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Red Wolf #1
Joy to the Wolves
Librarian's Note: An alternate cover for this ASIN can be found here.
Meet the shifters of the Red Wolf pack...
Close quarters make for a cozy Christmas...
As Christmas approaches, red wolf shifter Brooke Cerise unexpectedly inherits an antique shop in Portland, Oregon. But when a missing reindeer calf turns up on her property, she becomes embroiled in a kidnapping case and the primary suspect of far-too-intriguing shifter Detective Josh Wilding.
Josh doesn't intend to fall for the mysterious new woman in town, but Brooke gets under his skin from the moment they meet, and he can't help his instinct to protect her. These red wolves are both on the hunt for love, but there's a mystery to solve before they can enjoy their holiday happy-ever-after.
Meet the shifters of the Red Wolf pack...
Close quarters make for a cozy Christmas...
As Christmas approaches, red wolf shifter Brooke Cerise unexpectedly inherits an antique shop in Portland, Oregon. But when a missing reindeer calf turns up on her property, she becomes embroiled in a kidnapping case and the primary suspect of far-too-intriguing shifter Detective Josh Wilding.
Josh doesn't intend to fall for the mysterious new woman in town, but Brooke gets under his skin from the moment they meet, and he can't help his instinct to protect her. These red wolves are both on the hunt for love, but there's a mystery to solve before they can enjoy their holiday happy-ever-after.
416 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 29, 2020
About the author
Terry Spear
174 books1,637 followersLove, love, love romance, the paranormal, hunky Highlanders with their delicious brogue and hot kilts, so Terry Spear writes about those hunky Highlanders both in medieval times and as wolves in contemporary times. Jaguar shifters too! And young adult urban fantasy. And romantic suspense.
She grew up reading mystery, adventure, mythologies from around the world, ghost stories, the paranormal, fell in love with Dracula and Wolfman, and felt they needed loving too. Everyone should have someone to love. Which means her stories always have a HEA.
USA Today Bestseller residing in Central Texas from Sacramento, California who creates award-winning teddy bears too!
She grew up reading mystery, adventure, mythologies from around the world, ghost stories, the paranormal, fell in love with Dracula and Wolfman, and felt they needed loving too. Everyone should have someone to love. Which means her stories always have a HEA.
USA Today Bestseller residing in Central Texas from Sacramento, California who creates award-winning teddy bears too!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
August 16, 2020
It is now one month prior to publication so here is my review.
JOY TO THE WOLVES by Terry Spear is the first book in the Red Wolf series. This one is a paranormal romantic suspense novel featuring female protagonist Brook Cerise, a red wolf shifter. Brook has just finished fulfilling the requirements of her parents will by running their antique store in Arizona for three years. She has just sold it and is looking forward to the next phase of her life when her great aunt in Portland, Oregon dies and she inherits her antique shop. Brook has re-opened her aunt’s shop and is preparing for Christmas when a young reindeer turns up in her courtyard and she becomes a suspect in its kidnapping.
Brook is a likeable protagonist. Her goals seemed clear, but not what she expected. The secondary characters were well-rounded and enhanced the story and there were a few chuckles along with the suspense, action, mystery and romance. The relationships progressed a little too quickly but the addition of a second mystery added drama, suspense and action as both cases were investigated.
Overall, this was a fun and entertaining novel with a Christmas twist and some humor to go with the mysteries and romance. I enjoyed it and am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Many thanks to SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca and Terry Spear for a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
----------------------------
Review to come approximately 8/29/2020.
JOY TO THE WOLVES by Terry Spear is the first book in the Red Wolf series. This one is a paranormal romantic suspense novel featuring female protagonist Brook Cerise, a red wolf shifter. Brook has just finished fulfilling the requirements of her parents will by running their antique store in Arizona for three years. She has just sold it and is looking forward to the next phase of her life when her great aunt in Portland, Oregon dies and she inherits her antique shop. Brook has re-opened her aunt’s shop and is preparing for Christmas when a young reindeer turns up in her courtyard and she becomes a suspect in its kidnapping.
Brook is a likeable protagonist. Her goals seemed clear, but not what she expected. The secondary characters were well-rounded and enhanced the story and there were a few chuckles along with the suspense, action, mystery and romance. The relationships progressed a little too quickly but the addition of a second mystery added drama, suspense and action as both cases were investigated.
Overall, this was a fun and entertaining novel with a Christmas twist and some humor to go with the mysteries and romance. I enjoyed it and am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Many thanks to SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca and Terry Spear for a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
----------------------------
Review to come approximately 8/29/2020.
September 27, 2020
Joy to the Wolves by Terry Spear
Wolf shifter paranormal romance. Red wolf pack in Portland, Oregon. First in the series.
Brooke moved to Portland to run the inherited antique shop. All the single men are interested in the new red wolf shifter, but Josh takes the lead when criminal activity surrounds the shop.
Baby reindeer make the story a fun start to the series. It’s a Christmas season story that has heart and good intentions when the wolf leaders find a family for a lost teen in need of strong upstanding guidance.
Brooke and Josh grow into a relationship of first support and then potential mates with plenty of hot and steamy sexual encounters.
To me, the prologue was flat and more data dump that much else. The story got better and more active as it moved along. The writing seemed choppy in the first quarter of the book but evened out so that I enjoyed the reindeer, the suspense of criminal activity endangering Brooke and her shop, as well as the familiar relationships between Josh, his brother and enforcement friends.
3.5
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. I also purchased a copy to share.
Wolf shifter paranormal romance. Red wolf pack in Portland, Oregon. First in the series.
Brooke moved to Portland to run the inherited antique shop. All the single men are interested in the new red wolf shifter, but Josh takes the lead when criminal activity surrounds the shop.
Baby reindeer make the story a fun start to the series. It’s a Christmas season story that has heart and good intentions when the wolf leaders find a family for a lost teen in need of strong upstanding guidance.
Brooke and Josh grow into a relationship of first support and then potential mates with plenty of hot and steamy sexual encounters.
To me, the prologue was flat and more data dump that much else. The story got better and more active as it moved along. The writing seemed choppy in the first quarter of the book but evened out so that I enjoyed the reindeer, the suspense of criminal activity endangering Brooke and her shop, as well as the familiar relationships between Josh, his brother and enforcement friends.
3.5
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. I also purchased a copy to share.
September 22, 2020
So this was my first book by Terry Spear, and also the first in her new series, and I will admit I chose this book primarily because of that title. It's just absolutely fantastic and whoever came up with it, the author or the editing department, needs a massive pat on the back. It's wonderfully festive whilst also still alluding to the paranormal aspect in the plot.
Anyway, onto the review.
I had a hard time initially getting into this one because the writing doesn't flow especially well. It's very clunky, with a lot of information thrown at you right from the get-go. We get Brooke's entire family history all within the first 5% of the book and it was just a bit much.
The dialogue as well was very stilted and unnatural, but that does improve a little as the book goes in.
The actual plot was intriguing, I loved the mystery, and I adored the treasure hunting aspect. The characters themselves were interesting, Josh came off as a bit of an ass to begin with, but the closer the two became, the more likeable Josh was. The romance developed very quickly, but it never got into insta-mates territory which I appreciated.
Overall Joy to the Wolves was an entertaining book, primarily for the characters and the interesting plot which kept you reading, but I did struggle with the writing a lot which dampened my enjoyment in the end.
{Many thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.}
Anyway, onto the review.
I had a hard time initially getting into this one because the writing doesn't flow especially well. It's very clunky, with a lot of information thrown at you right from the get-go. We get Brooke's entire family history all within the first 5% of the book and it was just a bit much.
The dialogue as well was very stilted and unnatural, but that does improve a little as the book goes in.
The actual plot was intriguing, I loved the mystery, and I adored the treasure hunting aspect. The characters themselves were interesting, Josh came off as a bit of an ass to begin with, but the closer the two became, the more likeable Josh was. The romance developed very quickly, but it never got into insta-mates territory which I appreciated.
Overall Joy to the Wolves was an entertaining book, primarily for the characters and the interesting plot which kept you reading, but I did struggle with the writing a lot which dampened my enjoyment in the end.
{Many thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.}
August 30, 2020
I really loved how this one opened, how Brooke was concerned about the lone reindeer calf that she brought it into her shop, which didn't seem prudient to me, but sure was fun to read about. I also loved how the reindeer helped her business and how enamoured everyone was to see it. It made for a nice welcome to the town for Brooke and helped introduce her to some of the local wolves. I wasn't sure about Josh, as he came off as an ass at first and Brooke really didn't need that in her life. But as things went on he changed.
The treasure hunt aspect in the book was fun to read about too. Even it was little things Brooke and those helping her find it was exciting, but when they found the big treasures...man you couldn't help but be just as excited as they were.
I was glad to see how thing one ended, glad that new wolves were introduced to the pack, glad that Brooke found her place to belong and glad that the bad guys were caught.
The treasure hunt aspect in the book was fun to read about too. Even it was little things Brooke and those helping her find it was exciting, but when they found the big treasures...man you couldn't help but be just as excited as they were.
I was glad to see how thing one ended, glad that new wolves were introduced to the pack, glad that Brooke found her place to belong and glad that the bad guys were caught.
October 6, 2020
This was a great story that kept a great pace and I was interested during the whole book. Brooke is left her great-aunt’s antique store in her will. As she is getting ready to open for the holiday season, a reindeer calf appears on her property. Police detective/reindeer farm owner Josh finds his missing calf at an antique shop, where he is the center of attention. Thinking that Brooke has more to do with the theft, he hangs around the shop. Weird things begin to happen and he realizes that she is in trouble. Brooke is strongly attracted to the grumpy detective, and she needs his help to solve her problems. This book was funny and introduces a bunch of characters that are unique and will hopefully get their own stories. A great start to a fun new series.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
January 3, 2026
I liked the cozy factor of the story, and the antique store with treasures too. But it needed lots of paring down and editing- it didn't have enough meat on its bones to be that long. It got overly sweet and trite in the last third of the book and I was just fed up with them all.
September 23, 2020
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
I have only read one other book by this other and I wasn't a fan but I decided to give her another shot because can you really say an author isn't for you if you've only read one? My answer to that question is now a Yes.
Joy to the Wolves is the story of wolf shifter Brook Cerise inheriting her aunts antique shop, and she finds herself in possession of items wanted by bad guys. Local detective wolf shifter Josh takes it upon himself to keep her safe and get to the bottom of things. He doesn't make the best first impression on Brooke but the more time spent together they realize their meant to be.
Sadly, Terry Spears writing style and my reading tastes don't mix. Let's ignore the fact that she uses my least favorite word repeatedly for a certain part of the female anatomy. There just seemed to be a whole lot going on and while interesting I just wasn't interested in Josh and his partners interrogation of the witness'. I was bored more than I should have been while reading. I felt a lot of chapters could have been left out and made the story stronger. The characters themselves were entertaining but I wish the conversation between them flowed.
I have only read one other book by this other and I wasn't a fan but I decided to give her another shot because can you really say an author isn't for you if you've only read one? My answer to that question is now a Yes.
Joy to the Wolves is the story of wolf shifter Brook Cerise inheriting her aunts antique shop, and she finds herself in possession of items wanted by bad guys. Local detective wolf shifter Josh takes it upon himself to keep her safe and get to the bottom of things. He doesn't make the best first impression on Brooke but the more time spent together they realize their meant to be.
Sadly, Terry Spears writing style and my reading tastes don't mix. Let's ignore the fact that she uses my least favorite word repeatedly for a certain part of the female anatomy. There just seemed to be a whole lot going on and while interesting I just wasn't interested in Josh and his partners interrogation of the witness'. I was bored more than I should have been while reading. I felt a lot of chapters could have been left out and made the story stronger. The characters themselves were entertaining but I wish the conversation between them flowed.
February 17, 2022
Joy to the Wolves was such an interesting book and I really adored reading this in audio format and I found myself so intrigued by this story and it was such a cozy Christmas feel to it that I just adored and now I wish I had read this back around Christmas or at least when we were getting tons of snow. I was charmed by this story. it has a unique set up with our heroine running an antique shop she inherited but when a mysterious reindeer shows up on her store lawn, she is intrigued not knowing it would lead her to more mystery and a handsome law enforcement officer who also happens to be a red wolf just as she is. But when her life is put in danger, the story will heat up in some interesting ways.
I found myself utterly intrigued by this one here, I didn’t know what exactly to think about this one but I was pretty into the story and I do think part of the main reason is the narrator that we have narrating this story. She did such an amazing job in really pulling me into it. I do feel like this author’s writing style has changed a bit and it might have been a higher rating but it the writing style changed towards the end and rubbed me the wrong way and I do think part of this is because of the publisher and just how publishers are pushing authors in certain formats. But I enjoyed the story as a whole and even as a redemption story of a young teen which I thoroughly loved. I had a blast with this book, it has a delightful mix of suspense, angsty wolfish fun, and some holiday cheer to bring a smile to any reader’s face. Highly recommend this if you are looking for a lighter, Christmas-themed shifter romance with a small-town charm feel to it.
I found myself utterly intrigued by this one here, I didn’t know what exactly to think about this one but I was pretty into the story and I do think part of the main reason is the narrator that we have narrating this story. She did such an amazing job in really pulling me into it. I do feel like this author’s writing style has changed a bit and it might have been a higher rating but it the writing style changed towards the end and rubbed me the wrong way and I do think part of this is because of the publisher and just how publishers are pushing authors in certain formats. But I enjoyed the story as a whole and even as a redemption story of a young teen which I thoroughly loved. I had a blast with this book, it has a delightful mix of suspense, angsty wolfish fun, and some holiday cheer to bring a smile to any reader’s face. Highly recommend this if you are looking for a lighter, Christmas-themed shifter romance with a small-town charm feel to it.
Did Not Finish
March 16, 2025DNF at 10%
I am so tired having rude male characters as the love interest. We don't need this narrative that "if he pulls your pigtails, he likes you".
I am so tired having rude male characters as the love interest. We don't need this narrative that "if he pulls your pigtails, he likes you".
September 18, 2020
Joy to the Wolves
Red Wolf Series #1
Terry Spear
https://www.facebook.com/TerrySpearPa...
Release date 09/29/2020
Publisher Sourcebooks Casablanca
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Meet the shifters of the Red Wolf pack...
Close quarters make for a cozy Christmas...
As Christmas approaches, red wolf shifter Brooke Cerise unexpectedly inherits an antique shop in Portland, Oregon. But when a missing reindeer calf turns up on her property, she becomes embroiled in a kidnapping case and the primary suspect of far-too-intriguing shifter Detective Josh Wilding.
Josh doesn't intend to fall for the mysterious new woman in town, but Brooke gets under his skin from the moment they meet, and he can't help his instinct to protect her. These red wolves are both on the hunt for love, but there's a mystery to solve before they can enjoy their holiday happy-ever-after.
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
When the new she-wolf in town reawakens his chivalrous side ...
I have read some shifters stories but none like Mrs Spear. Her shifters meddle with the humans and live like them outside their longer life-span and their need to run.
What I also learned is most are born wolf, the royals and can shift at their convenience when a few have been changed by a bite, but the royals try to avoid it, and they shift only with the moon.
This story is a cute girl meets boy, a turn of events brings them together.
Brooke after having lost her last living relative moves to fulfill her aunt’s will. She now has another antique shop to run and some Easter eggs to hunt. And now a suspicious cop is driving her crazy about she being behind a reindeer calf abduction.
Josh is a bit of a jerk at the beginning but he is some excuses to be wary of she-wolves. Still there is this instant chemistry that drives him to her. And he quickly makes up as when in need, he is the one rushing into danger to rescue her.
What has begun like a lark takes a more serious turn when her life is threatened.
It is a tale with two twines as there is the fun merry treasures hunt as a last gift by Brooke’s aunt and then the sleuthing thread with who is behind the many attacks and why.
So while different from the paranormal romances I have thus far read, this one was a pleasant tale with fun guys, bad ones, cute reindeers, lot of food and a heroine with a knack to find herself in danger at the worse time possible to have the hero dashing to her defense.
4 stars
I was granted an advance copy by the publisher Sourcebooks Casablanca and Netgalley, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
Red Wolf Series #1
Terry Spear
https://www.facebook.com/TerrySpearPa...
Release date 09/29/2020
Publisher Sourcebooks Casablanca
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Meet the shifters of the Red Wolf pack...
Close quarters make for a cozy Christmas...
As Christmas approaches, red wolf shifter Brooke Cerise unexpectedly inherits an antique shop in Portland, Oregon. But when a missing reindeer calf turns up on her property, she becomes embroiled in a kidnapping case and the primary suspect of far-too-intriguing shifter Detective Josh Wilding.
Josh doesn't intend to fall for the mysterious new woman in town, but Brooke gets under his skin from the moment they meet, and he can't help his instinct to protect her. These red wolves are both on the hunt for love, but there's a mystery to solve before they can enjoy their holiday happy-ever-after.
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
When the new she-wolf in town reawakens his chivalrous side ...
I have read some shifters stories but none like Mrs Spear. Her shifters meddle with the humans and live like them outside their longer life-span and their need to run.
What I also learned is most are born wolf, the royals and can shift at their convenience when a few have been changed by a bite, but the royals try to avoid it, and they shift only with the moon.
This story is a cute girl meets boy, a turn of events brings them together.
Brooke after having lost her last living relative moves to fulfill her aunt’s will. She now has another antique shop to run and some Easter eggs to hunt. And now a suspicious cop is driving her crazy about she being behind a reindeer calf abduction.
Josh is a bit of a jerk at the beginning but he is some excuses to be wary of she-wolves. Still there is this instant chemistry that drives him to her. And he quickly makes up as when in need, he is the one rushing into danger to rescue her.
What has begun like a lark takes a more serious turn when her life is threatened.
It is a tale with two twines as there is the fun merry treasures hunt as a last gift by Brooke’s aunt and then the sleuthing thread with who is behind the many attacks and why.
So while different from the paranormal romances I have thus far read, this one was a pleasant tale with fun guys, bad ones, cute reindeers, lot of food and a heroine with a knack to find herself in danger at the worse time possible to have the hero dashing to her defense.
4 stars
I was granted an advance copy by the publisher Sourcebooks Casablanca and Netgalley, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
September 7, 2020
I wanted to go inside Brooke store and have some hot chocolate and whatever other goodies. I wanted to look around and maybe pet the baby reindeer. I felt like I was a visitor and I wanted to shop and enjoy. I love a book that I feel part of, even if I am not a shifter :) Brooke was intelligent, feisty and fun. Josh seemed a tad pig headed and when we find out why it wasn't hard to feel sorry. I loved the mystery, the twists, the turns and what lays the groundwork for a whole new series. Sign me up, I am on board. Romance, humor, mystery, shifters, what's not to love. Thank you Sourcebooks Casablanca, Terry Spear and Netgalley for an enjoyable read I could lose myself in and bring Christmas closer. I freely share my thoughts and opinions.
December 15, 2022
Overall a fun holiday read. But some of the writing was a bit forced.
“How about I make us a delicious lunch of lightly grilled salmon with a pomegranate vinaigrette and steamed fresh vegetables from the local farm to table stand I found while doing my morning run, which I do to prevent health problems as they are the leading cause of death in women my age”
(Not a direct quote)
“How about I make us a delicious lunch of lightly grilled salmon with a pomegranate vinaigrette and steamed fresh vegetables from the local farm to table stand I found while doing my morning run, which I do to prevent health problems as they are the leading cause of death in women my age”
(Not a direct quote)
November 20, 2022
This was absolutely one of the worst books I have ever read, I should have listened to my friend when she said to give up on it.
January 25, 2021
In Joy to the Wolves, Brooke Cerise learns that she has just inherited her great-aunt's antique shop in Portland, OR. The catch? She has to run it for three years prior to selling or forfeit. Shortly upon her arrival, she steps outside to find a reindeer calf in her courtyard, only to be questioned by the local detective/co-owner of the reindeer, Josh Wilding, as a potential suspect. As another, far more serious crime occurs, they band together in hopes of finding the culprits.
I acknowledge that I was more than likely not the target audience for this book. There are plenty of favorable reviews that prove this fact. Unfortunately, it simply wasn't for me. There was absolutely no build to Josh and Brooke's relationship. They went from disliking each other/stating they didn’t want to get involved with anyone to dating in just a couple of days. The author’s writing felt rushed and disjointed to me. It’s not that I don’t think she can write - her abundance of published books says otherwise - but rather, the book was written extremely fast and was underdeveloped. I ended up picking up the audiobook approximately 40% through, and having a narrator read it made the dialogue and sentences flow a bit better.
I also thought it was strange that each time a family member died, they would leave her their antique shop (great-aunt Ivy wasn't the first one) and require her to run it for three years. She states early on that it's not for her, yet . As previously mentioned, I do not think that I was the intended audience for this book (and that's OK!). A huge thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca and NetGalley for the complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
I acknowledge that I was more than likely not the target audience for this book. There are plenty of favorable reviews that prove this fact. Unfortunately, it simply wasn't for me. There was absolutely no build to Josh and Brooke's relationship. They went from disliking each other/stating they didn’t want to get involved with anyone to dating in just a couple of days. The author’s writing felt rushed and disjointed to me. It’s not that I don’t think she can write - her abundance of published books says otherwise - but rather, the book was written extremely fast and was underdeveloped. I ended up picking up the audiobook approximately 40% through, and having a narrator read it made the dialogue and sentences flow a bit better.
I also thought it was strange that each time a family member died, they would leave her their antique shop (great-aunt Ivy wasn't the first one) and require her to run it for three years. She states early on that it's not for her, yet . As previously mentioned, I do not think that I was the intended audience for this book (and that's OK!). A huge thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca and NetGalley for the complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 22, 2020
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
While I will freely admit that I love any new addition to the ever-expanding Heart of the Wolf universe, I especially love when it’s time for the Christmas story to arrive. Add to that enjoyment the beginning of a new division or series within this universe with the Red Wolf sub-series and I’m in a reading piece of heaven. (Yes, I do love this world that much that I get excited to explore even more.)
Joy to the Wolves is a funny, intriguing, steamy, emotional beginning to the Red Wolf series – and I loved every single moment spent in this world. Come on… a baby reindeer? What is not to love about that at Christmas time?
Meet Brooke, a wolf shifter who has just recently arrived in town to take over her aunt’s antique shop – Brooke just sold her parent’s antique shop that she was obligated by the will to work for three years… and now she’s back in that very same situation. She’d had other dreams to explore but, family obligations are well, family.
The last thing she expected to show up at the gate of her shop was a baby reindeer so she did the logical thing, she brought the calf inside, called the cops to report it missing, and waited for help to arrive. Yeah. Things didn’t quite work out that way though since the cops thought her call was a prank. A local police officer and his twin brother (also red wolf shifters) were missing a baby reindeer from their ranch, so when Brooke used social media to look for the owners immediately Josh believed she had kidnapped the baby reindeer for publicity for the failing antique shop. Really? To say that Josh comes off as a bit of a donkey’s hind-end at first is an understatement.
There was a spark of interest between Josh and Brooke, not instant love but more “I want to hate you because you’re a donkey’s backside but you’re hot so I’ll give you a chance” kind of interest. That might have worked, eventually, but soon enough odd things began happening around the antique shop, dangerous things that show that Brooke has walked into something serious when taking over the property. Once Josh begins to take the situation seriously we have an intense mystery to solve, a couple to work their way toward a happy ending, and an adorable reindeer calf in the midst of it all.
I had fun with Joy to the Wolves. It’s the kind of beginning to a series that I enjoy, some danger, a puzzle to solve, interesting secondary characters that I hope to learn more about over the series, and a couple that eventually work their way to a happy ever after ending. If you love shifters and the beginning of a new series then this one would be perfect for you.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher, Sourcebooks Casablanca via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
While I will freely admit that I love any new addition to the ever-expanding Heart of the Wolf universe, I especially love when it’s time for the Christmas story to arrive. Add to that enjoyment the beginning of a new division or series within this universe with the Red Wolf sub-series and I’m in a reading piece of heaven. (Yes, I do love this world that much that I get excited to explore even more.)
Joy to the Wolves is a funny, intriguing, steamy, emotional beginning to the Red Wolf series – and I loved every single moment spent in this world. Come on… a baby reindeer? What is not to love about that at Christmas time?
Meet Brooke, a wolf shifter who has just recently arrived in town to take over her aunt’s antique shop – Brooke just sold her parent’s antique shop that she was obligated by the will to work for three years… and now she’s back in that very same situation. She’d had other dreams to explore but, family obligations are well, family.
The last thing she expected to show up at the gate of her shop was a baby reindeer so she did the logical thing, she brought the calf inside, called the cops to report it missing, and waited for help to arrive. Yeah. Things didn’t quite work out that way though since the cops thought her call was a prank. A local police officer and his twin brother (also red wolf shifters) were missing a baby reindeer from their ranch, so when Brooke used social media to look for the owners immediately Josh believed she had kidnapped the baby reindeer for publicity for the failing antique shop. Really? To say that Josh comes off as a bit of a donkey’s hind-end at first is an understatement.
There was a spark of interest between Josh and Brooke, not instant love but more “I want to hate you because you’re a donkey’s backside but you’re hot so I’ll give you a chance” kind of interest. That might have worked, eventually, but soon enough odd things began happening around the antique shop, dangerous things that show that Brooke has walked into something serious when taking over the property. Once Josh begins to take the situation seriously we have an intense mystery to solve, a couple to work their way toward a happy ending, and an adorable reindeer calf in the midst of it all.
I had fun with Joy to the Wolves. It’s the kind of beginning to a series that I enjoy, some danger, a puzzle to solve, interesting secondary characters that I hope to learn more about over the series, and a couple that eventually work their way to a happy ever after ending. If you love shifters and the beginning of a new series then this one would be perfect for you.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher, Sourcebooks Casablanca via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
August 29, 2020
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book in exchange of an honest review !
The first thing that caught my attention about this book was the title, I love puns and so when I saw a werewolf romance novel with a christmas pun I simply had to know more about it.
I went into it not knowing too much about it, just the basics, a werewolf detective, christmas and a main character who is on a farm and becomes wrapped up in all this when a reindeer calf or a bambi as I like to call them, showed up on her property.
This is really all the information you need, it read fast and was funny it felt like something that could become one of those cutesy christmas movies which is exactly what I was looking for when I picked this up. Is it a book that will stay with you for the rest of your life, probably not, is it a hell of a good time that gives you all the christmas vibes you could want, YES. Their chemistry was undeniable, from the moment they meet until the end of the book it felt like they were presented in a way that truly made me believe they were made for one another.
Our main character Brooke, who is also a werewolf, was funny, quirky and so much fun to read about. She's one of those main characters you easily get attached to. Her love interest Detective Josh, is HOT, I mean the way he's described makes us all need a little water, if you know what I mean... Mix them together and BOOM! sparks fly. Well, not at first as he is "not interested" and his twin is much nicer to Brooke when he arrives to interrogate her for their missing reindeer calf that she has called in as found. I love that the romance was not an instalove as it often is with these types of books, while I do want that sometimes, it was a nice change of pace to have them meet and be not enemies, but a type of annoyed-to-lovers romance ! The side characters were attaching and the dialogue between our couple funny, they just were so sarcastic with each other, especially in the beginning and then just had funny moments happen with normal dialogue.
The plot is interesting and engaging which is not always the case with these types of books and left me pleasantly surprised because, both the romance and the kidnapping case we are following intrigue us. We start the book with when Brooke was forced to once more, after taking over her parents antique shop for three years and then selling it, do the same with her aunt's as she died and put in her will that she can't sell it for three years. This is not what Brooke wants, it is not her dream to own an antique shop and so she takes over to respect the will of her aunt and things happen until our main characters meet ! They meet very early on which was lovely as the romance was the main interest for me in this reading experience. Equal part mystery, romance and funny this book was a quick read that left me wanting more of their story. A perfect Christmas read for all fans of werewolf books !
Overall 4/5 Howling stars !
Bookarina
The first thing that caught my attention about this book was the title, I love puns and so when I saw a werewolf romance novel with a christmas pun I simply had to know more about it.
I went into it not knowing too much about it, just the basics, a werewolf detective, christmas and a main character who is on a farm and becomes wrapped up in all this when a reindeer calf or a bambi as I like to call them, showed up on her property.
This is really all the information you need, it read fast and was funny it felt like something that could become one of those cutesy christmas movies which is exactly what I was looking for when I picked this up. Is it a book that will stay with you for the rest of your life, probably not, is it a hell of a good time that gives you all the christmas vibes you could want, YES. Their chemistry was undeniable, from the moment they meet until the end of the book it felt like they were presented in a way that truly made me believe they were made for one another.
Our main character Brooke, who is also a werewolf, was funny, quirky and so much fun to read about. She's one of those main characters you easily get attached to. Her love interest Detective Josh, is HOT, I mean the way he's described makes us all need a little water, if you know what I mean... Mix them together and BOOM! sparks fly. Well, not at first as he is "not interested" and his twin is much nicer to Brooke when he arrives to interrogate her for their missing reindeer calf that she has called in as found. I love that the romance was not an instalove as it often is with these types of books, while I do want that sometimes, it was a nice change of pace to have them meet and be not enemies, but a type of annoyed-to-lovers romance ! The side characters were attaching and the dialogue between our couple funny, they just were so sarcastic with each other, especially in the beginning and then just had funny moments happen with normal dialogue.
The plot is interesting and engaging which is not always the case with these types of books and left me pleasantly surprised because, both the romance and the kidnapping case we are following intrigue us. We start the book with when Brooke was forced to once more, after taking over her parents antique shop for three years and then selling it, do the same with her aunt's as she died and put in her will that she can't sell it for three years. This is not what Brooke wants, it is not her dream to own an antique shop and so she takes over to respect the will of her aunt and things happen until our main characters meet ! They meet very early on which was lovely as the romance was the main interest for me in this reading experience. Equal part mystery, romance and funny this book was a quick read that left me wanting more of their story. A perfect Christmas read for all fans of werewolf books !
Overall 4/5 Howling stars !
Bookarina
September 27, 2020
JOY TO THE WOLVES is a delightful Christmas-centered paranormal romantic suspense. Brooke has just inherited an antiques shop in Portland and moved across the country. Her great-aunt died and left it to her with the stipulation that she cannot sell it for three years. Brooke is up for the challenge, especially since she has just finished the three years from the will her parents had for their shop and sold it. However, things do not seem to be going according to plan.
Brooke has just opened up the shop, when she finds a baby reindeer in her gate. She calls the police, but they hang up on her assuming it is a prank. She takes the reindeer in while she searches for the owners herself, and it ends up being great for business.
Josh and Maverick, brothers who work a family-owned reindeer ranch, are searching for their stolen reindeer when they spot him on social media. Josh is also a police detective and assumes that Brooke has committed the crime for publicity. As he questions her, he becomes less sure, but is not willing to totally clear her. As he investigates, other people seem interested in Brooke's shop, raising the question of what exactly her great-aunt has let her walk into, and Brooke and Josh's paths seem to keep colliding. As they are also both wolf shifters, their meeting seems deeper and friendship forms faster amidst the danger.
I really enjoyed the mystery, suspense, and the romance. They were both characters I liked, and though they took some time to warm up to each other, they seemed well-suited. I love the small-town style setting, and the Christmas twists that make this so charming. This book was highly readable and with just the right amount of suspense and crime-solving that made the pages turn quickly. Highly recommend for fans of paranormal romantic suspense- this is a great holiday-themed read that is very much worth picking up.
Please note that I received an ARC from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Brooke has just opened up the shop, when she finds a baby reindeer in her gate. She calls the police, but they hang up on her assuming it is a prank. She takes the reindeer in while she searches for the owners herself, and it ends up being great for business.
Josh and Maverick, brothers who work a family-owned reindeer ranch, are searching for their stolen reindeer when they spot him on social media. Josh is also a police detective and assumes that Brooke has committed the crime for publicity. As he questions her, he becomes less sure, but is not willing to totally clear her. As he investigates, other people seem interested in Brooke's shop, raising the question of what exactly her great-aunt has let her walk into, and Brooke and Josh's paths seem to keep colliding. As they are also both wolf shifters, their meeting seems deeper and friendship forms faster amidst the danger.
I really enjoyed the mystery, suspense, and the romance. They were both characters I liked, and though they took some time to warm up to each other, they seemed well-suited. I love the small-town style setting, and the Christmas twists that make this so charming. This book was highly readable and with just the right amount of suspense and crime-solving that made the pages turn quickly. Highly recommend for fans of paranormal romantic suspense- this is a great holiday-themed read that is very much worth picking up.
Please note that I received an ARC from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
October 10, 2020
3.5 stars--JOY TO THE WOLVES is the first instalment in Terry Spear’s contemporary, adult RED WOLF paranormal, romantic suspense series focusing on the Red Wolf pack in Portland, Oregon. This is Detective Josh Wilding, and antiquities dealer Brooke Cerise’ s story line.
Told from third person perspective JOY TO THE WOLVES is a Christmas themed story line that follows red wolf shifter and antiquities dealer Brooke Cerise. Following the death of her great aunt Ivy, as the sole surviving relation, Brooke Cerise inherited her aunt’s antique shop in Portland, Oregon with the stipulation that she work and run the shop for a minimum of three years. When a missing reindeer calf shows up in Brooke’s courtyard, our heroine becomes the number one suspect and finds herself investigated by local law enforcement. Enter wolf shifter Detective John Wilding, the man with whom Brooke will fall in love but all is not well in the antiquities business when a mysterious shipment places Brooke in the direct line of fire, and the DEA and FBI are called in to help find the people responsible.
JOY TO THE WOLVES is a detailed story line that follows several intersecting paths including the romance, relationship and mating of Brooke and Josh; the appearance of an orphaned, teenaged wolf with no biological family to speak of; the murder of two antique dealers, millions of dollar in drugs and a missing thumb drive, and the discovery of a fortune in collectibles that are about to make our heroine a very wealthy wolf.
JOY TO THE WOLVES is a story of family, friendships, and relationships; a story of betrayal and vengeance; greed and murder; Christmas and love. The premise is heart warming and entertaining but saying that there is too much telling and not enough showing-sometimes fewer details allows the imagination take flight; the romance is seductive and fated; the characters are numerous and energetic.
copy supplied for Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
Told from third person perspective JOY TO THE WOLVES is a Christmas themed story line that follows red wolf shifter and antiquities dealer Brooke Cerise. Following the death of her great aunt Ivy, as the sole surviving relation, Brooke Cerise inherited her aunt’s antique shop in Portland, Oregon with the stipulation that she work and run the shop for a minimum of three years. When a missing reindeer calf shows up in Brooke’s courtyard, our heroine becomes the number one suspect and finds herself investigated by local law enforcement. Enter wolf shifter Detective John Wilding, the man with whom Brooke will fall in love but all is not well in the antiquities business when a mysterious shipment places Brooke in the direct line of fire, and the DEA and FBI are called in to help find the people responsible.
JOY TO THE WOLVES is a detailed story line that follows several intersecting paths including the romance, relationship and mating of Brooke and Josh; the appearance of an orphaned, teenaged wolf with no biological family to speak of; the murder of two antique dealers, millions of dollar in drugs and a missing thumb drive, and the discovery of a fortune in collectibles that are about to make our heroine a very wealthy wolf.
JOY TO THE WOLVES is a story of family, friendships, and relationships; a story of betrayal and vengeance; greed and murder; Christmas and love. The premise is heart warming and entertaining but saying that there is too much telling and not enough showing-sometimes fewer details allows the imagination take flight; the romance is seductive and fated; the characters are numerous and energetic.
copy supplied for Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
July 20, 2020
Red wolf shifter, Brooke Cerise unexpectedly inherits an antique shop in Portland, Oregon. When a missing reindeer calf unexpectedly ends up on her property she becomes part of a kidnapping case. Detective Josh Wildling doesn’t expect to fall for the new wolf in town, especially since she is part of his kidnapping case, but there is just something about her he can’t resist.
It's been years since I read a Terry Spear book and I don’t know why. This book was just what I needed on this very hot July day. I really loved this book. Brooke and Josh were adorable together. I loved watching these two slowly fall in love.
I really liked Brooke. I loved that she inherited an antique shop. It was fascinating and created a very unique setting that I don’t think I have ever read before. Josh was the protective alpha male but he was also very supportive. I loved how he instantly starts helping Brooke around the shop and helping her sell items. He really was a great hero and I instantly loved him. These two were adorable and I couldn’t get enough of them.
Overall, this was a great holiday romance! I really hope we see more of these two in future books of this series. Also I couldn’t get enough of the reindeer in this book. They were adorable. I loved that Josh and his brother had a reindeer farm because that sounds like an amazing place to work.
*ARC provided by Netgalley for an honest review.*
This review was originally posted at Red-Haired Ash Reads.
It's been years since I read a Terry Spear book and I don’t know why. This book was just what I needed on this very hot July day. I really loved this book. Brooke and Josh were adorable together. I loved watching these two slowly fall in love.
I really liked Brooke. I loved that she inherited an antique shop. It was fascinating and created a very unique setting that I don’t think I have ever read before. Josh was the protective alpha male but he was also very supportive. I loved how he instantly starts helping Brooke around the shop and helping her sell items. He really was a great hero and I instantly loved him. These two were adorable and I couldn’t get enough of them.
Overall, this was a great holiday romance! I really hope we see more of these two in future books of this series. Also I couldn’t get enough of the reindeer in this book. They were adorable. I loved that Josh and his brother had a reindeer farm because that sounds like an amazing place to work.
*ARC provided by Netgalley for an honest review.*
This review was originally posted at Red-Haired Ash Reads.
September 22, 2020
Wolves...Mates... Baby Reindeer... Love... Intrigue
Joy to the Wolves is the first in the book in the new Red Wolves series by Terry Spear. This book has everything we expect from a Terry Spear book. The book has humor, love, intrigue, hope, and mated wolves.
Brooke Cerise is a red wolf shifter who has inherited an antique shop from her aunt, and she must run it for three years before she can even think of selling and moving on from Portland, Oregon. One morning, she unexpectedly finds a reindeer calf in the courtyard of her property.
Detective Josh Wilding sees a picture of the reindeer and sets out to investigate the “reindeer-napping”. Little do they know that there are far more sinister things happening than a reindeer kidnapping. Someone is out to destroy something Brooke inadvertently has in her possession.
As the two red wolves discover, life can be challenging, but when you find the one person/wolf you are meant to be with, the challenges pale in comparison to love.
I could not put this down (metaphorically)! The characters of Josh, Brooke, and the other wolves are real enough that I can see myself wanting to run with them. Christmastime is a special time of year and more so because of my situation in life and books like “Joy to the Wolves” encourage me to look for the good in situations.
Joy to the Wolves is the first in the book in the new Red Wolves series by Terry Spear. This book has everything we expect from a Terry Spear book. The book has humor, love, intrigue, hope, and mated wolves.
Brooke Cerise is a red wolf shifter who has inherited an antique shop from her aunt, and she must run it for three years before she can even think of selling and moving on from Portland, Oregon. One morning, she unexpectedly finds a reindeer calf in the courtyard of her property.
Detective Josh Wilding sees a picture of the reindeer and sets out to investigate the “reindeer-napping”. Little do they know that there are far more sinister things happening than a reindeer kidnapping. Someone is out to destroy something Brooke inadvertently has in her possession.
As the two red wolves discover, life can be challenging, but when you find the one person/wolf you are meant to be with, the challenges pale in comparison to love.
I could not put this down (metaphorically)! The characters of Josh, Brooke, and the other wolves are real enough that I can see myself wanting to run with them. Christmastime is a special time of year and more so because of my situation in life and books like “Joy to the Wolves” encourage me to look for the good in situations.
September 29, 2020
Joy to the Wolves by Terry Spear is the first of the new Red Wolf Series. It is a great introduction to the Red Wolves of Portland, Oregon. Ms. Spear’s stories flow with an intense storyline of hot romance, suspense and more than one mystery in this story. What this story has is humor in addition to the Christmas theme. Christmas runs strong in this story with Christmas movies watch by the characters. Certainly, a fun scene.
New mystery woman, missing reindeer and family loss take their toll on Detective Josh Wilding as it is approaches Christmas. Red wolf shifter Brooke Cerise has moved to Oregon because of an antique shop inheritance. It is not long before she is on Josh’s suspect list but not for long. The interaction between these two characters is enjoyable with a quick romance relationship formed. The supporting characters are so much fun. Some of them bring a lighter feel to this story.
Christmas with shifters involved in solving a case within a well-structure plot will get you ready for winter holiday celebrating. So fans of Christmas romances with open bedroom door scenes will want to check this out. Especially fans of shifter romance will enjoy Joy to the Wolves.
An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
New mystery woman, missing reindeer and family loss take their toll on Detective Josh Wilding as it is approaches Christmas. Red wolf shifter Brooke Cerise has moved to Oregon because of an antique shop inheritance. It is not long before she is on Josh’s suspect list but not for long. The interaction between these two characters is enjoyable with a quick romance relationship formed. The supporting characters are so much fun. Some of them bring a lighter feel to this story.
Christmas with shifters involved in solving a case within a well-structure plot will get you ready for winter holiday celebrating. So fans of Christmas romances with open bedroom door scenes will want to check this out. Especially fans of shifter romance will enjoy Joy to the Wolves.
An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 5, 2020
Joy to the Wolves by Terry Spear was one irresistible read. The story was cozy and action-packed. This book started off as the first book in a new wolf series, The Red Wolves. It held the same amount of suspense, action-packed pages, and sexy scenes. The heat between the main two characters was fun to follow. Their first meeting is one where the hero is annoying yet hot as hell and the heroine disliking his accusing tones but still found him sexy. Both feel the instant attraction.
The hero doesn't want to get too close to the she wolf in case she does decide to live their area. But on the other hand, she's a magnate for trouble. Bad guys have followed her to her antique shop and will do anything to get their hands on something they think she has of theirs. The hero has put himself into action by taking steps to protect the red she wolf. That wasn't the only crime stuff happening in this book. I loved how complicated the plot was and how interesting every character big and small were. Once again, I found myself falling hard for Terry Spear's contemporary paranormal romance book. She is definitely one talented writer.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
The hero doesn't want to get too close to the she wolf in case she does decide to live their area. But on the other hand, she's a magnate for trouble. Bad guys have followed her to her antique shop and will do anything to get their hands on something they think she has of theirs. The hero has put himself into action by taking steps to protect the red she wolf. That wasn't the only crime stuff happening in this book. I loved how complicated the plot was and how interesting every character big and small were. Once again, I found myself falling hard for Terry Spear's contemporary paranormal romance book. She is definitely one talented writer.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
September 28, 2020
This is book 1 in the Red Wolves series. Brooke Cerise is a red wolf shifter who has unexpectedly inherited her Aunt's antique shop in Oregon. She wasn't planning on this being the next step in her life, but she will roll with the things that life sends her way until she figures out where she needs to be. But when a baby reindeer shows up on her property, she doesn't expect to be seen as a suspect or to be involved in another mystery. Josh Wilder is the detective who is sent out to talk to her about the kidnapping of the reindeer and he is kind of mean at first. But when outside things start happening, he feels the need to not only keep her safe but to get to know her and just be with her.
I really liked this one. Brooke and Josh's banter back and forth made me laugh a lot. Especially when I wasn't really expecting it. The different mysteries added that bit of suspense that I really liked. My only drawback was that once they got over their snarkiness with each other, the romance was kinda just like BAM we are together. It seemed a little fast in my opinion. But on a whole, I did really like it. I also think I need a story for his brother!!
I really liked this one. Brooke and Josh's banter back and forth made me laugh a lot. Especially when I wasn't really expecting it. The different mysteries added that bit of suspense that I really liked. My only drawback was that once they got over their snarkiness with each other, the romance was kinda just like BAM we are together. It seemed a little fast in my opinion. But on a whole, I did really like it. I also think I need a story for his brother!!
September 26, 2020
So, I thought I’d love this book as I’m starting my seasonal book reading time of year, and I’m delving back into the paranormal/shifter genre. But while there was Christmas elements sprinkled in, it was very shifter-lite. I’m used to fated mates, more sensuality between the leads and maybe a bit of pack drama. There was none of that. And their mating ritual, if you want to call it that, not impressed.
Outside of that, there was so many different mysteries and plot lines going on, it was sort of chaotic. Brooke and Josh were forced into close proximity due these issues, but I didn’t sense a lot of chemistry. I didn’t buy their attraction. Then again, it all goes back to that lack of fated mates.
This is my first Terry Spear book. I see that she has many other shifter books to choose from, so I’ll try again through the KU program on Amazon to see if there’s something more to my liking. 2.5 stars
My thanks to Netgalley for the advance copy of this book. All opinions are my own and freely given
Outside of that, there was so many different mysteries and plot lines going on, it was sort of chaotic. Brooke and Josh were forced into close proximity due these issues, but I didn’t sense a lot of chemistry. I didn’t buy their attraction. Then again, it all goes back to that lack of fated mates.
This is my first Terry Spear book. I see that she has many other shifter books to choose from, so I’ll try again through the KU program on Amazon to see if there’s something more to my liking. 2.5 stars
My thanks to Netgalley for the advance copy of this book. All opinions are my own and freely given
September 17, 2020
Joy to the Wolves by Terry Spear
Publisher: SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca
Genre: Sci Fi & Fantasy
Release Date: September 29, 2020
Wow!!!! I absolutely LOVE this book! The mystery, the flirtation, the romance! What more could you ask for?
I absolutely love the characters and the story line in this book. I'm a huge fan of shifter novels and this was hot and steamy! There was also an incredible mystery with tons of suspense. The chemistry between Brooke and Josh is so intense and their flirtation is so adorable. I also loved Maverick, I want him to be my book boyfriend!
Keep in mind, this book is steamy at times and is NSFW.
There is also a sweet Christmas story line and it makes the book even better! I really hope this becomes a long series because I need more of this wolf pack!
I'm so grateful to Terry Spear, SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca, and NetGalley for providing me with a free copy of this ARC ebook in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca
Genre: Sci Fi & Fantasy
Release Date: September 29, 2020
Wow!!!! I absolutely LOVE this book! The mystery, the flirtation, the romance! What more could you ask for?
I absolutely love the characters and the story line in this book. I'm a huge fan of shifter novels and this was hot and steamy! There was also an incredible mystery with tons of suspense. The chemistry between Brooke and Josh is so intense and their flirtation is so adorable. I also loved Maverick, I want him to be my book boyfriend!
Keep in mind, this book is steamy at times and is NSFW.
There is also a sweet Christmas story line and it makes the book even better! I really hope this becomes a long series because I need more of this wolf pack!
I'm so grateful to Terry Spear, SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca, and NetGalley for providing me with a free copy of this ARC ebook in exchange for my honest review.
September 27, 2020
Review featured at www.books-n-kisses.com
So the good first. This story is cute. Plain and simple. Brooke is a red wolf that comes to town because her aunt left her an antique store. She seems a young reindeer in front of her store and brings it in. The town can’t wait to see it and Brooke gets to know the wolves of the area in a light hearted way.
Josh comes off as a bit of an ass but finally I warmed up to him. But I will say it took a while. And I never really understood why he was being an ass to Brooke.
And the treasure hunt is worth the read in and of itself. BUT…
Now the bad… After all the books Terry Spear has written this seemed stiff. A lot of it just didn’t flow and the conversations were unrealistic, that may seem weird about a paranormal.
Still a good read and a nice add to the Holiday Paranormal Romance genre.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
So the good first. This story is cute. Plain and simple. Brooke is a red wolf that comes to town because her aunt left her an antique store. She seems a young reindeer in front of her store and brings it in. The town can’t wait to see it and Brooke gets to know the wolves of the area in a light hearted way.
Josh comes off as a bit of an ass but finally I warmed up to him. But I will say it took a while. And I never really understood why he was being an ass to Brooke.
And the treasure hunt is worth the read in and of itself. BUT…
Now the bad… After all the books Terry Spear has written this seemed stiff. A lot of it just didn’t flow and the conversations were unrealistic, that may seem weird about a paranormal.
Still a good read and a nice add to the Holiday Paranormal Romance genre.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
September 28, 2020
Joy to the Wolves is a fun and intriguing shifter romance set right around the holidays. This is the first book in a new series by Terry Spear. Red Wolf shifter Brooke, inherits her second antique store when her aunt Ivy passes but it means moving to Oregon from Arizona. Brooke has a pretty positive attitude about the whole situation but when unexpected criminal activity keeps happen shifter Josh Wilding get involved. The beginning of the story was a bit rough with dialogue that did not seem to flow and was pretty choppy however, it got better as the book went on. The mysteries and criminal actives kept the story moving and so did the blooming romance between Brooke and Josh.
I was provided with an electronic ARC through NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I was provided with an electronic ARC through NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
October 5, 2020
3.0-3.25 stars
Ack! Agh. Bleh! Too sickly damn sweet. The story was so long, and kind of boring. Some of the "verbal wording" in conversations was... awkward, stilted? Off. It was just off. The smexy times were... basically the same- Every. Time. And I kind of glossed over them. Right? ME, glossing over saucy times! That's def saying something!
I listened to this on audio. The narrator was good. She had fairly different voices for her characters but the "female" voice was just too damn chipper and maybe a bit naive sounding? I don't know, but I got annoyed. There were definite eye rolls and a bit of dry heaving from the SUPER sweetness of everything. Ugh.
Look, I know I'm a salty shrivel-hearted hag. I just don't care.
Ack! Agh. Bleh! Too sickly damn sweet. The story was so long, and kind of boring. Some of the "verbal wording" in conversations was... awkward, stilted? Off. It was just off. The smexy times were... basically the same- Every. Time. And I kind of glossed over them. Right? ME, glossing over saucy times! That's def saying something!
I listened to this on audio. The narrator was good. She had fairly different voices for her characters but the "female" voice was just too damn chipper and maybe a bit naive sounding? I don't know, but I got annoyed. There were definite eye rolls and a bit of dry heaving from the SUPER sweetness of everything. Ugh.
Look, I know I'm a salty shrivel-hearted hag. I just don't care.
September 19, 2020
Brooke Cerise is a red wolf shifter who has inherited her aunt's antique shop, as long as she runs it for at least three years. With it being near the Christmas season trade should start well. She didn't know quite how hectic it would be.
Detective and red wolf Josh Wilding is trying to find out who stole a young reindeer from the family ranch, not find a beautiful suspect.
Moving to a new city is going to mean major changes for our heroine and also some very real danger.
There are robberies and murders all seeming connected and a very exciting treasure hunt. It is also quite a sexy but not crude read.
A fast paced story with fabulous characters . It is the first in the series and I can't wait to read the next one.
I loved it.
Detective and red wolf Josh Wilding is trying to find out who stole a young reindeer from the family ranch, not find a beautiful suspect.
Moving to a new city is going to mean major changes for our heroine and also some very real danger.
There are robberies and murders all seeming connected and a very exciting treasure hunt. It is also quite a sexy but not crude read.
A fast paced story with fabulous characters . It is the first in the series and I can't wait to read the next one.
I loved it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews