What do you think?
Rate this book
Metal & Magic #1
Metal Heart
When stray human Matthew wanders into Black Dog shifter pack territory, he’s injured and vulnerable. The last thing Matthew expects is for the pack’s alpha to be the home he’s always been looking for.
Bram can’t believe his nose when the trespasser his enforcers drop at his feet turns out to be something entirely different. Nursing Matthew back to health becomes Bram’s priority, but the pack isn’t thrilled to have a human in their midst.
When the pack gives them an ultimatum—either Matthew joins the pack in truth or leaves—the only question is, if he decides not to stay, will Bram be able to let him go?
Metal Heart is the first novel in the Metal and Magic series, a dystopian urban fantasy romance filled with magic, adventure, and the perils of being human in a world filled with supernatural creatures. Previously offered as a newsletter short from the author.
Bram can’t believe his nose when the trespasser his enforcers drop at his feet turns out to be something entirely different. Nursing Matthew back to health becomes Bram’s priority, but the pack isn’t thrilled to have a human in their midst.
When the pack gives them an ultimatum—either Matthew joins the pack in truth or leaves—the only question is, if he decides not to stay, will Bram be able to let him go?
Metal Heart is the first novel in the Metal and Magic series, a dystopian urban fantasy romance filled with magic, adventure, and the perils of being human in a world filled with supernatural creatures. Previously offered as a newsletter short from the author.
161 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 30, 2021
117 people are currently reading
534 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Frost
53 books485 followersRomance writer. Dog mom. Hoarder of coffee cups. She/her.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
January 18, 2022
I'm liking the new first of this series. It feels so complete! In a world where magic was outed, war was fought, and now humans and magic users live apart. Word of warning, you need the prequel. Unlike other books, where the prequels are extras, the prequel on this one does present characters and have events relevant to the plot. Read it first!
April 22, 2022
METAL HEART was a great start to a new series and combines my love of shifters, m/m romance, and gone for you fated mates. Bram is the Alpha of the Black Dog shifter pack and when an injured human stumbles into his territory he's stunned to realize the young man is his mate. But Matthew isn't just any human and his past isn't ready to let him go.
I read the original short story for Bram and Matty back in 2019 and I'm so glad they got this full length novel. There was a lot in METAL HEART to dig into and I'm looking forward to reading more in the series. The world building is interesting though not super in-depth. Many years after the war between the shifters and humans, tensions are high and the shifters have all been forced to live in The Between, a no man's land that humans avoid. I would have liked more detail about what started the war and I'm hoping more will be revealed in future books. There was also a lot of references to Bram's mage son Kova and it looks like his story is explained in a prequel that's coming out in a few days.
The romance between Matthew and Bram was really sweet and tender. Bram is a huge bear shifter and a natural protector, plus he's a big softy at heart. The way he takes care of Matthew and always makes sure he feels safe and comfortable was really sweet. I enjoyed seeing Matthew come into his own and find his confidence and place in the Black Dog pack; he's lived a hard life, mostly alone, but he's a survivor and a fighter. Together they made a very sweet couple.
Content Warning: kidnapping, forced experimentation
I read the original short story for Bram and Matty back in 2019 and I'm so glad they got this full length novel. There was a lot in METAL HEART to dig into and I'm looking forward to reading more in the series. The world building is interesting though not super in-depth. Many years after the war between the shifters and humans, tensions are high and the shifters have all been forced to live in The Between, a no man's land that humans avoid. I would have liked more detail about what started the war and I'm hoping more will be revealed in future books. There was also a lot of references to Bram's mage son Kova and it looks like his story is explained in a prequel that's coming out in a few days.
The romance between Matthew and Bram was really sweet and tender. Bram is a huge bear shifter and a natural protector, plus he's a big softy at heart. The way he takes care of Matthew and always makes sure he feels safe and comfortable was really sweet. I enjoyed seeing Matthew come into his own and find his confidence and place in the Black Dog pack; he's lived a hard life, mostly alone, but he's a survivor and a fighter. Together they made a very sweet couple.
Content Warning: kidnapping, forced experimentation
February 14, 2024
Things move fast in this instalment
I very much liked this - technically, first but really the second book following Revenant - instalment in the Metal & Magic series.
Again we get good world building without info-dumping, and more knowledge of the wider setting and the central storyline that's driving all the narrative.
Bram is a giant cuddly bear of a man, literally, he's a bear shifter, with a good heart and a protective alpha streak a mile wide.
When a human with an odd metal arm gets discovered on pack lands, not only does it make him wonder more about what's happening in the wider world, but he aldo finds his mate.
I really felt for poor Matthew, though, the young man has really been through the mill.
No spoilers but we get some really big plot jumps with what's going on with him that have just made things even more interesting.
He's willing to stay and get to know Bram and the pack and there's a super sweet development in their relationship until danger rears its ugly head.
I will say I felt the ending was a bit abrupt, same as the prequel did, with it stopping in the aftermath of the first full sexual activity outside of just hand or blow jobs.
I'd have preferred a little bit more afterwards to just set up the next stage of their lives, especially as book two/three seems to be a totally different pack!
I very much liked this - technically, first but really the second book following Revenant - instalment in the Metal & Magic series.
Again we get good world building without info-dumping, and more knowledge of the wider setting and the central storyline that's driving all the narrative.
Bram is a giant cuddly bear of a man, literally, he's a bear shifter, with a good heart and a protective alpha streak a mile wide.
When a human with an odd metal arm gets discovered on pack lands, not only does it make him wonder more about what's happening in the wider world, but he aldo finds his mate.
I really felt for poor Matthew, though, the young man has really been through the mill.
No spoilers but we get some really big plot jumps with what's going on with him that have just made things even more interesting.
He's willing to stay and get to know Bram and the pack and there's a super sweet development in their relationship until danger rears its ugly head.
I will say I felt the ending was a bit abrupt, same as the prequel did, with it stopping in the aftermath of the first full sexual activity outside of just hand or blow jobs.
I'd have preferred a little bit more afterwards to just set up the next stage of their lives, especially as book two/three seems to be a totally different pack!
January 6, 2022
The book begins with a human, Matthew, wandering into pack territory. He is injured and brought before the alpha of the pack, Bram an alpha bear. Bram notices that Matthew is his fated mate and decides to bring him back to health. There is one problem though. He is told by his head enforcer that if Matthew doesn’t join their pack by the full moon he will have to leave. Bram tells Matthew that he has till then to decide as he doesn’t want to rush him.
Shifters and humans have been separated since the war. Shifters have their territory and humans have their own. I liked that shifters were known in this world and the way mates work. You can decide your own mate I’d you choose to. Bram was in a long relationship with a women and had a stepson from her. She refused to mate and that was a blessing in disguise for Bram, especially due to the fact that his fated mate would turn up after she passed. As usual fated mate pairings are stronger and perfect, but that is not the be all and end all of shifters here. Another difference is that Bram's pack is mixed. There is many different types of shifters and many are waifs and strays. They come from many backgrounds and have suffered, many from the way humans have treated them.
Matthew has had such a hard life. He was kicked out of his home at 12 and then lived on the streets. He was then taken prisoner and experimented on. They abused him, starved him and even operated on him. His captures turned part of his arm metal and then stabbed him in the chest. He managed to escape when they thought he was dead and just ran. That’s when he ended up in Bram’s pack territory and was then brought back to health by him. Matt is scared and confused after his experience and doesn’t know who to trust, but he feels a pull towards Bram. It was sweet watching the way Bram was with him and seeing Matty open up. He has been through so much and with Bram's love and care, he blossomed. Matty was such a sweetheart and I’m glad that Bram didn’t rush him. They don’t rush into bed and mate like so many books do. It happens naturally and at their own pace. I loved them together and were perfect for each other.
The big question throughout the story is about what happened to Matty. Who did this to him and the big question is who is experimenting on humans and what for? When we start to get answers, it’s a big surprise who is involved. I started to even like them and then they go an do that! I just wanted to slap him silly. In the later chapters we learn what truly happened to Matty and that know he has a few extra skills in his wheel house. He is not just your ordinary human and I was seriously worries for him at some points.
I really devoured this book and was so happy that this was only the first in the series. I was really confused at what happened with Bram’s son and his mate. Let’s just say I was super happy when I found out that we can now find out. The book is Available in the Book Boyfriends 2022 Giveaway. That made me so happy and answered many of the questions I have. The secondary characters really added to the story, even one who was really a bad guy! I’m glad that we will get to see more of the wolf shifters we were introduced to. They have sufferers some losses after May were stabbed and killed. This is a big point in the story as it is happening to many shifters. We do get the answers to why in this book, so we’re not left confused for long!
There aren’t many sexy scenes, but you don’t need them here. When they do finally get their big bedroom scene it suited the two. They are magically together, but I did miss out on some bits. We don’t get a big Mating scene and that is normally a big part of these couplings. I’m glad that they do get their HEA, especially Matty.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
Shifters and humans have been separated since the war. Shifters have their territory and humans have their own. I liked that shifters were known in this world and the way mates work. You can decide your own mate I’d you choose to. Bram was in a long relationship with a women and had a stepson from her. She refused to mate and that was a blessing in disguise for Bram, especially due to the fact that his fated mate would turn up after she passed. As usual fated mate pairings are stronger and perfect, but that is not the be all and end all of shifters here. Another difference is that Bram's pack is mixed. There is many different types of shifters and many are waifs and strays. They come from many backgrounds and have suffered, many from the way humans have treated them.
Matthew has had such a hard life. He was kicked out of his home at 12 and then lived on the streets. He was then taken prisoner and experimented on. They abused him, starved him and even operated on him. His captures turned part of his arm metal and then stabbed him in the chest. He managed to escape when they thought he was dead and just ran. That’s when he ended up in Bram’s pack territory and was then brought back to health by him. Matt is scared and confused after his experience and doesn’t know who to trust, but he feels a pull towards Bram. It was sweet watching the way Bram was with him and seeing Matty open up. He has been through so much and with Bram's love and care, he blossomed. Matty was such a sweetheart and I’m glad that Bram didn’t rush him. They don’t rush into bed and mate like so many books do. It happens naturally and at their own pace. I loved them together and were perfect for each other.
The big question throughout the story is about what happened to Matty. Who did this to him and the big question is who is experimenting on humans and what for? When we start to get answers, it’s a big surprise who is involved. I started to even like them and then they go an do that! I just wanted to slap him silly. In the later chapters we learn what truly happened to Matty and that know he has a few extra skills in his wheel house. He is not just your ordinary human and I was seriously worries for him at some points.
I really devoured this book and was so happy that this was only the first in the series. I was really confused at what happened with Bram’s son and his mate. Let’s just say I was super happy when I found out that we can now find out. The book is Available in the Book Boyfriends 2022 Giveaway. That made me so happy and answered many of the questions I have. The secondary characters really added to the story, even one who was really a bad guy! I’m glad that we will get to see more of the wolf shifters we were introduced to. They have sufferers some losses after May were stabbed and killed. This is a big point in the story as it is happening to many shifters. We do get the answers to why in this book, so we’re not left confused for long!
There aren’t many sexy scenes, but you don’t need them here. When they do finally get their big bedroom scene it suited the two. They are magically together, but I did miss out on some bits. We don’t get a big Mating scene and that is normally a big part of these couplings. I’m glad that they do get their HEA, especially Matty.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
January 9, 2022
A light read about mates 😊
January 7, 2022
This was a nice story ... and I discovered I already read the second book, which I loved.
For this story, there were a lot of promising things but unfortunately also some issues which made the story not as good as it could have been
it was an interesting world building, which sounded really well thought out, but unfortunately there was not enough information about it.
The same with some developments which happened before, that were referred to.
The love story was sweet but not very intense at least for me. Bram and Matthews were great together but we don't see enough of them.
I would have liked it to be a bit longer but all in all it was a nice story, in an interesting world .... hopefully there will be more stories there
For this story, there were a lot of promising things but unfortunately also some issues which made the story not as good as it could have been
it was an interesting world building, which sounded really well thought out, but unfortunately there was not enough information about it.
The same with some developments which happened before, that were referred to.
The love story was sweet but not very intense at least for me. Bram and Matthews were great together but we don't see enough of them.
I would have liked it to be a bit longer but all in all it was a nice story, in an interesting world .... hopefully there will be more stories there
January 3, 2022
Glad I tried a new to me author
Metal Heart is the first in a new post-apocalyptic series that features shifters, witches, and revenants (Oh My!). It’s got substance without being high on the angst, though there’s enough to make the HEA satisfying. The romance between Bram and Matt is warm and sweet without being overly sappy. Frost wrote a well-balanced story that was a lot of fun to read.
This was my first time reading anything by Michelle Frost, so I didn’t have many expectations for the writing style. I liked the description of the book and thought the story sounded interesting. I was happy to find the book didn’t disappoint. Frost blended plenty of world building, mystery, and romance throughout the story with practiced ease. There isn’t a lot of character building outside of the two MCs, but since it’s the start of the series, I expect to see more of the characters get their development in the coming books. With a world as vast (and troubled) as the one Frost built here, the potential for related books feels limitless.
There were a couple of things that surprised me about the story. First, Bram is a leader of his pack and, while his pack calls him Alpha, there aren’t any A/B/O dynamics. No knots or omegas in this one! Second, Frost has also taken a somewhat different take on “fated mates”. Shifters recognize their mate’s scent, but the book presents mates as two people who have amazing compatibility and the potential for a wonderful, lifelong romantic partnership. These mates aren’t the “one true soulmate” kind of mates. Matthew, a human, feels a pull towards Bram, but it doesn’t feel like he has no choice but to stay. It’s very much his choice whether he stays with Bram or leaves. It was a plus for me that being “mates” didn’t solve or decide that the two of them would be together, though I’m not sure I was 100% sold on how mates worked in this world. Still, it is always good to see that people have agency in picking their romantic partners.
Metal Heart was originally a short Valentine’s Day story, one that I had apparently grabbed and forgotten I had (I’m sorry!). The first story was quite short, and this version is much longer. Frost expanded and revamped the story extensively. Since I had the original on hand, I went back to read it out of curiosity. While there are sections at the beginning and end that remain more or less the same, the book is so much more than the original short story. The original story is sweet and fun, but there isn’t any of the meat that Frost has now added. Even if you read the original story, believe me when I say you haven’t read this book. That said, if you enjoyed the story and liked Bram and Matthew, you’re really going to love them in the book.
As I was reading the book, there is an established couple Frost mentions but who we don’t meet. It left me feeling like I had missed a book in the series. After a little digging, I found Frost has written a prequel dedicated to that couple. She published it as part of the “Your Book Boyfriend’s Boyfriend” promotion that a group of authors launched at the start of 2022. I haven’t read that story yet, but I am looking forward to it, and the rest of the books planned in the series.
I enjoyed Frost’s storytelling and her world building in Metal Heart. I’m glad I gave this new-to-me author a try!
Metal Heart is the first in a new post-apocalyptic series that features shifters, witches, and revenants (Oh My!). It’s got substance without being high on the angst, though there’s enough to make the HEA satisfying. The romance between Bram and Matt is warm and sweet without being overly sappy. Frost wrote a well-balanced story that was a lot of fun to read.
This was my first time reading anything by Michelle Frost, so I didn’t have many expectations for the writing style. I liked the description of the book and thought the story sounded interesting. I was happy to find the book didn’t disappoint. Frost blended plenty of world building, mystery, and romance throughout the story with practiced ease. There isn’t a lot of character building outside of the two MCs, but since it’s the start of the series, I expect to see more of the characters get their development in the coming books. With a world as vast (and troubled) as the one Frost built here, the potential for related books feels limitless.
There were a couple of things that surprised me about the story. First, Bram is a leader of his pack and, while his pack calls him Alpha, there aren’t any A/B/O dynamics. No knots or omegas in this one! Second, Frost has also taken a somewhat different take on “fated mates”. Shifters recognize their mate’s scent, but the book presents mates as two people who have amazing compatibility and the potential for a wonderful, lifelong romantic partnership. These mates aren’t the “one true soulmate” kind of mates. Matthew, a human, feels a pull towards Bram, but it doesn’t feel like he has no choice but to stay. It’s very much his choice whether he stays with Bram or leaves. It was a plus for me that being “mates” didn’t solve or decide that the two of them would be together, though I’m not sure I was 100% sold on how mates worked in this world. Still, it is always good to see that people have agency in picking their romantic partners.
Metal Heart was originally a short Valentine’s Day story, one that I had apparently grabbed and forgotten I had (I’m sorry!). The first story was quite short, and this version is much longer. Frost expanded and revamped the story extensively. Since I had the original on hand, I went back to read it out of curiosity. While there are sections at the beginning and end that remain more or less the same, the book is so much more than the original short story. The original story is sweet and fun, but there isn’t any of the meat that Frost has now added. Even if you read the original story, believe me when I say you haven’t read this book. That said, if you enjoyed the story and liked Bram and Matthew, you’re really going to love them in the book.
As I was reading the book, there is an established couple Frost mentions but who we don’t meet. It left me feeling like I had missed a book in the series. After a little digging, I found Frost has written a prequel dedicated to that couple. She published it as part of the “Your Book Boyfriend’s Boyfriend” promotion that a group of authors launched at the start of 2022. I haven’t read that story yet, but I am looking forward to it, and the rest of the books planned in the series.
I enjoyed Frost’s storytelling and her world building in Metal Heart. I’m glad I gave this new-to-me author a try!
January 20, 2022
3.5
This was a good beginning part a series that I’ll look forward to reading. It’s a nice mixture between all shifters with some magic thrown in. I loved the journey the two went through. I loved that it was a fated mates but they had options. Im wondering if the other packs will have their own books. Like Charlie’s pack. The writing was good. The smexy was ehh. I needed more. Knots would have helped. Side characters are good and I can’t wait to read about them
This was a good beginning part a series that I’ll look forward to reading. It’s a nice mixture between all shifters with some magic thrown in. I loved the journey the two went through. I loved that it was a fated mates but they had options. Im wondering if the other packs will have their own books. Like Charlie’s pack. The writing was good. The smexy was ehh. I needed more. Knots would have helped. Side characters are good and I can’t wait to read about them
January 7, 2022
I've never read a bear shifter romance before, and I'm so glad I read this one! This is also alpha Omega fated mates, so make sure you know that going in.
I really enjoyed this romance, and loved how the bear shifter respected his mates choices and was so sweet with him.
It felt a little slow in the middle, but the overall mystery of his kidnapping and metal arm was really interesting.
A fun shifter m/m fated mates romance!
I really enjoyed this romance, and loved how the bear shifter respected his mates choices and was so sweet with him.
It felt a little slow in the middle, but the overall mystery of his kidnapping and metal arm was really interesting.
A fun shifter m/m fated mates romance!
January 5, 2022
3.25 stars
*** I received this ARC from GRR. This is my honest review ***
Not a bad book by a new to me author. There is a prequel that I kind of feel I should have read first as I feel like I was missing some information. It was referenced as to what happened in that one, but I think it would have been beneficial to me to read it before this one.
I liked the set up of this one, it was interesting. I do feel like it needed more work in certain parts as while I liked both MC's and even the secondary characters, I didn't feel really connected to either of them.
Bram was great and really gentle with Matthew especially when he needed it. He ran his pack well and I liked the set up of the council to keep things above board. I wanted to know more about his feelings about what happened to Matthew at the end. It seemed to concentrate more on the rescue and I wanted to see him lose it a little
Matthew was also a good character. I wanted to know more about what happened to him in captivity and ramifications.
There are three books in the series so maybe these things will be addressed at a later stage.
All in all a quickish read that was ok.
*** I received this ARC from GRR. This is my honest review ***
Not a bad book by a new to me author. There is a prequel that I kind of feel I should have read first as I feel like I was missing some information. It was referenced as to what happened in that one, but I think it would have been beneficial to me to read it before this one.
I liked the set up of this one, it was interesting. I do feel like it needed more work in certain parts as while I liked both MC's and even the secondary characters, I didn't feel really connected to either of them.
Bram was great and really gentle with Matthew especially when he needed it. He ran his pack well and I liked the set up of the council to keep things above board. I wanted to know more about his feelings about what happened to Matthew at the end. It seemed to concentrate more on the rescue and I wanted to see him lose it a little
Matthew was also a good character. I wanted to know more about what happened to him in captivity and ramifications.
There are three books in the series so maybe these things will be addressed at a later stage.
All in all a quickish read that was ok.
December 25, 2021
Metal Heart was gripping from the start. And it was quite unpredictable. I love the characters, well the good guys anyway. And I really liked the main couple, Matty and Bram. I'm really excited about this series and I can't wait to read the resolution of the story arc.
January 7, 2022
I admit I was disappointed with this one.
I mean, if you’re looking for a classic tale of shifter x human(ish) mates, you’re at the right place but something was missing to make this story a good one.
There were many characters in the pack and even if you’re not drowned in names, I feel they could have been better introduced or exploited in the plot. You clearly feel that this story is connected to a wider universe where significant events took place (the whole story with Bram’s son and his partner) and had consequences here, in this supposedly first book of the series. So I felt disconnected all along, especially towards the end, where events come one after another and characters connected to Bram’s son story pop out of nowhere to lead to the finale that I failed to care about since I didn’t read what happened before and the big bad guy and the allies were quasi-strangers to me at this point.
So, I just… didn’t care in the end.
Classic mates relationship in a wider universe that would have required more pages for the reader to understand where everyone and everything came from.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
I mean, if you’re looking for a classic tale of shifter x human(ish) mates, you’re at the right place but something was missing to make this story a good one.
There were many characters in the pack and even if you’re not drowned in names, I feel they could have been better introduced or exploited in the plot. You clearly feel that this story is connected to a wider universe where significant events took place (the whole story with Bram’s son and his partner) and had consequences here, in this supposedly first book of the series. So I felt disconnected all along, especially towards the end, where events come one after another and characters connected to Bram’s son story pop out of nowhere to lead to the finale that I failed to care about since I didn’t read what happened before and the big bad guy and the allies were quasi-strangers to me at this point.
So, I just… didn’t care in the end.
Classic mates relationship in a wider universe that would have required more pages for the reader to understand where everyone and everything came from.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
April 6, 2022
A fresh start
This is a rewrite and expansion of an original short story which has made it into an excellent novel! There is a short story before this that explains about the world within and the paranormals within it. Now the story follows the mysterious arrival of a modified human Matt and his connection to the alpha Bram.
Matt has been modified to have a metal arm though he doesn't know why it who the people are that did it to him. When Matt stumbles into the territory of the Black Dog pack he finds himself with Bram, who realizes Matt is his mate. In an effort to protect his mate Bram tries to figure out what happened to him and who could be after him.
This expanded story does so much more justice to these characters and the world. There is a good explanation of Matt's arm as well as a discovery of further changes and the purpose they all have. There is a connection to Bram's past as well as more mysteries to figure out in the future. There are a variety of ways this could go and things to discover in this world which promises much for this upcoming series!
This is a rewrite and expansion of an original short story which has made it into an excellent novel! There is a short story before this that explains about the world within and the paranormals within it. Now the story follows the mysterious arrival of a modified human Matt and his connection to the alpha Bram.
Matt has been modified to have a metal arm though he doesn't know why it who the people are that did it to him. When Matt stumbles into the territory of the Black Dog pack he finds himself with Bram, who realizes Matt is his mate. In an effort to protect his mate Bram tries to figure out what happened to him and who could be after him.
This expanded story does so much more justice to these characters and the world. There is a good explanation of Matt's arm as well as a discovery of further changes and the purpose they all have. There is a connection to Bram's past as well as more mysteries to figure out in the future. There are a variety of ways this could go and things to discover in this world which promises much for this upcoming series!
January 6, 2022
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
Metal Heart is the first book in the Metal and Magic series, though there is a free prequel book. Even having not read the prequel, I was able to follow the plot threads pretty easily and found the story and the world building easy to understand. Matthew is human. Just a plain, ordinary human. Or, at least he was. Now he’s a … cyborg? But he’s also a fighter, unwilling to just lie down and accept his fate. If he’s going to go down, he’ll go down swinging, and when offered the chance at happiness with Bram, as his mate, Matthew is quick to reach for the rope with both hands. Having someone to love him, someone to lean on, hide behind, someone to feed him? Yes, to all the above.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
Metal Heart is the first book in the Metal and Magic series, though there is a free prequel book. Even having not read the prequel, I was able to follow the plot threads pretty easily and found the story and the world building easy to understand. Matthew is human. Just a plain, ordinary human. Or, at least he was. Now he’s a … cyborg? But he’s also a fighter, unwilling to just lie down and accept his fate. If he’s going to go down, he’ll go down swinging, and when offered the chance at happiness with Bram, as his mate, Matthew is quick to reach for the rope with both hands. Having someone to love him, someone to lean on, hide behind, someone to feed him? Yes, to all the above.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
January 7, 2022
I picked up the prequel, Revenant a few days ago and absolutely loved it so I had to start on this series immediately.
Based in a dystopian world where shifters and humans live apart. Bran is the alpha of his pack and has a responsibility to take care of his people so he’s understandably weary when a strange human with a metal arm is found across his border but the moment he meets his eyes he’s shocked to realize that this scared and tired man is his mate.
Matty spend a long time held captive by an evil witch and her scientists whom experimented on him and mutilated his body but now he’s escaped and somehow ended up in the arms of a gorgeous bear shifter who seems gentle and earnest and says they’re destined to be mates. Matthew’s been through a lot but trusting Bram comes easily.
When betrayal hits the pack things go back around to where Marty escaped from and it’ll take all they’re allies to take down the evil that hurt Matty and rescue any other victims.
Really enjoyed this the characters were great and I loved the world building. I’ll definitely be continuing this series as I’m curious what will happen with the others.
Based in a dystopian world where shifters and humans live apart. Bran is the alpha of his pack and has a responsibility to take care of his people so he’s understandably weary when a strange human with a metal arm is found across his border but the moment he meets his eyes he’s shocked to realize that this scared and tired man is his mate.
Matty spend a long time held captive by an evil witch and her scientists whom experimented on him and mutilated his body but now he’s escaped and somehow ended up in the arms of a gorgeous bear shifter who seems gentle and earnest and says they’re destined to be mates. Matthew’s been through a lot but trusting Bram comes easily.
When betrayal hits the pack things go back around to where Marty escaped from and it’ll take all they’re allies to take down the evil that hurt Matty and rescue any other victims.
Really enjoyed this the characters were great and I loved the world building. I’ll definitely be continuing this series as I’m curious what will happen with the others.
April 11, 2022
Started skimming after 51%.
So here's the thing I haven't read the Revenant so there's a bit of history there missing when it comes to Kova BUT that part isn't as important as what the freaking WAR was between the humans and the supernatural creatures. We get some generic info sprinkled here and there but there are a lot of gaps. So the world building that exists pertains to where the story takes place, Blag Dog territory, and a bit on the surrounding areas.
Now this is a classic human x shifter mate story but did it have to be so simplistic? I love fated mate stories but there could have been some more chemistry not only between the MCs but the story and me as well.
I think this is where I'll part ways with the author.
So here's the thing I haven't read the Revenant so there's a bit of history there missing when it comes to Kova BUT that part isn't as important as what the freaking WAR was between the humans and the supernatural creatures. We get some generic info sprinkled here and there but there are a lot of gaps. So the world building that exists pertains to where the story takes place, Blag Dog territory, and a bit on the surrounding areas.
Now this is a classic human x shifter mate story but did it have to be so simplistic? I love fated mate stories but there could have been some more chemistry not only between the MCs but the story and me as well.
I think this is where I'll part ways with the author.
January 15, 2022
First, I’ve mentioned before that I’m not a “judge a book by it’s cover” kind of reader, but that doesn’t mean I don’t admire an amazing cover when I see one. (Not surprising, since when I’m not reading, I’m designing.) That being said, isn’t this cover gorgeous? ❤ So, did the inside of Metal Heart live up to the outside? In my opinion, yes, it most definitely did. 😉
I didn’t find myself needing as much time to get wrapped up in the story/world as much as I usually do when I’m reading a dystopian/post-apocalyptic story. That was probably because the main focus in Metal Heart, especially in the beginning, was in the shifter/alpha aspect. That being said, I still felt like there was something missing in the world building, but not enough to cause confusion, just a desire to learn more.
Matthew was literally thrown into the pack dynamic whether he wanted to be or not. Everything he knew about shifters – which was only second hand – should have terrified him, especially when he was facing an alpha like Bram. He was scared, but something about Bram made him feel safe. Bram’s top priority was keeping those who depended on him safe. Once he realized exactly who Matthew was though, those priorities shifted just a little. The Black Dog pack was just as important, but keeping his mate safe soon became his main focus.
There were several twists and turns in Metal Heart and loyalties as well as allies changed. Bram found it hard to keep everyone he cared about safe, especially when he discovered he wasn’t sure who he could trust. This wasn’t a long story, but it definitely wasn’t lacking. Action, danger, a mystery that needed to be solved and even a sweet romance.
I seem to be picking up a lot of books by new to me authors, which is not a bad thing. It’s actually a very good thing, especially for a self-professed eclectic book addict. Speaking of which… there is a prequel to the series that introduces a character that is mentioned several times in Metal Heart. It’s titled Revenant and I recently picked it up at Your Book Boyfriend’s Boyfriend Giveaway at Prolific Works. Just a word of warning – there are a LOT of great books available in that Giveaway, so be prepared to get carried away. 😉
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of Metal Heart. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I didn’t find myself needing as much time to get wrapped up in the story/world as much as I usually do when I’m reading a dystopian/post-apocalyptic story. That was probably because the main focus in Metal Heart, especially in the beginning, was in the shifter/alpha aspect. That being said, I still felt like there was something missing in the world building, but not enough to cause confusion, just a desire to learn more.
Matthew was literally thrown into the pack dynamic whether he wanted to be or not. Everything he knew about shifters – which was only second hand – should have terrified him, especially when he was facing an alpha like Bram. He was scared, but something about Bram made him feel safe. Bram’s top priority was keeping those who depended on him safe. Once he realized exactly who Matthew was though, those priorities shifted just a little. The Black Dog pack was just as important, but keeping his mate safe soon became his main focus.
There were several twists and turns in Metal Heart and loyalties as well as allies changed. Bram found it hard to keep everyone he cared about safe, especially when he discovered he wasn’t sure who he could trust. This wasn’t a long story, but it definitely wasn’t lacking. Action, danger, a mystery that needed to be solved and even a sweet romance.
I seem to be picking up a lot of books by new to me authors, which is not a bad thing. It’s actually a very good thing, especially for a self-professed eclectic book addict. Speaking of which… there is a prequel to the series that introduces a character that is mentioned several times in Metal Heart. It’s titled Revenant and I recently picked it up at Your Book Boyfriend’s Boyfriend Giveaway at Prolific Works. Just a word of warning – there are a LOT of great books available in that Giveaway, so be prepared to get carried away. 😉
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of Metal Heart. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 2, 2022
very interesting read!
Bram and Matthew were so good together, their chemistry was +++. i love Bram being huge yet really kind and protective, and Matthew being vulnerable yet strong!
there were other supernatural beings here which was really interesting.
unfortunately.. i think the Kova feelings and the villain part felt a bit short.. like i didn't care much about their whys and how much it affected both Matt and Bram. it was hard to connect to them.
BUT, it wasn't bad and now IM EXCITED FOR MORE. also... i fell for Fergus and i hope to read about him in the future. 👀
Bram and Matthew were so good together, their chemistry was +++. i love Bram being huge yet really kind and protective, and Matthew being vulnerable yet strong!
there were other supernatural beings here which was really interesting.
unfortunately.. i think the Kova feelings and the villain part felt a bit short.. like i didn't care much about their whys and how much it affected both Matt and Bram. it was hard to connect to them.
BUT, it wasn't bad and now IM EXCITED FOR MORE. also... i fell for Fergus and i hope to read about him in the future. 👀
May 4, 2022
I was a bit disappointed that Kova and Erik were not in this book. I liked their prequel and Erik's powers are awesome. Sorry shifters, but revenant is so much cooler. Oh well, at least I got Fergus. Of course, the rest of the pack are also awesome in their own way. The world is harsh and unforgiving, but they have managed to make a nice life for themselves. I love mates and possessive shifters so this was definitely a read for me.
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the GRR for an honest review**
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the GRR for an honest review**
December 31, 2021
Steampunk PNR with fated mates
Interesting take on a post apocalyptic world.
The combination of magic, mystery and found family had me hooked instantly
There was plenty of action packed danger and drama as Bram and Matthew try to figure out who is behind what is happening to people.
Bram and Matthew had wonderful chemistry and the relationship between them was fairly fast paced as they were fated mates.
Interesting take on a post apocalyptic world.
The combination of magic, mystery and found family had me hooked instantly
There was plenty of action packed danger and drama as Bram and Matthew try to figure out who is behind what is happening to people.
Bram and Matthew had wonderful chemistry and the relationship between them was fairly fast paced as they were fated mates.
January 8, 2022
Well, it was a new author to me and i am really happy i read this super sweet book.
It is a shifter m/m love story that takes places after a war between shifters and humans. It is a fated mates type of a romance with a super protective, big bear shifter and a tortured human as MCs.
The story is pretty simple but as a fan of shifters and fated mates i really enjoyed it. It is well written, fast paced and the romance part is just lovely. I can't wait to read more books by this author!
* I was gifted an ARC of this book and this is my honest review *
It is a shifter m/m love story that takes places after a war between shifters and humans. It is a fated mates type of a romance with a super protective, big bear shifter and a tortured human as MCs.
The story is pretty simple but as a fan of shifters and fated mates i really enjoyed it. It is well written, fast paced and the romance part is just lovely. I can't wait to read more books by this author!
* I was gifted an ARC of this book and this is my honest review *
January 8, 2022
I like the premise of this story and the world looks really interesting. I think that Matty is really brave and a lot stronger than he thinks he is. Bram is a very good and caring man.
I look forward to seeing what comes next.
I look forward to seeing what comes next.
January 18, 2022
It's not exactly bad, it's just so bland. I've skim/skipped the last 40% or so and from what I did skim, there wasn't any surprising or in any way interesting information/plot points.
May 3, 2022
Nothing special.
January 2, 2022
this is amazing and magical.. it is fun and sexy.. interesting and enjoyable to read. good characters and fun writing as always. i loved it
February 17, 2022
Bran was a bit too much for me.
December 31, 2021
Interesting concept but rubbish execution.
January 10, 2022
3.5 stars
Metal Heart is the first book in a new Metal & Magic fantasy series. Overall, I found this an exciting blend of shifters, mages, magic, and a dystopian society.
As with many shifter romances, the romance in Metal Heart moves quickly and has a tinge of instalove thanks to a bear shifter recognizing his human mate the first time they meet. Even so, the author does a good job developing the relationship between Matthew and Bram. I found them to be a likable couple, though a bit sweeter and softer toned than I initially expected given the setup.
Beyond the romance, I liked Bram and Matthew individually and found them easy to root for as they sought out their happily ever after. I especially liked the story of the shifter tribe and tracking down the group responsible for Matthew's capture and experimentation. The author did the action scenes well, and the plot twists captured my full attention. In fact, it's the interesting universe and potential plotlines the author sets up that has me thinking I'll keep reading this series to see just what the author has in store for this eclectic cast of characters next.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement. ***
Metal Heart is the first book in a new Metal & Magic fantasy series. Overall, I found this an exciting blend of shifters, mages, magic, and a dystopian society.
As with many shifter romances, the romance in Metal Heart moves quickly and has a tinge of instalove thanks to a bear shifter recognizing his human mate the first time they meet. Even so, the author does a good job developing the relationship between Matthew and Bram. I found them to be a likable couple, though a bit sweeter and softer toned than I initially expected given the setup.
Beyond the romance, I liked Bram and Matthew individually and found them easy to root for as they sought out their happily ever after. I especially liked the story of the shifter tribe and tracking down the group responsible for Matthew's capture and experimentation. The author did the action scenes well, and the plot twists captured my full attention. In fact, it's the interesting universe and potential plotlines the author sets up that has me thinking I'll keep reading this series to see just what the author has in store for this eclectic cast of characters next.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement. ***
December 27, 2021
Coming home
I’m squeeing that the original story was expanded into a book and that it’s also a planned series. I love the premise: magic, mystery, shifters, humans, villains, all in a world gone awry. Yes please. Although some parts of the book had me feeling like I was missing some info (maybe that will be in the prequel that’s coming), it’s an exciting adventure that I already want more of.
“He was truly a beast of a man, and I wondered for the hundredth time if I was crazy for trusting him even this much. Then he glanced back at me, his eyes locking with mine, and a feeling of contentment like I’d never known spread through my chest…” Gah, Matthew and Bram, though so many events were out of their control—and I need to know what’s up next for everyone—their feelings, their desires and their love weren’t. They are solid, real, and I adore them. The whole mate connection gets me every time and theirs made my heart pitter patter with happiness. Also I don’t know about you but I really want to hear Bram growl.
I’m squeeing that the original story was expanded into a book and that it’s also a planned series. I love the premise: magic, mystery, shifters, humans, villains, all in a world gone awry. Yes please. Although some parts of the book had me feeling like I was missing some info (maybe that will be in the prequel that’s coming), it’s an exciting adventure that I already want more of.
“He was truly a beast of a man, and I wondered for the hundredth time if I was crazy for trusting him even this much. Then he glanced back at me, his eyes locking with mine, and a feeling of contentment like I’d never known spread through my chest…” Gah, Matthew and Bram, though so many events were out of their control—and I need to know what’s up next for everyone—their feelings, their desires and their love weren’t. They are solid, real, and I adore them. The whole mate connection gets me every time and theirs made my heart pitter patter with happiness. Also I don’t know about you but I really want to hear Bram growl.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews