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Bodyguard Shifters #7
Babysitter Bear
He takes care of other people's kids ... but he craves a family of his own.
Enter a single mom waitress with a broken heart and a whole lot of trouble behind her.
Army vet Dan is still figuring out how to deal with being a three-legged bear, but it turns out kids don’t care how many limbs he has as long as he’s willing to be a climbing frame. He didn’t come to Autumn Grove to be a babysitter, but before he knows it, he’s got a job changing diapers and braiding hair.
Now if he could just catch the eye of the beautiful woman who makes his bear stand up and say "Mine."
But Paula has been burned one too many times. With two kids to worry about, Autumn Grove's only diner to run, and a deadbeat ex, she's not ready to open her heart again.
Even to an amazing guy who's great with kids, with shoulders to die for and amazing eyes and ...
Okay. Maybe she's not holding back her feelings as well as she hoped.
Return to Autumn Grove in a standalone paranormal romance with heat and heart, featuring a few familiar faces and a brand-new couple fighting for their HEA.
Enter a single mom waitress with a broken heart and a whole lot of trouble behind her.
Army vet Dan is still figuring out how to deal with being a three-legged bear, but it turns out kids don’t care how many limbs he has as long as he’s willing to be a climbing frame. He didn’t come to Autumn Grove to be a babysitter, but before he knows it, he’s got a job changing diapers and braiding hair.
Now if he could just catch the eye of the beautiful woman who makes his bear stand up and say "Mine."
But Paula has been burned one too many times. With two kids to worry about, Autumn Grove's only diner to run, and a deadbeat ex, she's not ready to open her heart again.
Even to an amazing guy who's great with kids, with shoulders to die for and amazing eyes and ...
Okay. Maybe she's not holding back her feelings as well as she hoped.
Return to Autumn Grove in a standalone paranormal romance with heat and heart, featuring a few familiar faces and a brand-new couple fighting for their HEA.
255 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 5, 2021
613 people are currently reading
235 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Esker
80 books77 followersLauren Esker writes romantic suspense and paranormal romance that’s just a little off the beaten path. Which isn’t surprising since she’s a lifelong Alaskan who is a little off the beaten path herself! (Literally and figuratively.) She also writes graphic novels and scifi/fantasy as Layla Lawlor, and m/m romance as Layla M. Wier.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
August 14, 2022
This one started out a bit slow, Dan unsure about so much, but as he settled in things picked up. He did a great job with the kids, a bit extra hard due to them being shifters. I liked the friendship he developed with Sandy. It was interesting to see Dan so unsure about himself due to his arm. I was a bit stunned that he never changed for 2 years because he wasn't sure how his bear would take it. It kinda made me sad for him that he was missing that part of his life.
I liked Paula, but it seemed like she was barely holding it together. It didn't help that she didn't have all the facts. I'm glad that Dan realized what was going on, on both fronts and helped. Getting the other guys in to help make sure Paula, her kids and business were safe was great, but helping with Austin was better! I'm sure Austin felt so lost, learning that Ben was a bear seemed to put his mind at ease.
The big showdown at the end was fun! I liked how the "bad guys" were out gunned and gave up! I probably would have too if I had been faced with all of that as well.
I loved the ending, loved the "family" day with everyone where the shifters could play together and the human moms did their own thing. You can tell that everyone is going to be ok from here on out.
I liked Paula, but it seemed like she was barely holding it together. It didn't help that she didn't have all the facts. I'm glad that Dan realized what was going on, on both fronts and helped. Getting the other guys in to help make sure Paula, her kids and business were safe was great, but helping with Austin was better! I'm sure Austin felt so lost, learning that Ben was a bear seemed to put his mind at ease.
The big showdown at the end was fun! I liked how the "bad guys" were out gunned and gave up! I probably would have too if I had been faced with all of that as well.
I loved the ending, loved the "family" day with everyone where the shifters could play together and the human moms did their own thing. You can tell that everyone is going to be ok from here on out.
November 10, 2023
4.25 stars
Wow, Paula and Dan are amazing. I loved them as well as Austin and Lizzy. This series was as addictive as the other series by Zoe Chant that I have read but to end it with such a sweet couple was really cool. And now excuse me, I gotta look into what series of Zoey's to read next.
Wow, Paula and Dan are amazing. I loved them as well as Austin and Lizzy. This series was as addictive as the other series by Zoe Chant that I have read but to end it with such a sweet couple was really cool. And now excuse me, I gotta look into what series of Zoey's to read next.
April 7, 2021
I truly loved this book, I love the entire Bodyguard Shifters series, but this one was special. It was very inspiring how Dan adapted and faced his challenges head-on, never too proud to admit limitations. I am looking forward to rereading it very soon. A great addition to a great series, highly recommended!
April 19, 2021
We have another happy couple in the Bodyguard shifter's series. This time is about Dan, a friend of Ben and Derek that lost his arm and has been looking for a place to call home for a long time. When his friends invite him to be part of their new bodyguard business, he decides to go investigate, only by the time he arrives, there's not much of a business going on, with both of them busy taking care of their children, so Dan accepts a job as a babysitter instead, and he turns out to be really good at it.
Paula wanted to get out of the town and she did, she went to college, but ended up dropping to get married and start a family, but when her husband starts acting weird and refuses to explain what's going on, she ends up getting a divorce and moving back to the life she thought she didn't want. When she starts having problems because of her absent ex, Dan arrives and finds out she is his mate and starts helping her. Together they solve the mystery of what the people want with Paula's ex, and save the day while becoming a big happy family.
The book has all the elements for a great Zoe Chant's book, and it follows the same lines of previous books in the series, while being completely different, making it unique and fresh. Two things that are very important to highlight are that Dan is missing an arm, but he is still capable of doing everything, and it touches in how important it is to embrace who you are, missing arm or not, but it is also important how he took the job as babysitter without any problem. It's important to acknowledge both things, that a missing arm is not a big deal, you are still a functional member of society and have nothing to be ashamed of, and also that taking a job that is usually taken by females doesn't make you less of a man.
Paula wanted to get out of the town and she did, she went to college, but ended up dropping to get married and start a family, but when her husband starts acting weird and refuses to explain what's going on, she ends up getting a divorce and moving back to the life she thought she didn't want. When she starts having problems because of her absent ex, Dan arrives and finds out she is his mate and starts helping her. Together they solve the mystery of what the people want with Paula's ex, and save the day while becoming a big happy family.
The book has all the elements for a great Zoe Chant's book, and it follows the same lines of previous books in the series, while being completely different, making it unique and fresh. Two things that are very important to highlight are that Dan is missing an arm, but he is still capable of doing everything, and it touches in how important it is to embrace who you are, missing arm or not, but it is also important how he took the job as babysitter without any problem. It's important to acknowledge both things, that a missing arm is not a big deal, you are still a functional member of society and have nothing to be ashamed of, and also that taking a job that is usually taken by females doesn't make you less of a man.
April 12, 2023
Sweet and Romantic Shifter Novel
This story is so adorable, sweet, romantic and funny, heart-warming and wholesome. It's like watching a romantic family movie and the landscape described is just breathtaking. It was an absolute delight to read.
This story is so adorable, sweet, romantic and funny, heart-warming and wholesome. It's like watching a romantic family movie and the landscape described is just breathtaking. It was an absolute delight to read.
June 11, 2025
Looking For Flaws - Not finding any really
I have a question or two that are griffin based. One, is it just some of them that have the invisible thing? Because in the fire rescue series, which I read first, the author had them say that mystic shifters had the ability to not be seen by people they didn’t want to see them. But for this run of book, the Stone series and the Westerly Cove books where do see griffins, we have only seen one of them that as far as we were told/shown was able to do the invisible thing. Outside of a second hand account from the second Westerly Cove books.
At this point I don’t know if half of this was red-coned in later or other books a little or the author is trying to have it both ways. Some people know about the invisible thing, but it only applies to some griffins but then there are others that has seen and known all theirs lives that all mystics can do the invisible thing.
Yes it is bugging me, but I will just have to live with it.
The other bit with this book is concerning the last 25% of the story. Actually two things now that I’m thinking about it.
Oh, spoilers.
First up my own shortcomings. If you have been following my reviews you will see that I have been away from this series of books by going through the 6 books of the side series that I mentioned above.
So when the whole gang was pulled in for a meeting, I forgot who was who. I have always sucked at remembering names. But I was honestly dismayed at myself for not remembering these people. I take that back, I remembered some of them but for others I was pulling blanks. Mostly the human mates. I felt like I hadn’t been around them for like two years, at least, and story timeline wise that would be correct.
The second bit is Terry. How could he have gotten around this magical gag? We might have been upset with him for appearing to dip out on his family, but if was able to keep his family, then she would not have met Dan or if she was visiting her parents and met him, oh the amount of worms in that can. Instead of being upset at her then husband for keeping secrets she would have to deal with “cheating “ on him and breaking up their family.
At least it was cleaner this way and in a month or so, she was able to get over it. Which is great for when he meets his mate, because of course he does, he has his ex wife who can help him with getting around that gag. But will the author go that route or just make it difficult for everyone involved? I wonder if they even know how to break the gag spell?
Either which way.
So, closing observation. Up until the talk the female MC had with Terry, in the last chapter of the book, I would have sworn that this was the last book in the series. We had a grand get together that more or less stated , this is the party at the end of it all. A nice farewell to the people and families we saw grow.
But I already own the next book and there was that talk. So that would be the last book I think for this series, unless we are introduced to others in his book that are waiting for their mate as well.
See you on the flip side.
I have a question or two that are griffin based. One, is it just some of them that have the invisible thing? Because in the fire rescue series, which I read first, the author had them say that mystic shifters had the ability to not be seen by people they didn’t want to see them. But for this run of book, the Stone series and the Westerly Cove books where do see griffins, we have only seen one of them that as far as we were told/shown was able to do the invisible thing. Outside of a second hand account from the second Westerly Cove books.
At this point I don’t know if half of this was red-coned in later or other books a little or the author is trying to have it both ways. Some people know about the invisible thing, but it only applies to some griffins but then there are others that has seen and known all theirs lives that all mystics can do the invisible thing.
Yes it is bugging me, but I will just have to live with it.
The other bit with this book is concerning the last 25% of the story. Actually two things now that I’m thinking about it.
Oh, spoilers.
First up my own shortcomings. If you have been following my reviews you will see that I have been away from this series of books by going through the 6 books of the side series that I mentioned above.
So when the whole gang was pulled in for a meeting, I forgot who was who. I have always sucked at remembering names. But I was honestly dismayed at myself for not remembering these people. I take that back, I remembered some of them but for others I was pulling blanks. Mostly the human mates. I felt like I hadn’t been around them for like two years, at least, and story timeline wise that would be correct.
The second bit is Terry. How could he have gotten around this magical gag? We might have been upset with him for appearing to dip out on his family, but if was able to keep his family, then she would not have met Dan or if she was visiting her parents and met him, oh the amount of worms in that can. Instead of being upset at her then husband for keeping secrets she would have to deal with “cheating “ on him and breaking up their family.
At least it was cleaner this way and in a month or so, she was able to get over it. Which is great for when he meets his mate, because of course he does, he has his ex wife who can help him with getting around that gag. But will the author go that route or just make it difficult for everyone involved? I wonder if they even know how to break the gag spell?
Either which way.
So, closing observation. Up until the talk the female MC had with Terry, in the last chapter of the book, I would have sworn that this was the last book in the series. We had a grand get together that more or less stated , this is the party at the end of it all. A nice farewell to the people and families we saw grow.
But I already own the next book and there was that talk. So that would be the last book I think for this series, unless we are introduced to others in his book that are waiting for their mate as well.
See you on the flip side.
April 12, 2021
This is a good shifter romance, with a likable couple. This book gets 3.5 stars from me, rounded up to 4 stars.
I liked both Dan and Paula a lot, and thought they made a good couple. I also really liked that Dan was so good with kids. There aren't many books that have an alpha male working as a babysitter, and I thought that was a nice touch.
I liked that characters from the earlier books in this series helped to resolve the problem with Paula's ex and his family -- but I did think that the ex's family agreed to the resolution a little too quickly to be believable.
One problem I have with all of Zoe Chant's series is that there is so long between books. Lots of times I have to go back and reread some of the earlier books in a series, simply because it has been so long that I don't remember all the characters. That is frustrating. I know Zoe Chant is actually a group of authors, and one person writes all the books in a series -- but I wish the books in a series could be published closer together.
My rating system is below.
1 star -- Hated it, or did not finish. I usually only give this rating if some of the content is truly objectionable to me, like if one of the main characters does something really awful, and gets away with it.
2 stars -- Didn't like it. This rating usually means that I thought the writing wasn't very good, the editing was terrible, I didn't like the characters, or it had other major flaws.
3 stars -- I liked it, but had some minor issues with it. This rating means that there were minor editing issues, the story needed more character development, it was just too unrealistic, or had some other fairly minor issue. The majority of books I read get this rating – I do not consider it a bad rating.
4 stars -- I liked it a lot. This is a high rating for me, and I rarely give a higher one.
5 stars -- I loved it, and will probably read it again. Very few books are good enough to get this rating from me. The ones that do are usually classics.
I liked both Dan and Paula a lot, and thought they made a good couple. I also really liked that Dan was so good with kids. There aren't many books that have an alpha male working as a babysitter, and I thought that was a nice touch.
I liked that characters from the earlier books in this series helped to resolve the problem with Paula's ex and his family -- but I did think that the ex's family agreed to the resolution a little too quickly to be believable.
One problem I have with all of Zoe Chant's series is that there is so long between books. Lots of times I have to go back and reread some of the earlier books in a series, simply because it has been so long that I don't remember all the characters. That is frustrating. I know Zoe Chant is actually a group of authors, and one person writes all the books in a series -- but I wish the books in a series could be published closer together.
My rating system is below.
1 star -- Hated it, or did not finish. I usually only give this rating if some of the content is truly objectionable to me, like if one of the main characters does something really awful, and gets away with it.
2 stars -- Didn't like it. This rating usually means that I thought the writing wasn't very good, the editing was terrible, I didn't like the characters, or it had other major flaws.
3 stars -- I liked it, but had some minor issues with it. This rating means that there were minor editing issues, the story needed more character development, it was just too unrealistic, or had some other fairly minor issue. The majority of books I read get this rating – I do not consider it a bad rating.
4 stars -- I liked it a lot. This is a high rating for me, and I rarely give a higher one.
5 stars -- I loved it, and will probably read it again. Very few books are good enough to get this rating from me. The ones that do are usually classics.
April 9, 2021
Another great addition to the Bodyguard Shifters series
This is a super series by Zoe Chant. You do want to read them in order of you can. Dan is out of the Army and looks up his friend Derek who has started a bodyguard business in a small town with another pal Ben. Business is slow, but what they really need is a babysitter who can handle shifter kids, including one very young dragon girl! Fortunately, Dan is like a kid-whisperer, so he can handle it. Then he takes the kids into town and meets his mate. Paula owns and runs the local diner and suddenly this menacing man comes around looking for her ex-husband. Dan is not about to let her be pushed around, but she doesn't know about shifters! It gets even more interesting from that point on!
The pace is fast and the tone is hopeful with a character oriented storyline that has some steamy scenes and some action. The characters are vivid and engaging with some of the characters from previous books in the series showing up. This is a very exciting shifter romance series. There is a spinoff series called Stoneskin Shifters, I think! Only book 1 in that series is out called Stoneskin Dragon and it takes place after Bodyguard Shifters #6. Enjoy these fun to read shifter romances!
This is a super series by Zoe Chant. You do want to read them in order of you can. Dan is out of the Army and looks up his friend Derek who has started a bodyguard business in a small town with another pal Ben. Business is slow, but what they really need is a babysitter who can handle shifter kids, including one very young dragon girl! Fortunately, Dan is like a kid-whisperer, so he can handle it. Then he takes the kids into town and meets his mate. Paula owns and runs the local diner and suddenly this menacing man comes around looking for her ex-husband. Dan is not about to let her be pushed around, but she doesn't know about shifters! It gets even more interesting from that point on!
The pace is fast and the tone is hopeful with a character oriented storyline that has some steamy scenes and some action. The characters are vivid and engaging with some of the characters from previous books in the series showing up. This is a very exciting shifter romance series. There is a spinoff series called Stoneskin Shifters, I think! Only book 1 in that series is out called Stoneskin Dragon and it takes place after Bodyguard Shifters #6. Enjoy these fun to read shifter romances!
September 5, 2023
Shifters in abundance.....
Dan has been a lone traveler for quite a while when he decides to look up a few friends and maybe join their start up bodyguard business. He had received messages from them telling him to come on down to their town. They didn't know Dan had lost one arm in his last tour of the service. So when he shows up they hire him as a nanny for their children until the business gets more clients. When he takes the kids to a small diner in town he comes face to face with his mate. Dan is a bear shifter. Paula is the owner of the diner. She is a single mom of two. Unfortunately someone tries to harass Paula so Dan has to stand up to this person. Paula feels so drawn to Dan and can't understand why. After learning that Dan is a shifter Paula also finds out her children are both shifters. She didn't know her ex husband was a griffin shifter. So they are all so happy together along with the other many shifters from the small town. Very fun and exciting book. I recommend this book as well as they whole series to anyone who likes shifter books.
Dan has been a lone traveler for quite a while when he decides to look up a few friends and maybe join their start up bodyguard business. He had received messages from them telling him to come on down to their town. They didn't know Dan had lost one arm in his last tour of the service. So when he shows up they hire him as a nanny for their children until the business gets more clients. When he takes the kids to a small diner in town he comes face to face with his mate. Dan is a bear shifter. Paula is the owner of the diner. She is a single mom of two. Unfortunately someone tries to harass Paula so Dan has to stand up to this person. Paula feels so drawn to Dan and can't understand why. After learning that Dan is a shifter Paula also finds out her children are both shifters. She didn't know her ex husband was a griffin shifter. So they are all so happy together along with the other many shifters from the small town. Very fun and exciting book. I recommend this book as well as they whole series to anyone who likes shifter books.
April 20, 2021
Another entertaining read!
Babysitter Bear, book 7 of Zoe Chant's Bodyguard Shifters series, features another flawed but utterly loveable alpha shifter! Once again, Zoe brings us to Autumn Grove, a small town in the Rockies that I just long to see in person. Small towns in Missouri are dying here. As I drive downtown I see nothing but old abandoned, decrepted buildings. I remember not so long ago when our downtown looked as Zoe describes Autumn Grove. The ability to make settings come alive through written word is on of Zoe Chant's artistic skills. I only wish I had the talent she has for vividly describing a scene. Her other skill, developing multi-dimensional characters you can't help but fall in love with shows in this story about a broken down bear shifter Dan, and single mom, diner owner, Paula. As always there is just enough suspense to balance out the steamy sex. Zoe Chant helps me prove my new motto:
"A book a day, keeps the housework at bay!"
Well done as always Zoe and Stoneskin Dragon is definitely on my To Be Read Shelf!
Babysitter Bear, book 7 of Zoe Chant's Bodyguard Shifters series, features another flawed but utterly loveable alpha shifter! Once again, Zoe brings us to Autumn Grove, a small town in the Rockies that I just long to see in person. Small towns in Missouri are dying here. As I drive downtown I see nothing but old abandoned, decrepted buildings. I remember not so long ago when our downtown looked as Zoe describes Autumn Grove. The ability to make settings come alive through written word is on of Zoe Chant's artistic skills. I only wish I had the talent she has for vividly describing a scene. Her other skill, developing multi-dimensional characters you can't help but fall in love with shows in this story about a broken down bear shifter Dan, and single mom, diner owner, Paula. As always there is just enough suspense to balance out the steamy sex. Zoe Chant helps me prove my new motto:
"A book a day, keeps the housework at bay!"
Well done as always Zoe and Stoneskin Dragon is definitely on my To Be Read Shelf!
January 12, 2022
Will there be more?
Babysitter Bear: Bodyguard Shifters Book 7
By Zoe Chant
Kindle unlimited purchase
Paula is raising her two children while running her family dinner. Her ex-husband left with no warning so she came home to raise her children in the same small town that raised her.
Dan is a bear shifter. He hasn't shifted since he lost his arm in the military. Now finding himself on his friends doorstep he has nowhere else to go. So he becomes their nanny.
This is a great addition to this great series (s) about this great little town. Each book has its own H and h with their own HEA. But I still recommend reading the books in order. That way you will know the other characters as they show up in books. Will there be anymore books set in his series? Would love to read about the kids and their HEA. Don't forget to read the Stoneskin dragon and find out what happens to Reive in his book.
Bearista
Pet Rescue Panther
Bear in a Bookshop
Day Care Dragon
Bull in a Tea Shop
Dancer Dragon
Babysitter Bear
Babysitter Bear: Bodyguard Shifters Book 7
By Zoe Chant
Kindle unlimited purchase
Paula is raising her two children while running her family dinner. Her ex-husband left with no warning so she came home to raise her children in the same small town that raised her.
Dan is a bear shifter. He hasn't shifted since he lost his arm in the military. Now finding himself on his friends doorstep he has nowhere else to go. So he becomes their nanny.
This is a great addition to this great series (s) about this great little town. Each book has its own H and h with their own HEA. But I still recommend reading the books in order. That way you will know the other characters as they show up in books. Will there be anymore books set in his series? Would love to read about the kids and their HEA. Don't forget to read the Stoneskin dragon and find out what happens to Reive in his book.
Bearista
Pet Rescue Panther
Bear in a Bookshop
Day Care Dragon
Bull in a Tea Shop
Dancer Dragon
Babysitter Bear
July 31, 2022
Even after two years army veteran, potential employers still see Dan Ross handi-capped barely giving him a chance to show he’s handi-capable. Deciding it’s time to take his friends up on working at their security business, Dan hits the road. But when he arrives, the security company isn’t up and running yet so Dan helps out by watching the kids.
Harried, single mo. of two, diner owner Paula DeWitt Raines’ frustration is coming from her teen son lately. That is until a pair of thugs come to town demanding she turn over her ex who hasn’t paid child support, sent birthday presents or called their kids in months. Despite her denials, the thugs insist Paula knows where he is and escalate their threats toward her.
Though Autumn Grove has a large shifter community Paula is completely unaware of them On his first visit to the diner, Dan recognizes Paula as his mate There’s a big problem though, how he’ll introduce her to his bear! As the pair grow closer, Paula’s son rebels as only a teen can. But that’s the tip of a bigger iceberg!
Rating:4stars
Harried, single mo. of two, diner owner Paula DeWitt Raines’ frustration is coming from her teen son lately. That is until a pair of thugs come to town demanding she turn over her ex who hasn’t paid child support, sent birthday presents or called their kids in months. Despite her denials, the thugs insist Paula knows where he is and escalate their threats toward her.
Though Autumn Grove has a large shifter community Paula is completely unaware of them On his first visit to the diner, Dan recognizes Paula as his mate There’s a big problem though, how he’ll introduce her to his bear! As the pair grow closer, Paula’s son rebels as only a teen can. But that’s the tip of a bigger iceberg!
Rating:4stars
April 18, 2021
Dan and Paula's Shifter Love! 4.25***** Spoiler Alert!
Dan Ross, an amputee bear-shifter, veteran turned up for a security but with his ex military shifter buds, Ben and Derek, only to meet his mate, human Paula. Together they navigated single mother of two dating drama, but cemented their relationship as enforcers came looking for her ex-Terry/Tyr the griffin. Dan and his buddies helped Terry leave the secret island of Griffin covert, while securing her adolescent son to accept his heritage of being a shifter Griffin, and his sister Lissy. Yes they are making plans on having a baby bear soon.
Great characters and a climatic plot involving a diner show down, proving love and honesty can conquer all. I wonder if the covert of Griffin will ever find out about Lissy and her son, and return to reclaim them to the island? Also how long before Lissy shifts at school? An interesting paranormal/Rom read!
04/17/21-04/18/21 COVID-19.
Dan Ross, an amputee bear-shifter, veteran turned up for a security but with his ex military shifter buds, Ben and Derek, only to meet his mate, human Paula. Together they navigated single mother of two dating drama, but cemented their relationship as enforcers came looking for her ex-Terry/Tyr the griffin. Dan and his buddies helped Terry leave the secret island of Griffin covert, while securing her adolescent son to accept his heritage of being a shifter Griffin, and his sister Lissy. Yes they are making plans on having a baby bear soon.
Great characters and a climatic plot involving a diner show down, proving love and honesty can conquer all. I wonder if the covert of Griffin will ever find out about Lissy and her son, and return to reclaim them to the island? Also how long before Lissy shifts at school? An interesting paranormal/Rom read!
04/17/21-04/18/21 COVID-19.
June 8, 2021
May be my fav of the series!
Okay, this review is easy. Love this book! It's got everything you want in this type of paranormal romance. The characters are interesting and very real in emotions and reaction to situations. The story is so good. It pulls you in, giving all of the character info you need to understand them, and the plot keeps you turning the pages straight to the end. The characters from previous books aren't just there because they need to make an appearance, instead they're an integral and fun major part of the story! Last but certainly not least, the book has a warm and sincere sense of humor. I'm jealous, because I want to be a part of this group of friends too! I'd be a shifter, of course. I've got to be able to fly, but I want to be a cat...so I guess I'll be a winged panther! Ooh, wings of feathers and fur? Yep!
😁✋🐺
Okay, this review is easy. Love this book! It's got everything you want in this type of paranormal romance. The characters are interesting and very real in emotions and reaction to situations. The story is so good. It pulls you in, giving all of the character info you need to understand them, and the plot keeps you turning the pages straight to the end. The characters from previous books aren't just there because they need to make an appearance, instead they're an integral and fun major part of the story! Last but certainly not least, the book has a warm and sincere sense of humor. I'm jealous, because I want to be a part of this group of friends too! I'd be a shifter, of course. I've got to be able to fly, but I want to be a cat...so I guess I'll be a winged panther! Ooh, wings of feathers and fur? Yep!
😁✋🐺
October 6, 2024
OK, seriously, what is it with Ms Esker's paranormal romance and tropes I generally LOATHE WITH A PASSION but end up liking when she writes them?
Look, I have ZERO interest in kid-focussed PNR. I have zero maternal instinct, so a tough, gruff shifter type being all parent-y and stuff is just not a me- kind of trope. And yet - damn, this story hits me in the feels. From Dan's hesitation shifting since his accident because he's scared to be a three-legged bear to the whole way he treats Paula's kids like valid, valuable human beings (in age-appropriate ways), I just... can't NOT like it.
I'm never going to pick up a book like this BECAUSE of the kid-focused, family aspect to the stories. But apparently, I will now read anything and everything Ms Esker writes because damn, if she can make me love this, I'm pretty sure she can make me love anything!
Look, I have ZERO interest in kid-focussed PNR. I have zero maternal instinct, so a tough, gruff shifter type being all parent-y and stuff is just not a me- kind of trope. And yet - damn, this story hits me in the feels. From Dan's hesitation shifting since his accident because he's scared to be a three-legged bear to the whole way he treats Paula's kids like valid, valuable human beings (in age-appropriate ways), I just... can't NOT like it.
I'm never going to pick up a book like this BECAUSE of the kid-focused, family aspect to the stories. But apparently, I will now read anything and everything Ms Esker writes because damn, if she can make me love this, I'm pretty sure she can make me love anything!
April 24, 2021
Fantastic book about shifters
Dan is a bear shifter who was injured while in the service. He needs a job and likes kids, human or shifters. He meets Paula, who is divorced with two kids and a diner. Her ex-husband lied to her leaving her and the kids.
Some mysterious stranger in harassing her about her ex. Fortunately Dan and his ex-military buddies are in the bodyguard business.
This fast paced action and dramatic romance has characters that are unique, funny, and totally believable.
I love how this author writes books that if shifters were real that they're so relatable. Also love the antics the kids get into by just being kids.
Thus charming story is highly recommended.
bookwormsuzy
Dan is a bear shifter who was injured while in the service. He needs a job and likes kids, human or shifters. He meets Paula, who is divorced with two kids and a diner. Her ex-husband lied to her leaving her and the kids.
Some mysterious stranger in harassing her about her ex. Fortunately Dan and his ex-military buddies are in the bodyguard business.
This fast paced action and dramatic romance has characters that are unique, funny, and totally believable.
I love how this author writes books that if shifters were real that they're so relatable. Also love the antics the kids get into by just being kids.
Thus charming story is highly recommended.
bookwormsuzy
July 18, 2021
Great story
Another excellent book by a wonderful storyteller. I am really enjoying the stories centred around middle aged characters as I am myself.
Dan is at a crisis point; wounded during his last tour of duty, middle aged with no steady work, no permanent home and not sure what to do with himself. He goes to visit an old friend who may have some security work for him in a small town.
Paula is working so hard to keep her diner going she worries that her kids, a tween and a teenager, are growing up without her. Her ex-husband disappeared and now some tough guy is hassling her looking for him.
Obviously these two are soul mates but it’s how they deal with the complications that Zoe Chant is so good at.
Another excellent book by a wonderful storyteller. I am really enjoying the stories centred around middle aged characters as I am myself.
Dan is at a crisis point; wounded during his last tour of duty, middle aged with no steady work, no permanent home and not sure what to do with himself. He goes to visit an old friend who may have some security work for him in a small town.
Paula is working so hard to keep her diner going she worries that her kids, a tween and a teenager, are growing up without her. Her ex-husband disappeared and now some tough guy is hassling her looking for him.
Obviously these two are soul mates but it’s how they deal with the complications that Zoe Chant is so good at.
May 27, 2023
Very good story about a bear shifter who lost his arm in the military. After years of therapy and rehabilitation, craptastic jobs that never last, he heads out to find a friend who wanted him to be part of a bodyguard service he's starting up. He finds his friend and another friend he knows from is past but instead of becoming a bodyguard, he becomes babysitter to some adorable shifters. There is so much more but you will have to read this book to find it out.
This is one of Zoe Chant's newer books and I can see the growth she's made as an author in these later stories. They are more complex and the characters have more realistically complicated lives. Of course with fantasy novels there's always something magical.
This is one of Zoe Chant's newer books and I can see the growth she's made as an author in these later stories. They are more complex and the characters have more realistically complicated lives. Of course with fantasy novels there's always something magical.
August 26, 2024
great story
I accidentally read other books out of sequence because they area part of a different series and because books had been released I didn’t know about and somehow I’ve missed a few before those got read already just trying to go back and read what got skipped so it felt weird
But what actually bothered me was continuity, there were a couple minor points that ripped me out of the story. But like I said it was minor.. but enough that it was jolting. When facts in story, don’t jive and jell, it can throw you off. But all in all great series. I read earlier books. Years ago and it was hard to remember old characters and storylines. Wish they were not so long in between
I accidentally read other books out of sequence because they area part of a different series and because books had been released I didn’t know about and somehow I’ve missed a few before those got read already just trying to go back and read what got skipped so it felt weird
But what actually bothered me was continuity, there were a couple minor points that ripped me out of the story. But like I said it was minor.. but enough that it was jolting. When facts in story, don’t jive and jell, it can throw you off. But all in all great series. I read earlier books. Years ago and it was hard to remember old characters and storylines. Wish they were not so long in between
April 10, 2021
Truly a pleasant and enjoyable read but not riveting. A couple of things didn't make sense.
How did Dan not realise Austin had shifter blood?
I did enjoy this very much but at times it felt like it was just meandering along.
There is a story happening with the absent ex husband but I will admit I was very puzzled as to why he married Paula. He wasn’t her mate.
Loved how Dan made himself vulnerable to help Austin and how pragmatic he was about his disability. His interaction with the children was adorable.
Paula gets answers and finds a life work balance that she desperately needed.
Hope Mitch gets a story.
Read through Kindle Unlimited.
How did Dan not realise Austin had shifter blood?
I did enjoy this very much but at times it felt like it was just meandering along.
There is a story happening with the absent ex husband but I will admit I was very puzzled as to why he married Paula. He wasn’t her mate.
Loved how Dan made himself vulnerable to help Austin and how pragmatic he was about his disability. His interaction with the children was adorable.
Paula gets answers and finds a life work balance that she desperately needed.
Hope Mitch gets a story.
Read through Kindle Unlimited.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 17, 2021
Heartwarming
This was a sweet, heartwarming story. Dan is a grizzly bear shifter who lost an arm in service and has spent years in rehabilitation. He has two buddies who are fellow shifters and talked about developing a bodyguard business. Dan is tired of drifting and shows up hoping for a job. The business hasn't gotten off the ground yet but Dan is great with kids. He ends up babysitting and helping out on the ranch. Paula owns the diner in town and is raising two kids - a nine year old daughter and a fifteen year old son. When Dan meets her he knows he's found his mate. It's a feel good story and I loved it.
This was a sweet, heartwarming story. Dan is a grizzly bear shifter who lost an arm in service and has spent years in rehabilitation. He has two buddies who are fellow shifters and talked about developing a bodyguard business. Dan is tired of drifting and shows up hoping for a job. The business hasn't gotten off the ground yet but Dan is great with kids. He ends up babysitting and helping out on the ranch. Paula owns the diner in town and is raising two kids - a nine year old daughter and a fifteen year old son. When Dan meets her he knows he's found his mate. It's a feel good story and I loved it.
June 8, 2021
New take on shifters
Stand alone that would've been enhanced by reading the first six books (or at least Ben and Derek's books) but easily read on its own.
I've read many shifter books, books with older mothers as heroines, and books that the shifter is/ was military.
But this is one of the few that had an amputee shifter which was a refreshing new tale. As was the mention of some lesser known shifters.
It's an intriguing blend of suspense/ second chance / military service/ paranormal/ contemporary/ small town and romance all in one book. I definitely will be reading more from this author soon
Stand alone that would've been enhanced by reading the first six books (or at least Ben and Derek's books) but easily read on its own.
I've read many shifter books, books with older mothers as heroines, and books that the shifter is/ was military.
But this is one of the few that had an amputee shifter which was a refreshing new tale. As was the mention of some lesser known shifters.
It's an intriguing blend of suspense/ second chance / military service/ paranormal/ contemporary/ small town and romance all in one book. I definitely will be reading more from this author soon
April 6, 2021
This is Dan and Paula and the kids story . Dan is trying to adjust after losing an arm but still wants his dream . Paula is working her bottom off trying to make sure her kids are taken care of . When Dan becomes her babysitter and his bear sees and scents her all bets are off ! This man / bear will do whatever it takes to make this female and the kids his !! I love a story that has humor drama and of course hot as heck ! And this one has it all ! Well written and recommended to all !
I was able to receive this ARC and love it so much I wanted to leave a review .
I was able to receive this ARC and love it so much I wanted to leave a review .
April 8, 2021
A delightful read
I so enjoyed reading this book. It was cute. I loved the little ones turning into shifters. Sprinkle sparkle pony what a name for a favorite toy! The secret part about the tattoo and Griffin's was a new idea. Kind of sad that he had to leave his kids but then again shame on him for doing that to begin with and even worse shame on the Griffin's for messing up her diner. That was uncalled for and just nasty. Read the story it really made me smile! I sure would like to have a baby dragon or griffin! how cute!
I so enjoyed reading this book. It was cute. I loved the little ones turning into shifters. Sprinkle sparkle pony what a name for a favorite toy! The secret part about the tattoo and Griffin's was a new idea. Kind of sad that he had to leave his kids but then again shame on him for doing that to begin with and even worse shame on the Griffin's for messing up her diner. That was uncalled for and just nasty. Read the story it really made me smile! I sure would like to have a baby dragon or griffin! how cute!
May 31, 2021
It reads with a Hallmark movie vibe and is definitely one of the cutest stories I've read lately. I love the build-up, the character's definition, and steady plot progression. Paula and Dan are perfect for each other and once they accept it, the story then revolves around their perfect feeling relationship. There are some dramatic scenes and the emotional turmoil that comes from teenage angst and crazy hormones was spot on. I read this out of order and was not lost from not reading the ones before. It was a cute love story.
June 22, 2021
Short and sweet
So cute. Loved the single mom and vet angle. He was still adjusting to life after losing a limb and believing he wasn’t less than because he didn’t have both arms anymore. Paula was dealing with life without help of the father of her kids. On too of a business her teenage son being a pain. Dan and Paula just clicked and it was easy to see them together as they just gelled. So cute with some minor steamy moments. Loved the bonding between Austin and Dan when we find out his reason for being secretive and bratty. Cute story.
So cute. Loved the single mom and vet angle. He was still adjusting to life after losing a limb and believing he wasn’t less than because he didn’t have both arms anymore. Paula was dealing with life without help of the father of her kids. On too of a business her teenage son being a pain. Dan and Paula just clicked and it was easy to see them together as they just gelled. So cute with some minor steamy moments. Loved the bonding between Austin and Dan when we find out his reason for being secretive and bratty. Cute story.
November 23, 2025
Cute story about a three-legged bear shifter moving to a small town where some of his shifter military buddies live, and finding a home and place for himself.
Dan lost an arm overseas, he’s trying to find a new normal for himself and feeling poorly, but coping. Finds himself a babysitting gig and loves it. Finds his fated mate, Paula, single mom of two, and voila, HEA.
Simple, easy, not a lot of heat, most of it was fade to black, so it was a nice book. Not interesting enough for me to want to read more of the series but not bad.
Dan lost an arm overseas, he’s trying to find a new normal for himself and feeling poorly, but coping. Finds himself a babysitting gig and loves it. Finds his fated mate, Paula, single mom of two, and voila, HEA.
Simple, easy, not a lot of heat, most of it was fade to black, so it was a nice book. Not interesting enough for me to want to read more of the series but not bad.
April 17, 2021
A Fun Read
I have to confess that this author was very new to me. I bought the book because I liked the cover. I really enjoyed myself and didn't stop reading once I started this book. Dan & Paula have a wonderful story. This book was so well written and had a great ebb and flow to the storyline. I highly recommend getting this book. Now I am going to look for more books like this one.
Happy reading!!
I have to confess that this author was very new to me. I bought the book because I liked the cover. I really enjoyed myself and didn't stop reading once I started this book. Dan & Paula have a wonderful story. This book was so well written and had a great ebb and flow to the storyline. I highly recommend getting this book. Now I am going to look for more books like this one.
Happy reading!!
April 18, 2021
Great story
I love shifter stories. Zoe Chant weaves magic and humor into her storyline. This time lions cougars and bears oh my, griffin’s and dragons oh dear! Everything controlled chaos. Baby dragons so freaking cute. Love this story of Dan a bear shifter that’s lost one of his arms and finds his mate who runs a diner.
I was engaged with this story like I haven’t been in awhile. Get it you will love it!
I love shifter stories. Zoe Chant weaves magic and humor into her storyline. This time lions cougars and bears oh my, griffin’s and dragons oh dear! Everything controlled chaos. Baby dragons so freaking cute. Love this story of Dan a bear shifter that’s lost one of his arms and finds his mate who runs a diner.
I was engaged with this story like I haven’t been in awhile. Get it you will love it!
May 20, 2021
Oh What A Lovely Read!
Quick, cute, intriguing, captivating! A bit intense in some situations! Like all the Zoe Chant books I've read (nope, haven't got to ALL of them but I've got close to a dozen "under my belt," LOL) it's a great read. Interesting situations - never the same. The formula, of course but, the particulars are always unique, sometimes exotic, and most have amusing scenes to make you laugh. Thank you for your time, talent and the stories!
Quick, cute, intriguing, captivating! A bit intense in some situations! Like all the Zoe Chant books I've read (nope, haven't got to ALL of them but I've got close to a dozen "under my belt," LOL) it's a great read. Interesting situations - never the same. The formula, of course but, the particulars are always unique, sometimes exotic, and most have amusing scenes to make you laugh. Thank you for your time, talent and the stories!
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