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Shifted Mates #1
Wolf's Bane
He stole a kiss and ran off with my heart between his teeth.I should’ve expected as much from a wolf.I’m a fox shifter in a world run by humans. They treat us like we’re beneath them, and shoot us when they have the chance. I’ll do anything to protect my family, so I learned how to shoot back. My aim is true and I’m just waiting for someone to piss off the wrong vixen. Turns out, we have bigger threats than humans. Orion, the smoldering silver wolf, reappears suddenly and my heart can’t handle it. I refuse to let him hurt me again, but he’s here to warn me about a greater evil. The same one that plagued him that night, when I saw him through the crack in the door years ago.All I ever wanted was get over him and settle down with another fox. I just met a cute one named Conan too. But when shifters are being sacrificed for dark magic, a girl’s got to take aim and fire.
220 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 10, 2019
454 people are currently reading
592 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
December 10, 2019
On to the next
Okay, I enjoyed this book and it did keep me interested. But then I checked my progress and seen that the book was almost over and not much had really happened. Idk if this book was just setting up the foundation for the harem and what’s to come in the next books or what, but I felt like the whole book was basically about her wanting to be with Orion, meeting Chase and Conan, Orion’s issue that was resolved by the end, and that’s about it. It wasn’t a bad book, it just kind of fell flat to me but I will keep going because this trilogy has such good reviews and I want to see it through.
I did enjoy the scene of her meeting Conan. It was pure happiness and makes you want to play tag in a meadow and makes you feel like a Disney princess.
Again, it wasn’t a bad book I just don’t personally feel like that much went on in this book.
Okay, I enjoyed this book and it did keep me interested. But then I checked my progress and seen that the book was almost over and not much had really happened. Idk if this book was just setting up the foundation for the harem and what’s to come in the next books or what, but I felt like the whole book was basically about her wanting to be with Orion, meeting Chase and Conan, Orion’s issue that was resolved by the end, and that’s about it. It wasn’t a bad book, it just kind of fell flat to me but I will keep going because this trilogy has such good reviews and I want to see it through.
I did enjoy the scene of her meeting Conan. It was pure happiness and makes you want to play tag in a meadow and makes you feel like a Disney princess.
Again, it wasn’t a bad book I just don’t personally feel like that much went on in this book.
May 26, 2022
4.4 stars.
So. I’m intrigued.
So far I’m really enjoying getting to know these characters.
The relationships are still new and underdeveloped, but I like where they’re leading.
The little bit of sex we got was hot and sensual and full of love, and excitement for finally being able to be together.
This is a sort of ‘collect them all’ kind of RH, which isn’t my favorite, but I am enjoying the attitude that Orion has about it all.
I’m excited to see where this all goes. Hopefully it can hold my attention long enough to get the full story.
So. I’m intrigued.
So far I’m really enjoying getting to know these characters.
The relationships are still new and underdeveloped, but I like where they’re leading.
The little bit of sex we got was hot and sensual and full of love, and excitement for finally being able to be together.
This is a sort of ‘collect them all’ kind of RH, which isn’t my favorite, but I am enjoying the attitude that Orion has about it all.
I’m excited to see where this all goes. Hopefully it can hold my attention long enough to get the full story.
June 29, 2020
I have read several Crystal Ash series now and absolutely loved her worlds. This series starter however, really just wasn't doing much for me. I'm just as surprised as anyone else! I grabbed this off KU in the complete set of 3 books (just knowing I was going to enjoy it) but after book one I decided to call it quits on this. To be honest the story was super rushed even the relationships for the most part seemed just rushed an mashed together. We have the "old friend" guy, the "meet the parents" guy, and the "hottie at the office" guy. To be fair, it's almost more that I have no idea what they see in our FMC to become so entranced by her. I mean she seems cool.. a little on the overly hostile side (almost like she is trying too hard to be cool). I don't get it.. all the relationships, including the guy she has known for the longest, all just seem forced. Since the relationships is all we have really gotten a glimpse of mostly, so far, I just can't really justify rolling forward on this.
I have no idea where this is headed. Shifters vs witches maybe? I'm just not feeling it at this point so I've decided to throw this series on the back burner for now. Might revisit later. Hasn't changed my opinion about the author though.
I have no idea where this is headed. Shifters vs witches maybe? I'm just not feeling it at this point so I've decided to throw this series on the back burner for now. Might revisit later. Hasn't changed my opinion about the author though.
February 24, 2023
50% DNF. I am disappointed since I have enjoyed Crystal Ash in the past but I don’t like the h. She may be a feisty fox but her arguments about humans shooting shifters is a little nonsensical. Humans shoot animals, it’s not great but true. How on earth would they know the difference between a shifted human and an animal while out hunting??
It’s a weird thing to read about. And these guys, Orion, Chase and Conan- I am just not feeling them at all. And unfortunately I don’t care. Moving on.
It’s a weird thing to read about. And these guys, Orion, Chase and Conan- I am just not feeling them at all. And unfortunately I don’t care. Moving on.
April 30, 2019
Another series to love from the talented Crystal Ash
This book is the first in another wonderful RH series from Crystal. If you have read the Unholy Trinity series, you will be familiar with Astrid, a fox shifter, and her three men. The events in this series take place before the Unholy Trinity series but do stand alone. If you are new to Crystal's books, you can start with any series, but I guarantee you that wherever you start, you're going to want to read all of them.
There is a prequel story, Falling For The Wolf, in which Astrid and Orion meet when he starts working for her father, and this story is set five years afterwards.
Crystal always writes about strong women and the men who can't help but love them and this is no exception. Astrid is fearless, brave and will do anything for the people she loves. We've already met Orion in the prequel and this book introduces us to two other men who are captivated by her.
Astrid is working away from home, trying to forget the wolf that broke her heart by kissing her and then disappearing, but he reappears and her life is turned upside down. She also meets Conan, who is sweet and fun and definitely catches her interest, and he's a fox shifter too. But Orion suddenly returning throws the proverbial spanner in the works, and events take a sinister turn as the reason he left so abruptly five years before is revealed. Orion's past catches up with him and he fears the worst but Astrid isn't going to lose him again.
The connection between Astrid and Orion is still as strong as it was, and grows exponentially during this book. Orion is just the epitome of tall, silver and handsome, with a side order of angst. Tortured but passionate, burdened but selfless, fierce but gentle. Call me biased but I do love a wolf shifter with a heart of gold, even if it is hidden beneath a gruff exterior. I know with an RH, you don't have to choose but I can't help it. I always have a favourite, and Orion is it for me this time.
I liked Conan and his meeting with Astrid was a beautifully written scene. I could feel the sunshine and the happiness. Conan seems to be the perfect foil for Orion, the light to his dark, but I'm sure that that is too simplistic a comparison and as the series continues, we will find out there is much more to each of them than meets the eye.
The third man in the story is quiet, reserved, thoughtful, seemingly with a bit of a chip on his shoulder, and I'm looking forward to getting to know him better too.
There is no cliffhanger but the ending does set up the next book and I'm eager to find out where the story will go next.
This book is the first in another wonderful RH series from Crystal. If you have read the Unholy Trinity series, you will be familiar with Astrid, a fox shifter, and her three men. The events in this series take place before the Unholy Trinity series but do stand alone. If you are new to Crystal's books, you can start with any series, but I guarantee you that wherever you start, you're going to want to read all of them.
There is a prequel story, Falling For The Wolf, in which Astrid and Orion meet when he starts working for her father, and this story is set five years afterwards.
Crystal always writes about strong women and the men who can't help but love them and this is no exception. Astrid is fearless, brave and will do anything for the people she loves. We've already met Orion in the prequel and this book introduces us to two other men who are captivated by her.
Astrid is working away from home, trying to forget the wolf that broke her heart by kissing her and then disappearing, but he reappears and her life is turned upside down. She also meets Conan, who is sweet and fun and definitely catches her interest, and he's a fox shifter too. But Orion suddenly returning throws the proverbial spanner in the works, and events take a sinister turn as the reason he left so abruptly five years before is revealed. Orion's past catches up with him and he fears the worst but Astrid isn't going to lose him again.
The connection between Astrid and Orion is still as strong as it was, and grows exponentially during this book. Orion is just the epitome of tall, silver and handsome, with a side order of angst. Tortured but passionate, burdened but selfless, fierce but gentle. Call me biased but I do love a wolf shifter with a heart of gold, even if it is hidden beneath a gruff exterior. I know with an RH, you don't have to choose but I can't help it. I always have a favourite, and Orion is it for me this time.
I liked Conan and his meeting with Astrid was a beautifully written scene. I could feel the sunshine and the happiness. Conan seems to be the perfect foil for Orion, the light to his dark, but I'm sure that that is too simplistic a comparison and as the series continues, we will find out there is much more to each of them than meets the eye.
The third man in the story is quiet, reserved, thoughtful, seemingly with a bit of a chip on his shoulder, and I'm looking forward to getting to know him better too.
There is no cliffhanger but the ending does set up the next book and I'm eager to find out where the story will go next.
May 10, 2019
I loved this story!!! Astrid is a amazing main character. Loved the storyline and the plot. Story leaves you wanting more. I really want next book. I love shifter books and you don't really get to many shifters who are foxes. Really cannot wait to see what happens next.
February 2, 2021
What a story.
This was a good story with the right amount of angst, drama, and villains. The other was good and flowed well. The characters were all amazing and interesting. The chemistry was on point. Can't wait for the next book. Rh. HEA...a must read
This was a good story with the right amount of angst, drama, and villains. The other was good and flowed well. The characters were all amazing and interesting. The chemistry was on point. Can't wait for the next book. Rh. HEA...a must read
January 15, 2020
So good
Not many books have a real deep plot any more. This one does. It might seem confusing in the beginning but it is well worth reading on.
Not many books have a real deep plot any more. This one does. It might seem confusing in the beginning but it is well worth reading on.
June 19, 2019
DNF - quit at 28%
This just didn’t pull me into the story. I was bored with the story & had trouble keeping focused on it. I ended up giving up. There were too many possible RH guys introduced into the story at 28%, to really get a feel for any of them, I wasn’t really learning enough about any of them to form an opinion. It also felt like there were 2 different points of conflict, & I couldn’t decide which was the real threat to the shifters in general. That confusion added to my boredom. Astrid was the only dominant character to the story, & she wasn’t anything special in my mind to pull off being the heroine or the center of a RH.
At my age, life is to short & my time to important to force myself to read a book I'm not enjoying, especially when there are so many other books out there waiting to be read.
This just didn’t pull me into the story. I was bored with the story & had trouble keeping focused on it. I ended up giving up. There were too many possible RH guys introduced into the story at 28%, to really get a feel for any of them, I wasn’t really learning enough about any of them to form an opinion. It also felt like there were 2 different points of conflict, & I couldn’t decide which was the real threat to the shifters in general. That confusion added to my boredom. Astrid was the only dominant character to the story, & she wasn’t anything special in my mind to pull off being the heroine or the center of a RH.
At my age, life is to short & my time to important to force myself to read a book I'm not enjoying, especially when there are so many other books out there waiting to be read.
March 29, 2026
🌟 3.3
Sadly, this feels dated. I really liked Ash’s Steel Demons MC series, so I was hoping this would fill a similar void for me. Unfortunately, it came across as too simplistic. It felt like the writing had been pared down to its most basic elements, and the result was that it just wasn’t enough. This is one of those times where I can really see the difference between current writing styles and older ones. This book was published in 2019, which is seven years ago now, and it shows.
Regarding the main characters, our female main character, Astrid, is a fox shifter, which basically means she’s been given every stereotypical fox trait. She’s supposed to be sly, quick, and cunning. She has red hair because she’s a red fox, and of course, because she has red hair, she also has a temper. I didn’t dislike her exactly, but there were several moments where I expected cunning and instead got something very basic. Then the author would expect me to accept that her actions were clever simply because one of the male main characters said she was cunning. That’s not really going to cut it for me. If a character is supposed to be cunning, then show me. Nothing Astrid did felt particularly clever or strategic.
Moving on to the three main men — because yes, there are three. Orion is the first. He’s the typical alpha male: a wolf, older, powerful, respected. But so far, all I’ve really seen him do is sit around recovering and not much else. Then there’s Chase, an eagle shifter. He was interesting, and I liked that he could stand up for himself, but his story hasn’t really unfolded yet, so most of what I’ve seen is him acting more like a supporting character than a main one. Finally, there’s Conan. Conan honestly sounds adorable and is hands down my favourite so far. When he approached her, he was in his fox form, they played together in this gorgeous meadow, and they had playful, meaningful moments and a genuine connection. He has actually done nothing wrong. If anything, she’s the one who’s been yanking him around unfairly. She shut him down about any future interest, then a couple of hours later used him for his protection because she needed to meet someone in order to save the man she loved. From Conan’s point of view, that’s pretty awful — being used like that, being told she might be interested, then being told she’s not, all the hot and cold back and forth. She really treated him badly.
The book itself is quite short. I timed it — it took me about 30 minutes to read the last 15%, so it’s definitely not a long book. But it was missing something — that panache, that spark that makes something stand out. I wasn’t sucked in. I didn’t feel connected beyond a surface level to Orion, not even surface level to Chase, and only slightly more than surface level to Astrid.
As for the romantic tension, it was barely there. There was a tiny bit with Orion, I’ll admit. With Chase, almost none. With Conan, though — that was adorable, and I did like it. But because the book is so short, there just isn’t enough page time to really care as much as I wanted to. Minimal page time makes it hard to become invested in the characters.
The sex scenes? Skippable. Were they good? Yes. Were they basically the same as in 80 other books I’ve read this year or in the last year? Also yes.
I’m not looking for miracles, but I am looking for quality. Regardless of a book’s length or how many main characters there are, I want to be drawn into the world to the point where I feel like I can’t put the book down because I’m fully immersed in what’s happening. The writing style here led to a shallow kind of feel — there was no real build-up, very little angst, and overall I just didn’t feel much.
So, is this book bad? No. A bad book would be less than three stars. But for me, this one was ultimately skippable, unfortunately.
Sadly, this feels dated. I really liked Ash’s Steel Demons MC series, so I was hoping this would fill a similar void for me. Unfortunately, it came across as too simplistic. It felt like the writing had been pared down to its most basic elements, and the result was that it just wasn’t enough. This is one of those times where I can really see the difference between current writing styles and older ones. This book was published in 2019, which is seven years ago now, and it shows.
Regarding the main characters, our female main character, Astrid, is a fox shifter, which basically means she’s been given every stereotypical fox trait. She’s supposed to be sly, quick, and cunning. She has red hair because she’s a red fox, and of course, because she has red hair, she also has a temper. I didn’t dislike her exactly, but there were several moments where I expected cunning and instead got something very basic. Then the author would expect me to accept that her actions were clever simply because one of the male main characters said she was cunning. That’s not really going to cut it for me. If a character is supposed to be cunning, then show me. Nothing Astrid did felt particularly clever or strategic.
Moving on to the three main men — because yes, there are three. Orion is the first. He’s the typical alpha male: a wolf, older, powerful, respected. But so far, all I’ve really seen him do is sit around recovering and not much else. Then there’s Chase, an eagle shifter. He was interesting, and I liked that he could stand up for himself, but his story hasn’t really unfolded yet, so most of what I’ve seen is him acting more like a supporting character than a main one. Finally, there’s Conan. Conan honestly sounds adorable and is hands down my favourite so far. When he approached her, he was in his fox form, they played together in this gorgeous meadow, and they had playful, meaningful moments and a genuine connection. He has actually done nothing wrong. If anything, she’s the one who’s been yanking him around unfairly. She shut him down about any future interest, then a couple of hours later used him for his protection because she needed to meet someone in order to save the man she loved. From Conan’s point of view, that’s pretty awful — being used like that, being told she might be interested, then being told she’s not, all the hot and cold back and forth. She really treated him badly.
The book itself is quite short. I timed it — it took me about 30 minutes to read the last 15%, so it’s definitely not a long book. But it was missing something — that panache, that spark that makes something stand out. I wasn’t sucked in. I didn’t feel connected beyond a surface level to Orion, not even surface level to Chase, and only slightly more than surface level to Astrid.
As for the romantic tension, it was barely there. There was a tiny bit with Orion, I’ll admit. With Chase, almost none. With Conan, though — that was adorable, and I did like it. But because the book is so short, there just isn’t enough page time to really care as much as I wanted to. Minimal page time makes it hard to become invested in the characters.
The sex scenes? Skippable. Were they good? Yes. Were they basically the same as in 80 other books I’ve read this year or in the last year? Also yes.
I’m not looking for miracles, but I am looking for quality. Regardless of a book’s length or how many main characters there are, I want to be drawn into the world to the point where I feel like I can’t put the book down because I’m fully immersed in what’s happening. The writing style here led to a shallow kind of feel — there was no real build-up, very little angst, and overall I just didn’t feel much.
So, is this book bad? No. A bad book would be less than three stars. But for me, this one was ultimately skippable, unfortunately.
September 17, 2021
This story continues from the prequel story line of Falling for a Wolf. Only now, it's fast forward about 5 years later and we don't know that right away. (I was not expecting that; it definitely caught me off-guard.)
Orion left right after that life-altering kiss. Astrid moved on with her life and now spends her days sitting at a desk job, day dreaming about being in the woods.
Now, 5-years later and on a weekend visit to her parents house, Orion shows up out of no where only causing more pain and confusion for Astrid. At the same time, she's crushing on colleague IT guy, Chase (Eagle shifter) and then meets new parents neighbor, Conan (fox shifter) and wants to get to know him better too. Orion couldn't have come back in her life at a worst time.
When Orion comes back with another, electrified kiss that runs through Astrid's entire body - he tells her his final goodbye and to never forget him.
Astrid, being Astrid is NOT ok with this and determined to find out WTH this guy is up to. She follows his scent and finally gets answers to all of her questions. But now, her heart doesn't just see Orion, and life is so messed up. Can she save him from his demons? Can she finally move on and continue this new feeling she feels for Conan?
***
Hoping to find out more in the next book. So far I am enjoying this storyline. It much slower than I would life, and am hoping for some more action all around in the next book. I feel like it's a bit toned compared to what I'm used to with Crystal Ash. I need more sexiness and more beat downs...lol, more something. But the fox and the wolf are so far doing it for me. I hope little bada** Astrid can tame Orion's demons and find her way with Chase and Conan.
*Overall 4/5
*Heat? 2/5
*Slow Burn
*Multiple first person POV
*Quick read
*HEA? No.
Orion left right after that life-altering kiss. Astrid moved on with her life and now spends her days sitting at a desk job, day dreaming about being in the woods.
Now, 5-years later and on a weekend visit to her parents house, Orion shows up out of no where only causing more pain and confusion for Astrid. At the same time, she's crushing on colleague IT guy, Chase (Eagle shifter) and then meets new parents neighbor, Conan (fox shifter) and wants to get to know him better too. Orion couldn't have come back in her life at a worst time.
When Orion comes back with another, electrified kiss that runs through Astrid's entire body - he tells her his final goodbye and to never forget him.
Astrid, being Astrid is NOT ok with this and determined to find out WTH this guy is up to. She follows his scent and finally gets answers to all of her questions. But now, her heart doesn't just see Orion, and life is so messed up. Can she save him from his demons? Can she finally move on and continue this new feeling she feels for Conan?
***
Hoping to find out more in the next book. So far I am enjoying this storyline. It much slower than I would life, and am hoping for some more action all around in the next book. I feel like it's a bit toned compared to what I'm used to with Crystal Ash. I need more sexiness and more beat downs...lol, more something. But the fox and the wolf are so far doing it for me. I hope little bada** Astrid can tame Orion's demons and find her way with Chase and Conan.
*Overall 4/5
*Heat? 2/5
*Slow Burn
*Multiple first person POV
*Quick read
*HEA? No.
April 1, 2020
It was the weirdest reverse harem book I have read so far.
First of I hate guns, so the thought that the FML is a badass because she loves them and knows how to handle them didn't really sit with me well. But it is definitely based on my personal views and tastes!
The whole world built with the shifters is so different that what I had been used to, like for example that the humans know they're out there or that they're not powerful, they can just shift and that's about it. No mates no nothing..
So that brings us to the romance part....Orion..39??? Personally I'm not into older guys so I kinda cringed when that was revealed. I still don't know how I feel about it. 13 years difference is a BIG age gap imo.
Also the way it introduces us to the RH prospect is unexpected the least!! That's because so far all rh books I have read are also fantasy/paranormal, so it's smoother to the transition when they present the mate aspect or some other bond with many males. But here, despite the paranormal genre, it goes about it with more than a pinch of reality!
SO I still don't know if I liked it or not in general!! The "evil witches gangs up with feds" plot didn't leave me begging to unravel it, but I'll go to the second book, because I want to know more about Chase (I've never read about a bird shifter before!!) and Conan and I'm kinda curious as to how the author will push them all together.
I really hope it becomes more natural and not so forced as it was in this..
First of I hate guns, so the thought that the FML is a badass because she loves them and knows how to handle them didn't really sit with me well. But it is definitely based on my personal views and tastes!
The whole world built with the shifters is so different that what I had been used to, like for example that the humans know they're out there or that they're not powerful, they can just shift and that's about it. No mates no nothing..
So that brings us to the romance part....Orion..39??? Personally I'm not into older guys so I kinda cringed when that was revealed. I still don't know how I feel about it. 13 years difference is a BIG age gap imo.
Also the way it introduces us to the RH prospect is unexpected the least!! That's because so far all rh books I have read are also fantasy/paranormal, so it's smoother to the transition when they present the mate aspect or some other bond with many males. But here, despite the paranormal genre, it goes about it with more than a pinch of reality!
SO I still don't know if I liked it or not in general!! The "evil witches gangs up with feds" plot didn't leave me begging to unravel it, but I'll go to the second book, because I want to know more about Chase (I've never read about a bird shifter before!!) and Conan and I'm kinda curious as to how the author will push them all together.
I really hope it becomes more natural and not so forced as it was in this..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2021
DNF at 85%
Mainly because of 2 reasons. First-it was extremely boring. I was at 85% , book nearly done and nothing really had happened. There is very vague world building, very shallow introduction of characters and barely there plot.
Second reason is the way author set up premise for relationships. I understand this is supposed to be reverse harem. These type of books need a setup of premise that allows for all participants not only coexist in polyamorous relationship, but each bring something unique to it while maintaining a dynamic atmosphere. Here author introduces three men in separate situations, who have nothing in common and who each aims for polygamous relationship. I have no doubt that somewhere along the way there is a plan on making them all OK with sharing, but the way the beginning of each relationship is set up just don't resonate with me. I felt no sparks and any interest heroine experienced, felt shallow and forgettable. Except for Orion literally everyone else could be replaced by anybody else. There are no personalities to them. Nothing to set them apart or endear to reader.
And as I mentioned it was boring. Book is supposed to grab and hold my attention, not want to do anything else that could be even a little bit more interesting.
To be fair, as far as I got, there was no lines crossed on themes I feel strongly about. All was plain and safe topics.
Do not recommend it, but mostly because there are better written books out there.
Mainly because of 2 reasons. First-it was extremely boring. I was at 85% , book nearly done and nothing really had happened. There is very vague world building, very shallow introduction of characters and barely there plot.
Second reason is the way author set up premise for relationships. I understand this is supposed to be reverse harem. These type of books need a setup of premise that allows for all participants not only coexist in polyamorous relationship, but each bring something unique to it while maintaining a dynamic atmosphere. Here author introduces three men in separate situations, who have nothing in common and who each aims for polygamous relationship. I have no doubt that somewhere along the way there is a plan on making them all OK with sharing, but the way the beginning of each relationship is set up just don't resonate with me. I felt no sparks and any interest heroine experienced, felt shallow and forgettable. Except for Orion literally everyone else could be replaced by anybody else. There are no personalities to them. Nothing to set them apart or endear to reader.
And as I mentioned it was boring. Book is supposed to grab and hold my attention, not want to do anything else that could be even a little bit more interesting.
To be fair, as far as I got, there was no lines crossed on themes I feel strongly about. All was plain and safe topics.
Do not recommend it, but mostly because there are better written books out there.
May 11, 2019
MIND BLOWING!!!
My buzzing blunder! Wow! Talk about one mind blowing, jaw dropping thrill. A wild rollercoaster ride of unpredictable activities and surprising events that have all of your swirling emotions bursting to life boldly. This bad boy will keep you in a tail spin, tighting that vortex until you pull that trigger. We have foes to fight, enemies to conquer and people to save. Just another day in paradise. You have all the drama, suspense and danger that keeps nipping at your heels undaunted. The scenes are so detailed and descriptive as it hustles and bustled and sponsored, jetting this bad boy together smoothly. Crystal pulls us into her imagination weaving a world around us until everything else ceases to exist. I can't wait for the next installment. Struggling through all the trials and tribulations along with so many twists and turns really thrusts this bad boy together wonderfully. Toss in all the drama, uncertainty and suspense you have the making for one intense experience. The characters are authentic, approachable and realistic with individual traits and qualities that balance and blend, playing off one another. The scenes are written with such realism theres no trouble interpreting each scenario as they flow smoothly along withput a glitch. Remarkable job Crystal, I can't wait for the next installment.
My buzzing blunder! Wow! Talk about one mind blowing, jaw dropping thrill. A wild rollercoaster ride of unpredictable activities and surprising events that have all of your swirling emotions bursting to life boldly. This bad boy will keep you in a tail spin, tighting that vortex until you pull that trigger. We have foes to fight, enemies to conquer and people to save. Just another day in paradise. You have all the drama, suspense and danger that keeps nipping at your heels undaunted. The scenes are so detailed and descriptive as it hustles and bustled and sponsored, jetting this bad boy together smoothly. Crystal pulls us into her imagination weaving a world around us until everything else ceases to exist. I can't wait for the next installment. Struggling through all the trials and tribulations along with so many twists and turns really thrusts this bad boy together wonderfully. Toss in all the drama, uncertainty and suspense you have the making for one intense experience. The characters are authentic, approachable and realistic with individual traits and qualities that balance and blend, playing off one another. The scenes are written with such realism theres no trouble interpreting each scenario as they flow smoothly along withput a glitch. Remarkable job Crystal, I can't wait for the next installment.
May 16, 2019
Wolf's Bane is an amazing first book of the Shifted Mates Trilogy.
Astrid is a sassy, beautiful and sexy fox shifter. She lives in a world where the humans look down upon all shifters and currently works in the city hiding among the humans to help her family. She's protective of her family and would do anything to protect her family.
Along came a sexy silver wolf shifter a blast from her past. Orion is sexy, hotter then h*ll with a golden eagle shifter sidekick. He's hiding something, something dangerous and he warns her of this evil. An evil that has been chasing and haunting him for years. The bad thing is, this Evil wields black magic, who wants more shifters, their blood and bones fuel and spread the magic.
Then there's Conan a hot and sexy charming fox who just moved in the area. What can Astrid do? The attraction between them is hot! And she can't help but be charmed. Three male shifters, all hot and sexy... This book is absolutely amazing. The storyline is fantastic! I was lured in from the get go and didn't put it down until I finished! You'll get plenty of action, drama, and sexy scenes! This book is a definite must read and you won't regret it! You're aiming for a fantastic roller coaster of a ride! I can't wait to read the 2nd book!
Astrid is a sassy, beautiful and sexy fox shifter. She lives in a world where the humans look down upon all shifters and currently works in the city hiding among the humans to help her family. She's protective of her family and would do anything to protect her family.
Along came a sexy silver wolf shifter a blast from her past. Orion is sexy, hotter then h*ll with a golden eagle shifter sidekick. He's hiding something, something dangerous and he warns her of this evil. An evil that has been chasing and haunting him for years. The bad thing is, this Evil wields black magic, who wants more shifters, their blood and bones fuel and spread the magic.
Then there's Conan a hot and sexy charming fox who just moved in the area. What can Astrid do? The attraction between them is hot! And she can't help but be charmed. Three male shifters, all hot and sexy... This book is absolutely amazing. The storyline is fantastic! I was lured in from the get go and didn't put it down until I finished! You'll get plenty of action, drama, and sexy scenes! This book is a definite must read and you won't regret it! You're aiming for a fantastic roller coaster of a ride! I can't wait to read the 2nd book!
February 19, 2022
Not my cup of tea
I struggled with this first book. I didn't connect well with the FMC. I really didn't like how she treated the fox shifter love interest and I didn't feel much of a connection between her and Chase, the eagle shifter. If it didn't say RH on the description, I would have assumed it wasn't an RH. She is just so laser focused on wolf shifter dude. Even if it's a slow burn, usually there is still some sort of spark in the first book with the other guys who end up in the harem.
Similarly, the plot seemed to just plow forward at light speed which in turn made the relationships go from zero to sixty in a blink. It seemed way too soon for the FMC to be in love after not seeing a guy for several years. It felt way too shallow (mostly physical) for that. She just came off as fickle and immature when she said the L word. I won't continue the series and I gave it 2 stars because it was average but forgettable. I will pick up her other MC series at some point because I think the author still has lots of potential.
Side note: I have nothing against "doll" as an endearment but "my doll" just made me think of a certain period cramp medication. I couldn't stop laughing. 😬
I struggled with this first book. I didn't connect well with the FMC. I really didn't like how she treated the fox shifter love interest and I didn't feel much of a connection between her and Chase, the eagle shifter. If it didn't say RH on the description, I would have assumed it wasn't an RH. She is just so laser focused on wolf shifter dude. Even if it's a slow burn, usually there is still some sort of spark in the first book with the other guys who end up in the harem.
Similarly, the plot seemed to just plow forward at light speed which in turn made the relationships go from zero to sixty in a blink. It seemed way too soon for the FMC to be in love after not seeing a guy for several years. It felt way too shallow (mostly physical) for that. She just came off as fickle and immature when she said the L word. I won't continue the series and I gave it 2 stars because it was average but forgettable. I will pick up her other MC series at some point because I think the author still has lots of potential.
Side note: I have nothing against "doll" as an endearment but "my doll" just made me think of a certain period cramp medication. I couldn't stop laughing. 😬
March 6, 2022
So, first, I give it 3.5 - 4 stars. I liked reading it. Though, it wasn't unique. But the premises of the plot caught my attention and stuck to it, during reading.
Astrid is a strong FMC. She is the kind of character I do like and don't like at the same time. I like her, cause she has her own mind and I get her thinking in some ways. She does think of her actions, but sometimes she doesn't. The doesn't part I don't like. For example, as she visited Hodge. That was kind of dumb. She had a feeling something wasn't right. Still, she gets in there. That isn't smart. But overall, she is a good character.
The males characters are the usual, I would say. I like them. They had their reasons, but I don't get their feelings fully. There is no real explanation or deeper insight. The most we get is about Orion, and his situation. Chase is a different case. And Conan wasn't much involved here. Only in the end.
The story itself was mostly rushed and everything fell into place. I could predict the course, and I was mainly right.
It's an easy read. I enjoyed the journey and will read the next book. Just to see the problems solved and how the RH will go.
Astrid is a strong FMC. She is the kind of character I do like and don't like at the same time. I like her, cause she has her own mind and I get her thinking in some ways. She does think of her actions, but sometimes she doesn't. The doesn't part I don't like. For example, as she visited Hodge. That was kind of dumb. She had a feeling something wasn't right. Still, she gets in there. That isn't smart. But overall, she is a good character.
The males characters are the usual, I would say. I like them. They had their reasons, but I don't get their feelings fully. There is no real explanation or deeper insight. The most we get is about Orion, and his situation. Chase is a different case. And Conan wasn't much involved here. Only in the end.
The story itself was mostly rushed and everything fell into place. I could predict the course, and I was mainly right.
It's an easy read. I enjoyed the journey and will read the next book. Just to see the problems solved and how the RH will go.
June 28, 2020
Loved this first book!
I have issues with stories where the main characters have prior history. In this case, the author handled it really well and am 100% on board. She also toed a line I have another issue with: a decently older guy. If she knew him at any point when she was underage with that age difference, it would have been an immediate no go for me. But, she was of age from their whole history of knowing each other so the age difference was acceptable. Then I was wondering how the heck she was going to make the RH and I feel pretty satisfied with that too. So with all that said I absolutely loved the start to this trilogy and can't wait to read the next one! I've got high hopes, that's for sure!
I have issues with stories where the main characters have prior history. In this case, the author handled it really well and am 100% on board. She also toed a line I have another issue with: a decently older guy. If she knew him at any point when she was underage with that age difference, it would have been an immediate no go for me. But, she was of age from their whole history of knowing each other so the age difference was acceptable. Then I was wondering how the heck she was going to make the RH and I feel pretty satisfied with that too. So with all that said I absolutely loved the start to this trilogy and can't wait to read the next one! I've got high hopes, that's for sure!
May 30, 2019
This was a shorter book, but still good. I enjoyed the story, and I look forward to how the characters and relationships develop from here.
I like this take on shifters. It's a bit different. The idea that shifters look more or less highly on other shifters dependent on type of animal. And the fact that interspecies is taboo. Should make for a fun story.
The main "bad guy" in this book could have been a little more "bad" so to speak. I didn't really feel like there was reason to be afraid nor that the main conflict was all that big. It does seem like the bigger bads to come will be the real deal though.
I like this take on shifters. It's a bit different. The idea that shifters look more or less highly on other shifters dependent on type of animal. And the fact that interspecies is taboo. Should make for a fun story.
The main "bad guy" in this book could have been a little more "bad" so to speak. I didn't really feel like there was reason to be afraid nor that the main conflict was all that big. It does seem like the bigger bads to come will be the real deal though.
June 10, 2019
No spoilers of any kind included.
So all I’m going to say about Wolf’s Bane is that I thought it was fantastic and I’m going to leave it at that.
Crystal Ash is a awesome story weaver, I love the way she’s able to transport her readers to another reality.
Because every single book that I’ve read of hers it’s like I’m actually experiencing it all right along with the characters and by the time I get to the ending I don’t want to leave the world that I am in.
So if you are wanting my advice, well my advice would be get this book because I can honestly guarantee you won’t be disappointed in doing it!
September 22, 2019
Fun
I liked this take on the shifter mythos, it takes what we generally accept and tweaks the rules just enough to make it stand in a separate universe - while still presenting the “accepted” characteristics of the paranormal. Mainly, who knows about shifters? Seems that everyone does, but that it is also a deeply shadowed knowledge - the edge of what humans are privy to. It’s interesting.
Pros:
- Good use of multiple POV.
- Love a fox shifter!
- RH is NOT just accepted as the norm here.... there are some obvious questions.
Cons:
- Orion... I really don’t know if I like this wolf or not. Per nature, he’s overbearing, but.... eh?
I liked this take on the shifter mythos, it takes what we generally accept and tweaks the rules just enough to make it stand in a separate universe - while still presenting the “accepted” characteristics of the paranormal. Mainly, who knows about shifters? Seems that everyone does, but that it is also a deeply shadowed knowledge - the edge of what humans are privy to. It’s interesting.
Pros:
- Good use of multiple POV.
- Love a fox shifter!
- RH is NOT just accepted as the norm here.... there are some obvious questions.
Cons:
- Orion... I really don’t know if I like this wolf or not. Per nature, he’s overbearing, but.... eh?
December 28, 2019
1 star... This book was bad, so bad I may have given up and skipped to the end. I will avoid this author like the plague in the future.
2 stars... This book was not very good, and I won't be reading any more from the author.
3 stars... This book was ok, but I won't go out of my way to read more, But if I find another book by the author for under a dollar I'd pick it up.
4 stars... I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be on the look out to pick up more from the series/author.
5 stars... I loved this book! It has earned a permanent home in my collection and I'll be picking up the rest of the series and other books from the author ASAP.
April 2, 2021
Not as good as her SDMC
This felt rushed and the characters had less personality than in Crystal Ash's Steel Demons Motorcycle Club book. The world building was a tad lacking. There were a couple different moments that didn't quite add up in reference to the world building. Like, the other supernaturals that the FMC is told about. It went from one sentence to the next knowing next to nil, and then knowing something of truth about the others which she had no clue about two sentences back. The interlocking subplots seem forced as well. Overall, there just seemed to be a disconnect.
This felt rushed and the characters had less personality than in Crystal Ash's Steel Demons Motorcycle Club book. The world building was a tad lacking. There were a couple different moments that didn't quite add up in reference to the world building. Like, the other supernaturals that the FMC is told about. It went from one sentence to the next knowing next to nil, and then knowing something of truth about the others which she had no clue about two sentences back. The interlocking subplots seem forced as well. Overall, there just seemed to be a disconnect.
May 12, 2019
Fantastic
As a huge Ash fan I had to read this new series and I was not disappointed! We get a Fox shifter that lives in the city. She goes to visit her parents where she runs into a wolf shifter from her past. The next thing she knows she is caught up in all kinds of things with danger at every turn. There are twists that were new to me which is fantastic and the story really just sucks you in as it evolves. A must read for fans of paranormal RH books. I totally loved it so I give it 5/5 stars.
As a huge Ash fan I had to read this new series and I was not disappointed! We get a Fox shifter that lives in the city. She goes to visit her parents where she runs into a wolf shifter from her past. The next thing she knows she is caught up in all kinds of things with danger at every turn. There are twists that were new to me which is fantastic and the story really just sucks you in as it evolves. A must read for fans of paranormal RH books. I totally loved it so I give it 5/5 stars.
May 12, 2019
Wolf's Bane: A Reverse Harem Shifter Romance (Shifted Mates Trilogy Book 1) by Crystal Ash is an amazing story that I have read and loved very much. This is book number one in this amazing new start to a brand new series to read. I loved reading this story from the very begining and I can not wait to read the next book in this amazing series. I highly recommend this story to everyone who loves reading about shifters.
May 15, 2019
Wow, this toke a turn I was not expecting. Astrid is a sassy fox. Orion is an Older Alpha Wolf. They meet again after 5 years. Chase is a Golden Eagle that is working with Astrid. Conan is a fox that Astrid meets in the field. Orion left me once will he leave me again? Can I trust him? What are these feelings I'm having for others? Where is this black magic coming from? Can I help? I received a free copy for my honest review.
June 26, 2019
Astrid is everything a shifter should aspire to be. She’s strong, confident and as in tune with her animal side as she is with her human side. I’m glad she has a good relationship with her family and that they aren’t forgotten throughout the book. Orion is a great alpha and I’m happy with how accepting he is throughout the book. Chase is interesting and exactly what I’d expect from his kind of shifter. Conan I’ve yet to make a decision on but hopefully he’s a good guy.
October 15, 2019
Reverse Paranormal Romance
Astrid is a fox shifter ,working in the human world. She goes home on weekends to make sure her family is ok.She is a badass gun toting mc. A married cursed wolf shifter, a bird shifter that won't accept that hes on the bottom of the food chain and a sexy ,rich fox want to be her mates. Add black magic and you have what Astrid is dealing with. Cliffhanger alert.
Astrid is a fox shifter ,working in the human world. She goes home on weekends to make sure her family is ok.She is a badass gun toting mc. A married cursed wolf shifter, a bird shifter that won't accept that hes on the bottom of the food chain and a sexy ,rich fox want to be her mates. Add black magic and you have what Astrid is dealing with. Cliffhanger alert.
November 11, 2019
Wolf's Bane
I started reading this book and couldn't put it down until I read all of it. I was totally hooked. Astrid had a rough life growing up because her father's boss knew they were shifters and treated them horribly. She went to college to become a forest ranger out in the field and ended up in an office instead. They had a helper at one time named Orion that left without telling anyone why. Five years later, he comes back in Astrid's life and she finds out why he left.
I started reading this book and couldn't put it down until I read all of it. I was totally hooked. Astrid had a rough life growing up because her father's boss knew they were shifters and treated them horribly. She went to college to become a forest ranger out in the field and ended up in an office instead. They had a helper at one time named Orion that left without telling anyone why. Five years later, he comes back in Astrid's life and she finds out why he left.
February 22, 2020
The whole thing felt forced, I mean the relationship between Astrid and Orion and Conan, like give it a rest. You want this to be an RH but it kind of can't. For some reason, her wolf boyfriend is totally ok for her to have another guy on the side as long as she tells him everything? And same in reverse?
Yeah, maybe not. Everything else plotwise filet fake, her job, parents, thoughts.
Yeah, you can guess I didn't like the book. I even started the second one but I will not bother anymore.
Yeah, maybe not. Everything else plotwise filet fake, her job, parents, thoughts.
Yeah, you can guess I didn't like the book. I even started the second one but I will not bother anymore.
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