I enjoyed the book there were scenes that bothered me. Because while it was deemed just "a building" I see churches, temples, & mosques as sacred places. It's a place of refuge and sanctuary. A place to pray, fellowship with others, and speak privately to God.
Mateo didn't have the same beliefs and convictions as the priest Lance, but I felt Mateo could have respected what was Lance's Calling and how strongly Lance felt about his duties, responsibilities, and the sacredness of his place worship with his congregation. I can understand Mateo's frustration at Lance's initial denial of their mate bond. But despite his youth and gang past his mother and
aunt raised all their children in the church and to practice what was taught at home.
Mateo strayed away from his upbringing and he proved to be a great temptation to his fated Alpha. I liked how Mateo had a positive impact on Lance getting him out of the church and out into the community, without it being for a church related community service.
But Mateo seemed to pressure Lance to have sex despite promising to go as slow as Lance needed. It seemed more manipulative then seductive. Lance wanted to do right based on tenants of his church and morality. Lance confessed his lack of ability to resist Mateo, but he wanted to be the best mate yet standby his religious convictions and strong beliefs.
Lance's faith was extremely important almost keeping him from allowing the possibility of love, desire, and potential children to slip away. This is an erotic story so don't be surprised by the amount of intimacy, seduction, and emphasis on the carnal aspect of mating .
February 22, 2021
📚🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧📚
🎙 Narrator: Nick J. Russo 🎙
Overall ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/Narrator ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/Story ⭐️⭐️⭐️
First off, Nick J. Russo cannot produce a badly narrated story if he tried. He brings such animation and feeling to each character he portrays. It was no different in this book. I absolutely love is narration style.
This is the first book I’ve listened to (or even read) in this series and also by this author. I think part of the reason I liked the story as much as I did was because of the narration. I’m honestly unsure if I could’ve finished it otherwise. I can’t pinpoint what it was that caused me to say that, exactly...meaning I am unable to put it into words. Maybe it just didn’t speak to me. The writing was fine, the flow was fine, and some of the characters had more depth than others. I cannot say that any of it was bad or poorly done, because that would not be true.
It was interesting to see the alpha/omega dynamic in this story. I’ve read books in the omegaverse, but hadn’t seen much that portrayed the typical dynamics as this one had. I had only heard about it. I found it interesting that the omega was so aggressive in this story. It made me chuckle, for some reason.
All in all, this was entertaining and wonderfully narrated. For those reasons, I would recommend it. Books can be so subjective, so this may very well tickle your fancies more than mine.
🎙 Narrator: Nick J. Russo 🎙
Overall ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/Narrator ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/Story ⭐️⭐️⭐️
First off, Nick J. Russo cannot produce a badly narrated story if he tried. He brings such animation and feeling to each character he portrays. It was no different in this book. I absolutely love is narration style.
This is the first book I’ve listened to (or even read) in this series and also by this author. I think part of the reason I liked the story as much as I did was because of the narration. I’m honestly unsure if I could’ve finished it otherwise. I can’t pinpoint what it was that caused me to say that, exactly...meaning I am unable to put it into words. Maybe it just didn’t speak to me. The writing was fine, the flow was fine, and some of the characters had more depth than others. I cannot say that any of it was bad or poorly done, because that would not be true.
It was interesting to see the alpha/omega dynamic in this story. I’ve read books in the omegaverse, but hadn’t seen much that portrayed the typical dynamics as this one had. I had only heard about it. I found it interesting that the omega was so aggressive in this story. It made me chuckle, for some reason.
All in all, this was entertaining and wonderfully narrated. For those reasons, I would recommend it. Books can be so subjective, so this may very well tickle your fancies more than mine.
February 25, 2021
Vale Valley Virgin (an audio review)
I’ve listened to Michael Mandrake audios before and wasn’t sure what to expect with this story. There was a bit of violence, but there was also some tenderness. And plenty of naughtiness.
Father Lance is a priest in a world where priests can have sex – but only after marriage. This is a relatively new development, but his dedication to his flock is solid. He’ll do anything for them – including rescuing a young omega who is near death. Mateo has made some questionable decisions in the past that are coming back to haunt him. But when he scents his true mate, he’s willing to turn away from his past forever.
Now, if he can just convince the virgin priest they’re meant to be together.
I liked that the older Alpha was the inexperienced one in the story. And how they just couldn’t resist each other. And those adventures in the church? Pretty hot.
The story was narrated by Nick J. Russo – a narrator who always gives a solid performance and he delivered with this book. And no worries if this is your first trip to Vale Valley – you’ll fit right in.
I’ve listened to Michael Mandrake audios before and wasn’t sure what to expect with this story. There was a bit of violence, but there was also some tenderness. And plenty of naughtiness.
Father Lance is a priest in a world where priests can have sex – but only after marriage. This is a relatively new development, but his dedication to his flock is solid. He’ll do anything for them – including rescuing a young omega who is near death. Mateo has made some questionable decisions in the past that are coming back to haunt him. But when he scents his true mate, he’s willing to turn away from his past forever.
Now, if he can just convince the virgin priest they’re meant to be together.
I liked that the older Alpha was the inexperienced one in the story. And how they just couldn’t resist each other. And those adventures in the church? Pretty hot.
The story was narrated by Nick J. Russo – a narrator who always gives a solid performance and he delivered with this book. And no worries if this is your first trip to Vale Valley – you’ll fit right in.
December 14, 2018
Breakable Faith begins with a request for the reader to suspend their disbelief. This made me nervous. But I was pleased to discover that he was simply asking the reader to imagine a world where Catholic priests are allowed to marry, and gay people are allowed to be themselves without any guilt. In Breakable Faith, this premise feels not only plausible, but like a warm hug.
There are many reasons why I loved this book. Mandrake has a flair for dialogue that makes his characters jump off the page. I not only felt invested in Lance and Mateo, but their friends and family. I sincerely hope Mandrake will consider writing a sequel.
The chemistry between Lance and Mateo worked on so many levels. There was a glorious sense of the forbidden as Lance and Mateo's physical relationship developed that felt perfect in a MPreg book featuring religion. The slow burn truly paid off, and when the sex finally happened it crackled with electricity.
Read the rest of my review here: https://www.amybellows.com/mpregreade...
There are many reasons why I loved this book. Mandrake has a flair for dialogue that makes his characters jump off the page. I not only felt invested in Lance and Mateo, but their friends and family. I sincerely hope Mandrake will consider writing a sequel.
The chemistry between Lance and Mateo worked on so many levels. There was a glorious sense of the forbidden as Lance and Mateo's physical relationship developed that felt perfect in a MPreg book featuring religion. The slow burn truly paid off, and when the sex finally happened it crackled with electricity.
Read the rest of my review here: https://www.amybellows.com/mpregreade...
May 15, 2019
A new faith
I have to admit I was a little weary about reading this book. The religious thing made me uncomfortable and not because I'm Catholic (I'm not). But rather because I was raised Catholic and I was told fathers don't act this way lol. And no it's not the gay thing it's the relationship thing. BUT I did enjoyed this book and loved the characters.
Character breakdown;
Lance: it was hard to see him struggling with his faith even more so when it was something he could not deny. But like I stated before being raised Catholic your conscious tells you "you're wrong" oh too often.
Mateo: I thought he came on too strong at times wanted to scream "dude stop!" So many times but I cannot deny the way he help Lance out if his shyness. And I loved that he was Hispanic!
Good book, kinda disappointed that the omega did not end up pregnant in a male pregnancy book lo!. But I'm looking forward to the next chapter in their lives.
I have to admit I was a little weary about reading this book. The religious thing made me uncomfortable and not because I'm Catholic (I'm not). But rather because I was raised Catholic and I was told fathers don't act this way lol. And no it's not the gay thing it's the relationship thing. BUT I did enjoyed this book and loved the characters.
Character breakdown;
Lance: it was hard to see him struggling with his faith even more so when it was something he could not deny. But like I stated before being raised Catholic your conscious tells you "you're wrong" oh too often.
Mateo: I thought he came on too strong at times wanted to scream "dude stop!" So many times but I cannot deny the way he help Lance out if his shyness. And I loved that he was Hispanic!
Good book, kinda disappointed that the omega did not end up pregnant in a male pregnancy book lo!. But I'm looking forward to the next chapter in their lives.
December 16, 2018
Breakable Faith has a feisty omega with an irrepressible personality. He and his grandmother relocate to Vale Valley to escape a bad situation. He is not a bad guy. He is a guy who said Enough! and left for a better opportunity.
I loved Mateo's unbreakable faith in himself and love- even when it comes in the form of a reluctant priest named Lance. Although his love interest IS a bit taboo, Mateo's joy in Lance and their connection is spiritual. Oh gosh, there are so many funny moments and so many romantic times, too. I about died when Mateo says he wants a little Lance-a-latte. Lance is so by the book -hehe- that I worried for him. No worries, though. Mateo charms him and he will charm you, too. This is a great holiday story.
* Advanced copy provided for an honest review.
I loved Mateo's unbreakable faith in himself and love- even when it comes in the form of a reluctant priest named Lance. Although his love interest IS a bit taboo, Mateo's joy in Lance and their connection is spiritual. Oh gosh, there are so many funny moments and so many romantic times, too. I about died when Mateo says he wants a little Lance-a-latte. Lance is so by the book -hehe- that I worried for him. No worries, though. Mateo charms him and he will charm you, too. This is a great holiday story.
* Advanced copy provided for an honest review.
December 17, 2018
Is love of your fated mate greater than love for the church?
Welcome back to Vale Valley. Although this book stands alone, reading the others in the series provides insight into this magical world
I fell in love with Mateo and Father Lance. Both are shocked to find they're fated mates. Father Lance wants to remain faithful to his church, but finds himself unable to resist his Omega, Mateo. His Alpha's pull is irresistible. Mateo can't wait to claim him.
This is a world where gay marriage is accepted, and priests can marry. Add in shifters, witches, danger, & a sexual awakening that will knock your socks off, and you have one great book.
I loved this book.
Welcome back to Vale Valley. Although this book stands alone, reading the others in the series provides insight into this magical world
I fell in love with Mateo and Father Lance. Both are shocked to find they're fated mates. Father Lance wants to remain faithful to his church, but finds himself unable to resist his Omega, Mateo. His Alpha's pull is irresistible. Mateo can't wait to claim him.
This is a world where gay marriage is accepted, and priests can marry. Add in shifters, witches, danger, & a sexual awakening that will knock your socks off, and you have one great book.
I loved this book.
October 21, 2020
Disappointing
I love this set but I had problems with this book. Mateo came across as very juvenile and selfish. He gave no consideration to Lance's position and responsibilities. Lance had no depth. He said words but I got no feeling with them. I read "daddy" story but this was not that yet Mateo called Lance "Father" the same as a member of the parish. It was not said as a "daddy" relationship . It was creepy not cute. I would have preferred a true "daddy" relationship than the one they had. I did not feel any real passion between them, even the Omega heat was weak. I pushed myself to finish this story only because I love the series. I will continue with the series. I will acknowledge that author have the reader a story free of errors.
I love this set but I had problems with this book. Mateo came across as very juvenile and selfish. He gave no consideration to Lance's position and responsibilities. Lance had no depth. He said words but I got no feeling with them. I read "daddy" story but this was not that yet Mateo called Lance "Father" the same as a member of the parish. It was not said as a "daddy" relationship . It was creepy not cute. I would have preferred a true "daddy" relationship than the one they had. I did not feel any real passion between them, even the Omega heat was weak. I pushed myself to finish this story only because I love the series. I will continue with the series. I will acknowledge that author have the reader a story free of errors.
February 16, 2021
audio review
Breakable Faith: A Winter Romance is book 8 in the Vale Valley multi-author series. I really enjoyed this story about Father Lance and Mateo. Mateo is so excited to find his fated mate, his alpha just happens to be a priest. This doesn't deter Mateo in doing everything he can to have the man fate made just for him. Though everyone seems happy for Father Lance finding his omega, he's been celibate for so long and isn't sure how to proceed. Mateo had no problem helping his alpha out in that area. I loved how they took care of their pasts so they could find their future happiness together. This isn't your typical romance but I wouldn't mind more of it.
Narrator Nick J. Russo does a fabulous job.
Breakable Faith: A Winter Romance is book 8 in the Vale Valley multi-author series. I really enjoyed this story about Father Lance and Mateo. Mateo is so excited to find his fated mate, his alpha just happens to be a priest. This doesn't deter Mateo in doing everything he can to have the man fate made just for him. Though everyone seems happy for Father Lance finding his omega, he's been celibate for so long and isn't sure how to proceed. Mateo had no problem helping his alpha out in that area. I loved how they took care of their pasts so they could find their future happiness together. This isn't your typical romance but I wouldn't mind more of it.
Narrator Nick J. Russo does a fabulous job.
December 17, 2018
Honestly? I felt like the sacrifice dynamics of this story was onesided. Mateo came across as a whiny over-sex teenager and Lance (Father Mulroney) was quite the "innocent" for a 4o-year-old... even for a priest... and he seemed to be the one to make all the changes. Although, I can't say that his was a GREAT sacrifice because I have never read an alpha/omega book that the alpha complained about having too much sex! LOL!!! The story read quickly and though it was short on details (who was the dang bear? I need to do a quick re-check on the books up to this point!) in a few places I did enjoy it overall!
December 19, 2018
Breakable Faith by Michael Mandrake is the eighth book in the Vale Valley series. A tattooed, younger omega and a hot older slpha, who is a priest...Fated Mates, and long as Msteo can convince Father Lance that he is all he could ever want in an alpha.
Great book- sexy, sweet, and taboo, too. The story was original and kept my attention. I loved Mateo and Father Lance together.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
January 8, 2021
Audiobook Review
Story: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Narration : ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
This was such a sweet age gap winter romance!
Mateo and Father Lance are opposites in every way. But they support and bring out the best in eachother.
This was a steamy opposites attract romance with a naughty tattooed omega and one sexy priest.
I absolutely adore the Vale Valley series and this one didn't dissapoint in the least.
Nick J. Russo's audio delivery and narration was beyond flawless and absolutely amazing.
Story: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Narration : ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
This was such a sweet age gap winter romance!
Mateo and Father Lance are opposites in every way. But they support and bring out the best in eachother.
This was a steamy opposites attract romance with a naughty tattooed omega and one sexy priest.
I absolutely adore the Vale Valley series and this one didn't dissapoint in the least.
Nick J. Russo's audio delivery and narration was beyond flawless and absolutely amazing.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews