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Coyote Blues
Riley Dawson is a psychotherapist with a lycanthropic affliction. She’s a werecoyote, to be precise.
A foundling adopted by wealthy parents, Riley led a privileged life until she fell in love with Fiona Bell, an evangelical preacher’s daughter. Raging hormones, the full moon, and the pull of Fiona Bell on her teenage heartstrings triggered her first transformation. Unfortunately, her parents witnessed the change and sent her off to college with a trust fund and an agreement never to return home.
Twenty years later, Riley shares a lucrative therapy practice with Dr. Margaret Spencer. Margaret, her wife, and her gay brother-in-law are the only ones who know Riley’s secret. Afraid of risking exposure, Riley restricts her love life to online hookups. But when a family is referred for treatment and Fiona Bell comes back into her life, all the rules of the client-therapist relationship are tested and Riley’s world is turned upside down.
Cover Artist: Tammy Seidick
Genres: Paranormal & Urban Fantasy / Romance
Tags: Financial gap/Class disparity, Marriage of Convenience/Fake Relationship, New York City, Psychological Thriller, Second Chance at Love, Shifters, Children / Families, Virgins/First Love, Small Town Romances, Animals
Words: 65,000
A foundling adopted by wealthy parents, Riley led a privileged life until she fell in love with Fiona Bell, an evangelical preacher’s daughter. Raging hormones, the full moon, and the pull of Fiona Bell on her teenage heartstrings triggered her first transformation. Unfortunately, her parents witnessed the change and sent her off to college with a trust fund and an agreement never to return home.
Twenty years later, Riley shares a lucrative therapy practice with Dr. Margaret Spencer. Margaret, her wife, and her gay brother-in-law are the only ones who know Riley’s secret. Afraid of risking exposure, Riley restricts her love life to online hookups. But when a family is referred for treatment and Fiona Bell comes back into her life, all the rules of the client-therapist relationship are tested and Riley’s world is turned upside down.
Cover Artist: Tammy Seidick
Genres: Paranormal & Urban Fantasy / Romance
Tags: Financial gap/Class disparity, Marriage of Convenience/Fake Relationship, New York City, Psychological Thriller, Second Chance at Love, Shifters, Children / Families, Virgins/First Love, Small Town Romances, Animals
Words: 65,000
304 pages, Paperback
First published June 16, 2020
37 people are currently reading
390 people want to read
About the author
Karen F. Williams
7 books58 followersKaren F. Williams holds degrees in media studies, philosophy, and clinical social work, and is a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. In 2017, her novella Meeting Ms. Roman was a finalist for a Golden Crown Literary Society award. In addition to writing fiction, she has published numerous articles on nature, dogs, and the human animal bond, and was awarded the Maxwell Medallion from the Dog Writers Association of America. She divides her time between New York City and the Berkshires of Massachusetts where she can usually be found gardening, kayaking, or hiking with a pack of canines.
a.k.a Karen Williams
Librarian note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
a.k.a Karen Williams
Librarian note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
May 24, 2020
4.25 Stars. I really enjoyed this one. Williams has me hooked. She is an excellent writer that always manages to impress me every time I pick up one of her stories. And every time I read one them, it just makes me want to read more. I’ve been slowly collecting Williams back library for a while now. I think I have all her stories so you will be seeing more reviews of Williams book's in the future. Her writing style really works for me and I can’t wait to read more by her.
As a huge paranormal fan, I love that this is Williams’ main subject to write in. What I have noticed, in her last few books, is she doesn’t just write paranormal, she writes paranormal books as if they could be true. As the Crow Flies and now Coyote Blues, both of these books are not so far out there. I know that sounds odd to say when I am talking about a werewolf book, but if werewolves and werecoyotes truly existed, I think they would be like in this book. While I love to be taken to different worlds and on grand adventures, it is very appealing that Williams brings a little bit of paranormal magic to the real world. And because some of her books feel realistic for a paranormal story, I believe this book (and As the Crow Flies) would appeal to people who are not giant paranormal fans. This is a second chance romance, mixed with some family drama, that just happens to have a werecoyote as a main character.
If you have read Williams before, you will know she is very intelligent. I have seen her speak on a webinar and you can tell she is a smarty-pants. There are certain subjects she is very learned in and she tends to put them in her books. So while this is a werewolf book, it is also cerebral at times. One of the mains is a professor of social work so there are some very interesting scenes that take place in the class room. I studied sociology in college so I knew some of what Williams was explaining, but some either I forgot over the years or was just new to me and so I enjoyed hearing about it. I love learning something while reading especially when it’s in an entertaining fiction book. Plus Williams always explains herself well and never talks down to us as readers which makes the little learning experience all the more enjoyable.
As I mentioned before, this is a second chance romance. That is what the heart of the book is about and finding family in the people you love. I liked the two mains as a possible couple. Both have been through it all and you had to wonder was there ever really a chance of them getting back together? Williams left me hanging for a while and I was quite pleased with the climax of the book. It was a little messy but I liked it that way. The story choices that Williams made all worked for me which makes me happy.
This was a really good book. It was sweet and cute at times but also harsh and a bit dark at times. It was a well-rounded, almost realistic paranormal book. Heck even the few flashbacks worked really well. I’m the kind of person who hates flashbacks but this is an example of how to do them right. I absolutely recommend this book to paranormal fans but also second chance romance fans too. Williams is a talented author and I can’t wait to read more by her.
An ARC was given to me for a honest review.
As a huge paranormal fan, I love that this is Williams’ main subject to write in. What I have noticed, in her last few books, is she doesn’t just write paranormal, she writes paranormal books as if they could be true. As the Crow Flies and now Coyote Blues, both of these books are not so far out there. I know that sounds odd to say when I am talking about a werewolf book, but if werewolves and werecoyotes truly existed, I think they would be like in this book. While I love to be taken to different worlds and on grand adventures, it is very appealing that Williams brings a little bit of paranormal magic to the real world. And because some of her books feel realistic for a paranormal story, I believe this book (and As the Crow Flies) would appeal to people who are not giant paranormal fans. This is a second chance romance, mixed with some family drama, that just happens to have a werecoyote as a main character.
If you have read Williams before, you will know she is very intelligent. I have seen her speak on a webinar and you can tell she is a smarty-pants. There are certain subjects she is very learned in and she tends to put them in her books. So while this is a werewolf book, it is also cerebral at times. One of the mains is a professor of social work so there are some very interesting scenes that take place in the class room. I studied sociology in college so I knew some of what Williams was explaining, but some either I forgot over the years or was just new to me and so I enjoyed hearing about it. I love learning something while reading especially when it’s in an entertaining fiction book. Plus Williams always explains herself well and never talks down to us as readers which makes the little learning experience all the more enjoyable.
As I mentioned before, this is a second chance romance. That is what the heart of the book is about and finding family in the people you love. I liked the two mains as a possible couple. Both have been through it all and you had to wonder was there ever really a chance of them getting back together? Williams left me hanging for a while and I was quite pleased with the climax of the book. It was a little messy but I liked it that way. The story choices that Williams made all worked for me which makes me happy.
This was a really good book. It was sweet and cute at times but also harsh and a bit dark at times. It was a well-rounded, almost realistic paranormal book. Heck even the few flashbacks worked really well. I’m the kind of person who hates flashbacks but this is an example of how to do them right. I absolutely recommend this book to paranormal fans but also second chance romance fans too. Williams is a talented author and I can’t wait to read more by her.
An ARC was given to me for a honest review.
July 19, 2020
Coyote Blues by Karen F. Williams
This is my second novel by Williams and I loved it nearly as much as the first (As the Crow Flies). Riley Dawson is a foundling adopted by wealthy parents. At their summer house she meets Fiona Bell who is the epitome of curiosity, joy and life in spite of her rigid, evangelical parents. Even though they only see each other once a year young love blossoms. Riley’s first transformation to werecoyote coincides with the day they first make love. Unfortunately her parents witness the transformation and everything in her life changes. The story picks up 20 years later where Riley has a thriving therapy practice and a lecturing job at the college.
The thing I’ve loved about both of Williams’ books is that she is a master at juxtaposing the paranormal with reality. In Riley’s teen years she expresses what could be legitimate feelings and reactions to discovering she’s a werecoyote. Her struggles are painfully human and heartbreaking. The pain caused by her parents is palpable. It becomes difficult to remember that this doesn’t really exist. Adult Riley is also an incredibly realistic portrayal.
The information on narcissists, sociopaths and psychopaths is very cleverly woven into the story so that it’s not didactic. It’s interesting and frightening but also creates an entires cast of characters with minor appearances or integral parts. Fiona’s reappearance creates so many ethical conflicts that I was enveloped in the tension of possible outcomes. I really enjoy books that make me think about situational ethics and make me question what I think are my core beliefs.
Although the paranormal genre is not everybody’s cup of tea, if you’re thinking of trying one this is a good entry point because of the over-arching reality. It’s also beautifully written with well-developed characters.
Book received from Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
This is my second novel by Williams and I loved it nearly as much as the first (As the Crow Flies). Riley Dawson is a foundling adopted by wealthy parents. At their summer house she meets Fiona Bell who is the epitome of curiosity, joy and life in spite of her rigid, evangelical parents. Even though they only see each other once a year young love blossoms. Riley’s first transformation to werecoyote coincides with the day they first make love. Unfortunately her parents witness the transformation and everything in her life changes. The story picks up 20 years later where Riley has a thriving therapy practice and a lecturing job at the college.
The thing I’ve loved about both of Williams’ books is that she is a master at juxtaposing the paranormal with reality. In Riley’s teen years she expresses what could be legitimate feelings and reactions to discovering she’s a werecoyote. Her struggles are painfully human and heartbreaking. The pain caused by her parents is palpable. It becomes difficult to remember that this doesn’t really exist. Adult Riley is also an incredibly realistic portrayal.
The information on narcissists, sociopaths and psychopaths is very cleverly woven into the story so that it’s not didactic. It’s interesting and frightening but also creates an entires cast of characters with minor appearances or integral parts. Fiona’s reappearance creates so many ethical conflicts that I was enveloped in the tension of possible outcomes. I really enjoy books that make me think about situational ethics and make me question what I think are my core beliefs.
Although the paranormal genre is not everybody’s cup of tea, if you’re thinking of trying one this is a good entry point because of the over-arching reality. It’s also beautifully written with well-developed characters.
Book received from Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
June 10, 2020
First of all, this book deserves so much more than 5 stars.
Riley and Fiona in their teens having fallen in love could never have predicted what would be in store for them for the next 20 years. Riley and her adoptive parents got the unwelcome surprise of the century when she turned into a werecoyote the very day she had her first sexual experience. A few houses down, Fiona's conservative Christian parents cought wind of the fact that their daughter might a lesbian and decided the gay in her needed to be flushed out. By any means necessary.
The resulting forceful separation and the trials endured by the MCs is hard to live through. Riley now long abandoned by her adoptive parents is a successful psychotherapist and a valued professor. She hides her dual nature from the world and never gets involved with any women outside of casual flings. Fiona had the misfortune of getting married to a truly vile man who for all intents and purposes and as mentioned in the book is a 'total nutcase'.
The premise of the story in itself is very intriguing.
There's the paranormal angle..The second chance romance.. The conniving s.o.b posing as a doting family man to deal with..
But the truly intriguing bit? The clever and seamless manner with which the story progresses. The flashbacks, chapters with interchanging POVs among the mains and the supporting characters. Everything just works.
Also, the immense knowledge I got about psychopaths and sociopaths in all their glory frankly scared the living crap out of me. That was fun to read and won't make me look sideways at people in general in the least.
Trigger warnings for domestic abuse needs to be mentioned. That bit was especially hard to read. But the fact that this is such a common occurrence and commonly ignored at the same time makes it all the more important to address it in stark reality.
Seriously.. Such a fine book!
An ARC was provided by NetGalley and Bold Stroke Books in exchange for an honest review.
Riley and Fiona in their teens having fallen in love could never have predicted what would be in store for them for the next 20 years. Riley and her adoptive parents got the unwelcome surprise of the century when she turned into a werecoyote the very day she had her first sexual experience. A few houses down, Fiona's conservative Christian parents cought wind of the fact that their daughter might a lesbian and decided the gay in her needed to be flushed out. By any means necessary.
The resulting forceful separation and the trials endured by the MCs is hard to live through. Riley now long abandoned by her adoptive parents is a successful psychotherapist and a valued professor. She hides her dual nature from the world and never gets involved with any women outside of casual flings. Fiona had the misfortune of getting married to a truly vile man who for all intents and purposes and as mentioned in the book is a 'total nutcase'.
The premise of the story in itself is very intriguing.
There's the paranormal angle..The second chance romance.. The conniving s.o.b posing as a doting family man to deal with..
But the truly intriguing bit? The clever and seamless manner with which the story progresses. The flashbacks, chapters with interchanging POVs among the mains and the supporting characters. Everything just works.
Also, the immense knowledge I got about psychopaths and sociopaths in all their glory frankly scared the living crap out of me. That was fun to read and won't make me look sideways at people in general in the least.
Trigger warnings for domestic abuse needs to be mentioned. That bit was especially hard to read. But the fact that this is such a common occurrence and commonly ignored at the same time makes it all the more important to address it in stark reality.
Seriously.. Such a fine book!
An ARC was provided by NetGalley and Bold Stroke Books in exchange for an honest review.
November 8, 2020
Review of ‘Coyote Blues‘ by Karen F. Williams, audiobook narrated by Paige McKinney
This is lesbian second chance paranormal romance is my first book by Karen F. Williams. I heard very good things about this author but I normally don’t read this genre. I’m glad I gave this audiobook a try.
Riley Dawson is a psychotherapist with a secret: she’s a werecoyote. After her first transformation as a teenager, she is forced to separate from her parents and her girlfriend Fiona. Twenty years later, they meet again in very different circumstances. Riley is very reclusive and Fiona is in an abusive relationship. But their lives will intertwine again in a messy and complicated way…
As my co-reviewer Lex Kent says, Ms. Williams writes paranormal as it could be true. She’s right, if you omit the fact that Riley can transform into a werecoyote, the book could very well be considered a second chance contemporary romance. Luckily, the paranormal aspect gives the story originality and an action/intrigue edge that it wouldn’t have without it.
Both main characters are well fleshed out and believable. Their chemistry together is undeniable and transcend time. They are made for each other and it is absolutely believable.
Having said that, I have to admit I wasn’t a fan of certain story choices for both leads, however, I understand that extreme situations can call for messy and ethically grey solutions. It made sense in the context of the story plus it forced me to get down from my moral high horse and accept that sometimes there isn’t a clear way out of a situation. I like it when a book challenges my beliefs.
I have to warn that some readers will find some parts of the book too intellectual. There were a couple of scenes in the college classroom where Riley teaches that seem like attending a university seminar. I think the author wanted to clue the reader into certain psychological aspects of the characters and found this way to inform us. It reads like a lecture, even though Ms. Williams tried to make it as interesting as possible. I didn’t mind because I’m interested in those issues personally but it won’t be everyone’s cup of tea. I think that if those scenes were deleted, they wouldn’t take away anything from the story and it would have kept the pace more even.
The audiobook was narrated by Paige McKinney. Despite that she reads a few lesfic books, I’ve just listened to a couple of them. Ms. McKinney did a great job of creating the voices of the different characters and keeping a good narrative pace. This is a poignant book and her performance of the myriad of emotions that the characters go through is spot on. She made the whole listening experience very enjoyable. 4.5 stars.
Length: 15 hrs and 19 mins
See all my reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.com
This is lesbian second chance paranormal romance is my first book by Karen F. Williams. I heard very good things about this author but I normally don’t read this genre. I’m glad I gave this audiobook a try.
Riley Dawson is a psychotherapist with a secret: she’s a werecoyote. After her first transformation as a teenager, she is forced to separate from her parents and her girlfriend Fiona. Twenty years later, they meet again in very different circumstances. Riley is very reclusive and Fiona is in an abusive relationship. But their lives will intertwine again in a messy and complicated way…
As my co-reviewer Lex Kent says, Ms. Williams writes paranormal as it could be true. She’s right, if you omit the fact that Riley can transform into a werecoyote, the book could very well be considered a second chance contemporary romance. Luckily, the paranormal aspect gives the story originality and an action/intrigue edge that it wouldn’t have without it.
Both main characters are well fleshed out and believable. Their chemistry together is undeniable and transcend time. They are made for each other and it is absolutely believable.
Having said that, I have to admit I wasn’t a fan of certain story choices for both leads, however, I understand that extreme situations can call for messy and ethically grey solutions. It made sense in the context of the story plus it forced me to get down from my moral high horse and accept that sometimes there isn’t a clear way out of a situation. I like it when a book challenges my beliefs.
I have to warn that some readers will find some parts of the book too intellectual. There were a couple of scenes in the college classroom where Riley teaches that seem like attending a university seminar. I think the author wanted to clue the reader into certain psychological aspects of the characters and found this way to inform us. It reads like a lecture, even though Ms. Williams tried to make it as interesting as possible. I didn’t mind because I’m interested in those issues personally but it won’t be everyone’s cup of tea. I think that if those scenes were deleted, they wouldn’t take away anything from the story and it would have kept the pace more even.
The audiobook was narrated by Paige McKinney. Despite that she reads a few lesfic books, I’ve just listened to a couple of them. Ms. McKinney did a great job of creating the voices of the different characters and keeping a good narrative pace. This is a poignant book and her performance of the myriad of emotions that the characters go through is spot on. She made the whole listening experience very enjoyable. 4.5 stars.
Length: 15 hrs and 19 mins
See all my reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.com
June 7, 2020
This is the first book I have read from Karen Williams and I am looking forward to reading more from her. This is technically a were/shape-shifter book but there wasn't so much an emphasis on the shifting. It was more on the physiology? psychology? on of the -ologies of the human mind. I learned so much about that I felt I was sitting in the classroom with Riley's students. I really did enjoy that part of the book. I also enjoyed Edy. She was cute and even though she was 10 going on 11 for some reason i kept seeing this small big eyed kid. So the story is basically about Riley, a were-coyote, who discovers this after she has fallen in love with Fiona. They are torn apart and don't reunite until about 20 years later, Fiona with a kid and a ring on her finger.
This book touches on abuse, both physical and mental. I don't know if I am reading to much into, but those class scenes are really about Riley. All of it. And it was interesting to see how the victim, rescuer, and persecutor all played out. I really did like this book. Though if you are going into thinking its a true shape-shifter or were book you will be disappointed. While it does have the aspect, the book really is about the human mind.
I am wondering there will be another book to this one as the world it weaves is open to it and paths were not taken, such as David, Madison and her friend, and i think others.
This book touches on abuse, both physical and mental. I don't know if I am reading to much into, but those class scenes are really about Riley. All of it. And it was interesting to see how the victim, rescuer, and persecutor all played out. I really did like this book. Though if you are going into thinking its a true shape-shifter or were book you will be disappointed. While it does have the aspect, the book really is about the human mind.
I am wondering there will be another book to this one as the world it weaves is open to it and paths were not taken, such as David, Madison and her friend, and i think others.
May 27, 2020
Karen Williams has once again created a novel that has left me in awe of her writing skills. Sometimes we reviewers choose certain books simply because we know the author is an excellent writer. That is the main reason I wanted to read Coyote Blues, I figured I would enjoy this book simply because Ms. Williams is the author. In this case, I underestimated my reaction to the story. I not only enjoyed the novel, I LOVED it!
Ms. Williams is turning me into a lover of paranormal tales, at least the ones that she writes. I think this is because she makes the paranormal aspects of the story seem normal. She did the same with the paranormal traits in her book, As the Crow Flies. This is probably the reason I love her paranormal stories so much.
Coyote Blues is not only a paranormal shapeshifter story. It is also a second chance love story with characters that are so believable, I feel I should be able to go visit them and their friends. The main character Riley, is a shapeshifter, a clinical social worker and psychotherapist as well as a part time professor teaching a course in personality disorders. Since the author herself is a psychotherapist in real life, the therapist aspect of the story definitely rings true. I would love to be a student in either Riley Dawson’s or Karen Williams’ class. This leads me to the bad guy in the novel. Ms. Williams has used her real life knowledge in social and psychological abnormalities to create a character you are going to despise. I know I did. Unfortunately this character also is very realistic since there are people in real life just like him.
This novel has several themes; family, loyalty and secrets. I think the major theme of this tale is family. It demonstrates how sometimes we have to make our own families when we are faced with destructive or non-existent family dynamics.
I do want to give a trigger warning. Part of the family theme involves the physical and psychological spousal abuse of a character. For those of you who might have a problem with that, just be aware it is discussed in the story.
I totally loved this story. Both the novel and the author are in my favorites list. This book has my highest recommendation.
I received an ARC from Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
Ms. Williams is turning me into a lover of paranormal tales, at least the ones that she writes. I think this is because she makes the paranormal aspects of the story seem normal. She did the same with the paranormal traits in her book, As the Crow Flies. This is probably the reason I love her paranormal stories so much.
Coyote Blues is not only a paranormal shapeshifter story. It is also a second chance love story with characters that are so believable, I feel I should be able to go visit them and their friends. The main character Riley, is a shapeshifter, a clinical social worker and psychotherapist as well as a part time professor teaching a course in personality disorders. Since the author herself is a psychotherapist in real life, the therapist aspect of the story definitely rings true. I would love to be a student in either Riley Dawson’s or Karen Williams’ class. This leads me to the bad guy in the novel. Ms. Williams has used her real life knowledge in social and psychological abnormalities to create a character you are going to despise. I know I did. Unfortunately this character also is very realistic since there are people in real life just like him.
This novel has several themes; family, loyalty and secrets. I think the major theme of this tale is family. It demonstrates how sometimes we have to make our own families when we are faced with destructive or non-existent family dynamics.
I do want to give a trigger warning. Part of the family theme involves the physical and psychological spousal abuse of a character. For those of you who might have a problem with that, just be aware it is discussed in the story.
I totally loved this story. Both the novel and the author are in my favorites list. This book has my highest recommendation.
I received an ARC from Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
August 8, 2020
This is the book that started my 20+ book review drought. I had a hard time determining what to write. And even after so much time has passed I am still struggling.
Riley is something not quite human. She had a rude awakening as a teenager that traumatized both her and her adoptive parents. She was sent off to college with a strong suggestion to not return home.
There is a time gap and we are re-introduced to Riley as an adult. She is a professor at a college and has a close friend, Dr. Margaret Spencer, who is her confident. She gave Riley a chance when she was younger and is also well aware of the more sinister side to her.
Riley is quite surprised when Fiona Bell comes back into her life unexpectedly. The childhood love that was lost because of her shape shifting ways. Riley will have to protect her from her abusive husband as well as from herself.
I did like this book. I love it when stories or comics or anything supernatural or undead are done in a way that make it seem realistic and believable. I can suspend my belief and think 'this could happen!' This book is written in exactly that way. I also visualized this as a movie. Particularly the way it alternates between her life and classroom lecture. Unfortunately, this was the one aspect of the book I didn't really enjoy. I felt like the classroom content was boring and info dump. I can see how it paralleled what was happening with Fiona's challenges but I really could not get into it.
So overall, I though this was realistic and entertaining. I just could have done without the classroom stuff. But don't let that discourage you. I've read other reviews where that was part of what made them enjoy this book so much. So read it for yourself and decide!
I recommend this to people who like to read about romance, shape shifting, family estrangement, chosen families, second chances, education, and turtles.
---
I am including a disclaimer that I am 20+ book reviews behind. Unfortunately, that means quite some time has passed since reading. So this review is likely not as in depth as normally would be as it is not fresh on the brain.
I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Riley is something not quite human. She had a rude awakening as a teenager that traumatized both her and her adoptive parents. She was sent off to college with a strong suggestion to not return home.
There is a time gap and we are re-introduced to Riley as an adult. She is a professor at a college and has a close friend, Dr. Margaret Spencer, who is her confident. She gave Riley a chance when she was younger and is also well aware of the more sinister side to her.
Riley is quite surprised when Fiona Bell comes back into her life unexpectedly. The childhood love that was lost because of her shape shifting ways. Riley will have to protect her from her abusive husband as well as from herself.
I did like this book. I love it when stories or comics or anything supernatural or undead are done in a way that make it seem realistic and believable. I can suspend my belief and think 'this could happen!' This book is written in exactly that way. I also visualized this as a movie. Particularly the way it alternates between her life and classroom lecture. Unfortunately, this was the one aspect of the book I didn't really enjoy. I felt like the classroom content was boring and info dump. I can see how it paralleled what was happening with Fiona's challenges but I really could not get into it.
So overall, I though this was realistic and entertaining. I just could have done without the classroom stuff. But don't let that discourage you. I've read other reviews where that was part of what made them enjoy this book so much. So read it for yourself and decide!
I recommend this to people who like to read about romance, shape shifting, family estrangement, chosen families, second chances, education, and turtles.
---
I am including a disclaimer that I am 20+ book reviews behind. Unfortunately, that means quite some time has passed since reading. So this review is likely not as in depth as normally would be as it is not fresh on the brain.
I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
July 19, 2020
I loved this book! It’s so smartly written, there are multiple themes in the book from multiple POV’s and all in all it was a very gripping story. As one of the mains is a werecoywolf this book falls in the paranormal genre, but it has a realistic feel.
Fiona and Riley are teenage friends/lovers. After their first time having sex they were separated though. Fiona’s Christian parents did not accept her being gay and Riley turned into a coywolf for the very first time, an event that was witnessed by her parents who send her away out of fear. Twenty years later they meet again when Fiona becomes a new client in the psychotherapy practice of Riley.
There are several topics in this book that might be triggers, like domestic physical and mental abuse, animal cruelty, religious shunning and the question what is right or wrong when the law and the system fail you. What I liked is that for most of these topics both good and bad sides are described (the triggers obviously being the bad) so, even though it is dark at times, to me it didn’t feel too heavy. In fact, the overall feeling I got was love and acceptance and a deep love for animals.
I expected a paranormal second chance love story, but what I did not expect was that the book would keep me at the edge of my seat in a thriller kind of way. I won’t go into details because of spoilers, but I had the constantly feeling that things would go so terribly wrong.
Having a beta background, I don’t know too much about social studies, so I enjoyed learning some new things about social dysfunctional personalities. Williams is clearly very knowledgeable on this topic and I liked the way the knowledge is shared in an easily readable way. The secondary characters also play an important role in this book and I thought they were well developed.
This is the second book of Williams that I read (the first being “As the crow flies”) which I enjoyed a lot, so it will be an automatic read from now on. This book definitely gets a recommendation from me.
Fiona and Riley are teenage friends/lovers. After their first time having sex they were separated though. Fiona’s Christian parents did not accept her being gay and Riley turned into a coywolf for the very first time, an event that was witnessed by her parents who send her away out of fear. Twenty years later they meet again when Fiona becomes a new client in the psychotherapy practice of Riley.
There are several topics in this book that might be triggers, like domestic physical and mental abuse, animal cruelty, religious shunning and the question what is right or wrong when the law and the system fail you. What I liked is that for most of these topics both good and bad sides are described (the triggers obviously being the bad) so, even though it is dark at times, to me it didn’t feel too heavy. In fact, the overall feeling I got was love and acceptance and a deep love for animals.
I expected a paranormal second chance love story, but what I did not expect was that the book would keep me at the edge of my seat in a thriller kind of way. I won’t go into details because of spoilers, but I had the constantly feeling that things would go so terribly wrong.
Having a beta background, I don’t know too much about social studies, so I enjoyed learning some new things about social dysfunctional personalities. Williams is clearly very knowledgeable on this topic and I liked the way the knowledge is shared in an easily readable way. The secondary characters also play an important role in this book and I thought they were well developed.
This is the second book of Williams that I read (the first being “As the crow flies”) which I enjoyed a lot, so it will be an automatic read from now on. This book definitely gets a recommendation from me.
July 19, 2020
Riley E. Dawson and Fiona Bell were teenagers when they fell in love. And they had sex. But the post-sex excitement possibly triggered Riley's first coywolf transformation, and witnessing their daughter turning into a beast, Riley's adoptive parents cut ties with her and sent her away. She never saw Fiona again. Until twenty years later. As an experienced clinical social worker and psychotherapist, Riley finds herself losing control the moment Fiona shows up in her therapist office.
CW: physical and psychological abuse, animal abuse
We all know that the justice system is seriously flawed. For those who are interested in reading this book, I suggest that you put aside your judgements based on the law and some morals. Otherwise, parts of the story might not sit well with you.
Also, because this story has close ties with Native Americans, I suggest reading this by Benny Wayne Sully from Insider and decide for yourself if some aspects of Coyote Blues are somewhat inappropriate. And as an East Asian who grew up in Taiwan, I cannot say if Asian Americans would find using "almond-shaped eyes" to describe features offensive. But somehow I think at least some would. Because of these, I cannot give a perfect 5-star rating no matter how perfect the overall plot is. But I will give this book the benefit of the doubt until someone within the communities declares it unreadable.
In terms of the storyline, Coyote Blues is extremely well-written. Every single event happened for a reason and some later ones would definitely prompt you to realize the connections. Williams is a great storyteller and it is clear that she took careful planning of all details.
Both Riley and Fiona had been through so much since their last encounter twenty years ago as teens. Riley had to cope with being a werecoywolf and abandoned by her adoptive parents. But with Peggy, Barbara, and Tom, they form the amazing family that Riley needs in her adulthood. It was also sweet to read about Riley’s friendship with her coyote pack. And Fiona lived through her parents’ reprimand of her sexuality and suffers extensively under Jim’s abuse. As for Fiona's daughter Edy, she is an amazing girl. Though at times I felt her dialogue sounded younger than her eleven years, her mental maturity and intelligence definitely exceeded her age.
Surprisingly, I was also very intrigued by all the lectures Riley gave. It read oddly like TOEFL listening scripts, but I love how I get to learn a little more about personality disorders. Riley's classes were light-hearted highlights for me.
Coyote Blues is an excellent work of fiction. I have not read a book that incited so many thoughts in a while. Highly suggest checking it out!
I received an e-ARC from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
CW: physical and psychological abuse, animal abuse
We all know that the justice system is seriously flawed. For those who are interested in reading this book, I suggest that you put aside your judgements based on the law and some morals. Otherwise, parts of the story might not sit well with you.
There are only two kinds of men: the righteous who think they are sinners and the sinners who think they are righteous. – Blaise Pascal
Also, because this story has close ties with Native Americans, I suggest reading this by Benny Wayne Sully from Insider and decide for yourself if some aspects of Coyote Blues are somewhat inappropriate. And as an East Asian who grew up in Taiwan, I cannot say if Asian Americans would find using "almond-shaped eyes" to describe features offensive. But somehow I think at least some would. Because of these, I cannot give a perfect 5-star rating no matter how perfect the overall plot is. But I will give this book the benefit of the doubt until someone within the communities declares it unreadable.
In terms of the storyline, Coyote Blues is extremely well-written. Every single event happened for a reason and some later ones would definitely prompt you to realize the connections. Williams is a great storyteller and it is clear that she took careful planning of all details.
Both Riley and Fiona had been through so much since their last encounter twenty years ago as teens. Riley had to cope with being a werecoywolf and abandoned by her adoptive parents. But with Peggy, Barbara, and Tom, they form the amazing family that Riley needs in her adulthood. It was also sweet to read about Riley’s friendship with her coyote pack. And Fiona lived through her parents’ reprimand of her sexuality and suffers extensively under Jim’s abuse. As for Fiona's daughter Edy, she is an amazing girl. Though at times I felt her dialogue sounded younger than her eleven years, her mental maturity and intelligence definitely exceeded her age.
Surprisingly, I was also very intrigued by all the lectures Riley gave. It read oddly like TOEFL listening scripts, but I love how I get to learn a little more about personality disorders. Riley's classes were light-hearted highlights for me.
Coyote Blues is an excellent work of fiction. I have not read a book that incited so many thoughts in a while. Highly suggest checking it out!
I received an e-ARC from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 3, 2024
A mellow and different angle to a life of a Were-being. This didn't impress me on its execution of the forbidden plan and the lack of drama on the revelation of being a Were-being. But i thoroughly enjoyed the psyche lessons....
October 30, 2021
This is a great paranormal second-chance romance between Riley (werecoyote) and her first love (Fiona) who is now trapped in a dangerous abusive marriage.
There were parts of this story that included in-class lectures about things like sociopaths and psychopaths that worked so well within this story.
This book had me on the edge of my seat and the chemistry between Riley & Fiona really worked.
Much of the abuse is off the pages, but not all, so be prepared for some darkness too.
There were parts of this story that included in-class lectures about things like sociopaths and psychopaths that worked so well within this story.
This book had me on the edge of my seat and the chemistry between Riley & Fiona really worked.
Much of the abuse is off the pages, but not all, so be prepared for some darkness too.
June 10, 2020
4.5* This book turned out different from what I thought it would be. It is a romance with a paranormal angle. But, the story also explored heavier social and psychological issues, like abuse and abandonment issues.
The main character, Riley, is a foundling discovered by hikers and then adopted by a rich couple. Things seem perfect until she suddenly transformed into a were-creature when she was a teen. Her adoptive parents basically freaked out and sent her off to college and told her not to come back.
Then we fast forward to Riley 20 years later, working as a psychotherapist and also teaching a psychology class. Riley now has a found family support system, her professor and now business partner Peggy, Peggy's wife Barbara, and Barbara's brother, Tom. These 3 are wonderful side characters who exude such warmth and love. Then she meets Fiona again, the great love of her teenage life. The feelings are still there, but Fiona has a precocious daughter and an abusive husband. So, the question becomes how can Riley and Fiona get their happily-ever-after? And will Fiona accept Riley if she finds out she's a were-coyote?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. My main criticism though is that sections of it got quite heavy on the psychological analyses and discussions. It's understandable as the author is a psychotherapist and of course, so is the main character. While I find all this talk of different types of personality disorders fascinating, it might not be everyone's cup of tea.
**Thank you to Bold Strokes Books for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
The main character, Riley, is a foundling discovered by hikers and then adopted by a rich couple. Things seem perfect until she suddenly transformed into a were-creature when she was a teen. Her adoptive parents basically freaked out and sent her off to college and told her not to come back.
Then we fast forward to Riley 20 years later, working as a psychotherapist and also teaching a psychology class. Riley now has a found family support system, her professor and now business partner Peggy, Peggy's wife Barbara, and Barbara's brother, Tom. These 3 are wonderful side characters who exude such warmth and love. Then she meets Fiona again, the great love of her teenage life. The feelings are still there, but Fiona has a precocious daughter and an abusive husband. So, the question becomes how can Riley and Fiona get their happily-ever-after? And will Fiona accept Riley if she finds out she's a were-coyote?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. My main criticism though is that sections of it got quite heavy on the psychological analyses and discussions. It's understandable as the author is a psychotherapist and of course, so is the main character. While I find all this talk of different types of personality disorders fascinating, it might not be everyone's cup of tea.
**Thank you to Bold Strokes Books for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
May 29, 2020
I wish I could give this book so much more than five stars...
I have so much I want to say about this book that I hardly know where to start.
First off, let's talk about that cover. It's eye-catching and mysterious - I couldn't have resisted it if I tried.
Coyote Blues is so much more than just the story of Riley Dawson trying to make her way as a were-coyote. It is the story of family, of trust and faith and second chances. There are layers here that the blurb doesn't hint at. There are characters I loved, one I hated, characters my heart broke for, some I cheered for and a couple I wanted to high-five. And all of them are completely necessary to the tale. They all feel so real, I want to sit and invite them over for dinner. Well, not Jim.
As with Ms. Williams's other book, As The Crow Flies, I learned something new with this book, and I love it when fiction can teach me as well as entertain. I found myself noting entire passages in this novel, and then thinking about them when I wasn't reading. Like the passage on the Karpman Triangle. (And what an eye-opener to see my own family reflected there!)
I still cannot get this book out of my mind, and I think it is a great testament to any author's work if the reader thinks about a book long after they've finished reading it.
My life has been changed because I read this book, and I do not say that lightly or in jest. My life has literally been changed by Coyote Blues.
You have to read this.
I have so much I want to say about this book that I hardly know where to start.
First off, let's talk about that cover. It's eye-catching and mysterious - I couldn't have resisted it if I tried.
Coyote Blues is so much more than just the story of Riley Dawson trying to make her way as a were-coyote. It is the story of family, of trust and faith and second chances. There are layers here that the blurb doesn't hint at. There are characters I loved, one I hated, characters my heart broke for, some I cheered for and a couple I wanted to high-five. And all of them are completely necessary to the tale. They all feel so real, I want to sit and invite them over for dinner. Well, not Jim.
As with Ms. Williams's other book, As The Crow Flies, I learned something new with this book, and I love it when fiction can teach me as well as entertain. I found myself noting entire passages in this novel, and then thinking about them when I wasn't reading. Like the passage on the Karpman Triangle. (And what an eye-opener to see my own family reflected there!)
I still cannot get this book out of my mind, and I think it is a great testament to any author's work if the reader thinks about a book long after they've finished reading it.
My life has been changed because I read this book, and I do not say that lightly or in jest. My life has literally been changed by Coyote Blues.
You have to read this.
October 7, 2022
This is my first book by the author and it is fantastic. I couldn’t put it down. I really liked that it debated some spiritual and philosophical ideas. I happen to wholeheartedly agree with the concepts talked about in the book. I am looking for another book by the author to read next.
October 12, 2020
Me! A normally paranormal-phobic reader, liked this! Hooray! Again, another rare lesfic find at my library, I gave it a chance and overall just thoroughly enjoyed the completely impossible story.
June 16, 2020
This is my first book by this author, and let me tell ya, I was pretty much blown away by the thought put into the characters of Fiona and Riley. Yes, there is a supernatural element in this, but it really feels more like a metaphor, even though Riley's ability to shift is an important part of the story. So it's weird, because while I would put this in the more paranormal light category, it still relies on that paranormal element to help tell the story. If anything, I would make a small complaint about is about Fiona's reaction to Riley's shifting. I think it was just done a little too fast, even with some of the set up being there. That did knock it down a star for me, but this was an otherwise fantastic read.
This was one of the most thoughtful reads about abuse, acceptance and empowerment I have read. I was not really sure what I was getting into with this one, but I am glad I read it. It is a little longer than your typical paranormal romance, but it does not leave any page to waste. Riley is a psychology professor and owns her one practice, and her lectures are often used as foreshadow. Riley is isolated because her parents couldn't handle her coyote shifting, while Fiona is essentially forced into an abusive relationship because of her sexuality. Also, Fiona's abusive husband is one of the most menacing abusers I have read about in lesfic. It is hard to write abusers, but Fiona's husband gets to feel like he is everywhere at once, Fiona's and Edy's fear of him is palpable. The resolution of that plot felt more vigilante than what could be believable, but I mean one of the characters is a werecoyote, so it works.
I don't want give too much away, but this is an excellent work about the people involved in this story. It just happens to have some supernatural elements in it. Riley is an likable, complicated lead, and Fiona is a capable co-lead and her struggles are just as important to the plot as Riley's are. The side characters are amazing. The plot is, for the most part tightly paced, with just a bit of a rushed ending. I loved this book, and look forward to checking out more from Williams' works.
I received this ARC from NetGalley and BSB in exchange for my honest opinion.
This was one of the most thoughtful reads about abuse, acceptance and empowerment I have read. I was not really sure what I was getting into with this one, but I am glad I read it. It is a little longer than your typical paranormal romance, but it does not leave any page to waste. Riley is a psychology professor and owns her one practice, and her lectures are often used as foreshadow. Riley is isolated because her parents couldn't handle her coyote shifting, while Fiona is essentially forced into an abusive relationship because of her sexuality. Also, Fiona's abusive husband is one of the most menacing abusers I have read about in lesfic. It is hard to write abusers, but Fiona's husband gets to feel like he is everywhere at once, Fiona's and Edy's fear of him is palpable. The resolution of that plot felt more vigilante than what could be believable, but I mean one of the characters is a werecoyote, so it works.
I don't want give too much away, but this is an excellent work about the people involved in this story. It just happens to have some supernatural elements in it. Riley is an likable, complicated lead, and Fiona is a capable co-lead and her struggles are just as important to the plot as Riley's are. The side characters are amazing. The plot is, for the most part tightly paced, with just a bit of a rushed ending. I loved this book, and look forward to checking out more from Williams' works.
I received this ARC from NetGalley and BSB in exchange for my honest opinion.
June 2, 2020
Wow, I really wasn't expecting Coyote Blues to suck me in and consume me until I finished it. This romance has it all. mystery, despair, love, hope, chemistry, fantasy and so much more. This second chance romance did not go as I anticipated and I was very happy with the ending. The description that comes with the book is so very accurate and I don't want to recapped that. What I do want to say is that Riley is a very good person who just had a bad hand dealt to her when she was 17yo. She lost her parent and her first love plus having to deal with the fact that she is a werewolf.. Once she gets to college, she happens to come across a very good person who was able to help her and become the family she needed. 20 years later her life is settled and she comes back across Fiona. The only problem is Fiona is being abused by her husband. Oh the road that Riley goes down to help Fiona. Williams effectively throws in a few twists and turns that keep you wanting to read. The only downfall of the book is that too much time is spent on giving details on narcissist and sociopaths and psychopaths. I would have liked a little less detail on that aspect. Sure it's goes along with what is happening in Coyote Blues, but not necessary. This romance might be a bit dark for those who have experience abuse and you might want to skip this one if so.
4.25 stars
This Arc was provided by the Publisher for an honest review.
4.25 stars
This Arc was provided by the Publisher for an honest review.
July 12, 2020
I love wolves, but I suppose coyotes are alright too. This was a great read though, and I liked getting detailed explanations on the different personality traits. If trait is the right word, anyhow. Riley's such a great character and I loved the story about her howling at the orchestra... what a cute kid! And of course, Edy... what a smart kid!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2020
3.5 stars. Writing is good and smooth. Its easy to understand and follow the story. The characters are likeable. Unfortunately I did not read other comments about trigger warnings. There is domestic abuse. But that is not why it doesn't have five stars. It actually has the potential of being a five star in the first half. But when the conflict is presented, I expected immidiate action to solve the problem. But instead, the MC didn't do anything. Its domestic abuse, the husband is beating up the wife, its urgent so I dont understand why the MC didn't just pack up bags and drive the love of her live somewhere safe. She didn't have to stay with the mother and daughter, she just have to drive them miles away from danger. Instead she left her to fend for herself against her husband while she device a plan to get rid of him. The urgency is missing when time kept flying, months pass and nothing is being done. I also have issues with how the wife did not file divorse when she has all the evidence needed to put her husband in jail. But I shrug it off as being manipulated and not in the right mind.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 29, 2020
This is not at all the type of book I usually read but I was pleasantly surprised and enjoyed it quite a lot. As I told my teenage boys when they asked what I was reading yesterday, "It's a book about a social worker who's a were-coyote. Oh, and she's also a lesbian." They approved. :)
The book is well told and most of the characters are quite likeable. There's a sweetness to them all, and it reminds me of those worlds you meet in Hallmark shows or "cozy mysteries" where viewers/readers want to find a way to really live there. Riley is a therapist and professor who has had to live a very lonely life because of her secret -- that she changes into a coyote at times. Her adoptive parents have disowned her in horror and she never got over abruptly losing the love of her life after their short summer teenage fling. Just three friends know her secret and they are supportive and like family. I won't spoil the rest but there's an abusive villain, a love story, and a few more mysteries and surprises. Almost all of the good characters are LGBTQ and there are some sweet love stories past the main character's. There is also quite a lot of animal advocacy, which I appreciated, and interesting sidelines about social work, drama triangles, sociopaths, wildlife rehabilitation and other topics. It does get steamy in a few places or I'd recommend it to my kids. It was an interesting, well written story that was easy to get caught up in.
This feels as though it might be a set-up for a series, and I'd happily read the next installment.
I read a digital ARC of this book for review.
The book is well told and most of the characters are quite likeable. There's a sweetness to them all, and it reminds me of those worlds you meet in Hallmark shows or "cozy mysteries" where viewers/readers want to find a way to really live there. Riley is a therapist and professor who has had to live a very lonely life because of her secret -- that she changes into a coyote at times. Her adoptive parents have disowned her in horror and she never got over abruptly losing the love of her life after their short summer teenage fling. Just three friends know her secret and they are supportive and like family. I won't spoil the rest but there's an abusive villain, a love story, and a few more mysteries and surprises. Almost all of the good characters are LGBTQ and there are some sweet love stories past the main character's. There is also quite a lot of animal advocacy, which I appreciated, and interesting sidelines about social work, drama triangles, sociopaths, wildlife rehabilitation and other topics. It does get steamy in a few places or I'd recommend it to my kids. It was an interesting, well written story that was easy to get caught up in.
This feels as though it might be a set-up for a series, and I'd happily read the next installment.
I read a digital ARC of this book for review.
September 12, 2020
4,5
Vine buscando cosas sobrenaturales y romance tipo “mate”, qué sorpresa y gusto me lleve que no es nada de eso, está el hecho que la prota es werecoyote pero hasta ahí con lo sobrenatural. El romance es lindo y va poco a poco aunque hayan sido amigos y amantes de la infancia. Pero la coprotagonista tiene un transformado y nos mete en varias explicaciones.
El libro es muy interesante, trata temas como “el narcisismo”, como puede a ser los narcisistas sociopatas y psicopatas; también la manera en que manipulan, y como a veces las personas son co dependientes de otros y no los permiten madurar pues les gusta sentirse la única fuente de apoyo.
Todo eso me encanto y saber que la autora es psicoterapeuta y trabajadora social clínica me hizo pensar en ello, al punto que reconocí factores que he visto en mi vida.
Un libro que no fue lo que espere pero uno que me volvería a leer por los interesantes temas que trato.
Vine buscando cosas sobrenaturales y romance tipo “mate”, qué sorpresa y gusto me lleve que no es nada de eso, está el hecho que la prota es werecoyote pero hasta ahí con lo sobrenatural. El romance es lindo y va poco a poco aunque hayan sido amigos y amantes de la infancia. Pero la coprotagonista tiene un transformado y nos mete en varias explicaciones.
El libro es muy interesante, trata temas como “el narcisismo”, como puede a ser los narcisistas sociopatas y psicopatas; también la manera en que manipulan, y como a veces las personas son co dependientes de otros y no los permiten madurar pues les gusta sentirse la única fuente de apoyo.
Todo eso me encanto y saber que la autora es psicoterapeuta y trabajadora social clínica me hizo pensar en ello, al punto que reconocí factores que he visto en mi vida.
Un libro que no fue lo que espere pero uno que me volvería a leer por los interesantes temas que trato.
September 2, 2020
This was an excellent “hard to put down” book. I really enjoyed the story, the characters, the bits of information and discussions on psychology, theology, animals and myth cleverly woven through the storyline.
Not a huge fan of paranormal but this book was realistic and felt like it could all be true. Loved the MC but also the stories of the supporting characters that made the whole so much richer and nuanced.
Now a fan of Karen F Williams and will be reading her other books.
Not a huge fan of paranormal but this book was realistic and felt like it could all be true. Loved the MC but also the stories of the supporting characters that made the whole so much richer and nuanced.
Now a fan of Karen F Williams and will be reading her other books.
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June 12, 2020First I have to say I enjoyed this book. BUT, I'm not sure what it wanted to be.....A shape shifting delema, adolescent romance, psychotherapy lesson, comedy, theological lesson, animal advocate or romance. I loved it all but I would have loved to had more of the shape shifter action.
I loved the characters, friendships, dialog and hated the so called Christians.
I will continue to read Ms Williams stories because they are sweet, loving, caring for animals and children. And very, very different.
I was given an ARC for an honest review.
I loved the characters, friendships, dialog and hated the so called Christians.
I will continue to read Ms Williams stories because they are sweet, loving, caring for animals and children. And very, very different.
I was given an ARC for an honest review.
February 1, 2021
A gripping paranormal, second chances thriller, this one had us in a thrall from word go.
Read the full review @ https://bestlesficreviews.blogspot.co...
Read the full review @ https://bestlesficreviews.blogspot.co...
May 7, 2024
Great shifter romance with a little thriller aspect and a second chance trope. The paranormal and the spice are kept pretty low though.
November 1, 2020
A second chance lesbian romance between a psychologist who's also a werecoyote and her first love, now a mother suffering from intimate partner abuse from her husband.
Riley's first transformation was triggered by her first physical relationship with Fiona, but the consequences were sweeping. For Riley, that meant moving away and an estrangement from her adopted parents. For Fiona, whose father is an evangelical minister, it meant a gateway to an abusive relationship with a truly horrible abuser. After mandated counseling reunites Fiona and Riley, their attraction flares again and Riley has to help Fiona deal with her situation with Fiona's young daughter also in the firing line.
Needless to say, CW for domestic abuse, and also animal cruelty.
Riley has never got over her first relationship, but she's found a life and a family of sorts. Meanwhile Fiona's life is a living hell, with escalating levels of abuse that seem destined to leave her dead at her husband's hands and leave her young daughter Edy in a horrible position. The level of abuse in Fiona's marriage is high, and much of the book exists under its shadow. About the only thing that made it all tolerable is just how stupid Fiona's husband actually is.
Riley's first transformation was triggered by her first physical relationship with Fiona, but the consequences were sweeping. For Riley, that meant moving away and an estrangement from her adopted parents. For Fiona, whose father is an evangelical minister, it meant a gateway to an abusive relationship with a truly horrible abuser. After mandated counseling reunites Fiona and Riley, their attraction flares again and Riley has to help Fiona deal with her situation with Fiona's young daughter also in the firing line.
Needless to say, CW for domestic abuse, and also animal cruelty.
Riley has never got over her first relationship, but she's found a life and a family of sorts. Meanwhile Fiona's life is a living hell, with escalating levels of abuse that seem destined to leave her dead at her husband's hands and leave her young daughter Edy in a horrible position. The level of abuse in Fiona's marriage is high, and much of the book exists under its shadow. About the only thing that made it all tolerable is just how stupid Fiona's husband actually is.
June 8, 2020
Usually I read a book for the romance but I love it when I learn something new! There's so much knowledge that I gained after reading this book! I spent a lot of time going back and forth from reading and searching the internet when different things sparked my interest. For example: I spent some time searching for coywolves, and turtles. So, I definitely had a fun time while reading this book (I love researching!).
I've read a lot of paranormal/shape shifting romances and this one was different from the ones I've read before. Loved it! The writing is fantastic and goes deeper than the surface. I'm always on the lookout for authors who take you to a deeper level within their story. This one has a lot of layers!
This was my first book that I've read by Karen Williams and it won't be my last.
January 9, 2023
3,5*
It was good. I even liked the psychiatric info dump, learned a lot.
I now think everyone is narcissistic and instead of trying to guess people zodiac sign, now it's their place on the triangle.
Has a lot of religious discussion, both bad and good, and as someone who dislikes it a little, I still enjoyed the book.
I like how this was more down to earth compared to others werewolf/werecoyote settings.
And yes, thanks Edith (I know) for the good plan.
The writing was okay. Sometimes too much detail, other times too little :(
It was good. I even liked the psychiatric info dump, learned a lot.
I now think everyone is narcissistic and instead of trying to guess people zodiac sign, now it's their place on the triangle.
Has a lot of religious discussion, both bad and good, and as someone who dislikes it a little, I still enjoyed the book.
I like how this was more down to earth compared to others werewolf/werecoyote settings.
And yes, thanks Edith (I know) for the good plan.
The writing was okay. Sometimes too much detail, other times too little :(
May 1, 2021
What a great and intense story. I so wasn't expecting the depths of the characters, the subject treated from psychology to theology with some sideways forrays I to herpentology and more...
The whole cast is a marvel.
The story is mostly sad and beautiful and hopeful and encourage thinking.
This book just made my day.
The whole cast is a marvel.
The story is mostly sad and beautiful and hopeful and encourage thinking.
This book just made my day.
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