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Rise of the Howling Shadowborns #2
Shifter Shadowborns
A Rejected Mates Romance.
Shifter Syndicate should have killed me, but instead, I entered the new year as a survivor.
There's no time to celebrate, though. Betas are being hunted and wolf shifters across the Syndicate are getting kidnapped. Worse, the culprit lives among us. Then Red Dusks invade our territory, creating an overwhelming catastrophe none of us can stop.
Until I unlock a Shadowborn trait I didn't know existed.
Dark new powers thrum through my bloodstream, and I, former reject Selene Bleu, am now one of the most valuable shifters in the grand hierarchy. That doesn't make me popular with the others, though, especially when I'm offered a seat on the High Council — a very special seat next to Alpha Asher.
To top it all off? I open a gate to a new world, summon a fleet of Valkyries to our aid, and accidentally awaken a beast from hell.
It’s not all bad, though: Kenzo and Beta Tobias are officially dating, and Alpha Asher is getting me a motorcycle — though I still can’t get a set of batteries to save my life. Enemies stalk us from all sides and plague of shadows are approaching.
Unless we find a solution, it won't matter whose side we’re on, for this world that has become my home will be cloaked by a sheet of darkness — a shadowy mist of death.
Shifter Shadowborns is a full-length (110,000 word) Dark Paranormal Romance. Book Two is filled with humor, action, suspense, steam, a tough heroine, and an antihero alpha. It's recommended for 18+ audiences due to language and sexual instances.
Shifter Syndicate should have killed me, but instead, I entered the new year as a survivor.
There's no time to celebrate, though. Betas are being hunted and wolf shifters across the Syndicate are getting kidnapped. Worse, the culprit lives among us. Then Red Dusks invade our territory, creating an overwhelming catastrophe none of us can stop.
Until I unlock a Shadowborn trait I didn't know existed.
Dark new powers thrum through my bloodstream, and I, former reject Selene Bleu, am now one of the most valuable shifters in the grand hierarchy. That doesn't make me popular with the others, though, especially when I'm offered a seat on the High Council — a very special seat next to Alpha Asher.
To top it all off? I open a gate to a new world, summon a fleet of Valkyries to our aid, and accidentally awaken a beast from hell.
It’s not all bad, though: Kenzo and Beta Tobias are officially dating, and Alpha Asher is getting me a motorcycle — though I still can’t get a set of batteries to save my life. Enemies stalk us from all sides and plague of shadows are approaching.
Unless we find a solution, it won't matter whose side we’re on, for this world that has become my home will be cloaked by a sheet of darkness — a shadowy mist of death.
Shifter Shadowborns is a full-length (110,000 word) Dark Paranormal Romance. Book Two is filled with humor, action, suspense, steam, a tough heroine, and an antihero alpha. It's recommended for 18+ audiences due to language and sexual instances.
552 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 9, 2022
192 people are currently reading
226 people want to read
About the author
Avery Stone
50 books208 followersAvery Stone is the new pen name of USA Today Bestselling Author, Avery Song.
With multiple bestselling series, Avery Stone's mission is to broaden her storytelling in the realms of Paranormal Romance, YA -New Adult Academy Romance, and Dark Shifter Romance.
Be prepared for sassy, powerful heroines, detailed world-building, and addictive adventure as you fall in love with her creations.
With multiple bestselling series, Avery Stone's mission is to broaden her storytelling in the realms of Paranormal Romance, YA -New Adult Academy Romance, and Dark Shifter Romance.
Be prepared for sassy, powerful heroines, detailed world-building, and addictive adventure as you fall in love with her creations.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
March 14, 2022
I am to the point where if I could somehow send a fictional character a pack of batteries I would. Also the fact that Selene has such amazing powers, you are telling me she can't conjure up or just make Bluey do the damn thing with out the batteries? I have second hand blue-balls? Ovaries? from just reading her sexual frustration. But I digress.
I love Selene's besties more than ever. I need more Kenzo and Cinder in my life. Also I would like more of her brother's in the next one! My brain is jumping at the possibilities that awaits these side characters. I have love the progression with Alpha Asher and Selene. Except let the poor girl get some more relief and less sleep!
As for the ending it's surprising to say I am not surprised. After having read all of Ms. Stone's books I feel like my brain can pick up on hers. I love that this is the direction she has gone and am so very excited to see how the story will progress in the next book.
I love Selene's besties more than ever. I need more Kenzo and Cinder in my life. Also I would like more of her brother's in the next one! My brain is jumping at the possibilities that awaits these side characters. I have love the progression with Alpha Asher and Selene. Except let the poor girl get some more relief and less sleep!
As for the ending it's surprising to say I am not surprised. After having read all of Ms. Stone's books I feel like my brain can pick up on hers. I love that this is the direction she has gone and am so very excited to see how the story will progress in the next book.
March 17, 2022
Okay, i’m still 50/50 on how I’m feeling about this book. The plot is good but (some) portrayal seems rushed and theres just so many things happening, all packed into one scene.
Heroine is annoying but i appreciate her bond with Asher. I liked that there was Asher’s pov in this book. But again, Bleu is quite literally a raging annoying teenager (she’s 20 but still)
The end though? It frustrates me a little as it feels stalling and feels a little manipulative but i’m intrigued to see what happens next. Hopefully the next book will reduce childishness on Bleu’s part lol
I would love for Zero and Asta, Azu and Mercury to have their own book though
Heroine is annoying but i appreciate her bond with Asher. I liked that there was Asher’s pov in this book. But again, Bleu is quite literally a raging annoying teenager (she’s 20 but still)
The end though? It frustrates me a little as it feels stalling and feels a little manipulative but i’m intrigued to see what happens next. Hopefully the next book will reduce childishness on Bleu’s part lol
I would love for Zero and Asta, Azu and Mercury to have their own book though
March 19, 2022
omg, what happened in this book!?!? … Bleu, Asher, Kenzo, Cinder, and everyone else that is a piece of Bleu, all coming together just to be separated? … and that last page? … ugh, need the next one 💙❤️🔥
March 21, 2022
Once again, round of applause for artwork because as usual it's freaking awesome. We all know Avery is the queen of reveals, twists and turns and mic drops and we had plenty of those. Especially the one at the end, I love the idea that Bleu can get her dad back. I'm glad things got cleared up between her and alpha Asher because I didn't like her thinking he betrayed her. Can we take a moment to acknowledge Kenzo and how awesome he is! The moment they shared after she woke up was so sweet and had me all in my feelings. I love how he is that ride or die bestie, and him putting Samuel in his place and showing him the error he made in rejecting Selene was priceless. I'm glad Arrianne got what she deserved for her deception, and most important Amaya catching hands. Definitely planning to read book 3. Hopefully we get to see Bleu and Alpha Asher finally be able to take their relationship to the next level and without starting earthquakes , her develop a relationship with her mom and brothers. Get her dad back, Get answers about the relationship with her mom, dad, and Guardian, and Maybe Alpha Asher will finally get batteries for bluey...and use it on her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 25, 2022
Crazy cliffhanger. On a whole I’m not a huge fan of cliffhangers. I always want to know what happens next and I can drive myself crazy wondering….well this ending definitely has me sitting on the edge of my seat waiting for the next installment of this storyline. I love the way that the characters in Avery Stone’s stories jump out at you, they grab your attention and you invest yourself in their lives - their troubles, challenges and joys. This story causes a lot of different reactions and emotions, which denotes a great story and story teller. If you love adventure, action, intrigue, and surprising twists and turns.
Our heroine has to deal with a lot and not least of which are overconfident and sardonic alpha type males. Our heroine also proves her mettle through all of it, from the good, the bad, the nastiness and the joy, she shows that she is the type of person that has heart. She determinedly meets any issue head on and with grace. Especially, since she is surrounded by enemies that are hiding in plain sight.
I can’t wait to see what happens next. This book is a definite MUST READ!
Our heroine has to deal with a lot and not least of which are overconfident and sardonic alpha type males. Our heroine also proves her mettle through all of it, from the good, the bad, the nastiness and the joy, she shows that she is the type of person that has heart. She determinedly meets any issue head on and with grace. Especially, since she is surrounded by enemies that are hiding in plain sight.
I can’t wait to see what happens next. This book is a definite MUST READ!
March 12, 2022
Diabolically epic 💙💙💙!!
Jaw officially still on the floor after that cliffhanger... Thank you very much 😉. W O W! Yes indeedy, I shall need a wee but of recovery time from the crazy awesome levels of adrenaline, action, suspense, intrigue, mystical 3D political chess playing machinations , and snarky alpha males. But our Bleu makes this book SING through every horrific thing thrown at her or her friends, she proves time and time again what a pure heart she has. She's feisty, determined, vulnerable yet strong, oh yea...and witty as all get out too 😉. The stakes are truly at their highest. Enemies hide in plain sight, cloaked within shadows....can our group learn friend from foe in time? Get ready for all kinds of new tricks and awesomeness from Bleu, and more than a few surprises along the way. Nope...this is soooooo NOT a dull read!! So get a ticket, get comfy and dive on in for one incredible journey!! I already can't wait to see what's up next in book three!!
Jaw officially still on the floor after that cliffhanger... Thank you very much 😉. W O W! Yes indeedy, I shall need a wee but of recovery time from the crazy awesome levels of adrenaline, action, suspense, intrigue, mystical 3D political chess playing machinations , and snarky alpha males. But our Bleu makes this book SING through every horrific thing thrown at her or her friends, she proves time and time again what a pure heart she has. She's feisty, determined, vulnerable yet strong, oh yea...and witty as all get out too 😉. The stakes are truly at their highest. Enemies hide in plain sight, cloaked within shadows....can our group learn friend from foe in time? Get ready for all kinds of new tricks and awesomeness from Bleu, and more than a few surprises along the way. Nope...this is soooooo NOT a dull read!! So get a ticket, get comfy and dive on in for one incredible journey!! I already can't wait to see what's up next in book three!!
March 12, 2022
Shifter Shadowborns
Selene Bleu is back and she is funnier than ever, twice as strong….and now Mated! But still can’t get a pack of batteries to save her life! 🤣🤷🏻♀️
You’d think that after Mother Moon delivered Selene a mate and her beloved Guardian in the last book, that Selene would be living her best life…but her adversaries are growing more impatient to put the final nail in her coffin.
As she grows and becomes aware of the bigger picture, doubts and betrayal swirl around her and she is hard pressed to avoid trouble, no matter how hard she tries.
If you enjoyed the first book in the series, be ready for MORE! More laughter, more tears, more unexpected adventures…as Selene Bleu proves to her enemies that she is everything they dreaded, and soooo much more!
One click this book now, then get ready to spend the rest of the day with Selene and her friends.
Selene Bleu is back and she is funnier than ever, twice as strong….and now Mated! But still can’t get a pack of batteries to save her life! 🤣🤷🏻♀️
You’d think that after Mother Moon delivered Selene a mate and her beloved Guardian in the last book, that Selene would be living her best life…but her adversaries are growing more impatient to put the final nail in her coffin.
As she grows and becomes aware of the bigger picture, doubts and betrayal swirl around her and she is hard pressed to avoid trouble, no matter how hard she tries.
If you enjoyed the first book in the series, be ready for MORE! More laughter, more tears, more unexpected adventures…as Selene Bleu proves to her enemies that she is everything they dreaded, and soooo much more!
One click this book now, then get ready to spend the rest of the day with Selene and her friends.
November 12, 2022
Flyby’s on matings, red dusk battle, comeuppance, Cinder dropping truth pellets; parents, betrayals, unearthed memories, offers affecting both Selene and Asher’s future(s), Selene’s new powers, betrayals, news from the past and a cliffhanger. Whew, busy, busy, busy! It seems to this reader with that many snippets more than a patchwork quilt could’ve been made.
This reader was disappointed that out of all the possibilities for development none of these were. It was the slabs of lusty filler battery desired, physical, mental and otherwise) from newly bond-mated Asher and Selene that highlighted in this outing. Ugh! All that said, there’s an answer for middle books dismissed out of hand.
Rating: 3stars
This reader was disappointed that out of all the possibilities for development none of these were. It was the slabs of lusty filler battery desired, physical, mental and otherwise) from newly bond-mated Asher and Selene that highlighted in this outing. Ugh! All that said, there’s an answer for middle books dismissed out of hand.
Rating: 3stars
January 22, 2023
good second book
This book was so much better written then the first book. I was confused through the first 25% of the 1st book, I had to do mental gymnastics to try and figure out what the author was trying to say and I even had to reread sections multiple times in an effort to understand. However with the second book I was able to follow without any mental gymnastics. My only complaint is while a lot of questions are answered throughout the book, it felt kind of slow and I found myself just skimming some areas so I could get to the end and on to the next book. And I will definitely be reading the next book, overall it was a good book and I am interested in finding out how the series ends.
This book was so much better written then the first book. I was confused through the first 25% of the 1st book, I had to do mental gymnastics to try and figure out what the author was trying to say and I even had to reread sections multiple times in an effort to understand. However with the second book I was able to follow without any mental gymnastics. My only complaint is while a lot of questions are answered throughout the book, it felt kind of slow and I found myself just skimming some areas so I could get to the end and on to the next book. And I will definitely be reading the next book, overall it was a good book and I am interested in finding out how the series ends.
March 12, 2022
A filler book :(
There were some reveals in this book and the editing was better than the last book but feel that everything that happened could have been told in about 100 pages. I really wanted to like this book more but it just felt like a filler book so there would be a trilogy rather than a duet. Guardian was hardly in it, there was a reveal on him that then didn't really come up again, lots of the reveals kind of just fell flat. I now feel totally torn about whether I want to bother with the last book at all :(. I may try another series, see what blurb is for 3rd book when it comes up.
There were some reveals in this book and the editing was better than the last book but feel that everything that happened could have been told in about 100 pages. I really wanted to like this book more but it just felt like a filler book so there would be a trilogy rather than a duet. Guardian was hardly in it, there was a reveal on him that then didn't really come up again, lots of the reveals kind of just fell flat. I now feel totally torn about whether I want to bother with the last book at all :(. I may try another series, see what blurb is for 3rd book when it comes up.
March 13, 2022
Man this book just was pure epicness! I can't say this enough avery is a bad a** author and I've grown obsessed with her books to the point that it's a positive addiction lol! I can't wait for book 3 I loved how she put so much more depth into the characters and what they are and what they are capable of and still evolving! I love all the characters! Lol and the ending was perfect and it leaves you wanting more, Bleu and Alpha Asher are power houses and are gonna show there enemies what it means to mess with a howling shadowborn and there loved ones! I'm honestly gonna read it again after I'm done writing this review I highly recommend this series!❤
March 13, 2022
Ummmmmm....that ending?!?! It answered so many questions yet left me asking more. I absolutely love the story weaving Avery writes and how she leaves all the bread crumbs till then end and then BOOM you are left wanting more! PHEW!? I need book 3 like yesterday! In all seriousness I highly recommend this book as it is a great middle of the series for you. It opens your eyes to some aspects while giving you just a taste of what is to come. And holy epicness, book 3 is going to be a show stopper! I also love the chess theme in all her books as well as character mannerisms. I love the fluidity it creates. Awesome job Avery! You have done it again. :)
March 12, 2022
Avery has done it again! If you love shifters, magic, crazy females, feisty best friends, laughing so hard you snort, and jealous males, then this is the book for you! The world building in this series literally makes me want to cry it’s so good. Avery has literally ruined me for every other author because I’m constantly comparing her written words to other authors and being like, oh well ms. Avery would have written it like this or she would have built this better into the world! Complexity recommend if you are into all of the above!!
March 12, 2022
I just......can't even.....!!!!!!
Avery, you are killing me girl!!!! First of all, I loved this book! I can never get enough of Alpha Asher and Selene. How the story is progressing and the world is building.....total mind f*** in a good way! I love how you are tying your other series in other and I can't wait to see the end result!
That ending though!!! It is beautifully cruel! Perfect in giving us the right amount of hook for the next book!
As always I am salivating for the next book!!
Avery, you are killing me girl!!!! First of all, I loved this book! I can never get enough of Alpha Asher and Selene. How the story is progressing and the world is building.....total mind f*** in a good way! I love how you are tying your other series in other and I can't wait to see the end result!
That ending though!!! It is beautifully cruel! Perfect in giving us the right amount of hook for the next book!
As always I am salivating for the next book!!
March 14, 2022
Wow! Picks up right where we left off and gives us answers while also giving us new questions. I love the character growth from both Asher and Bleu. We get to see more personality and vulnerability. I love the relationships that Bleu has with Cinder and Kenzo and where those are going. The more we learn about Bleu's past the more I want her to get close to her family and get her revenge. My favorite moments are often between Juniper and Axel. Loved Abyss. Definitely can't wait to read the next one. Another great book.
March 20, 2022
Shifter Shadowborns by Avery Stone is book two in the Rise of the Howling Shadowborns books. This one picks up where book one ends. And this is considered a dark paranormal romance. This ending left me wanting more because the world building by this author is amazing! I absolutely adore Alpha Asher and Selene together and I always want more time of them together. This one has some twists and turns that leave you reeling. The new challenges and enemies that are arising leaves you wondering if everyone will survive the incoming chaos.
March 12, 2022
Another Diamond!!
Avery song or her other pen name Avery Stone is absolutely my favorite author!!
Never I have ever read a bad book of hers!! They are all diamonds!!💎💎💎
Every single one!!
This one was especially good because we are finally getting some answers and also finding out just how Bad@$$ Selene really is is!! I mean I knew she was powerful but not a ********!!!
Sorry gotta read it to find out what she is!!😘
And the Ending!! While still a Cliffhanger it still Awesome!!!❤
Can't wait for the next one!!😍
Avery song or her other pen name Avery Stone is absolutely my favorite author!!
Never I have ever read a bad book of hers!! They are all diamonds!!💎💎💎
Every single one!!
This one was especially good because we are finally getting some answers and also finding out just how Bad@$$ Selene really is is!! I mean I knew she was powerful but not a ********!!!
Sorry gotta read it to find out what she is!!😘
And the Ending!! While still a Cliffhanger it still Awesome!!!❤
Can't wait for the next one!!😍
March 11, 2022
Oh my goodness my queen has done it again! I follow my author so I know what a time crunch this was for her to get done. That being said she DID NOT disappoint with being rushed. Bleu is quickly becoming one of my favorite FMC of hers. I normally do not like too much of a cliff hanger in my books but the one at the end of this was perfect! Not too much suspense but just enough to wet your appetite and leave you waiting for the next one to come out.
March 13, 2022
This is an amazing continuation of Selenes journey. I love watching both Asher and Selene grow and mature in their relationship and create the best ways to connect and communicate.
As always, Avery is the QUEEN of quotes and I highlighted so many that just hit with me that it's not even funny.
I cannot wait for the next book and I'm interested to see if the storyline crosses with anyone else we know...
As always, Avery is the QUEEN of quotes and I highlighted so many that just hit with me that it's not even funny.
I cannot wait for the next book and I'm interested to see if the storyline crosses with anyone else we know...
March 13, 2022
Once again, another fantastic book by the amazing Avery Stone!
I absolutely loved this book, I took my time as I didn't want the story to end. I love the dynamics of all the characters, and especially love the friendships. I want a bestie like Kenzo! This ticks every box, as we have gods, dragons, wolves scary fae royalty and even a seahorse.
Its a classic tale of good verses evil and there can only be one winner. I cant wait to find out what happens next.
I absolutely loved this book, I took my time as I didn't want the story to end. I love the dynamics of all the characters, and especially love the friendships. I want a bestie like Kenzo! This ticks every box, as we have gods, dragons, wolves scary fae royalty and even a seahorse.
Its a classic tale of good verses evil and there can only be one winner. I cant wait to find out what happens next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 14, 2022
This book was the perfect second installment for the shadowborn series! I love how we get the back story of Blues life all mixed in with the epic story of protection and growth. As always the characters are relatable and I love how Avery sneaks cuteness or a reminder to not take things so seriously into her books!
The cliff hanger came out of nowhere and I can't belive we have to wait, but I know I'll have to have a few days of mourning once this series is over!
The cliff hanger came out of nowhere and I can't belive we have to wait, but I know I'll have to have a few days of mourning once this series is over!
March 15, 2022
I love this, Bleu’s chaotic way of trying to live her life was as funny as it was endearing. This is the second book in the first series i have read by this author but it won’t be the last. I am particularly in love with the conversation Selene have with anyone about Bluey. The way I imagine their faces when batteries come up makes me laugh loud enough for my old dog to come check on me, highly recommend!
April 20, 2022
Liked the story, but needs better editing!
Just like the 1st book of this series, the story continues to be very entertaining and full of action and some romance. Unfortunately the bad editing damaged the flow of the story, making it jump from one place to another and taking away from the story itself. Very interesting characters and pretty original. Overall an ok book, but not great.
Just like the 1st book of this series, the story continues to be very entertaining and full of action and some romance. Unfortunately the bad editing damaged the flow of the story, making it jump from one place to another and taking away from the story itself. Very interesting characters and pretty original. Overall an ok book, but not great.
March 10, 2022
If you love powerhouse characters that get up when knocked down this books is for you! Bleu is a character that will have you lol and wanting to be her friend. I love the comedy and story line, Ms. Avery does not disappoint when telling a story that captivates and transports you to this great world of Shifter Syndicate. It’s a must read !!!!
March 11, 2022
What a trip this book was, it had so much going on.. Plots within plots.. I love Bleu and her super sassy powers that gets all the alliances.. I love her friends.. Guardian ohh holy smokes that was a twist you didn't see coming.. Bring on book 3.. Classic cliffhanger, epic humour, saucy steam and twisting plots.. Well done
March 11, 2022
Great second edition to this series. Bleu is still going strong along with Asher. This is quickly becoming my favorite series by Avery Stone. Some questions were answered for me that I had at the end of book 1. Can’t wait for book 3. Avery never lets me down when I pick up one of her books. They are the best.
March 13, 2022
Need more!!!
Love all the characters and their new sides in this emotional rollercoaster. From still trying to get ahold of some batteries for Bluey to some revelations to some questions answered to oh more mystery ahead. Can’t wait for the final book and cause I’m a greedy greedy reader, can’t wait to see some spin-off for some characters and by some I mean all of them 😅 #sorrynotsorry
Love all the characters and their new sides in this emotional rollercoaster. From still trying to get ahold of some batteries for Bluey to some revelations to some questions answered to oh more mystery ahead. Can’t wait for the final book and cause I’m a greedy greedy reader, can’t wait to see some spin-off for some characters and by some I mean all of them 😅 #sorrynotsorry
March 14, 2022
If you look up amazing in the dictionary, I am pretty sure you will see Avery's name and picture next to it. Alpha Asher and Selene are off the charts! The story is so vivid and the rollee coaster of emotions...ugh! She has really outdone herself. Now just waiting for the next book since the cliffhanger is gonna drive me insane!
March 14, 2022
I can't wait for part 3 (spoilers)
Selene and Asher's romance is so powerful. I like how so many secrets have been revealed. I want to know more about what Zedediah is doing with the Red Dusks and why Selene and her mother are being kept apart? I have so many questions and I can't wait for these answers in the next book.
Selene and Asher's romance is so powerful. I like how so many secrets have been revealed. I want to know more about what Zedediah is doing with the Red Dusks and why Selene and her mother are being kept apart? I have so many questions and I can't wait for these answers in the next book.
March 17, 2022
Let it Begin
This book was a perfect sequel to Shifter Syndicate and the twist ending just as me saying “so it begins.” Honestly loved how this story gives you even more detail into the characters and who they are. Of course while making sure our sassy, amazing and powerful heroine is even more EPIC game on! Honestly can’t wait to see what book 3 brings.
This book was a perfect sequel to Shifter Syndicate and the twist ending just as me saying “so it begins.” Honestly loved how this story gives you even more detail into the characters and who they are. Of course while making sure our sassy, amazing and powerful heroine is even more EPIC game on! Honestly can’t wait to see what book 3 brings.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews