Bad boy Zane Wolfe has always been wild and reckless. Even though he’s hot for his high school sweetheart, Candi Brooks, settling down has never been in his plans. Beyond that, he’s changing in strange ways—and begins to wonder if there's truth to the local folklore that claims his family is cursed to be werewolves...
There's never been a time when waitress Candi didn't have a serious weakness for Zane and his intense, dark sex appeal. She craves him. But after her life changes dramatically, and Zane won’t commit, Candi’s reached her limit. She can't wait forever...so she's taking her heart off the table before it gets good and broken.
Something mysterious is going on in Wolfe Creek, and danger stalks Candi. Zane will do anything he can to protect her. But the one person she needs protection from might just be him…
Kaylie Newell lives in Southern Oregon with her husband and two daughters. She’s the proud author of over a dozen romances, including the RITA® finalists, Christmas at The Graff and Tanner’s Promise.
Lone Wolfe Protector, book one in the Wolfe Creek Series was one of the most eerie, and unusual reads of 2014 for me, so I was more than a little excited to see that Kaylie Newell, had written its follow-up Hunter of Her Heart and that it was Zane and Candi’s story.
She was an anomaly, hard and broken at the same time.”
It was a surprise to find myself struggling with this one, for more than one reason, but in the main it is because I was approaching the end of the book before anything really started happening. Upto around the 80% mark, the issues between Candi and Zane to say the least were predictable, both seemed to act more like petulant teenagers than adults and that connection that fizzled between them in the first book, especially after the horrific attack seemed to get lost with all the added drama, it also seemed that most of the time, that the only time one of them didn’t have an issue with the other was when they were having sex.
”You hurt me all the time… You just don’t always leave bruises.”
Hunter of Her Heart had massive potential, and I was expecting more of the same type of eerie, creepy unusual story-telling as the author delivered in its predecessor, unfortunately it all felt a little predictable and lacklustre this time… Even the big reveal didn't really have any impact, with Candi seeming to take Zane's 'special skills' in her stride.
”It’s time we had a little talk.”
Kaylie Newell has a really easy to engage in writing style, I am not sure whether this book is the end of the series… But there is a little loose end drifting in the wind that I would like to see get its own story, whether that happens, and whether I read it… I am honestly not sure at this point.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
HUNTER OF HER HEART seemed like it would be a nice and quick sort of paranormal romance but I ended up just not liking any of the characters or even the plot. The writing was well done and not overly complex or down-laden with flowery descriptions truly making this book a quick read. We are told that Zane is basically a bad boy and screw up and is constantly "this" close to losing his girlfriend Candi. What I would imagine would follow would be some sort of redemption arc or even some hidden tenderness in Zane that would make me root for him to save his relationship with Candi. We don't get any of that. Zane came off as very manipulative and only interested in Candi for the sex not an actual relationship. I was left wondering why Candi even liked this selfish loser beyond his good looks and ability to ride a motorcycle. Why did they love each other? This love they have is told and not shown in any real way beyond sex and frankly sex is not the only aspect of love in a relationship.
Candi doesn't fare much better in the likeability department. She comes off as a pushover who isn't strong enough to really tell Zane that he needs to get his act together or she's gone. Where was the dialog between these two to establish some sort of relationship beyond fighting and sex? They'd don't really communicate with each other at all. Candi came off as an enabler stuck in a dead end relationship. I wanted so much for someone to pull her aside and say that she could do better. Unfortunately the few secondary characters we get seem to be all for their relationship!
And then there is the paper thin paranormal plot. There is some sort of urban legend in Zane and Candi's town that turns out to be true. This legend is vaguely told and kind of expanded upon towards the end of the book where we are given a hint about the burgeoning paranormal world hidden in this town. That hint did not compel me to want to find out more about this world. It seemed to be thrown in as some sort of secondary plot or way to show that Zane has indeed changed for the better. Spoiler alert: he didn't or at least not enough to impress me. He sort of steps up when he has to after much stomping and whining but towards the very end of the book where I just didn't care and wanted to get the book over with.
I loved the first book it this series Lone Wolfe Protecter. Wolfe Creek is a bewitching small-town, harbouring secrets, mystery and intrigue so there was no decision to be made when it came as to whether I read this. But in comparison to Koda and Maggie's story, Zane and Candi's unfortunately fell very flat.
"I hurt you. I'm so sorry." "You hurt me all the time."
There were elements I did like; Zane and Candi have a history, they have a decent chemistry and Candi isn't afraid to call Zane out on his crap, yet on the whole I struggled to connect with them in any way. They followed a pattern of him holding back, she being confused and rightly pissed at him, both saying "I love you" and the cycle repeated. It felt disjointed. Rushed. And aspects I hoped were heading somewhere just fizzled out. It had potential but it didn't emulate the magic of the first book and the main thing that stood out was Candi's boobs; their mentions were as ample as they were and by the half way mark the score card read breasts:12 boobs:3
After the glowing review I gave Lone Wolfe Protector to give Hunter of Her Heart such a low rating is disappointing. That said, if there is a third book in the series I will likely read to see if Kaylie Newell can bring back that magic. On this occasion though, it was very much missing.
Copy received courtesy of Entangled Publishing via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
Settling down has never been in bad boy Zane Wolfe’s plans and now he’s changing in some mysterious way but he better figure it out soon because Candi’s reached her limit in this mesmerizing paranormal romance.
There is some mysterious happenings in Wolfe Creek and Zane is caught right in the middle and the reader can’t help but get caught up in the emotional turmoil that is pulling Zane in every direction while he fights to save his relationship with Candi. There is no denying the attraction between Candi and Zane but this relationship is on very tenuous ground which keeps readers as well as the characters on pins and needles with lots of heart gripping emotions. The characters are strong, compelling and the reader can certainly understand their motivations and desires while the fast paced and smooth flowing plot captivates readers with suspense, romance and an overall shadowy feel to the story.
Spine tingling suspense builds throughout the story as Zane goes through the strange changes of his body and learns that what he thought were legends is much more and then there is the excitement happening in his romance with Candi that really ups the tension and turmoil. The scenes are well written and capture the imagination while the whole mysterious and edgy air draws readers in and ensures that they want to know everything.
The Wolfe Creek setting that the author has created really adds mystery and an enigmatic feel to the story which makes for great ambiance when dealing with the kind of curse and legend that the story focuses on. This romance really picks at the emotions and captures the heart as the reader can practically feel the angst that Zane and Candi are feeling and can understand each point of view so be prepared to get completely caught up in the story, I certainly did.
Rating 3.5/5. Zane Wolfe is worried about how he seems to be changing, feeling and acting. He has had some flu like symptoms, woken up naked in the forest unaware of how he got there, had problems controlling his temper . . . he’s starting to worry that the local folklore might be right - could he be cursed to be a werewolf?
His girlfriend, Candi Brooks, has always been attracted to him and the chemistry between them is volatile, they’ve been together since High School and she’s never had eyes for anyone else. However, she’s getting fed up of his lack of commitment to their relationship, anger and seemingly insatiable appetite for sex but not really loving. As so many folks are saying, he really does need to grow up! Something else, however, is going on. She’s being stalked. Can Zane protect her - or is he the one she needs protecting from?
This is an intriguing paranormal romance with echoes of when Jacob discovered he was a werewolf in the Twilight saga by Stephanie Meyer, but only echoes. It is a totally different story with no vampires to be seen! The characters throughout the book are well developed. The dangers experienced at different times in the story are well portrayed, real page turners. Personally, I didn’t relate well to Zane as he seems so full of angst and turmoil he’s also at times very selfish, forgetting to be a caring and loving partner to Candi. I did like her and how she sticks up for herself with him. It is the second book in the series but I haven’t read the first and didn’t feel that I’d missed out by not doing so, this works as a standalone. If you enjoy paranormal romances this is another to add to your to be read pile!
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for letting me read an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC of this novel in return for an honest review. Here it is:
What a good introduction to a shifter series! Hunter of Heart is the second novel in a series, but Kaylie Newell is a new author to me, and although I didn't read the first installment, I didn't find that to be a problem. I did find this novel to be well-written, well-plotted, and quite a bit different from many of the other shifter novels I've read for a number of reasons.
First, Zane, the hero, is the town bad boy, and he's been seeing Candi, a waitress and ex-stripper who adores him. They've been a couple since high school, but he is commitment phobic. Candi loves him enough to put up with his wild ways, but she wishes he'd commit. And this is where this novel diverges from the standard shifter novel--Zane isn't even aware that he is a shifter, or that such a thing is even possible. There are legends in the town of Wolfe Creek, but no one really takes them seriously, and through the course of the book, we see Zane come to terms with who and what he really is.
There's also the mystery of the missing girl who came to Wolfe Creek 2 years ago to visit her sister. That sister is currently engaged to Zane's older brother--I'm assuming they got together is the first installment of this series, and she's in the middle of planning their upcoming wedding. Then we have the search for the missing child of the town's doctor. Oh yes, and someone or something is secreting watching Candi, and we don't know who or why--and that's just for starters.
There are enough interesting subplots, twists and turns in this novel for a lengthy series, and I, for one, am very eager to read all of it.
When I'm not familiar with an author the first thing I tend to notice is the title. That's what usually gets my attention. Okay I'll admit that the cover can get my attention too. It always amuses me when I see a cover with the head cut off or in this case partially cut off. It happens quite a lot.
I could see this cover getting a person's attention. The abs do stand out. I think this would be a great book to take to the beach. Since it is an ebook there's no worry about being embarrassed about the cover. It is a quite fun read for someone that wants to read a short book.
The cover and the title clued me in on this book being a paranormal romance. Some books are harder to get into than others. I didn't have a problem with this one. I don't really need an excuse to read but it has been reading a lot which I find to be a perfect time to curl up with a book. Okay it is a bit tricky to do that when you're reading an ebook but you can still get comfy and get your read on. You can pretty much figure out what kind of supernatural creature you're dealing with in this book.
Anyhoo this book is about Zane Wolfe who is a bit of a bad boy. He finds out that the family curse is a real thing when he finds out that he's a werewolf. So he's dealing with this while finding out that his sort of girlfriend Candi is pregnant with his child. There's romance but the focus is more on Zane's journey to become a better person as he deals with his new reality.
How old are these characters? With the crows feet and descriptions, they seemed like they are older. But... in word and deed? This was high school.
As always.... spoilers......
Zane just... didn't care. Not about Candi, not about the baby, not about.... anyone. I'm listening to the audible, and there is 46 minutes left, and.... there's just no love to be found. You get the idea they've been together a looooong time. Years and years.
He's never invited her to sleep at his place? He doesn't stay at hers? ......
That isn't love. That's a booty call.
He broke up with her, she announces she's pregnant... and that's still not enough to get him engaged in the relationship. Not even in his POV.
And this chick just bleeds desperation and daddy issues. She lets him shhhhhit on her for years. Never, not once, does she buck him. She's just sooooo in love with this guy who stands her up, leaves her waiting around, forgets to pick her up from work, forgets to show up for their baby's sonogram, etc etc etc. That while internally she whines about his behaviour, externally? It's all good.
They deserve each other. This left me cold and irritated. There was no love connection here, just codependency and enabling.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I really enjoyed Lone Wolfe Protector, and had high hopes for this book. Sadly, my hopes were dashed.
First of all, where was the love? Candi and Zane professed their love for each other, but all I saw was sex. Also, Candi said that people were often taken in by Zane's charm, but he wasn't charming in either book. Drunk, moody, sullen, and unreliable, yes. Charming? No. And Candi just kept wishing for more from him. Over and over again.
Kaylie Newell is a talented, smooth, descriptive writer. I think she just missed the mark on the characterization on this one.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for a (brutally) honest review.
After reading Lone Wolfe Protector I couldn't wait to read another book by this author. I loved the writing from page one to the end, the characters grab you and don't let go. Zane is the ultimate bad boy; tough as nails, doesn't want to settle down kind of guy but he loves Candi as much as he allows himself to. As his life changes in more ways then one he can't help but want to make a life for himself and Candi but he also can't help but think what the future brings. Candi is sweet as hell and doesn't want to give up Zane but if he doesn't start to care more and be there for her she may not have a choice. I loved these two characters together, loved how they couldn't get enough of each other and can't help but love everything about each other. Sexy as hell in parts and crazy in others, wow! love Koda being back and of course Jim helping Zane. Great story! 5 stars
Having read the first one was ready to step into this one and read about the brother Zane. He has someone that cares deeply for him but he keeps his distance because of what he believes. Candi does not want to wait forever even though her heart is his. When strange things begin to happen they both will have to dig deep down for love to win. This author gives you a closer look into the legend that just might be more than talk. Follow them as they both battle with themselves and each other but the exciting part is finding out who wins. The author keeps you spellbound to this story till you have all the answers. Being Zane is the dangerous bad boy you are stuck like crazy glue.
The first book in this series has a vibe that manages to be both electric and eerie. Hunter of Her Heart falls flat in comparison. I wavered between two and three stars here and found this installment disappointing compared to the first. Especially, because I liked Candi and Zane in the first novel. I found them both to be exasperating and I honestly couldn’t tell why they even liked each other. Throwing the words “I love you” around can become empty filler when that “love” isn’t shown through actions. The “challenges” the characters face here were predictable and presented in a way that kept the plot crawling at a snail’s pace. There was genuine potential here, but it fell apart. The first novel was such a good read that I will likely check out book 3 in hopes of getting to experience that type of atmosphere again.
I listened to the audiobook. Narration was done by Erica Sullivan - superb!
I am disappointed by this book. I was so intrigued by Zane and Candi, who were secondary characters in the first book of the series. I was excited to get to their story, but it wasn't what I'd hoped. The constant on/off again relationship between main characters spans the entire book and gets old fast. The overall plot was weak, feeling secondary to relationship drama. I highly respected Candi's strong character in book 1, but in this book, she mimics Maggie's damsel-in-distress pattern. I had hoped she'd have more self-respect, and found her so weak to sexual impulses that I just couldn't refrain from repeated eye-rolls.
This is a nice easy listen, nothing ground breaking but entertaining.
I listened to book one in this series and enjoyed it so thought I'd pick up book two as they were included free in my audible subscription.
I expected this to be a continuation of Maggie and Koda's story and although they do appear throughout the book the story focuses on Candi and Zane's turbulent relationship.
High-school sweethearts Candi wants Zane to commit to their relationship but Zane has secrets of his own and issues he needs to deal with.
This book is light on fantasy similarly to book one and reads more like a contemporary romance with a twist of mystery.
I will be picking up book three they are just a nice easy listen you don't have to think about too much.
This entire series has been an unexpected pleasure! I didn't know what to expect of these books and they are still a bit of mystery: part contemporary romance, part urban fantasy, part crime investigation. what they are, though is well-written, well-paced and all around addictive. And the narration was great, I have really enjoyed both the voice of the narrator and the pace/ tone used!
I have just finished book 3 and, surprisingly, I can't really decided which story and couple was ma favourite! They were all very enjoyable in their own ways. Maybe book 3 because I enjoyed tying up all the loose ends! Although I really loved Zane and Candi!
A fun listen on audible while I was doing some cleaning around the house. This story continues from the first in the series - although they can be read as standalones. A slow burn for sure and not the most spice if that's what you're looking for. The series is technically a paranormal romance, although the paranormal aspect isn't in your face at all - perhaps a good book for those wanting to dip their toes in the paranormal world.
The story follows Candi and Zane and is a definite must read for those that enjoy small town romance books.
Hunter of her Heart, book two, is based off of the first one. The younger brother of the sheriff’s deputy holds one of Wolfe Creek’s secrets within himself. The town starts to see him as the bad guy and his long term girlfriend helps him lighten his shadows and ground him.
I really enjoyed listening to this series. It was a light storyline, entertaining and humorous at times. The characters are all likeable and the storyline wraps up nicely. I would definitely recommend if you are interested in some light reading and are into paranormal fantasy.
Wolfe Creek Book 2: Hunter of Her Heart. Zane Wolfe is going through some changes and isn't sure what his future holds. Is it with Candi or is he meant to be a lone wolf. Candi is in danger, will Zane be there to help?
It started off slow for me and really picked up towards the end. This wasn't as good as the first but it wasn't too bad. It was okay. 🌞🌞🌞 (3/5 Stars)
This second installment was a bit more predictable. Zane and Candy have quite the histor and quite the story. Their relationship is a rocky one. Zane has a secret and Candy has a problem with it. 4 stars
I enjoyed this story after first listening Koda and Maggie story. It was steamy and well written with a plot that flowed. I would’ve like to feel a deeper connection with Zayn and Candy with their history since teenagers, more than their physical chemistry. More grovelling and for Candy to be less forgiving of Zayn even if his reasons were understandable, a bit more emotion injected into this story would’ve made it so much better.
I listened to this one. I'd picked up #3 in this series a while ago and listened to it. I enjoyed that one so I bought #1 and this one. The first book was really good so I was looking forward to listening to this one. It's a short, romantic suspense, like the others, but this one dragged. The romance kept hitting the same notes - they love each other, but he's afraid of commitment. Over and over and over. Ugh. Overall, it was a descent story - it just needed more complexity.
This story had a lot of potential, but it doesn't actually feel like anything was resolved. I'm disappointed in what a doormat Candi turned out to be and even though Zane came around in like the last five pages, neither of them really showed any growth. The suspense aspect wasn't nearly as good as the first book either, definitely felt like an afterthought.
I DNFed. I know pregnancy plots aren’t an end all be all, but I don’t like when they are the main part of the plot where the MMC has to learn to be okay with it or if it’s in an attempt to save a dying/complex relationship. That and Zane coming into the Legend of Wolfe Creek was just not for me after the first book was mostly contemporary with a whisp of paranormal.
This was a bit tougher as the H was mostly unlikable through the first two stories. I did enjoy the story and the H did grow during the second half. The dramatic moment was a bit OTT and was similar to the first story.
This book was perfect. Zane is a beautiful disaster. Scared or feeling unworthy of love and commitment he comes to a T in the road of his life. He has to realize what he truly wants and what he is or isn't willing to walk away from. Beautifully written.
I liked this story better than the first one, but it was still a bit thin on the story line. This story was focused on Zane and Candi's relationship. I wish the characters and story was more developed. It would make the characters more likable.