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Malachai
Malachai has given up on finding his fated mate, even if his bear never stopped looking. As VP of the Lords of Khaos, he’s been living the high life but a business trip to Las Vegas is set to turn his world upside down. When Kai crashes into his fated mate, he and his bear can agree on one thing. They’re never letting her go.
Belladonna is happy with her life. She owns a bookshop with her mom, her best friend is her favorite person, and she’s only a cat away from being a bridesmaid and never a bride for life. While running into a bad boy biker in Vegas was not on her to do list, waking up with a wedding ring on her finger is worse.
But when Kai brings a tentative Bella home to introduce her to MC life, they uncover a sordid plot which puts both of their lives at risk. Can this pair find their way to an HEA or was their love destined to crash and burn in Vegas?
Malachai is a paranormal MC romance. It’s a full on steamfest with growly bear shifters and a heroine who loves adult language. If you have read K.O. Newman before you know her books are full of sexually explicit content, a little bit of blood and violence, and fated mates who are ready to throw down to keep their loved ones safe.
*** This book also contains themes not suitable to all audiences such as human trafficking and is intended for readers 18+ only. ***
Belladonna is happy with her life. She owns a bookshop with her mom, her best friend is her favorite person, and she’s only a cat away from being a bridesmaid and never a bride for life. While running into a bad boy biker in Vegas was not on her to do list, waking up with a wedding ring on her finger is worse.
But when Kai brings a tentative Bella home to introduce her to MC life, they uncover a sordid plot which puts both of their lives at risk. Can this pair find their way to an HEA or was their love destined to crash and burn in Vegas?
Malachai is a paranormal MC romance. It’s a full on steamfest with growly bear shifters and a heroine who loves adult language. If you have read K.O. Newman before you know her books are full of sexually explicit content, a little bit of blood and violence, and fated mates who are ready to throw down to keep their loved ones safe.
*** This book also contains themes not suitable to all audiences such as human trafficking and is intended for readers 18+ only. ***
330 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 26, 2021
79 people are currently reading
144 people want to read
About the author
K.O. Newman
44 books166 followersK.O. Newman is a neurospicy author of steamy, panty-melting paranormal romance. A lifelong reader who overcame dyslexia to bring sass and sizzle to your shelves. Her queer-inclusive books include motorcycle clubs of monsters, aliens, and bearded bad-boys.
Outside her life as an author, Kat is a mom of two brilliant children, and wife to a supportive husband. She lives in the Midwestern U.S., but Kat's heart truly lies in a little town in Vermont, home of her Lords of Khaos series.
Outside her life as an author, Kat is a mom of two brilliant children, and wife to a supportive husband. She lives in the Midwestern U.S., but Kat's heart truly lies in a little town in Vermont, home of her Lords of Khaos series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
October 13, 2022
This book has been recommended to me as a 'must read' for my October Steamy Romance Feature and I decided to give it a try.
Did it hold up to expectations?
Hell yeah! And then some!
I loved the author's take on shifter/MC romance. It's something not many manage to do it quite right but she pulls it off like a charm.
What I'm gonna gush a bit about?
The characters first and foremost. They are wonderfully fleshed out and practically leaping from the page. Malachai is downright swoon worthy. And, to put it plain, he's hot as f*ck!
Belladonna could practically be any one of us, book loving curvy girls and any female reader out there might find herself saying at one time or another: 'Hey! that could be me!'
She's smart and witty, charming and with an absolutely endearing take no shit from anyone attitude.
And the same can be said about the side cast too. They are all just as wonderfully written as the two MCs.
The action is great, the smut is hot and the romance feels real, just as the characters' feelings throughout the book. And that makes any readers easily able to identify.
The insta lust/love from Kai's side vs. the rationalism/mistrust of Bella was absolutely refreshing as opposed to the usual shifter romance norm and I particularly enjoyed it.
And I absolutely loved the end!
What I'll grumble a bit about is the pace that seemed to slow down quite a bit during the middle of the book and could have done with some tightening. Apart from that however... a fabulous book!
Did it hold up to expectations?
Hell yeah! And then some!
I loved the author's take on shifter/MC romance. It's something not many manage to do it quite right but she pulls it off like a charm.
What I'm gonna gush a bit about?
The characters first and foremost. They are wonderfully fleshed out and practically leaping from the page. Malachai is downright swoon worthy. And, to put it plain, he's hot as f*ck!
Belladonna could practically be any one of us, book loving curvy girls and any female reader out there might find herself saying at one time or another: 'Hey! that could be me!'
She's smart and witty, charming and with an absolutely endearing take no shit from anyone attitude.
And the same can be said about the side cast too. They are all just as wonderfully written as the two MCs.
The action is great, the smut is hot and the romance feels real, just as the characters' feelings throughout the book. And that makes any readers easily able to identify.
The insta lust/love from Kai's side vs. the rationalism/mistrust of Bella was absolutely refreshing as opposed to the usual shifter romance norm and I particularly enjoyed it.
And I absolutely loved the end!
What I'll grumble a bit about is the pace that seemed to slow down quite a bit during the middle of the book and could have done with some tightening. Apart from that however... a fabulous book!
February 2, 2022
Oh My Pants!
This book has reignited my love for MC romances. KO Newman knows how to hook you and then keep you reading.
I love Bella and the way she 100% makes Kai work for it. Then again I also love Kai and every thing he does for her. Sure he is this big bad biker bear but he tries so hard for her. I can't say anything else or it would give stuff away but trust me you need to get this book and cancel all your appointments so you can curl up and read it.
As soon as Lesleigh downloads on my Kindle I'll be reading that one too!
This book has reignited my love for MC romances. KO Newman knows how to hook you and then keep you reading.
I love Bella and the way she 100% makes Kai work for it. Then again I also love Kai and every thing he does for her. Sure he is this big bad biker bear but he tries so hard for her. I can't say anything else or it would give stuff away but trust me you need to get this book and cancel all your appointments so you can curl up and read it.
As soon as Lesleigh downloads on my Kindle I'll be reading that one too!
May 4, 2022
A tale as old as time...?
Totally beauty and the beast vibes, with shifter mc twist!
Kai is this sexy dominant bear shifter with a good head on his shoulders. Despite his promiscuous past he is dedicated to proving his devotion to Bella.
Bella is this intelligent bookworm just trying to be there for her bestfriend when Kai comes in and shakes things up. She is reluctant to accept the bond with Kai because of the ex that did a real number on her. She starts out with sass and an I'm not gonna take it attitude and grows into a renegade.
I loved the insta-love, fated mate slighty beast and beauty tale. It was so well written and when I started I couldn't stop with this book! I am so looking forward to more with these characters and can't wait until this author drops the next one!
Totally beauty and the beast vibes, with shifter mc twist!
Kai is this sexy dominant bear shifter with a good head on his shoulders. Despite his promiscuous past he is dedicated to proving his devotion to Bella.
Bella is this intelligent bookworm just trying to be there for her bestfriend when Kai comes in and shakes things up. She is reluctant to accept the bond with Kai because of the ex that did a real number on her. She starts out with sass and an I'm not gonna take it attitude and grows into a renegade.
I loved the insta-love, fated mate slighty beast and beauty tale. It was so well written and when I started I couldn't stop with this book! I am so looking forward to more with these characters and can't wait until this author drops the next one!
Want to read
November 27, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (11/27/2021)! 🎁
December 4, 2021
This book was so entertaining, sexy, and fun!
I received an ARC for an honest review. Malachai is only the second paranormal shifter romance I've ever read (the first was K.O.'s as well) and if they are all as well written as K.O.'s then I will definitely be reading more of them.
Malachai was so hot and sweet and sexy. I mean, what's not to love about a big biker bear? Not much that I can think of. I loved his intensity, his backstory, and his protective nature. He was everything you would want in a biker book boyfriend.
Bella was amazing. I loved her vulnerability, her insecurity, and that was a fellow book worm, and bookstore owner. I could relate to her very easily. I loved that she followed her heart but didn't let it carry her away on a fluffy pink cloud of unrealistic fantasy. She was cautious and for good reason as her past made her logical enough to take things slowly, despite a wild night in Vegas that resulted in a wedding band and a marriage to a man she felt was out of her league.
I enjoyed the peek into the biker lifestyle (No, I haven't seen SOA yet. I know...I need to get on it) as well as the suspense that built to a climatic crescendo. I loved the side characters too and connection with the other shifters that Bella had.
I'm excited to know this book won't be the last we'll see of LOKI and I'm eager to see who falls in love--and finds their mate--next.
I received an ARC for an honest review. Malachai is only the second paranormal shifter romance I've ever read (the first was K.O.'s as well) and if they are all as well written as K.O.'s then I will definitely be reading more of them.
Malachai was so hot and sweet and sexy. I mean, what's not to love about a big biker bear? Not much that I can think of. I loved his intensity, his backstory, and his protective nature. He was everything you would want in a biker book boyfriend.
Bella was amazing. I loved her vulnerability, her insecurity, and that was a fellow book worm, and bookstore owner. I could relate to her very easily. I loved that she followed her heart but didn't let it carry her away on a fluffy pink cloud of unrealistic fantasy. She was cautious and for good reason as her past made her logical enough to take things slowly, despite a wild night in Vegas that resulted in a wedding band and a marriage to a man she felt was out of her league.
I enjoyed the peek into the biker lifestyle (No, I haven't seen SOA yet. I know...I need to get on it) as well as the suspense that built to a climatic crescendo. I loved the side characters too and connection with the other shifters that Bella had.
I'm excited to know this book won't be the last we'll see of LOKI and I'm eager to see who falls in love--and finds their mate--next.
February 26, 2024
Malachai is the first book in K.O. Newman’s Lords of Khaos: Ironwood MC series. Reader beware: this is a motorcycle club and shifter book. This means violence, explicit smexy scenes and a gritty storyline. This book introduces all the characters that we will see throughout the series. The world building is fantastic and Kat does a wonderful job writing characters that are relatable and interesting even if it’s paranormal world full of non human characters. I love fated mates and this book writes the trope well. Kai never expected to find his mate, especially in Vegas and especially when we realize Bella has been a lot closer than he realizes. This is not an easy relationship, Bella is very hesitant and feels like she couldn’t have anything in common with the hot biker. I love that Kai is all in from the get go and has no problem showing her how serious he is. As the book progresses we learn they do have a lot more in common and they are perfect for each other. Bella is an amazing character, she’s sassy and loyal and even when she is doubting herself will still stand up to bullies. The chemistry is so insanely hot, definitely NSFW. The secondary plot of the MC is gritty and angsty and brings a level of suspense to the book that will have you flipping pages needing to know more. A wonderful start to a great PNR series. If you love growly and possessive shifters, strong AF females, all the heat and spice and a hard earned HEA, pick up this series NOW! So freaking good!
May 11, 2021
I found this book as a recommendation on Kindle Unlimited and decided to give it a go. It was my first MC book and it did not disappoint.
Review:
This is book 1 of the Lords of Khaos Ironwood series. In this story, we meet Belladonna as she is quietly (and reluctantly) partaking in her best friend’s bachelorette party in Vegas. When bear shifter, Kai, catches a whiff of her, he instantly knows she is his mate and pursues her. Bella, who cannot fathom why this tatted up man-candy is interested in her triple dog dares him to prove his interest in her, so he marries her! But getting Bella to the alter was the easy part; meshing their lives together is much more challenging.
I found Bella to be completely relatable: avid reader, smart, but struggles with body issues and self confidence. I really saw myself in her. Kai is a rough, alpha male who response to most situations is action. Also, he’s super sexy and knows EXACTLY what to do in the bedroom (swoon!).
I loved that this was not insta-love on both sides which I think made this shifter story unique. Kai fell instantly in love with Bella, his mate, but Bella remained guarded and skeptical- which made this story much more realistic for me. I enjoyed the ending and how Bella came to finally accept Kai as hers.
Looking forward to seeing this series continue!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review:
This is book 1 of the Lords of Khaos Ironwood series. In this story, we meet Belladonna as she is quietly (and reluctantly) partaking in her best friend’s bachelorette party in Vegas. When bear shifter, Kai, catches a whiff of her, he instantly knows she is his mate and pursues her. Bella, who cannot fathom why this tatted up man-candy is interested in her triple dog dares him to prove his interest in her, so he marries her! But getting Bella to the alter was the easy part; meshing their lives together is much more challenging.
I found Bella to be completely relatable: avid reader, smart, but struggles with body issues and self confidence. I really saw myself in her. Kai is a rough, alpha male who response to most situations is action. Also, he’s super sexy and knows EXACTLY what to do in the bedroom (swoon!).
I loved that this was not insta-love on both sides which I think made this shifter story unique. Kai fell instantly in love with Bella, his mate, but Bella remained guarded and skeptical- which made this story much more realistic for me. I enjoyed the ending and how Bella came to finally accept Kai as hers.
Looking forward to seeing this series continue!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 20, 2023
what happens in vegas…
I’m in love with these characters. The way Kai will do anything to show Bella how committed he is to her is just so adorable. This book is a great balance of all the aspects of their lives (mc, shifter, relationships). The first few chapters is pure smut 🥵 and while the spice did continue throughout the book there was a few too many f2b scenes for my liking. Amazing story though, absolutely recommend
I’m in love with these characters. The way Kai will do anything to show Bella how committed he is to her is just so adorable. This book is a great balance of all the aspects of their lives (mc, shifter, relationships). The first few chapters is pure smut 🥵 and while the spice did continue throughout the book there was a few too many f2b scenes for my liking. Amazing story though, absolutely recommend
April 4, 2021
Exceeded expectations
I am a huge shifter romance fan and this book did not disappoint! K.O. did an amazing job of giving the characters life and depth while keeping the plot running at FULL speed. I couldn't put this down from the very beginning. It is full on, Alpha male/Alpha female battle of wills for the forever prize with an added spice if MC debauchery!
I am a huge shifter romance fan and this book did not disappoint! K.O. did an amazing job of giving the characters life and depth while keeping the plot running at FULL speed. I couldn't put this down from the very beginning. It is full on, Alpha male/Alpha female battle of wills for the forever prize with an added spice if MC debauchery!
April 8, 2021
LOKI - A new love!!!
I loved this book! Shifters and MC's are a great combination, if written well! This author did an awesome of it. The story is woven in such a way that you HAVE to keep reading to find out what happens next!!! I read this in a matter of hours....couldn't put it down if I wanted to. And I DIDN'T want to !! 😍
I loved this book! Shifters and MC's are a great combination, if written well! This author did an awesome of it. The story is woven in such a way that you HAVE to keep reading to find out what happens next!!! I read this in a matter of hours....couldn't put it down if I wanted to. And I DIDN'T want to !! 😍
February 28, 2023
First book I've read by this author and I'm hooked.
Darn it another author that makes me laugh, and misty, and well.....good thing I'm married 😉. Great storyline, natural rythm, and just enough hints to there possibly being a sequel to make you hope ( and there is!) without leaving you hanging. Well done!
Darn it another author that makes me laugh, and misty, and well.....good thing I'm married 😉. Great storyline, natural rythm, and just enough hints to there possibly being a sequel to make you hope ( and there is!) without leaving you hanging. Well done!
dnf
January 29, 2024dnf @ 64%
this has everything i wanted in a book. MC, shifters, fated mates, and bookstore owner. but it just didn’t hit and the writing was repetitive.
there were a lot of little things that I personally wasn’t a fan of. like when Kaf asked for a recommendation for a book and she didn’t even ask him for what kind of books he liked/was interested in and just pointed him to a section.
this has everything i wanted in a book. MC, shifters, fated mates, and bookstore owner. but it just didn’t hit and the writing was repetitive.
there were a lot of little things that I personally wasn’t a fan of. like when Kaf asked for a recommendation for a book and she didn’t even ask him for what kind of books he liked/was interested in and just pointed him to a section.
November 28, 2021
Loved everything about this story! Action packed, hot and fiery, witty, angsty!
The characters are absolutely amazing and I loved getting to know them all.
Looking forward to learning more about our characters in the next book!
They are all just yummy!
The characters are absolutely amazing and I loved getting to know them all.
Looking forward to learning more about our characters in the next book!
They are all just yummy!
September 29, 2023
WOW...so good
I absolutely loved this book. Great world building, amazing characters, and bada$$ bears. This story line has a guaranteed hea. Lots of drama, and even dragons. Can't wait to read the next book in this series.
I absolutely loved this book. Great world building, amazing characters, and bada$$ bears. This story line has a guaranteed hea. Lots of drama, and even dragons. Can't wait to read the next book in this series.
April 3, 2021
I really loved this book, Bella is no pushover especially with bully’s. Kai is a dominant bear shifter that instantly knows Bella is his mate. I highly recommend reading this
March 10, 2022
Mali
Bear shifter and VP of the club has finally found his mate. She a curvy human book shop owner. But trouble is coming and will they survive.
Bear shifter and VP of the club has finally found his mate. She a curvy human book shop owner. But trouble is coming and will they survive.
July 12, 2022
Loved this book
I loved this. Finally a book that is from my area. And the best of both worlds MC/shifter. Can't wait to read the rest!
I loved this. Finally a book that is from my area. And the best of both worlds MC/shifter. Can't wait to read the rest!
Want to read
September 26, 2022purchased this item on September 23, 2022. Amazon
October 4, 2023
great read
I enjoyed this book very much , strong characters and a great storyline , I enjoyed the all the different personalities and friendships.
I enjoyed this book very much , strong characters and a great storyline , I enjoyed the all the different personalities and friendships.
December 15, 2023
Dec 2023
Not bad. Not great. I enjoyed it, but honestly often felt like parts of the story were missing.
Not bad. Not great. I enjoyed it, but honestly often felt like parts of the story were missing.
April 1, 2024
This was not good lol
March 19, 2021
Engines at the ready and shift into gear, it’s time to delve into a MC shifter romance with K.O.Newman and her new leading bear-shifter of the Lord’s of Khaos Ironwood MC, Malachai and his mate Belladonna.
I decided to dip my toes into another paranormal/shifter romance read firstly because of my own goal this year to read a more diverse range other than just romance books, and secondly because of two previous K.O.Newman reads I had the pleasure of reading. Reclaiming Psyche and her feature in the Christmas Nibbles anthology. Malachai was too good to pass up and I was not disappointed by the biker bear one bit.
By far throughout the whole book, my favourite character by far was the main man himself, Malachai. Also known as ‘Kai’ to those close to him. This wasn’t because of his muscular prowess, position in the MC or for reasons you’ll have to read about, but for how wonderfully written he was. Leading men can be hit or miss, especially with the added guarantee of plenty of steam. A hit if balanced with a personality to charm your socks off, but a miss if the only thing they have to rely on is what lies within a certain item of clothing. Kai by far, was a huge hit. He doesn’t need to rely on one thing alone, if you catch my drift. There is plenty enough about him as a character both in terms of personality in all the right ways, that anything else is simply a bonus. Charming, caring and passionate, Kai ticks all the boxes and will make any engine purr oh so sweetly.
Much to my pleasant surprise, the story kept me guessing. From the little shifter romances I’ve read, there is limited creative variation in terms of how the characters can shift, what they can shift into and the kinds of storylines shifter romances follow. Malachai did not fall down into any of the typical rat traps, but instead provided tasteful suspense, mystery and unique circumstances that made it unable for me to leave my reading place at the end of the chapter, I had to read on. And on. And on. A sign of a good book is one you find yourself unable to put down and or finish, and Malachai was that book.
Without a doubt without giving anything away, my favourite part of the whole book had to be the very beginning when the two main characters first meet. Granted that this was a steamy/shifter/MC book, the way in which the two characters meet was nothing like I had read about before, proving plenty of enjoyable moments which I plan to go back and re-read again. It isn’t often that I want to dive back into a book after reading it so soon, but I enjoyed the opening chapters to this book that much, I know others will too.
What was especially enjoyable to be specific, was the essence of the author coming through mostly in the beginning as well as here and there throughout the book. I have the absolute pleasure of knowing K.O.Newman and I could easily tell which parts of her own personality, what she likes and her voice came through so clear especially in the beginning, it felt like I was getting to know her all over again as well as the characters for the first time.
Additionally, I also compliment K.O. Newman for not laying the shifter side of the story on too heavy. The balance of the characters and the story being told from a human perspective, and from a shifter perspective, was done just right. Often books get too heavy when stuck being told from the eyes of the shifted creature, losing the human perspective altogether. Not Malachai. Even when in the human form, the consistent feeding of tidbits of the shifter elements in this book, you got to know the other side without the physical shift from man to beast. I would’ve liked to have seen a tiny bit more from the shifter side, through the eyes of the bear, but there is room for that with other books in the series. As this was an introduction to the series, I’m happy with what has been presented to us.
As cautioned in the blurb, I would recommend that readers be 18+ years of age to deal with certain subject matters that have been maturely and excellently highlighted in this novel. Certain subject matters aren’t easy to talk about and sometimes when written can come across differently than intended, but K.O.Newman handles them with dignity and finesse. Not an easy feat, so I commend her for handling the subjects so well.
Overall, I would have to say that I am more pleased with Malachai than I ever anticipated to be. Having going into this as another blind read, I’m thrilled that I was able to enjoy a pleasant reading experience within a genre that is different to what I’m used to, and haven’t taken a chance on for a long time. If you’re a fan of shifter/paranormal romances that aren’t too dark or heavy, K.O.Newman is your next go-to author for the perfect blend of the paranormal and of the right amount of steam to get you invested and hungry for more.
Its fair to say that I am thoroughly looking forward to the next book K.O. writes and publishes. She’s going places and I cannot wait to be along for the ride. Pun intended.
5 stars for Malachai and his mate!
I decided to dip my toes into another paranormal/shifter romance read firstly because of my own goal this year to read a more diverse range other than just romance books, and secondly because of two previous K.O.Newman reads I had the pleasure of reading. Reclaiming Psyche and her feature in the Christmas Nibbles anthology. Malachai was too good to pass up and I was not disappointed by the biker bear one bit.
By far throughout the whole book, my favourite character by far was the main man himself, Malachai. Also known as ‘Kai’ to those close to him. This wasn’t because of his muscular prowess, position in the MC or for reasons you’ll have to read about, but for how wonderfully written he was. Leading men can be hit or miss, especially with the added guarantee of plenty of steam. A hit if balanced with a personality to charm your socks off, but a miss if the only thing they have to rely on is what lies within a certain item of clothing. Kai by far, was a huge hit. He doesn’t need to rely on one thing alone, if you catch my drift. There is plenty enough about him as a character both in terms of personality in all the right ways, that anything else is simply a bonus. Charming, caring and passionate, Kai ticks all the boxes and will make any engine purr oh so sweetly.
Much to my pleasant surprise, the story kept me guessing. From the little shifter romances I’ve read, there is limited creative variation in terms of how the characters can shift, what they can shift into and the kinds of storylines shifter romances follow. Malachai did not fall down into any of the typical rat traps, but instead provided tasteful suspense, mystery and unique circumstances that made it unable for me to leave my reading place at the end of the chapter, I had to read on. And on. And on. A sign of a good book is one you find yourself unable to put down and or finish, and Malachai was that book.
Without a doubt without giving anything away, my favourite part of the whole book had to be the very beginning when the two main characters first meet. Granted that this was a steamy/shifter/MC book, the way in which the two characters meet was nothing like I had read about before, proving plenty of enjoyable moments which I plan to go back and re-read again. It isn’t often that I want to dive back into a book after reading it so soon, but I enjoyed the opening chapters to this book that much, I know others will too.
What was especially enjoyable to be specific, was the essence of the author coming through mostly in the beginning as well as here and there throughout the book. I have the absolute pleasure of knowing K.O.Newman and I could easily tell which parts of her own personality, what she likes and her voice came through so clear especially in the beginning, it felt like I was getting to know her all over again as well as the characters for the first time.
Additionally, I also compliment K.O. Newman for not laying the shifter side of the story on too heavy. The balance of the characters and the story being told from a human perspective, and from a shifter perspective, was done just right. Often books get too heavy when stuck being told from the eyes of the shifted creature, losing the human perspective altogether. Not Malachai. Even when in the human form, the consistent feeding of tidbits of the shifter elements in this book, you got to know the other side without the physical shift from man to beast. I would’ve liked to have seen a tiny bit more from the shifter side, through the eyes of the bear, but there is room for that with other books in the series. As this was an introduction to the series, I’m happy with what has been presented to us.
As cautioned in the blurb, I would recommend that readers be 18+ years of age to deal with certain subject matters that have been maturely and excellently highlighted in this novel. Certain subject matters aren’t easy to talk about and sometimes when written can come across differently than intended, but K.O.Newman handles them with dignity and finesse. Not an easy feat, so I commend her for handling the subjects so well.
Overall, I would have to say that I am more pleased with Malachai than I ever anticipated to be. Having going into this as another blind read, I’m thrilled that I was able to enjoy a pleasant reading experience within a genre that is different to what I’m used to, and haven’t taken a chance on for a long time. If you’re a fan of shifter/paranormal romances that aren’t too dark or heavy, K.O.Newman is your next go-to author for the perfect blend of the paranormal and of the right amount of steam to get you invested and hungry for more.
Its fair to say that I am thoroughly looking forward to the next book K.O. writes and publishes. She’s going places and I cannot wait to be along for the ride. Pun intended.
5 stars for Malachai and his mate!
January 20, 2022
Swoony MC!
Malachai is everything I love in a mate shifter book! The MC is swoony, instantly devoted to the FMC and hot AF. At different points in this book I felt like Belladonna was me. A bookworm with a witty and loyal BFF who comes out of her shell when needed. I really enjoyed the beginning of this book. It did start to lose me about halfway through though. There were a couple things that I would have liked to see wrapped up in the plot at the end of this book. It is the start of a series though, so maybe those things will be discussed in future books. There were also some errors in the books, which detracted from the reading experience. For that reason I give it 3.5 stars.
Check out Bonded Books Podcast for our episode on this book!
Malachai is everything I love in a mate shifter book! The MC is swoony, instantly devoted to the FMC and hot AF. At different points in this book I felt like Belladonna was me. A bookworm with a witty and loyal BFF who comes out of her shell when needed. I really enjoyed the beginning of this book. It did start to lose me about halfway through though. There were a couple things that I would have liked to see wrapped up in the plot at the end of this book. It is the start of a series though, so maybe those things will be discussed in future books. There were also some errors in the books, which detracted from the reading experience. For that reason I give it 3.5 stars.
Check out Bonded Books Podcast for our episode on this book!
November 25, 2023
Up to 75% I thought it was a great book. Well written, well paced. Interesting MC politics, good overall plot.
And then it died on its ass.
It felt like the author run out of time and had to wrap it up in a hurry.
I'm so sad and annoyed at the same time.
And then it died on its ass.
It felt like the author run out of time and had to wrap it up in a hurry.
I'm so sad and annoyed at the same time.
December 4, 2023
Up to 75% I thought it was a great book. Well written, well paced. Interesting MC politics, good overall plot.
And then it died on its ass.
It felt like the author run out of time and had to wrap it up in a hurry.
I'm so sad and annoyed at the same time.
And then it died on its ass.
It felt like the author run out of time and had to wrap it up in a hurry.
I'm so sad and annoyed at the same time.
March 27, 2021
Malachai is paranormal shifter MC romance story that will have you hooked from the first until the very last word. And when you hit those dreaded words 'The End' while will be left with a warmed heart and utterly satisfied you will also be excited and desperate for future stories in this series.
K.O. Newman is a new author to me and what a world she has created with this series. It's riddled with fated mates, shifters, steam, drama, suspense, and some serious alpha men who are intense, sexy, sweet, and uber protective particularly when it comes to their mate.
Malachai and Bella may be fated mates but on paper these two are complete opposites. Bella is of course human and a self proclaimed nerd / book lover who owns a bookstore. She is quiet, reserved, and doesn't like to party or drink. And Malachai... well he is a shifter and the clubs VP. He drinks, he smokes, and is a renowned playboy. Can two opposites really attract? Can Malachai convince Bella to give their connection a chance? Or will Bella's insecurities prevent her from opening her heart and in turn breaking her mates heart?
What a journey. The steam will have your Kindle melting, the angst will ache your heart, the serious alpha vibes will have you fanning your face, the suspense will have you biting your nails, and the characters who should mind their damn business will have you wanting to hand out a couple throat punches 😂.
This world and side characters has me captivated, invested, and intrigued. I can't wait to see what the future entails for the LOKI crew and I can't wait to see who finds their fated mate next.
K.O. Newman is a new author to me and what a world she has created with this series. It's riddled with fated mates, shifters, steam, drama, suspense, and some serious alpha men who are intense, sexy, sweet, and uber protective particularly when it comes to their mate.
Malachai and Bella may be fated mates but on paper these two are complete opposites. Bella is of course human and a self proclaimed nerd / book lover who owns a bookstore. She is quiet, reserved, and doesn't like to party or drink. And Malachai... well he is a shifter and the clubs VP. He drinks, he smokes, and is a renowned playboy. Can two opposites really attract? Can Malachai convince Bella to give their connection a chance? Or will Bella's insecurities prevent her from opening her heart and in turn breaking her mates heart?
What a journey. The steam will have your Kindle melting, the angst will ache your heart, the serious alpha vibes will have you fanning your face, the suspense will have you biting your nails, and the characters who should mind their damn business will have you wanting to hand out a couple throat punches 😂.
This world and side characters has me captivated, invested, and intrigued. I can't wait to see what the future entails for the LOKI crew and I can't wait to see who finds their fated mate next.
March 27, 2021
This book was so entertaining, sexy, and fun!
I received an ARC for an honest review. Malachai is only the second paranormal shifter romance I've ever read (the first was K.O.'s as well) and if they are all as well written as K.O.'s then I will definitely be reading more of them.
Malachai was so hot and sweet and sexy. I mean, what's not to love about a big biker bear? Not much that I can think of. I loved his intensity, his backstory, and his protective nature. He was everything you would want in a biker book boyfriend.
Bella was amazing. I loved her vulnerability, her insecurity, and that was a fellow book worm, and bookstore owner. I could relate to her very easily. I loved that she followed her heart but didn't let it carry her away on a fluffy pink cloud of unrealistic fantasy. She was cautious and for good reason as her past made her logical enough to take things slowly, despite a wild night in Vegas that resulted in a wedding band and a marriage to a man she felt was out of her league.
I enjoyed the peek into the biker lifestyle (No, I haven't seen SOA yet. I know...I need to get on it) as well as the suspense that built to a climatic crescendo. I loved the side characters too and connection with the other shifters that Bella had.
I'm excited to know this book won't be the last we'll see of LOKI and I'm eager to see who falls in love--and finds their mate--next.
I received an ARC for an honest review. Malachai is only the second paranormal shifter romance I've ever read (the first was K.O.'s as well) and if they are all as well written as K.O.'s then I will definitely be reading more of them.
Malachai was so hot and sweet and sexy. I mean, what's not to love about a big biker bear? Not much that I can think of. I loved his intensity, his backstory, and his protective nature. He was everything you would want in a biker book boyfriend.
Bella was amazing. I loved her vulnerability, her insecurity, and that was a fellow book worm, and bookstore owner. I could relate to her very easily. I loved that she followed her heart but didn't let it carry her away on a fluffy pink cloud of unrealistic fantasy. She was cautious and for good reason as her past made her logical enough to take things slowly, despite a wild night in Vegas that resulted in a wedding band and a marriage to a man she felt was out of her league.
I enjoyed the peek into the biker lifestyle (No, I haven't seen SOA yet. I know...I need to get on it) as well as the suspense that built to a climatic crescendo. I loved the side characters too and connection with the other shifters that Bella had.
I'm excited to know this book won't be the last we'll see of LOKI and I'm eager to see who falls in love--and finds their mate--next.
September 6, 2023
Alright premise for a series
I liked the premise. Bear shifters and MC life sounds really good and the story begins strong, but it falls a little as we go in deeper.
There’s not a lot of explanation for “before mating” and Kai just mates Bella without her knowledge. Oh, consent is given for spicy times but mating is a whole another ballgame.
This follows throughout the books, the no-explanations thing. And then we have the time jumps that happen which I guess it’s okay but in some cases there are inconsistencies. And there are other errors in the book as well that really draw you out of the plot.
I also wasn’t a fan of the ending (too fast and abrupt and she’s suddenly an expert with a gun without any explanation?? Weird) and I don’t think I’ll continue with the series even though I think some other things are explained there that were left open-ended here.
I liked the premise. Bear shifters and MC life sounds really good and the story begins strong, but it falls a little as we go in deeper.
There’s not a lot of explanation for “before mating” and Kai just mates Bella without her knowledge. Oh, consent is given for spicy times but mating is a whole another ballgame.
This follows throughout the books, the no-explanations thing. And then we have the time jumps that happen which I guess it’s okay but in some cases there are inconsistencies. And there are other errors in the book as well that really draw you out of the plot.
I also wasn’t a fan of the ending (too fast and abrupt and she’s suddenly an expert with a gun without any explanation?? Weird) and I don’t think I’ll continue with the series even though I think some other things are explained there that were left open-ended here.
March 7, 2021
Malachai by K.O. Newman
An ARC Review
First, I must say that I am not a fan of dual single person point of view. But that's my personal issue. I know a lot of readers love it. And this story will not disappoint. MC shifter romance with a strong, realistic female lead and a sexy love interest. Malachai does not disappoint with it comes to hot love scenes and a slightly more realistic romance. Lust driven love doesn't make real love instantly happen, and this story explores the good and bad of rushed relationships. K.O. Newman introduces us to a world I want to explore more. I wasn't ready for this story to end, and I didn't want to leave LOKI. I can't wait to read more.
An ARC Review
First, I must say that I am not a fan of dual single person point of view. But that's my personal issue. I know a lot of readers love it. And this story will not disappoint. MC shifter romance with a strong, realistic female lead and a sexy love interest. Malachai does not disappoint with it comes to hot love scenes and a slightly more realistic romance. Lust driven love doesn't make real love instantly happen, and this story explores the good and bad of rushed relationships. K.O. Newman introduces us to a world I want to explore more. I wasn't ready for this story to end, and I didn't want to leave LOKI. I can't wait to read more.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews