Lera needs to keep her head down—not an easy feat when a giant gray wolf with a fondness for her dorm room starts roaming the Academy. Worse still, Lera’s caught the attention of the powerful and popular Princess Katita, who doesn’t like her territory trespassed upon—especially when that territory is a particular red-haired athlete…
Tye learned the hard way years ago that competition training and love don’t mix, but every moment he spends with Lera is testing that resolve. The hauntingly beautiful new cadet makes Tye feel like he’s playing with fire—a fire he’d do well to avoid. But when Lera’s bravery thrusts her into grave danger, Tye may have no choice but to get burned.
SCENT OF A WOLF is the third episode in the GREAT FALLS ACADEMY novella series, featuring the same reverse-harem cast as Alex Lidell’s internationally bestselling POWER OF FIVE series. (Reading the POWER OF FIVE novels is not necessary to enjoy GREAT FALLS ACADEMY.)
Alex Lidell is the Amazon Breakout Novel Awards finalist author of THE CADET OF TILDOR (Penguin) and several Amazon Top 100 Kindle Bestsellers, including the POWER OF FIVE romance series. She is an avid horseback rider who believes in eating dessert first. She writes as both Alex Lidell and A.L. Lidell.
Generously giving this 3 stars. & I truly don't understand the 5 star reviews... I'm frustrated after reading this book. I feel I wasted my time. For me, this book felt like a bunch of writing filler, just an extra book in the series -to sell. I had high hopes for more (or any) progress towards the final plot ending for the series, this is book 3 of 5 after all, we're over the 1/2 way point now, but feel Lera is no closer to resolution than she was in book 1. I'm not a fan of short novella type books either, no matter what you call them (episodes?). I much preferred the original series that this series sprang from. I'm completely bored watching Lera being lovesick & stumbling around trying to come up with a solution & feeling sorry for herself cause her mates don't know who she is or seem to feel anything for her but lust. I hate that the 4 mates seem so distant to her, blocking any attraction they might have, & who they really are to each other, & 3 of the 4 are closer to each other than to Lera. The random single hook ups with her mates (once in previous book with Coal & once in this book with Tye) weren't enough to hold the plot together or give a reader hope of this resolving -at all. The fact that they hooked up & still have NO strong commitment to her is disappointing for me as a reader, making the sex (& her) meaningless both to me & to the 4 guys. I'd rather the sex have been skipped than be shallow & meaningless. The sex proved that Lera was right- that without the quint bond, there was no real connection between the 5 of them. Shade's wolf is the only redeeming part of this book, but he only shows up twice as his wolf in this book. I anticipate Lera having a single hookup with Shade in the next book, with still no resolving of anything or closeness with any of the 4 guys. I anticipate her hooking up with River in book 5, also a shallow hook up & a rushed ending. The whole premise/plot is taking too long to resolve itself & losing my interest in the whole thing. I'll probably grudgingly read the next book, but it may decide if I'm dropping out of this series altogether.
I don’t have a whole lot to say about this book, mainly because I don’t really remember what happened in it.
To be fair, I continued straight from this book into book four, but I don’t think it says anything great about this book that I’ve already forgotten what I read two days ago.
Based on the title, you would think there would be a lot of Shade in this book. But no. He makes maybe three appearances, and obviously none of them were memorable.
Lera continued to be absolutely useless. There was one scene where I thought the author would finally let her fight her way out of a sticky situation, but no. Tye came in and saved her ass. I hate to be a Debbie Downer, but I feel the need to point out that, at this point, Lera has literally never won a fight on her own or not needed the help of at least one of the male heroes.
There also is a distinct lack of plot, which is kind of frustrating at this point. I realize that this is supposed to be more episodic, but there should be an established overarching plot over the course of the series, with smaller, easily accomplished plots in each novel if we’re really going to follow a serial format.
And while the memory loss is easily identifiable as the larger plot, we still have no idea how Lera plans to even begin to resolve it. I feel like we have a destination in mind, but we can’t see it yet and are just slowly meandering towards it with frequent, useless pitstops off to the side.
I think that there are six books planned in this series, and I’m really straining myself trying to figure out how a resolution can be easily accomplished in that amount of time, considering we have made no progress towards an end goal.
Maybe book four will enlighten me, but…my hopes aren’t high.
I will say that the book is well-written, and Lera does have the occasional witty rejoinder that is actually kind of humorous. And the idea behind the plot is interesting, I’m just not loving the execution so far.
Lera has made a powerful enemy of the Princess Katita who has claimed Tye as her own. Tye learned through a remembered tragedy that he can't excel at competition and have a relationship, so he's trying to avoid the complications of the ladies altogether but he can't stay away from the lilac girl. Plus, Shade's wolf isn't keeping his distance either, sneaking into her room at night. The men may not remember their true lives or their bond but they can't deny their attraction to the little co-ed.
There's no denying that these novellas are entertaining. However, they are not enough. The length seems to be getting shorter and shorter. There is less and less progress. This was the least satisfying novella so far. I don't see how we get out of this mess either. The men are barely likable. They have no real memories. Lera can't prompt them to remember. The magic medallions have been destroyed. That leaves Lera on her own. Yes, she is moving past her angst. Yes, the men find her appealing. Yes, they succumb to her charms and bed her. Then they feel guilty or angry because of the backstories they believe of themselves. The frustration is overwhelming. Something has to give!
I'm enjoying these episodes so much and there really isn't much to say beyond that without spoilers. I encourage everyone to read the Power of Five series before starting this series of episodes in order to experience maximum enjoyment, but know that these episodes definitely have to be read in order even if you decide to skip the initial series of books. I liked that this third installment explored more about the battle of the heroes' inherent fae nature vs. the scenario they are in. I also liked how this one ended, because though the pickle Lera and company found themselves in was predictable (not meant in a negative sense), what she did about it was not something I saw coming and enjoyed very much. This episode retains the TV show quality I mentioned in my previous reviews, and I am eagerly awaiting the next one. 4.5 stars
*I received a free copy of this book which I voluntarily chose to write an honest review for.
Each installment in this new novella series just keeps getting better and better. Lera has to deal with her punishment from the events in the last book which makes things interesting. On top of that she is still the only one with her memories. Having the guys not on her side is rough and she finds herself doubting herself quite a bit. When Shade's wolf still remembers though it helps her out. Add in a new friend to help and things just may work out over time. Nice twists and a few more kinks in the road for this group though it is starting to get interesting as well as steamy by this point. I totally loved it so I give it 5/5 stars.
As always, a fantastic read. Thoroughly enjoyed this book. Lear is growing and learning to deal with the hiccups of the veil, and now has an ally for it. Hopefully the guys will come around more and quickly as the story progresses.
While I had higher hopes for episode 3, I did not receive them. It is quite clear that the author plans to string along this story of the guys not knowing Lera until the end of the series. The episodes so far are pretty much the same, Lera is in distress about the guys not knowing who she is, she has to be clever on her feet to get out of situations, always some fight scenes and of course sex - although each book she beds a different guy from the quint. On the positive side, she has at least stopped whining so much about them not knowing who she is and is trying to take matters into her own hands. She is pretty bad ass in the fight scenes, so kudos to that but she is constantly getting herself into trouble. Honestly, if the entire quint knew who they were, the problem they are facing with the realm would be solved much faster and not need to be dragged out in this whole episode lay out - not sure how many books the author has planned but she's definitely trying to kill time and keep it going, most likely to make more money off of the series. If I had to pay $2.99 for this I would have been disappointed, not worth the money, but it is worth reading for free. The book wasn't all bad, and we did get a couple tidbits of revelations but more the problem is the book is just repetitive, how many times can you tell the same story?
Lera is a force to be reckoned with even when she is terrified. I love how she sees a problem and doesn't give up even when it seems hopeless. At least the men are starting to respect her.
****SPOILER RANT***** I was really looking forward to this book thinking that book 3/5 there is FINALLY going to be a mating/quint bond recognition or at least some development in the resolution. However they are NO closer to the resolution of original plot...remember the whole reason they went to GFA in the first place, the CRACKED WARDS and the creepy Gloom creatures coming thru to the mortal realm? Speaking of there was not one mention of a battle with any of the creepy gloom creatures this episode... and WHY is there so much focus on this random Katita biotch and not more development on any of the characters we are here wanting to read about. Kill off that snob. Anyway, back to my rant. Nor we aren't any closer to fixing the f**ked up veils that are keeping Lera, Shade, River, Tye, and Coal from their mating + quint bond. They fought SO hard in the prior series to be together, to be accepted, and to be loved by one another that this new adventure they are on feels as if its about another group because i cant believe our males and Lera would just be letting this happen to them without a fight. I cannot imagine how the final 2 episodes are going to bring this full circle, but i am excited to reach the end.
Alex Lidell is one of my favorite writers of sci fi adventure, and I’ve got to admit that she has what it takes for sexy reverse-harem action as well. That’s clearly the case with her wonderful newest series, Great Falls Academy, Episode 3 of which (Scent of a Wolf) is a totally fun romp of a novel. I loved these characters in their first incantation, the author’s Power of Five stories (highly recommended, by the way), and they’re just as much fun this time around. Lera and Tyne’s story is a pleasure to read. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises. The book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, and it is easy to highly recommend. I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in this series.
Another job well done. Lera’s journey continues in this sequel. Despite being on her own for now since her males can’t remember whom they truly are, she’s doing everything she could in her situation but she has her limits as well. I feel for her when those trio gang up on her and made her remembered her former life. It’s a good thing one of her mates was there for her. I’m just glad that River didn’t physically punished her in the last book. I’m still glad that even though her mates can’t remember at some level deep down they still care for her. In addition, Arisha is aware of her and that they still remain friends and helping one another. I wonder how long before the guys remember her and what would it take for that to happen?
***This review is for the audiobook*** Seriously, Alex Lidell does an amazing job with this series! Goodness gracious, this book is sizzling hot, steamy, intense and thrilling.
Let's is an amazing FMC in this book. I mean this girl is determined, strong willed, honest and loyal. She is still struggling to accept that her mates do not remember her because of the veil. Then you have the chemistry with Let's and Ty. Serioulsy, you need to sit directly in front of cold air cause it gets hot. Lera seems to always find herself in trouble, she is always fighting which makes me wonder what will happen. Can't wait for the next audio book!
Victoria Mei, I love how you narrate the story with all those feelings and never miss a beat.
I just can’t get enough of these books and the characters are to die for. Lera is still finding that her mates still don’t no who she is to them but lera is still fighting to protect them. Especially as shades wolf is now protect lera. Lera is starting to realise that she now has to do this on her own and no matter how much she loves her mates it is down to her now. Lera is starting to expect that there relationship between her and her mates if different in the mortal realm. I am really please that she now has a friend and ally in Arisha and that she has someone she can talk to and be herself with. I can’t wait for the next book absolutely loving the hole series so far
Maaan. I have never been more worried about Lera than I was just now. I mean woohoo Tyelor and Lera got it on. But jeezus I thought Katita had her by the cajones. I was like OMG they are going to die. And now I’m going to die waiting to see what happens next.
This series is just growing and getting better and better with every episode released. I love it. Can’t have enough. I was so upset to see learn the file was messed up and I couldn’t get it on it’s original release date. But I have been dropping everything just read each episode.
Lera may not be book smart but her common sense is impeccable. Get it girl.
Ugh I do not like Gavriel! He is so dang pushy! I can’t help but wonder if he even knows what he’s talking about or if Lera is more on the right track.
Also, Katita takes my nerves. I really can’t stand the stereotypical “mean girl.” I mean, I get it. She has a few reasons, but that does not mean she should get to take advantage of others because of her title and/or status.
And poor Shade! I think I hate the situation for him the most. He has no idea what’s happening to him. Though his wolf may be the one thing keeping Lera from giving up. It has to be tough for him AND Lera.
Only one other series has had me this intrigued in a while!
Shadeeeeee, my baby. In these episodes he is the healer at the school, which is fitting for the role he carries within the quint. While the man may not understand why Lera is appealing, the wolf knows that's going on. But that adds complications that Lera cannot deal with. At all. Then, we have the mean girl. She annoys me, so I won't be using her name, but I know we need a villain. Even if she's annoying and I want to punch her (ha!). I enjoy the mini episodes because I get to be with my favorite characters again. And, Lidell weaves a really nice story together. Anything to get me more of these characters!
Leralynn still doesn't have her men back but Shade's wolf seems to know who she is and that he must protect her even if the man doesn't. Leralynn Is really having a hard time with all of this. Did her men ever love her was it just the magic? Without them around she is getting into more and more trouble each time getting worse. Love the action in this series, the characters are fantastic. It has great mystery, intrigue, spice, drama and so much more. I couldn't put it down and have to read the next one lol. I am so hooked. Voluntarily reviewed a copy and I loved it.
Ohhhh I just want more.... No I need more.... this is torture. Haha
I am a huge fan of lera and her guys. I have followed her journey from the very start and love the way Alex Lidell has developed these episodes. But my goodness does it leave you wanting more....
I can't wait to unfold more of leras story with episode 4.
We see some more steamy scenes in this book. I'm not going to say who with. But they are hot as hell.
Can't wait to see some big action go down I'm sure it's brewing....
Brilliant 5 star read from me. Bring on the next episode.
I'm so happy we get to revisit with these characters, even as their interactions simultaneously excite me and break my heart. This whole serial of a series has been a trial, ha! Watching Lera struggle through and try to regain that which she lost nearly unbearable. I almost re-cracked a tooth reading this tonight. That ending? Whoa! I love these characters so much and I'm looking forward to them regaining their sense of selves and their unit once more. Looking forward to more!
My anxiety levels are through the roof right now with the need to KNOW. Why don’t the males remember who they are? What happened to the veil to make it so aggressive? When will Lera break through? So many questions and such a great read trying to answer them. I’m loving these episodic releases. I was initially worried that I’d be frustrated with the separated releases, but it just keeps me in constant, delicious anticipation. I can’t wait for the next installment.
I really want to give this book five stars because I love this series, but it is just dragging on too much. I get they are episodes, but I get to the end and I feel like I’m still stuck in the first episode. The story is moving along at a slow pace that I’m starting to think we won’t get a chance at a break in the memory situation for many episodes down the road. I absolutely love this series and can’t put it down. It is worth the read. I would just recommend waiting till all episodes are out before starting.
I'm going to keep this review short and sweet, kind of like the episode. I love reading about Lera and her mates, who still have no clue what's going on and who get tortured as soon as they come across something about their fae heritage the veil cant fabricate around... I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book and while it had some nice twists, it felt (and was) too short. It was over just when it finally got started :(
Once again Lera is made to suffer but comes out fighting. The men still don’t understand how they are so drawn to Lera though Shade’s wolf and Tye’s tiger recognise her despite the veil magic. But things become more dangerous when princess Katita and Lera’s roommate both get involved. Lera again averts disaster.
I love the plot development and the characters and can’t wait to read the next two books.
Things for Lera get more complicated in book 3 of this series. Not only does she still have to try & find a way to get her guys back to how they were but she also has to watch her back with other students. Basically ones who think they are better than her & the rest of the students. Add to the mix sexual tension & sexual scenarios with her men. Which are so flaming good, lol. A great read as always & i love reading them
I do still like the characters but I at times do question some of their choices.
I also feel that when Lera is trying to get out of situations i'm not sure other characters would listen being in her current human form.
I find it hard to believe that no one noticed Shade is the wolf someone must have seen him shift.
I'm also getting tired of Katitas constant playground bully tactics I feel her character really doesn't need to be there it does nothing to enhance the story.
From reading the other reviews, there seems to be a lot of annoyance that the end of this book doesn’t really resolve anything but I didn’t mind it too much as I knew this was the 3rd ‘episode’ out of nine so I went into it knowing there’s a long way to go before all the issues are resolved. I would have loved to have some hope at the end though but it hasn’t put me off, instead it’s just made me want to continue reading!
I'm just so angry at the males for what they are doing to Lera and so proud of how strong she is. She's really a one-woman force, as River said. Truly, I don't know what I'll do in her position... oooh the heartbreak... I cannot wait for the males to regain their memories and realize what they put her through...
Things just got amped up another notch. It’s heart breaking that the Quint is broken but at least Lera hasn’t given up. With a new ally and at least a partial connection to her mates Lera has to survive. I’m glad that in this book we get to see some fire in Lera and a backbone she’s finally not afraid to show. I did get an arc.