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Shadow Sentinels #1
Wrecked
You'll never know how strong you are—until you have your heart wrecked.
Four years ago I made a terrible mistake; I trusted the Supernatural Bureau of Investigation. And they destroyed everything.
They killed Connor, the only man I have ever loved. They ruined the alpha who had given us both a home when we were nothing but kids trying to survive on the streets of London. And to save my own life, they left me no choice but to run.
Now I am reduced to a drug-dealing wolf-shifter; a link between the criminals of our world and Faerie. But through that link, I seek the only thing left to me; vengeance on the fae who betrayed us.
Until I get caught.
Thrown into a brutal prison, I come face to face with the pain of my past—in the shape of a powerful alpha Prime; the king of the Were prisoners. The moment our paths cross he makes it perfectly clear; my life is now his to control.
Now survival takes on a new meaning. For in this violent supernatural world, protecting my deepest secret is by far the most important thing of all.
For Hell is coming to Earth...and I think it’s looking for me.
Welcome to BOOK ONE in the Shadow Sentinels PARANORMAL ROMANCE and URBAN FANTASY world. If you love J R Ward, K. F. Breene, Patricia Briggs, Nalini Singh and Dannika Dark, you’ll fall right into this exciting and addictive supernatural ride~PREPARE TO HAVE YOUR HEART WRECKED AND YOUR MORALS RUINED! >>>BUY IT NOW!>>>
*This series is for 18+ readers only. Please only read if you enjoy sexy alphas, kick-arse heroines who can bring them to their knees, love hot and sexy scenes, have no issues with bad language; and adore a good supernatural story. If you do then dive in and hold onto your knickers (I’m British!) or any other item of clothing. You’re in for a ride!
Read BEGINNINGS (THE PREQUEL) and WRECKED (BOOK ONE) now to find out without delay what forces Ember and Connor have to battle to stay alive in this hot world of the supernatural, where the women are strong, the males are powerful and everyone must fight for redemption.
Reading order:
Beginnings
Book one: Wrecked
Book Two: Ruin spring 2021
Book Three: Redemption summer 2021
Four years ago I made a terrible mistake; I trusted the Supernatural Bureau of Investigation. And they destroyed everything.
They killed Connor, the only man I have ever loved. They ruined the alpha who had given us both a home when we were nothing but kids trying to survive on the streets of London. And to save my own life, they left me no choice but to run.
Now I am reduced to a drug-dealing wolf-shifter; a link between the criminals of our world and Faerie. But through that link, I seek the only thing left to me; vengeance on the fae who betrayed us.
Until I get caught.
Thrown into a brutal prison, I come face to face with the pain of my past—in the shape of a powerful alpha Prime; the king of the Were prisoners. The moment our paths cross he makes it perfectly clear; my life is now his to control.
Now survival takes on a new meaning. For in this violent supernatural world, protecting my deepest secret is by far the most important thing of all.
For Hell is coming to Earth...and I think it’s looking for me.
Welcome to BOOK ONE in the Shadow Sentinels PARANORMAL ROMANCE and URBAN FANTASY world. If you love J R Ward, K. F. Breene, Patricia Briggs, Nalini Singh and Dannika Dark, you’ll fall right into this exciting and addictive supernatural ride~PREPARE TO HAVE YOUR HEART WRECKED AND YOUR MORALS RUINED! >>>BUY IT NOW!>>>
*This series is for 18+ readers only. Please only read if you enjoy sexy alphas, kick-arse heroines who can bring them to their knees, love hot and sexy scenes, have no issues with bad language; and adore a good supernatural story. If you do then dive in and hold onto your knickers (I’m British!) or any other item of clothing. You’re in for a ride!
Read BEGINNINGS (THE PREQUEL) and WRECKED (BOOK ONE) now to find out without delay what forces Ember and Connor have to battle to stay alive in this hot world of the supernatural, where the women are strong, the males are powerful and everyone must fight for redemption.
Reading order:
Beginnings
Book one: Wrecked
Book Two: Ruin spring 2021
Book Three: Redemption summer 2021
430 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 28, 2020
189 people are currently reading
530 people want to read
About the author
Karen Tomlinson
34 books517 followersKaren Tomlinson is a USA Today Bestselling author of action-packed, spicy romantic fantasy and paranormal romance books.
You can keep up with Karen's writing by joining her mailing list & grab a FREE BOOK!
(Please see karentomlinson.com/books for all books)
Karen writes a mix of M/M, M/F, and M/M/F books. If you love strong female leads, kickass heroines, swoon-worthy, powerful Alpha heroes, magic, action, battles, bloodshed, hot scenes, and a HEA then look no further! Come and meet strong characters who will destroy worlds for those they love.
Like you, Karen adores books and likes nothing better than to lose herself in a spicy romance with amazing characters and a HEA! She lives in Derbyshire, England, (think Mr. Darcy territory) with her husband, twin girls, and her gorgeous dalmatian. As well as reading and writing books, she loves keeping fit, walking in the hills with her family, and dancing around with her earbuds in while singing badly! You can find all her books on her website: karentomlinson.com
Join Karen’s mailing list to receive free stories, writing updates, and hear about new releases and deals. Sign up here ➜ https://karentomlinson.com/social
If you'd like to support Karen on her journey to audiobook production see what's happening on her BUY ME A COFFEE site, or PATREON.
She loves to connect with her readers and you can find her on:
Blog-https://karentomlinson.com/news
Facebook page-@ktomlinson.author.
Facebook group-Karen Tomlinson’s Silver Guardians.
Twitter-@kytomlinson
Instagram-@karentomlinsonauthor
Book Bub-@karentomlinsonauthor
Patreon-karentomlinsonauthor
TikTok-karentomlinsonauthor
You can keep up with Karen's writing by joining her mailing list & grab a FREE BOOK!
(Please see karentomlinson.com/books for all books)
Karen writes a mix of M/M, M/F, and M/M/F books. If you love strong female leads, kickass heroines, swoon-worthy, powerful Alpha heroes, magic, action, battles, bloodshed, hot scenes, and a HEA then look no further! Come and meet strong characters who will destroy worlds for those they love.
Like you, Karen adores books and likes nothing better than to lose herself in a spicy romance with amazing characters and a HEA! She lives in Derbyshire, England, (think Mr. Darcy territory) with her husband, twin girls, and her gorgeous dalmatian. As well as reading and writing books, she loves keeping fit, walking in the hills with her family, and dancing around with her earbuds in while singing badly! You can find all her books on her website: karentomlinson.com
Join Karen’s mailing list to receive free stories, writing updates, and hear about new releases and deals. Sign up here ➜ https://karentomlinson.com/social
If you'd like to support Karen on her journey to audiobook production see what's happening on her BUY ME A COFFEE site, or PATREON.
She loves to connect with her readers and you can find her on:
Blog-https://karentomlinson.com/news
Facebook page-@ktomlinson.author.
Facebook group-Karen Tomlinson’s Silver Guardians.
Twitter-@kytomlinson
Instagram-@karentomlinsonauthor
Book Bub-@karentomlinsonauthor
Patreon-karentomlinsonauthor
TikTok-karentomlinsonauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
dnf
December 9, 2020DNF At 37%
Urgh. The prequel kicked this series off so well and then we're left with this follow up. For starters, this had a much slower pace and I can't say I loved it. There was so much filler and unnecessary drama in between a very, very interesting story. The last straw for me, you ask? Well, it's a spoiler:
On a positive note, the world-building was complex and had the makings of a great beginning. The characters were ok. The big-bad on the other hand was SO good at being bad. It made the story even better. Most though weren't all that memorable. Overall, I'm feeling bitter about how an amazing story was soured with one scene/decision. This is going on my DNF pile, unfortunately.
Urgh. The prequel kicked this series off so well and then we're left with this follow up. For starters, this had a much slower pace and I can't say I loved it. There was so much filler and unnecessary drama in between a very, very interesting story. The last straw for me, you ask? Well, it's a spoiler:
On a positive note, the world-building was complex and had the makings of a great beginning. The characters were ok. The big-bad on the other hand was SO good at being bad. It made the story even better. Most though weren't all that memorable. Overall, I'm feeling bitter about how an amazing story was soured with one scene/decision. This is going on my DNF pile, unfortunately.
November 10, 2020
Omg this book was amazing and ended waayyy too soon!! Shifters, fae, demons, romance, phenomenally written sexy scenes, it's got it all. Had me laughing, tearing up, getting pissed and so many emotions. Can't wait for the next book!! Btw, editing was phenomenal too but I expected that from my mom 😊
Read
August 27, 2021DNF @47%
November 14, 2020
This is the perfect title for this book. Now that I finished this book my life is wrecked until I get the next book!
Ember is working for a fae selling drugs to other fae since that fateful night 4 years ago when she lost everyone she loved, Connor her mate, Rawson the man who became her father figure when he rescued her from the streets after her parents were killed in a fire and her beloved wolf. Her new wolf and her are adjusting until she and Blue are trapped between a Fae and the hateful Doherty who is responsible for the loss of her loved ones. A deal is struck between the Fae and Doherty. The Fae takes Blue and Ember is taken by Doherty who doesn’t recognize her due to a glamour.
Connor is thrust into a prison (undercover) and is the Alpha Prime. He has had to do some unthinkable things but since he lost Ember he is a different person and let’s his wolf lead.
Guess what happens next 😉.
This book is amazing and like I started this review I am wrecked wanting more.
Ember is working for a fae selling drugs to other fae since that fateful night 4 years ago when she lost everyone she loved, Connor her mate, Rawson the man who became her father figure when he rescued her from the streets after her parents were killed in a fire and her beloved wolf. Her new wolf and her are adjusting until she and Blue are trapped between a Fae and the hateful Doherty who is responsible for the loss of her loved ones. A deal is struck between the Fae and Doherty. The Fae takes Blue and Ember is taken by Doherty who doesn’t recognize her due to a glamour.
Connor is thrust into a prison (undercover) and is the Alpha Prime. He has had to do some unthinkable things but since he lost Ember he is a different person and let’s his wolf lead.
Guess what happens next 😉.
This book is amazing and like I started this review I am wrecked wanting more.
January 11, 2021
I finished this a bit ago but was struggling on how to rate it, I still don't know how much I liked it. I will say I powered through this pretty quickly but overall I don't really like how this author has chosen to push the storyline forward.
On the fence on whether I will read the next book
On the fence on whether I will read the next book
November 9, 2020
Living up to its namesake, this book totally wrecked me! Wow! What a crazy emotional ride full of so many ups and downs. This book certainly doesn’t disappoint but be prepared to be wrecked by the end!
November 10, 2020
Wow, talk about intense in every sense of the word and in every detail of the story! This book doesn't give you one moment to catch your breath and that is awesome!!! Ember and Connor go so great together, love the way their relationship moves and how she never lets him go alpha on her. This book lifts you up and then shatters you and leaves you picking up the pieces and waiting for the next book!!
December 1, 2020
Really wanted to like this
I really wanted to like this and Ember is great, but so many things happen that don’t make sense to me.
Ember should kill walker, dump/maybe save Connor.
Some spoilers-
Connor commits genocide on a daily basis with as powerful as he is he could’ve easily stopped the human enemy that killed so many.
Zander is an enemy for brutalizing connors brother.
Something just seemed missing and never clicked for me.
I really wanted to like this and Ember is great, but so many things happen that don’t make sense to me.
Ember should kill walker, dump/maybe save Connor.
Some spoilers-
Connor commits genocide on a daily basis with as powerful as he is he could’ve easily stopped the human enemy that killed so many.
Zander is an enemy for brutalizing connors brother.
Something just seemed missing and never clicked for me.
November 11, 2020
Every so often an author I already love pops up with a new series that just blows me away. Shadow Sentinels is one of those series
We meet Ember and Connor in the prequel, Beginnings, and got to know them by watching them grow up together, in a sense. Well, they're all grown up now, and what a pair they are. In Beginnings we knew we were in for some wild times with them, but in the end, we found those times were put on hold...
For Wrecked. Now we really have to buckle up because this time the world is even more dangerous, even more deadly, and even more emotional. Holy Moly is it emotional. With every emotion imaginable in every situation imaginable...and some that are not.
Ember ends up in a prison for the supernatural, but as a lone wolf, she's constantly in danger of being attacked. Being a beautiful woman isn't helping her cause either. But, this is Ember. She doesn't intimidate easily so we know she's going to hold her own. All the way up until she comes face to face with...
Well, let's just say the prison's Prime Alpha who is going to control her or make sure no one else does. He knows there's something about her that sets her apart and he's going to make sure no one else gets their hooks into her. She is good for getting herself into these kinds of fixes.
Connor has been through his own hell, and it shows. I love watching him, learning about how he deals with things, seeing him with his particular pack, and their interactions. Connor will always be a favorite of mine. And the things he's put through in this book...my god, they're intense.
There are so many surprises in this book. No question you were set up for some when you read Beginnings. But I guarantee you don't know what you're in for with this one. It's so deep, so emotionally and physically violent, so intense, loving, heart-wrenching...I could go on and on and on, but too much will spoil it. Just know, this book was written as if Karen herself was a part of that world, a member of the group, and experiencing everything they are right alongside them. Because that would have to be the only way she could be so deep into the characters, know them so well, describe them to us so well. And she must be going through all the trauma, happiness, love, hate, and heartache they all are to have us feeling it so intensely that our own emotions explode. Basically, damn this woman can write!
I am so on edge from reading Wrecked, and so anxious for Ruin. That doesn't happen to me too often. But this one, this series, grabs from the get, and grabs so tight that there's no letting go until the series is done. So I'm anxious for the next book so I can get to the finale! Only, I don't really want it to end. I just want Ruin to come out already! And I'm sure I'll want Redemption immediately after that. That's how attached I've become to this series.
Once again, and always, Excellently done, Karen Tomlinson! So very Excellently Done indeed! I want the whole world to know about this amazing new PNR/UF series and its amazing creator!
We meet Ember and Connor in the prequel, Beginnings, and got to know them by watching them grow up together, in a sense. Well, they're all grown up now, and what a pair they are. In Beginnings we knew we were in for some wild times with them, but in the end, we found those times were put on hold...
For Wrecked. Now we really have to buckle up because this time the world is even more dangerous, even more deadly, and even more emotional. Holy Moly is it emotional. With every emotion imaginable in every situation imaginable...and some that are not.
Ember ends up in a prison for the supernatural, but as a lone wolf, she's constantly in danger of being attacked. Being a beautiful woman isn't helping her cause either. But, this is Ember. She doesn't intimidate easily so we know she's going to hold her own. All the way up until she comes face to face with...
Well, let's just say the prison's Prime Alpha who is going to control her or make sure no one else does. He knows there's something about her that sets her apart and he's going to make sure no one else gets their hooks into her. She is good for getting herself into these kinds of fixes.
Connor has been through his own hell, and it shows. I love watching him, learning about how he deals with things, seeing him with his particular pack, and their interactions. Connor will always be a favorite of mine. And the things he's put through in this book...my god, they're intense.
There are so many surprises in this book. No question you were set up for some when you read Beginnings. But I guarantee you don't know what you're in for with this one. It's so deep, so emotionally and physically violent, so intense, loving, heart-wrenching...I could go on and on and on, but too much will spoil it. Just know, this book was written as if Karen herself was a part of that world, a member of the group, and experiencing everything they are right alongside them. Because that would have to be the only way she could be so deep into the characters, know them so well, describe them to us so well. And she must be going through all the trauma, happiness, love, hate, and heartache they all are to have us feeling it so intensely that our own emotions explode. Basically, damn this woman can write!
I am so on edge from reading Wrecked, and so anxious for Ruin. That doesn't happen to me too often. But this one, this series, grabs from the get, and grabs so tight that there's no letting go until the series is done. So I'm anxious for the next book so I can get to the finale! Only, I don't really want it to end. I just want Ruin to come out already! And I'm sure I'll want Redemption immediately after that. That's how attached I've become to this series.
Once again, and always, Excellently done, Karen Tomlinson! So very Excellently Done indeed! I want the whole world to know about this amazing new PNR/UF series and its amazing creator!
November 23, 2020
This book has everything! Badass alpha male - check; sassy heroine with a quick wit who relies on no one - check; super evil villain you want to die horribly - there's two! There's also romance, a bit of a mystery, adventure, jeopardy, hilarity, tragedy and a set of secondary characters so engaging I want every one of them to have their own story now.
I'd advise reading the prequel, Shadow Sentinels: the Beginning, before reading this as many references will be lost on new readers but it's worth the read.
This was the perfect weekend escape during lockdown and I cant wait for the next one.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review., which wasn't a chore since it's brilliant! 😊
I'd advise reading the prequel, Shadow Sentinels: the Beginning, before reading this as many references will be lost on new readers but it's worth the read.
This was the perfect weekend escape during lockdown and I cant wait for the next one.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review., which wasn't a chore since it's brilliant! 😊
November 9, 2020
Holy. Mother. Of. Pearl! This book was so good! I was literally all over the place in my feels! I absolutely love Connor and Ember! Both have literally been to hell and back, and have so much still to overcome! The characters were introduced to in this book are everything! You either love them, or hate them. Not sure I was indifferent to anyone! There were so many twists and turns, and my mind was blown on more than one occasion! The steam level was high, and oh so delicious! That ending leaves you begging for more. It is definitely a cliffhanger, but not the brutal kind! I highly recommend this book!!
November 11, 2020
I devoured this book in 2 days and it was so good! Who needs sleep right? Ember and Connor are mates with an added star-crossed lovers kinda thing going on. It seems as if no matter what, something is trying to force them apart: their pasts, their presents, and everything in between. And yet you can't help but root for them. I love the characters! Ember has a big heart under her hard exterior and fiery temper. Connor is the alpha of alphas, the Prime, and has a good heart even though he tends to be domineering at times. I really enjoyed that the book was fairly unpredictable the entire time. The unpredictability, original story, and multiple mysteries made for quite the read. The ending caught me totally off gaurd and I can't wait to get my hands on the book! If you like steamy sex scenes, tons of action, intrigue, original supernatural storylines... This is definitely your book.
November 28, 2020
I have been provided with a copy of Wrecked by the author for an impartial review. This is the second book in the brand-new Shadow Sentinels series and I just loved getting to reenter this amazing world. This book picks up years later from the ending of the first book. I just had so much fun reading this story. My emotions were just all over the place and I was so disappointed to turn the last page. I immediately wanted more and I just had so much fun meeting some of the new characters. I hope we will get to see more of them in future books. I can’t wait to see what’s next for this series.
December 7, 2020
Well I loved the first book so much so that I happily jumped back on this rollercoaster ride and it did not let me down! It’s exciting and addictive , action packed and has some hot and sexy times as well as an awesome kick ass heroine and twists and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat! Phew 😅 this is a fantastic supernatural fantasy romance!
z-dnf-2025
April 27, 2025DNF 29% meh you definitely need to read the prequel novella which annoys me. Neither one of them has power. He’s slept with her nemesis in the years since they thought the other one was dead, despite promising her he never would. They can’t let anyone know they’re mates or she’ll be used against him. It’s also just not the best writing and is quite long.
November 15, 2020
Oh wow! Why did that have to end!! What an amazing read! Karen Tomlinson is a phenomenal writer, who I can’t get enough of. I’ve been hooked by this book and it’s not letting me go.
If you like fast paced stories, this is definitely for you.
If you like fast paced stories, this is definitely for you.
November 29, 2020
A wonderful beginning to a fantastic series. Since everything was lost, selling drugs for a Fae is the new job. It’s definitely impossible to not love the story, once you start, you’re involved. Impatiently waiting for the next.
August 30, 2021
3.5 stars!
February 9, 2022
This was a great read with some strong personalities and rising tension I liked the premise of the prison and I'm looking forward to seeing where the story goes.
November 12, 2020
As usual Karen has written a great book with a plot that keeps you wondering and characters you can really enjoy. Werewolves demons and fae. Lots of fighting and just as much hot sex. Read and enjoy.
March 6, 2021
Thank you to Karen Tomlinson for the review copies in exchange for an honest review. This does not change my opinion in anyway.
TW/CW: Graphic Sex | Mentioned Rape | Attempted Sexual Assault | Torture
I received both Wrecked, the first book in the series, and Beginnings, the prequel story. I figured it was best to review them together.
Beginnings tells the story that leads up to the start of Wrecked. The happenings and more dynamics between the characters. I really enjoyed the start to this novella. It was captivating and thrilling. But then it trailed off. There were too many switches and happenings for a short story like this. It felt a little disjointed in places.
Wrecked on the other hand, is a very solid, more slow going story. It has a great flow to it as we follow our main characters through their confinement. As is per the norm with shifting wolves, there is a lot of hierarchy and testosterone filled men (which in parts was a bit annoying). It doesn’t shy to show the pack dynamic or the cruelty that can exist within such a pack or to other wolves outside of the pack.
While as a whole I enjoyed this book a lot and read through it rather quickly, there are some things that stuck out after I finished reading. Ember has been in a different world for 4 years but we get very little insight on how that really was for her except a few thoughts here and there. If for 4 years that was your life and you get picked up and dumped into confinement I’d expect a bit more information as it shaped who you were for those 4 years.
Connor is the alpha Prime of the whole prison but he let a lot of things go (rape for instance). And that doesn’t seem to quite par up with the person that he was in Beginnings or even with the person that he shows himself to be in Wrecked. Ember shouldn’t be the reason he starts behaving ‘normal’ again. She’s not his savior. Also his intense focus on all things Ember while he also has others to take care of, was a bit obnoxious. At least there was another character that kept confronting him about that.
There is also a fae element into this story that is still a bit mysterious. Especially the ending just creates more questions for me and it is clear that this first setting in the prison was just a set-up for a much larger plot. I’m interested in seeing how that goes.
TW/CW: Graphic Sex | Mentioned Rape | Attempted Sexual Assault | Torture
I received both Wrecked, the first book in the series, and Beginnings, the prequel story. I figured it was best to review them together.
Beginnings tells the story that leads up to the start of Wrecked. The happenings and more dynamics between the characters. I really enjoyed the start to this novella. It was captivating and thrilling. But then it trailed off. There were too many switches and happenings for a short story like this. It felt a little disjointed in places.
Wrecked on the other hand, is a very solid, more slow going story. It has a great flow to it as we follow our main characters through their confinement. As is per the norm with shifting wolves, there is a lot of hierarchy and testosterone filled men (which in parts was a bit annoying). It doesn’t shy to show the pack dynamic or the cruelty that can exist within such a pack or to other wolves outside of the pack.
While as a whole I enjoyed this book a lot and read through it rather quickly, there are some things that stuck out after I finished reading. Ember has been in a different world for 4 years but we get very little insight on how that really was for her except a few thoughts here and there. If for 4 years that was your life and you get picked up and dumped into confinement I’d expect a bit more information as it shaped who you were for those 4 years.
Connor is the alpha Prime of the whole prison but he let a lot of things go (rape for instance). And that doesn’t seem to quite par up with the person that he was in Beginnings or even with the person that he shows himself to be in Wrecked. Ember shouldn’t be the reason he starts behaving ‘normal’ again. She’s not his savior. Also his intense focus on all things Ember while he also has others to take care of, was a bit obnoxious. At least there was another character that kept confronting him about that.
There is also a fae element into this story that is still a bit mysterious. Especially the ending just creates more questions for me and it is clear that this first setting in the prison was just a set-up for a much larger plot. I’m interested in seeing how that goes.
November 24, 2020
Omg!!! This book was both primal and punch in the gut good. Normally I shy away from dark but this book hooked me and wouldn’t let go! Intense scenes and equally intense characters. It’s fight or die! I can’t wait for more. Plus I can’t wait to see what the Fae have to say for themselves.
May 2, 2021
Some parts are Yes and others, No.
Took a little time to gather my thoughts from this heavy read. Sheesh. Guess the warning is in the title. We get kicked out of book .5 with our H and h in peril. Its just a hot mess and leaves you in knots. I dove straight into book 1 needing answers. This author can write a story and keep you hungry for more. Kudos to this skill. As for the answers, I kinda got them along with a whole bunch of frustrating questions. By 50% in this book I was wrecked. I needed the plot to move. We are very much solidified in all the character relationships at this point. However, the finite details are moved into epic portions of story time. I was so tired of fighting and death scenes that I just really needed the main answers.
Here are some of the things that just errked me. Ember gets accused of a crime I'm sure Zander committed like he did with all the others. After 4 years (yeah time moves quickly in this series and doesn't take you along) she finds Conner. Though soulmates he refuses her, mistreats her and has been sleeping with her nemesis he promised he wouldn't. Yeah I didn't like him. Eventually things get sorted in their relationship but its just kinda rough and disjointed. The cruelty in the jail and to the characters is quite disturbing. I wasn't expecting that but I don't know this author either. The constant dangling of carrots (keeping us readers thinking we will get answers) is over played. I still have no idea what's in the science room. I kinda guessed Walker was involved but why did he stick himself in prison with Conner and the other alphas(book .5)? He can't be trusted and neither can Zander. Once we learn more about who the enemy is, I'm leaning towards skipping the rest of the series. It’s not my thing. Nor is the friend betrayal Blue (who by the way makes Ember so happy to see her that she forgets about Conner). Conner has been abandoned again, left for dead, ripped from his wolf and becoming dark. Great. More drama. Ug! Its like reading a story where the same woman gets repeatedly kidnapped and you're just over it. That's where I'm at. The writing is solid but I'm not jiving with the pacing, meager storyline scraps we get and omission of larger answers to huge questions.
Took a little time to gather my thoughts from this heavy read. Sheesh. Guess the warning is in the title. We get kicked out of book .5 with our H and h in peril. Its just a hot mess and leaves you in knots. I dove straight into book 1 needing answers. This author can write a story and keep you hungry for more. Kudos to this skill. As for the answers, I kinda got them along with a whole bunch of frustrating questions. By 50% in this book I was wrecked. I needed the plot to move. We are very much solidified in all the character relationships at this point. However, the finite details are moved into epic portions of story time. I was so tired of fighting and death scenes that I just really needed the main answers.
Here are some of the things that just errked me. Ember gets accused of a crime I'm sure Zander committed like he did with all the others. After 4 years (yeah time moves quickly in this series and doesn't take you along) she finds Conner. Though soulmates he refuses her, mistreats her and has been sleeping with her nemesis he promised he wouldn't. Yeah I didn't like him. Eventually things get sorted in their relationship but its just kinda rough and disjointed. The cruelty in the jail and to the characters is quite disturbing. I wasn't expecting that but I don't know this author either. The constant dangling of carrots (keeping us readers thinking we will get answers) is over played. I still have no idea what's in the science room. I kinda guessed Walker was involved but why did he stick himself in prison with Conner and the other alphas(book .5)? He can't be trusted and neither can Zander. Once we learn more about who the enemy is, I'm leaning towards skipping the rest of the series. It’s not my thing. Nor is the friend betrayal Blue (who by the way makes Ember so happy to see her that she forgets about Conner). Conner has been abandoned again, left for dead, ripped from his wolf and becoming dark. Great. More drama. Ug! Its like reading a story where the same woman gets repeatedly kidnapped and you're just over it. That's where I'm at. The writing is solid but I'm not jiving with the pacing, meager storyline scraps we get and omission of larger answers to huge questions.
November 28, 2020
I'm torn on this book...
So after reading beginnings I was waiting on the edge of my seat for this book. I'm gonna be honest, I am heartbreakingly disappointed. I had given Ember a decent amount of leeway in the prior book because she had just become an adult.I overlooked some of the immaturity thinking that it would improve in the next book. It does not.
Ember's character in this book frustrated me to no end. She laments over the "bad" stuff she did in Faerie under Som's employ. However,it is never elaborated on further, which normally would be fine except it's said she learns things there, (fighting etc) but because we are left in the dark about everything in Faerie it isn't believable.
She also repeatedly says that she never cries, which becomes extremely annoying when she is constantly on the verge of tears.(justifiably so, it's a crappy situation but it becomes annoying)
Connor was one of the most solid characters in the book. He never deviated from his mission or his need to protect his pack,even when everything was against him. I felt like he was the very definition of Alpha.
My favorite new character was Drake and I wish he would've had a larger role in the book. Of course, I also enjoyed Stone because he kept a pretty level head and called Ember/Connor on their Bs.
I will say that the book is never lacking in drama, or action, but it doesn't always move forward in the plot. It was an easy read and I flew through it.
Final thoughts, I wish Connor had been left in the dark a bit longer about who Ember was because I think it would've developed the romance more. Let him obsess about her but not know why, let them fall in love again, let Ember reveal the truth when she's ready to really commit to a relationship with him. Throughout the whole book I was yearning for the romance and the unbreakable bond that comes with finding your "mate" and I just felt like I was placated with sex.
I'm not hooked like I was at the end of the first book, but definitely plan to continue with the series to try looking at it from a big picture perspective.
So after reading beginnings I was waiting on the edge of my seat for this book. I'm gonna be honest, I am heartbreakingly disappointed. I had given Ember a decent amount of leeway in the prior book because she had just become an adult.I overlooked some of the immaturity thinking that it would improve in the next book. It does not.
Ember's character in this book frustrated me to no end. She laments over the "bad" stuff she did in Faerie under Som's employ. However,it is never elaborated on further, which normally would be fine except it's said she learns things there, (fighting etc) but because we are left in the dark about everything in Faerie it isn't believable.
She also repeatedly says that she never cries, which becomes extremely annoying when she is constantly on the verge of tears.(justifiably so, it's a crappy situation but it becomes annoying)
Connor was one of the most solid characters in the book. He never deviated from his mission or his need to protect his pack,even when everything was against him. I felt like he was the very definition of Alpha.
My favorite new character was Drake and I wish he would've had a larger role in the book. Of course, I also enjoyed Stone because he kept a pretty level head and called Ember/Connor on their Bs.
I will say that the book is never lacking in drama, or action, but it doesn't always move forward in the plot. It was an easy read and I flew through it.
Final thoughts, I wish Connor had been left in the dark a bit longer about who Ember was because I think it would've developed the romance more. Let him obsess about her but not know why, let them fall in love again, let Ember reveal the truth when she's ready to really commit to a relationship with him. Throughout the whole book I was yearning for the romance and the unbreakable bond that comes with finding your "mate" and I just felt like I was placated with sex.
I'm not hooked like I was at the end of the first book, but definitely plan to continue with the series to try looking at it from a big picture perspective.
March 24, 2021
‘Wrecked’ is book one in Karen Tomlinson’s Shadow Sentinels series. This is told in dual POV, Ember and Connor. If you haven’t read ‘Beginning’ the prequel I highly recommend it as it clears up a lot of the past between Ember, Connor and Rawson.
I’m sorry but I was not able to finish this book. I really enjoy the prequel but unfortunately I was not able to get past 40%. That was with me trying to over come the drama and push myself hoping for things to settle.
I’m not a fan of self sabotage and manipulation. Both Ember and Connor are guilty of this, they both want to be with each other but they are their own worst enemy.
Now I’m not saying that I have a problem with the book itself or the authors writing and story telling abilities. If anything I love the world that Ms Tomlinson has created. After reading ‘Beginning’ I was looking forward to reading this book to see how things would pan out for Ember, Connor, Rawson and the other Alphas, but I was not able to see past Embers constant need to define Connor purely for her need to not be controlled. Um hello she can be controlled this was made perfectly clear in the prequel. But Connors constant need to control and posses Ember got a little over the top. I love me an Alpha but when both are not willing to be truthful and tell half truths it gets annoying and frustrating to read.
I am giving this a 3 star rating as I still believe that the quality of this authors writing skills, storyline and world deserve to be recognised. Plus have you see the cover it is gorgeous.
I’m sorry but I was not able to finish this book. I really enjoy the prequel but unfortunately I was not able to get past 40%. That was with me trying to over come the drama and push myself hoping for things to settle.
I’m not a fan of self sabotage and manipulation. Both Ember and Connor are guilty of this, they both want to be with each other but they are their own worst enemy.
Now I’m not saying that I have a problem with the book itself or the authors writing and story telling abilities. If anything I love the world that Ms Tomlinson has created. After reading ‘Beginning’ I was looking forward to reading this book to see how things would pan out for Ember, Connor, Rawson and the other Alphas, but I was not able to see past Embers constant need to define Connor purely for her need to not be controlled. Um hello she can be controlled this was made perfectly clear in the prequel. But Connors constant need to control and posses Ember got a little over the top. I love me an Alpha but when both are not willing to be truthful and tell half truths it gets annoying and frustrating to read.
I am giving this a 3 star rating as I still believe that the quality of this authors writing skills, storyline and world deserve to be recognised. Plus have you see the cover it is gorgeous.
September 13, 2021
Captivating
It was the first time I read a story which took place in a prison and I wasn't disappointed. I got totally hooked! The setting certainly created tension and suspense, it was totally nerve-wracking🤯
Ember, the FMC, is a wolf shifter with another entity inside her which she called "Fire". She's sassy, powerful, but broken by the loss of her foster family and the love of her life, Connor. I liked her humour and how brave she was but like every heroine, she forgave way too quickly her guy. Come on! Because he was upset with her, it's ok that he fucked another girl? 🤬 And more than that, she blamed herself??? 🤮 Not very "girl power" in my opinion. As good alphas, guys in this book are dominant misogynists as**oles. Of course, what happened in this prison was totally disgusting and insane but well, I can't agree with some behaviours.
Well, as the end of the book is so heartbreaking, I can't just wait reading the next book! I hope that things will settled a bit for Ember and Connor because they deserve it!
It was the first time I read a story which took place in a prison and I wasn't disappointed. I got totally hooked! The setting certainly created tension and suspense, it was totally nerve-wracking🤯
Ember, the FMC, is a wolf shifter with another entity inside her which she called "Fire". She's sassy, powerful, but broken by the loss of her foster family and the love of her life, Connor. I liked her humour and how brave she was but like every heroine, she forgave way too quickly her guy. Come on! Because he was upset with her, it's ok that he fucked another girl? 🤬 And more than that, she blamed herself??? 🤮 Not very "girl power" in my opinion. As good alphas, guys in this book are dominant misogynists as**oles. Of course, what happened in this prison was totally disgusting and insane but well, I can't agree with some behaviours.
Well, as the end of the book is so heartbreaking, I can't just wait reading the next book! I hope that things will settled a bit for Ember and Connor because they deserve it!
February 6, 2022
The prequel was good so I dived into this book expecting the same!e experience. I was proven wrong I should have checked out some reviews that would have warned me away . I had some issues which i could overlook like him being an ass like in book one but I can't stand
June 6, 2022
3.5 stars
Solid wolf shifter story, I enjoyed the plot in prison very reminiscent of the savage lands series book 1. I wish they would have drawn out the tension with the couple a little bit longer. While the book was enjoyable my lower rating is due to the build up being sort of pointless.
The whole storyline throughout the book progresses one way and then suddenly in the last 20 pages a bunch of things happen that were unrelated to what was going on during the first 80% of the book and leads into a cliff hanger. It feels like if I were to read book 2 aside from finding out what the cliffhanger ending will be I'm just sort of starting a new story. Since the couple is together and there is not strain on the relationship I'm kind of disinterested in the plot. While the world building is nice the books feel too couple focused for the couple to have already come together early in book 1. A nice read but a little too cookie cutter for me.
Solid wolf shifter story, I enjoyed the plot in prison very reminiscent of the savage lands series book 1. I wish they would have drawn out the tension with the couple a little bit longer. While the book was enjoyable my lower rating is due to the build up being sort of pointless.
The whole storyline throughout the book progresses one way and then suddenly in the last 20 pages a bunch of things happen that were unrelated to what was going on during the first 80% of the book and leads into a cliff hanger. It feels like if I were to read book 2 aside from finding out what the cliffhanger ending will be I'm just sort of starting a new story. Since the couple is together and there is not strain on the relationship I'm kind of disinterested in the plot. While the world building is nice the books feel too couple focused for the couple to have already come together early in book 1. A nice read but a little too cookie cutter for me.
November 25, 2020
Wrecked By Karen Tomlinson is the 2nd book in the Shadow Sentinels series. While the first book set up the relationship between Ember and Connor, Wrecked picks up 4 years after the end of Beginnings. With each thinking the other is dead, both Ember and Connor are living without their soulmates but while Ember is living outside the law, Connor is in prison. Sent to discover what the real reason is for the prison's existence, Connor has let his wolf be in charge, only caring for his "brothers." Convinced that Ember is dead, what will he do when she is thrown in prison with him? Will he accept her as being his lost love, and will she allow him to care for her? This is a story of loss, pain, and how love changes. It's also about how love can grow despite obstacles and in a hostile environment. It's a must read, and Karen Tomlinson has once again written an exciting and satisfying story.
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