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Eden Academy #0.6
Heart of the Hounded
Hey, are you okay?
Are you a supernatural too, being hunted as a trophy? Do you have nowhere to go and no one to turn to?
Eden is here. We can provide protection. Safety. Understanding.
You just have to find us first.
When Layla stumbled across the Big, Bad Wolf, her life changed forever. Now that her eyes are open to all the things that go bump in the night? There's no going back.
HEART OF THE HOUNDED is a full-length Reverse Harem prequel to the upcoming Eden Academy series.
Are you a supernatural too, being hunted as a trophy? Do you have nowhere to go and no one to turn to?
Eden is here. We can provide protection. Safety. Understanding.
You just have to find us first.
When Layla stumbled across the Big, Bad Wolf, her life changed forever. Now that her eyes are open to all the things that go bump in the night? There's no going back.
HEART OF THE HOUNDED is a full-length Reverse Harem prequel to the upcoming Eden Academy series.
267 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 20, 2020
216 people are currently reading
403 people want to read
About the author
Grace McGinty
64 books2,199 followersWhen I was nine, my grandmother and her friends used to read and swap Harlequin Mills and Boons novels. When I was busted reading one, they started sneaking me boxes full of strong heroines and rugged men. Thus started a long love affair with the romance genre.
Then I discovered urban fantasy, and fell in love with broody Alphas and sexy paranormals, and combining them together was a no brainer.
Then I discovered Reverse Harem.... Oh my. Why choose, am I right?
Then I discovered urban fantasy, and fell in love with broody Alphas and sexy paranormals, and combining them together was a no brainer.
Then I discovered Reverse Harem.... Oh my. Why choose, am I right?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
March 6, 2021
Layla is crazy like a fox
Layla just had the date from hell with a jerk that had more hands than an octopus with prosthetics. He didn't like her no, and when he tried to ignore it, he really didn't like the punch to the crotch. She escaped the knuckle dragger but running through the woods has its own problems...like wolves. A Jerry Springer shoe defense was not very effective against the small pack. Then the real monster showed up. Then again, it could have been the blood loss, but it sure looked like one of those Hollywood werewolves.
Spoilers ahead.
This was so broken up. I know it's to set up the academy series coming, but the interest generated for these characters in the 3rd Dark book fizzled. We get a prologue, which is where we saw the attack that brought Micah into her life. The book starts 5 years later. Layla's mom had a brain tumor that, as pressure built, caused her break with reality. People treated Layla like the insanity was contagious. So, to keep people away, she acted like she was as gone as her mother had been. Micah has stalked her since her rescue, and winds up coming across hunters before passing out on her porch. And then everything starts skipping ahead, very little bonding but lots of insta-love. I would have liked more time with these characters. Yeah, I know they're being hunted but even stolen moments count. Micah's behavior doesn't add up to beliefs mentioned- his jealousy and attempted intimidation a la Edward Cullen style, and everyone sort of glosses over it. We never see more from the journals. Some really interesting new characters were introduced but faded to background really quickly. The behavior of the Hounds would land them on an FBI watchlist but they aren't. Flashbangs, armed invasions, human collateral damage, buildings razed, all within city limits? And not a single squad car shows? And Layla turns into chatty Cathy in the compound. Here she is, in what's probably a bugged cell, listing names, abilities and descriptions. Her blood is supposed to heal, enhance and other things. They had her for roughly 2 months. There's no way they weren't tapping her veins more than they did to sell it and take it for themselves. No mention if they got info from the facility to go rescue others who'd already been sold. Or to locate other Hound bases to raid and destroy them. There was a lot of potential in this book that went untapped. I love her Dark series and was looking forward to this tie in. But this was skimmed and the next prequel focuses on other characters, and we only get the 2nd part because the 1st one was in an anthology that's no longer available. Then the academy series starts and it focuses on characters that are still 5 in the Dark series, which doesn't feel settled yet. There's just a lot of bouncing around.
Layla just had the date from hell with a jerk that had more hands than an octopus with prosthetics. He didn't like her no, and when he tried to ignore it, he really didn't like the punch to the crotch. She escaped the knuckle dragger but running through the woods has its own problems...like wolves. A Jerry Springer shoe defense was not very effective against the small pack. Then the real monster showed up. Then again, it could have been the blood loss, but it sure looked like one of those Hollywood werewolves.
Spoilers ahead.
This was so broken up. I know it's to set up the academy series coming, but the interest generated for these characters in the 3rd Dark book fizzled. We get a prologue, which is where we saw the attack that brought Micah into her life. The book starts 5 years later. Layla's mom had a brain tumor that, as pressure built, caused her break with reality. People treated Layla like the insanity was contagious. So, to keep people away, she acted like she was as gone as her mother had been. Micah has stalked her since her rescue, and winds up coming across hunters before passing out on her porch. And then everything starts skipping ahead, very little bonding but lots of insta-love. I would have liked more time with these characters. Yeah, I know they're being hunted but even stolen moments count. Micah's behavior doesn't add up to beliefs mentioned- his jealousy and attempted intimidation a la Edward Cullen style, and everyone sort of glosses over it. We never see more from the journals. Some really interesting new characters were introduced but faded to background really quickly. The behavior of the Hounds would land them on an FBI watchlist but they aren't. Flashbangs, armed invasions, human collateral damage, buildings razed, all within city limits? And not a single squad car shows? And Layla turns into chatty Cathy in the compound. Here she is, in what's probably a bugged cell, listing names, abilities and descriptions. Her blood is supposed to heal, enhance and other things. They had her for roughly 2 months. There's no way they weren't tapping her veins more than they did to sell it and take it for themselves. No mention if they got info from the facility to go rescue others who'd already been sold. Or to locate other Hound bases to raid and destroy them. There was a lot of potential in this book that went untapped. I love her Dark series and was looking forward to this tie in. But this was skimmed and the next prequel focuses on other characters, and we only get the 2nd part because the 1st one was in an anthology that's no longer available. Then the academy series starts and it focuses on characters that are still 5 in the Dark series, which doesn't feel settled yet. There's just a lot of bouncing around.
November 17, 2020
Oh Layla, how did you get so lucky!? Micah, Alistair and Locke (swoon)... Where can I find guys like that? ...and don't tell my husband, lol.
Grace McGinty did it again while captivating you into another story you cant put down and officially started our intro into Eden Academy. It was also nice to see some characters from Dark River. I cant wait for more!!!
While I loved the story behind Layla and her guys, I felt it was a bit rushed and needed more with their story together. SPOLIER............After Layla got captured and we get introduced to Potter, Stacy and Daniel, I feel like it ended the story with Layla and her guys. I was hoping for more with their reunion. A lot more ;-) I also would have liked to had more where she tells the guys she's an Offspring and what their reaction was. Theirs a little snippet with Locke at the end, but it would have been cool to see something with all her guys.
The ending came way too soon and I am going to dive right back into it to relive it again.
*HEA? YES!
*Heat? 5/5 This girl can write a romance scene (has to go cool off in front of the freezer)
*Story - Romance, Action, Mystery, Comedy
*First Person POV
*Overall 5/5. I cant wait for the next installment.
Grace McGinty did it again while captivating you into another story you cant put down and officially started our intro into Eden Academy. It was also nice to see some characters from Dark River. I cant wait for more!!!
While I loved the story behind Layla and her guys, I felt it was a bit rushed and needed more with their story together. SPOLIER............After Layla got captured and we get introduced to Potter, Stacy and Daniel, I feel like it ended the story with Layla and her guys. I was hoping for more with their reunion. A lot more ;-) I also would have liked to had more where she tells the guys she's an Offspring and what their reaction was. Theirs a little snippet with Locke at the end, but it would have been cool to see something with all her guys.
The ending came way too soon and I am going to dive right back into it to relive it again.
*HEA? YES!
*Heat? 5/5 This girl can write a romance scene (has to go cool off in front of the freezer)
*Story - Romance, Action, Mystery, Comedy
*First Person POV
*Overall 5/5. I cant wait for the next installment.
November 21, 2020
Layla is that quirky character you find in a small town that marches to a different beat, but oh how fabulous she is. Truly unique in the best possible way. Intelligent, warm hearted, accepting, loving, funny and inquisitive. She shines too brightly for the town she grew up in. When she was 17, Layla is saved by a monster and her life is never really the same. But in a unimaginable great way.
There are so many amazing characters in this story, and too many to mention. This a reverse harem story which means that Layla will end up with more than one love interest. And what a harem of swoon worthy, sweet, honourable and knock your socks off, gorgeous men they are! Be ready to fall in love with new book boyfriends and other characters you’ll adore.
This is a prequel to the Eden Academy series, where there are cross over characters from other series and exists in the world of the other series. Whilst technically you could read this book first, I’d try to read her other books first to give you added context. At a minimum I would recommend reading Lost and Hunted prior to this book, as there are major spoilers that are mentioned in this story. Also characters from the Dark River series and Hunting Isla make appearances or are mentioned in this story. And if you can, somewhere down the track, read Hell’s Redemption series, Damnation MC series and Azar Omibus, as this will be part of the Eden cross over world. If you like paranormal romance, you’ll be in for a treat, so it’s worth the time investment.
I really enjoyed this story and can’t wait for the next one. Thank you to Grace McGinty for giving me an ARC. I’m voluntarily reviewing this book and all opinions are unbiased and my own.
There are so many amazing characters in this story, and too many to mention. This a reverse harem story which means that Layla will end up with more than one love interest. And what a harem of swoon worthy, sweet, honourable and knock your socks off, gorgeous men they are! Be ready to fall in love with new book boyfriends and other characters you’ll adore.
This is a prequel to the Eden Academy series, where there are cross over characters from other series and exists in the world of the other series. Whilst technically you could read this book first, I’d try to read her other books first to give you added context. At a minimum I would recommend reading Lost and Hunted prior to this book, as there are major spoilers that are mentioned in this story. Also characters from the Dark River series and Hunting Isla make appearances or are mentioned in this story. And if you can, somewhere down the track, read Hell’s Redemption series, Damnation MC series and Azar Omibus, as this will be part of the Eden cross over world. If you like paranormal romance, you’ll be in for a treat, so it’s worth the time investment.
I really enjoyed this story and can’t wait for the next one. Thank you to Grace McGinty for giving me an ARC. I’m voluntarily reviewing this book and all opinions are unbiased and my own.
February 14, 2021
I love this world this author has created. I haven’t read some of the first ones yet, but I’m making my way through. I love how each of her characters are distinct, and it’s just such a fun world with so many preternaturals and supes.
I really liked Layla. She was quirky and fun. It was a bit instalove, which I’ve found a bit of her other books are as well, but it’s written well as the relationship develops. Unlike the Dark River series though, we only see Layla and her guys throughout this standalone, with mentions in the Eden Academy series. This one is solely from Layla’s POV, and I wish there had been scenes from the guys POVs too.
I was sad that one particular person didn’t make it to her harem, I really wasn’t expecting that, but if everyone could transform into a supernatural, it would lose the plot ya know. I really like the reasoning behind everything.
You don’t have to read this book before Eden Academy, but it definitely helps, I found!
I really liked Layla. She was quirky and fun. It was a bit instalove, which I’ve found a bit of her other books are as well, but it’s written well as the relationship develops. Unlike the Dark River series though, we only see Layla and her guys throughout this standalone, with mentions in the Eden Academy series. This one is solely from Layla’s POV, and I wish there had been scenes from the guys POVs too.
I was sad that one particular person didn’t make it to her harem, I really wasn’t expecting that, but if everyone could transform into a supernatural, it would lose the plot ya know. I really like the reasoning behind everything.
You don’t have to read this book before Eden Academy, but it definitely helps, I found!
November 16, 2020
I'm addicted to this author. I'm always excited for new books from her, they're always amazing. And this one didn't disappoint. I loved Layla, her quirkiness, she's a bit eccentric, doesn't give a shit what anyone thinks of her, it's refreshing. The variety of supernatural beings was astonishing, and so damn cool! It's books like this that make me wish they were real. I loved to get to know the characters, Ramer with his sweet, hairy face, Stacey with her amazing little brain and Daniel, such sweet kids. You broke my heart with that ending, Porter was starting to grow on me, he was such a good man. It was an amazing start of the series, and I can't wait to know more about the academy and it's crazy supernatural residents ❤️
November 17, 2020
Another great read from one of my favourite authors. Heart of the Hounded, along with The Lost and the Hunted, gives you the foundation to her upcoming Eden series. I love the cross-over aspect with Dark River Days. Micah saves Layla from a wolf attack when she is just a teenager and what happens when he turns up years later naked on her doorstep changes her life forever. Along the way she meets Alistair and Locke and together they all have to face being hunted while learning what they all mean to each other.
November 21, 2020
The small town local crazy girl is here to shake up the supernatural world as they know it. One encounter is all that it takes to derail Layla’s life into chaos and lead her to her destiny. Each character is fleshed out and the world building was perfectly balanced between enough detail but not overloading. New and familiar faces pop up in this novella as we see the other side of how Eden Academy came to be while meeting characters who will be seen in the future books. I love prequels that give you the backstory of key characters and events which this delivers in spades along with the Lost and Hunted Novellas. Seeing familiar characters who the readers has seen develop in their own story whether a series, a standalone, or a novella creates a greater connection to the overall story.
November 16, 2020
I am in love with these characters and seriously cannot wait for more I am amazed at the world Grace mcginty had created through her books and I really love how they all tie into each other and you meet people from her other storys and get to see them other people do I am really looking forward to more books with all the characters from this book and the other series you fall in love with all the characters I think by the time they all get to the same timeliness it will feel like one big family reunion
November 16, 2020
As with all of Grace's books, I was drawn in right from the beginning...and by the beginning I mean the cover with the most yummiest of creatures. I was so excited to be given an ARC copy of this book and was in no way disappointed. Each of Grace's characters are so unique and interesting and you can't help but be sucked into their lives. Layla is a quirky, crazy, and off-beat character who attracts the strongest of men to her. The banter is wonderful, the sexy times are steamy, and the whole story is a great warm-up for the rest of the Eden Academy series. Totally excited for what's to come!
November 16, 2020
Seriously, Grace McGinty does it again! Another wonderful book! This is the prequel to the upcoming Eden Academy series and I cannot wait for it. This story is about Layla and her men. We first meet Layla in the Dark River series for a brief moment when she was introduced to Raine. Getting to know Layla more was an absolute treat. Micah, Alistair and Locke were just hot and just amazing. But I’ve definitely got a soft spot for Locke. The butterfly scene was...well...it was just sweet. Well done Ms McGinty. Can’t wait for Eden Academy
March 21, 2021
Oh boy!
This first book of the spin off series I just finished was difficult to read... My goodness talk about S L O W!!!! I'm just glad I finally got through this prequel of Eden Academy... I hope it wasn't a waste of my time reading this book... Because I can't wait to jump into that.
Overall Rating:
3* ~ Okay Read
This first book of the spin off series I just finished was difficult to read... My goodness talk about S L O W!!!! I'm just glad I finally got through this prequel of Eden Academy... I hope it wasn't a waste of my time reading this book... Because I can't wait to jump into that.
Overall Rating:
3* ~ Okay Read
October 28, 2021
Great prequel to set the stage
Not all prequels are the same! This one did an amazing job of setting the world stage and characters up for more stories. I can't wait to see where book 1 leads this group.
Not all prequels are the same! This one did an amazing job of setting the world stage and characters up for more stories. I can't wait to see where book 1 leads this group.
November 17, 2020
I’m not ok now that this book is over. It was amazing and I wasn’t ready to let the characters go. I loved the cameos from Raine and a few of her guys. I loved all of Layla’s guys but especially Locke! He was perfect! Grace, you’ve done it again! Cant wait until we get to go back to Eden.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2020
How is it, that in every story, you make me fall in love with at least 1 of your characters? The story of Layla and the beginnings of Eden is full of all the drama you have come to expect from this amazing author.
November 15, 2020
Love, love, looooooove! Layla is a big ol’ ball of offbeat crazy and loving humanity. She shines so brightly and is just so good! And her men? Yes, please! Where do I sign up for my own set? This was such a great introduction to Eden. I’m so looking forward to this academy series! 💜
November 20, 2020
Five stars for Grace McGinty and the prequel Heart of the Hounded! Layla starts out with just an odd bird living with her weird mother but there is a lot more to her then you'd think. This book is a page turner you won't be able to stop reading! Get ready for sexy men, good friends, new destinations and a whirlwind happily ever after.
November 20, 2020
Wow!!! I loved this book. This book was full of suspense,action and some sexy sexy time😉. Grace did it again! I’m never disappointed reading her books.
It was so great to see some of the other faces from Dark River. I’m excited to see what comes next.
It was so great to see some of the other faces from Dark River. I’m excited to see what comes next.
November 27, 2020
Heart of the Hounded is a new addition to the Eden Academy and runs parallel to the previous two stories (book 1: inside of the Wicked Souls Anthology and book 2: Lost and the Hunted).
This story bring us the reason WHY Eden needed Reese's help. We also learn more about the unbelievably handsome Locke and get hints about Eden's connection to the greater world of supernaturals and preternatural.
Layla's life hasn't been perfect. Growing up in a small town had it's consequences, and a fluke encounter with something in the woods five years ago left Layla thinking she may be loosing her mind. But answers literally fall on her doorstep in the form of an injured naked man.
Micah has been secretly watching her since that fateful night in the woods. And his friends know everything there is about her too because to say this man is smitten is an understatement. Alistair, and Locke are like nothing Layla's ever encountered so when she realizes shes attracted to not just one of them but all three, things get heated quick.
The Hounds and bounty hunters have intensified their efforts recently and something must be done before they find the location of Eden. Plans are in place and moving along smoothly until everything blows up. We are privy to the inside of a Hound stronghold. We also get to meet key players. Ever wonder why bad guys are so intriguing? Doesn't it suck when you should hate them but are dying to know more! That glimpse into their organization has left me salivating for more information.
This story lives up to Grace's trademark style. You will get hot and bothered while laughing your ass off! You will be sitting on the edge of your seat with anticipation while again laughing as the characters are throwing out snark. You will fall in love with Layla's men as much as every other character in the book. She has sculpted a world that is coming to a head. The characters that we have come to know and love are making appearances more and more.
The tie-in's with Dark River and the last two Eden Academy Prequels have left me beyond anxious to finally head to class in February 2021 with the (Rebels and Runaways). In the mean time I'll be delving into the entire world of Grace to make sure I'm not missing anyone. Because I need all the details I can get on the residents of Dark River and the Damnation MC.
"𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘢 𝘧𝘳𝘦𝘦 𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘮 𝘷𝘰𝘭𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘭𝘺 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸"
𝓋𝓍𝒽𝑒𝓍𝓃_𝓇𝑒𝒶𝒹𝓈
Instagram | Facebook | Bookbub
This story bring us the reason WHY Eden needed Reese's help. We also learn more about the unbelievably handsome Locke and get hints about Eden's connection to the greater world of supernaturals and preternatural.
Layla's life hasn't been perfect. Growing up in a small town had it's consequences, and a fluke encounter with something in the woods five years ago left Layla thinking she may be loosing her mind. But answers literally fall on her doorstep in the form of an injured naked man.
Micah has been secretly watching her since that fateful night in the woods. And his friends know everything there is about her too because to say this man is smitten is an understatement. Alistair, and Locke are like nothing Layla's ever encountered so when she realizes shes attracted to not just one of them but all three, things get heated quick.
The Hounds and bounty hunters have intensified their efforts recently and something must be done before they find the location of Eden. Plans are in place and moving along smoothly until everything blows up. We are privy to the inside of a Hound stronghold. We also get to meet key players. Ever wonder why bad guys are so intriguing? Doesn't it suck when you should hate them but are dying to know more! That glimpse into their organization has left me salivating for more information.
This story lives up to Grace's trademark style. You will get hot and bothered while laughing your ass off! You will be sitting on the edge of your seat with anticipation while again laughing as the characters are throwing out snark. You will fall in love with Layla's men as much as every other character in the book. She has sculpted a world that is coming to a head. The characters that we have come to know and love are making appearances more and more.
The tie-in's with Dark River and the last two Eden Academy Prequels have left me beyond anxious to finally head to class in February 2021 with the (Rebels and Runaways). In the mean time I'll be delving into the entire world of Grace to make sure I'm not missing anyone. Because I need all the details I can get on the residents of Dark River and the Damnation MC.
"𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘢 𝘧𝘳𝘦𝘦 𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘮 𝘷𝘰𝘭𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘭𝘺 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸"
𝓋𝓍𝒽𝑒𝓍𝓃_𝓇𝑒𝒶𝒹𝓈
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May 20, 2024
I’m unsure how to rate this story. I LOVED IT, it was a solid 4⭐️ BUT…..
I’m starting to get mad with this author…
This is the 3rd story I have read in a row that ends on a slight cliffy ending…. With no conclusion EVER. I really can’t handle not getting some sort of a wrap up. It’s like the book ends at the 95ish percent mark. The major stuff resolved but we all want to get a tidy wrap up to our love interests. See them settle in for a solid HFN, not just imagine or guess or hope they get a HFN/ HEA.
Honestly I’m so wrapped up in the story that I wouldn’t even pause for a breather if there was another book for the MC’s. But it ends like there should be another book but there’s NOT!!! I mean, who is satisfied with that kind of ending? I honestly thought we’d get SOMETHING about the pack from Lost & Hunted but we don’t even see them again in Hounded🤬😡🤬 WTH is that crap??
I seriously LOVE this author, the world she has created and the dynamics between all the different characters in each book but we may need to breakup soon if this continues. I’m about to head into the Eden Series and it sounds like it is also unfinished, ending on a minor cliffy without getting the conclusion/ third sibling book. I’m not even sure what to do now. I refuse to start any book series that is not complete but it sounds like there may never be a book 3, so…. I’m dying to get what little continuation available but I can’t imagine my review will be good when I am left hanging YET AGAIN.
😡💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔😭
I’m starting to get mad with this author…
This is the 3rd story I have read in a row that ends on a slight cliffy ending…. With no conclusion EVER. I really can’t handle not getting some sort of a wrap up. It’s like the book ends at the 95ish percent mark. The major stuff resolved but we all want to get a tidy wrap up to our love interests. See them settle in for a solid HFN, not just imagine or guess or hope they get a HFN/ HEA.
Honestly I’m so wrapped up in the story that I wouldn’t even pause for a breather if there was another book for the MC’s. But it ends like there should be another book but there’s NOT!!! I mean, who is satisfied with that kind of ending? I honestly thought we’d get SOMETHING about the pack from Lost & Hunted but we don’t even see them again in Hounded🤬😡🤬 WTH is that crap??
I seriously LOVE this author, the world she has created and the dynamics between all the different characters in each book but we may need to breakup soon if this continues. I’m about to head into the Eden Series and it sounds like it is also unfinished, ending on a minor cliffy without getting the conclusion/ third sibling book. I’m not even sure what to do now. I refuse to start any book series that is not complete but it sounds like there may never be a book 3, so…. I’m dying to get what little continuation available but I can’t imagine my review will be good when I am left hanging YET AGAIN.
😡💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔😭
November 22, 2020
Layla is the crazy woman in her small town. When she was in high school she got attacked by a pack of wolves and saved by a monster. Years later, she has accepted her craziness, and actually she looks forward to it. Things become even more crazy when she finds a naked man bleeding on her doorstep. As the man heals incredibly fast, she is thrown into a hidden world filled with supes of all kinds. Micah, the guy she found on her doorstep, takes her away with him for fear that the hunters who are hunting his kind will reach her. She follows him to Eden, an organization in Boston that aims to protect super. Here she meets Alistair and Locke, whom together with Micah will rock her world. Escaping from crazy killers who hunt supes to sell on the black market, and trying to find a way to find a safe place for all supes, Layla is in for a wild ride.
First of all, I loved Layla so much. She accepted her quirks and she didn't care what the other people in her town thought of her. She encouraged them to consider her crazy because she wasn't changing for anyone. I also loved her relationship with Micah, Locke and Alistair. They were there for her and accepted her in any way possible. This book kept me on edge from page 1 and I'm so curious to see what book 1 in the Eden Academy series will bring.
First of all, I loved Layla so much. She accepted her quirks and she didn't care what the other people in her town thought of her. She encouraged them to consider her crazy because she wasn't changing for anyone. I also loved her relationship with Micah, Locke and Alistair. They were there for her and accepted her in any way possible. This book kept me on edge from page 1 and I'm so curious to see what book 1 in the Eden Academy series will bring.
November 20, 2020
This is the 4th ARC I have had the pleasure of reading and reviewing for Grace McGinty and I swear she gets better and better with every book she writes.
One thing that Grace does so well is write absolutely kickass female characters who you fall in love with instantly, Heart of the Hounded was no different.
In Heart of the Hounded we get to meet Layla a quirky outgoing young woman.
She's one of those people you want to know in real life. Confident, zero f**ks given to the people who have no time for her but caring and sweet to those who do.
I love that Layla's men don't look down or tell her to tone down her eccentric, outgoing quirky personality but instead embrace and encourage it.
Seeing the crew from Dark River was a nice element too and I hope it continues in the remainder of the Eden Academy series.
The only downfall was this book was too short!
I can't wait to read the next book and see how Grace ties all the stories together and see more of Layla and her men.
One thing that Grace does so well is write absolutely kickass female characters who you fall in love with instantly, Heart of the Hounded was no different.
In Heart of the Hounded we get to meet Layla a quirky outgoing young woman.
She's one of those people you want to know in real life. Confident, zero f**ks given to the people who have no time for her but caring and sweet to those who do.
I love that Layla's men don't look down or tell her to tone down her eccentric, outgoing quirky personality but instead embrace and encourage it.
Seeing the crew from Dark River was a nice element too and I hope it continues in the remainder of the Eden Academy series.
The only downfall was this book was too short!
I can't wait to read the next book and see how Grace ties all the stories together and see more of Layla and her men.
May 29, 2025
I liked this one a lot more than Celeste's book. Layla might be my favorite FMC in the Grace McGinty universe. You have to love an FMC who pretends to be batshit crazy whenever she goes to town, because the townies aren't worth the energy of trying to convince them otherwise.
I enjoyed the Eden storyline, the side characters, and the crossovers.
The romance wasn't great. I mean, in believed in Layla and Micah, because they have a bond and five years of history (even if they only met for a few minutes - her subconscious would know). But the book was too short to believably have her fall in love with Locke and Allistair. They didn't have time to build a relationship, so it was purely based on lust. I don't understand this author - in Azar Trilogy, it took three books for her to even kiss three of her mates, meanwhile, we have Layla over here falling in love with two extra guys in the span of a week. I mean, there is a happy medium.
I enjoyed the Eden storyline, the side characters, and the crossovers.
The romance wasn't great. I mean, in believed in Layla and Micah, because they have a bond and five years of history (even if they only met for a few minutes - her subconscious would know). But the book was too short to believably have her fall in love with Locke and Allistair. They didn't have time to build a relationship, so it was purely based on lust. I don't understand this author - in Azar Trilogy, it took three books for her to even kiss three of her mates, meanwhile, we have Layla over here falling in love with two extra guys in the span of a week. I mean, there is a happy medium.
August 9, 2022
Spoiler
Grace McGinty is a great author. I love her books, but this one left me feeling unsatisfied. I don't know if it's because the story seemed almost disjointed, like the different parts of it didn't quite fit together, or because of the spoiler below.
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****SPOILER****
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So while she was trapped, Porter discovered Layla's blood turned regular rats into super-rats. She is a demigod and has great healing abilities. Yet when Porter was shot they did nothing? They didn't try to give him Layla's blood, or try to have a vampire turn him, or somehow between Stacy and Daniel use her medical knowledge and Daniel's telekinesis to hold his blood in the artery.... idk, just something??? They are all supernatural and they just gave up without trying anything? I'm pissed. It just seemed like a death for the sake of death. Stupid and totally preventable. I don't get it.
Grace McGinty is a great author. I love her books, but this one left me feeling unsatisfied. I don't know if it's because the story seemed almost disjointed, like the different parts of it didn't quite fit together, or because of the spoiler below.
.
.
.
****SPOILER****
.
.
.
So while she was trapped, Porter discovered Layla's blood turned regular rats into super-rats. She is a demigod and has great healing abilities. Yet when Porter was shot they did nothing? They didn't try to give him Layla's blood, or try to have a vampire turn him, or somehow between Stacy and Daniel use her medical knowledge and Daniel's telekinesis to hold his blood in the artery.... idk, just something??? They are all supernatural and they just gave up without trying anything? I'm pissed. It just seemed like a death for the sake of death. Stupid and totally preventable. I don't get it.
November 20, 2020
While I only discovered Grace McGinty this year, she is quickly becoming a favourite. I have loved everything I have read so far. Heart of The Hounded is no different. It is an amazing start to the Eden Academy series. And I love that we got to see some of the Dark River characters.
Layla has had to deal with a lot. And is a little eccentric. She was definitely on her way to becoming a hermit. All of which she does on purpose so people would leave her alone. But as the book progresses, she really comes into her own. Layla opens up and accepts friendships and love from 3 amazing men. I love the dynamic she has with Micah, Locke and Alistair.
In my opinion, book 1 of Eden Academy can't come soon enough!!! In the meantime, I'm off to find more books from Grace.
Layla has had to deal with a lot. And is a little eccentric. She was definitely on her way to becoming a hermit. All of which she does on purpose so people would leave her alone. But as the book progresses, she really comes into her own. Layla opens up and accepts friendships and love from 3 amazing men. I love the dynamic she has with Micah, Locke and Alistair.
In my opinion, book 1 of Eden Academy can't come soon enough!!! In the meantime, I'm off to find more books from Grace.
November 22, 2020
Great setup for the new series
I've read and loved all the books in the Dark River series by this author so I was excited when I heard there was going to be a new crossover series focused on the academy being built for supernaturals and preternaturals. I think the Dark River series is still my favorite but this book gave it a run for its money. Grace McGinty has a way of creating hilarious, likeable main characters, drool-worthy guys, as well as intriguing plots that keep you eager to read more. This prequel does a good job setting up the new series and you don't have to read the Dark River series for it to make sense, but I think it does add to your enjoyment if you read both.
I've read and loved all the books in the Dark River series by this author so I was excited when I heard there was going to be a new crossover series focused on the academy being built for supernaturals and preternaturals. I think the Dark River series is still my favorite but this book gave it a run for its money. Grace McGinty has a way of creating hilarious, likeable main characters, drool-worthy guys, as well as intriguing plots that keep you eager to read more. This prequel does a good job setting up the new series and you don't have to read the Dark River series for it to make sense, but I think it does add to your enjoyment if you read both.
November 23, 2020
Heart of the Hounded by Grace McGinty is a prequel to upcoming Eden Academy series. This is still a full-length reverse harem novel.
I'm so excited for the series after reading this book. Can't wait.
The men in this book are sexy, and I want them to myself. The main female character was relatable, and I loved her.
So many delicious, hot and sexy scenes. I was fanning myself many times.
I loved the humour in this book. There were many scenes where I was laughing.
Very well written, and I enjoyed reading this book. I love Grace's writing style, and I really think this is a must-read.
Would recommend.
I received a free ARC copy of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions are my own.
I'm so excited for the series after reading this book. Can't wait.
The men in this book are sexy, and I want them to myself. The main female character was relatable, and I loved her.
So many delicious, hot and sexy scenes. I was fanning myself many times.
I loved the humour in this book. There were many scenes where I was laughing.
Very well written, and I enjoyed reading this book. I love Grace's writing style, and I really think this is a must-read.
Would recommend.
I received a free ARC copy of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions are my own.
November 30, 2020
Layla Lee and Her Snackalicious Men
Oh yum yum yum yum. Every time I read another book of Grace’s I find myself drooling over the delicious men she creates. Spunky Layla finds herself out on her own, till a mysterious man shows up on her doorstep. What happens after is another piece to the puzzle that will hopefully give a safe haven to all preternatural beings. This story draws you deeper into the war brought on by The Hounds and their quest for power. Layla and her men do not disappoint! You can not put this book down and it leaves you craving for more!!
Being able to see how Grace’s books are crossing over into each other has been a delicious treat that I need more of!!!
Oh yum yum yum yum. Every time I read another book of Grace’s I find myself drooling over the delicious men she creates. Spunky Layla finds herself out on her own, till a mysterious man shows up on her doorstep. What happens after is another piece to the puzzle that will hopefully give a safe haven to all preternatural beings. This story draws you deeper into the war brought on by The Hounds and their quest for power. Layla and her men do not disappoint! You can not put this book down and it leaves you craving for more!!
Being able to see how Grace’s books are crossing over into each other has been a delicious treat that I need more of!!!
November 22, 2020
Be ready to find your next book boyfriend or three I mean why choose right. I absolutely love all of characters through out the entire book. There are plenty of steamy scenes to get the blood flowing.
Layla is quirky, caring, selfless and completely in love with her men. She cares about everyone around her and is will to sacrifice herself to make sure the ones she cares for are safe. Layla’s connection to each of the guys is special and unique.
Locke, Alistair and Micah are completed devoted to Layla and keeping her safe there isn’t anything they would do to protect her including burning the entire world to the ground.
I cannot wait to dive deeper into the world that is Eden Academy.
Layla is quirky, caring, selfless and completely in love with her men. She cares about everyone around her and is will to sacrifice herself to make sure the ones she cares for are safe. Layla’s connection to each of the guys is special and unique.
Locke, Alistair and Micah are completed devoted to Layla and keeping her safe there isn’t anything they would do to protect her including burning the entire world to the ground.
I cannot wait to dive deeper into the world that is Eden Academy.
September 1, 2021
Even though this is “Book 0”, it’s a full length book and (in my opinion) important to the series.
This is the foundation for Eden Academy, ya’ll! Literally.
It’s a cute love story. Our heroine has had some life struggles and deserves some of this goodness coming her way.
I didn’t LOVE her first guy or some of his actions. This isn’t bully, he’s not mean or cruel, it was just kind of rushed and could have been portrayed better.
But the other guys😍😍. ::sighLockesigh::
Anywho. A little rushed regarding character development but there was important-to-the-series crisis and foundation story. Fun start to this series.
This is the foundation for Eden Academy, ya’ll! Literally.
It’s a cute love story. Our heroine has had some life struggles and deserves some of this goodness coming her way.
I didn’t LOVE her first guy or some of his actions. This isn’t bully, he’s not mean or cruel, it was just kind of rushed and could have been portrayed better.
But the other guys😍😍. ::sighLockesigh::
Anywho. A little rushed regarding character development but there was important-to-the-series crisis and foundation story. Fun start to this series.
March 31, 2023
Didn't feel like a RH novel. No shared or group steam, only one sex encounter per mate, and never all cuddled up together.
The hounds leadership doesn't reveal reasons for their crimes and are overthrown too easily. Laylas heritage isn't laid out in depth for us to realize what she can now do or why it's accelerating.
It's also frustrating to have such crossover between series. There's not one that can be read first without giving away a large amount of the plot from another. The author has claimed they're "Easter eggs" but they feel like spoilers that are as subtle as a 2x4 to the head.
A large number of mysteries were left unsolved - hoping the Eden series answers them all.
The hounds leadership doesn't reveal reasons for their crimes and are overthrown too easily. Laylas heritage isn't laid out in depth for us to realize what she can now do or why it's accelerating.
It's also frustrating to have such crossover between series. There's not one that can be read first without giving away a large amount of the plot from another. The author has claimed they're "Easter eggs" but they feel like spoilers that are as subtle as a 2x4 to the head.
A large number of mysteries were left unsolved - hoping the Eden series answers them all.
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