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Moonrise #1
Edge of the Woods
There’s something wrong in Pine Grove, Montana, and its bite is vicious.
Haley Fern has been the alpha of her local werewolf pack for less than a year when their law enforcement liaison retires, and Leland Sommers, a man who knows nothing about werewolves or their world, is hired in his place. What could be an awkward situation turns complicated when the man shows up his first day on the job with an injured teenage boy he found on the road–a boy Haley knows has just been bitten.
But discovering who bit the kid isn’t as easy as it seems, especially with Leland asking questions and looking at Haley the way he does.
Can the alpha figure out who is attacking innocent people on her wildlife preserve and protect her pack? Or will the new sheriff and her growing attraction to him put her entire world in danger?
Haley Fern has been the alpha of her local werewolf pack for less than a year when their law enforcement liaison retires, and Leland Sommers, a man who knows nothing about werewolves or their world, is hired in his place. What could be an awkward situation turns complicated when the man shows up his first day on the job with an injured teenage boy he found on the road–a boy Haley knows has just been bitten.
But discovering who bit the kid isn’t as easy as it seems, especially with Leland asking questions and looking at Haley the way he does.
Can the alpha figure out who is attacking innocent people on her wildlife preserve and protect her pack? Or will the new sheriff and her growing attraction to him put her entire world in danger?
374 pages, ebook
First published May 6, 2021
3 people are currently reading
219 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
November 1, 2021
This queer M/F werewolf paranormal has a satisfying slow burn romance subplot, and it’s become one of my comfort re-reads. Haley Fern is the new pack alpha in the small town of Pine Grove, Montana. Leland Sommers takes a job as deputy in Pine Grove to get away from his painful past. Problem is, the FIRST DANG THING he runs across in town, before he’s even! started! work! is a teenager who’s just been bitten by a werewolf and will be turning shortly.
Not that he knows that. Leland doesn’t know anything about werewolves. And it’s Haley’s job to keep it that way, even though sparks fly between the two of them immediately. Chaos, as they say, ensues.
I love Jules Kelley’s writing, always. I adored Haley and Leland being very real and attractive people rather than the traditional thin airbrushed hotties you see on so many paranormal covers (who are fine! but I like variety in my MCs!). The trouble they run into trying to, uh, consummate their relationship had me cracking up. The book has plenty of suspenseful action of the non-bedroom variety as well. :)
Diego, the new werewolf Leland picks up, has a POV here and his book is next, with a vampire from the colony down the road who has a bad history with the Pine Grove pack. I cannot WAIT.
Note: Kelley has become a friend after I fell in love with their writing and jumped into their DMs like “Do you ever need beta readers? If I come mow your lawn to save you time, can you write more books?” When I don’t care for something a friend has written, I simply don’t review it.
Not that he knows that. Leland doesn’t know anything about werewolves. And it’s Haley’s job to keep it that way, even though sparks fly between the two of them immediately. Chaos, as they say, ensues.
I love Jules Kelley’s writing, always. I adored Haley and Leland being very real and attractive people rather than the traditional thin airbrushed hotties you see on so many paranormal covers (who are fine! but I like variety in my MCs!). The trouble they run into trying to, uh, consummate their relationship had me cracking up. The book has plenty of suspenseful action of the non-bedroom variety as well. :)
Diego, the new werewolf Leland picks up, has a POV here and his book is next, with a vampire from the colony down the road who has a bad history with the Pine Grove pack. I cannot WAIT.
Note: Kelley has become a friend after I fell in love with their writing and jumped into their DMs like “Do you ever need beta readers? If I come mow your lawn to save you time, can you write more books?” When I don’t care for something a friend has written, I simply don’t review it.
Read
April 24, 2021This is the author’s full-length debut, and it’s a genuinely excellent read. I’m marking it as LGBT despite being M/F because Haley, the heroine, is explicitly bisexual. It’s thoroughly diverse in lots of ways, with the two side characters with the most page time being queer as well; Diego is a young gay Hispanic man and Michelle a trans woman.
The lore of werewolves is really interestingly explored here, with discrimination against those who are ‘made’ versus those who are ‘born’, a nearby clan of vampires a looming threat, and werewolf pack dynamics having evolved to the point where alphas are elected rather than winning their position through dominance (although I’m not quite sure where betas come in… especially with one ‘packless’ beta being sent to help Haley out - who elected her, or why is she a beta otherwise?)
The romance here is delightful, with new sheriff Leland rolling into town utterly clueless about even the existence of alphas and being massively attracted to Haley from the first moment. Neither Leland nor Haley are perfect physical specimens; Haley is described as rounded, with thick thighs, and Leland has a barrel chest and love handles, something rarely seen on romance heroes in particular, but I really liked it. Another thing handled beautifully here is consent, with both Haley and Leland regularly checking in with each other and seeking explicit consent for things which are often initiated without it, including touching and kissing.
This is a really good read, with the story arc nicely concluded, something of a role reversal in that it’s Haley who gets to do most of the heavy lifting in saving the day, and quite a few intriguing questions left open and lots of side characters who could all have a nice romance of their own going forward. I thoroughly enjoyed it and I’ll be looking for more in this series. Five stars.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title from the author.
The lore of werewolves is really interestingly explored here, with discrimination against those who are ‘made’ versus those who are ‘born’, a nearby clan of vampires a looming threat, and werewolf pack dynamics having evolved to the point where alphas are elected rather than winning their position through dominance (although I’m not quite sure where betas come in… especially with one ‘packless’ beta being sent to help Haley out - who elected her, or why is she a beta otherwise?)
The romance here is delightful, with new sheriff Leland rolling into town utterly clueless about even the existence of alphas and being massively attracted to Haley from the first moment. Neither Leland nor Haley are perfect physical specimens; Haley is described as rounded, with thick thighs, and Leland has a barrel chest and love handles, something rarely seen on romance heroes in particular, but I really liked it. Another thing handled beautifully here is consent, with both Haley and Leland regularly checking in with each other and seeking explicit consent for things which are often initiated without it, including touching and kissing.
This is a really good read, with the story arc nicely concluded, something of a role reversal in that it’s Haley who gets to do most of the heavy lifting in saving the day, and quite a few intriguing questions left open and lots of side characters who could all have a nice romance of their own going forward. I thoroughly enjoyed it and I’ll be looking for more in this series. Five stars.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title from the author.
May 27, 2021
First off, a round of applause for the diversity in this book. Out of all the characters, we have some straight ones, some gay ones, some bisexual ones, and some trans ones, and even better, their sexuality wasn't what made up for any part of the plot. So big bonus there.
Werewolf books are a hit or miss kind of thing to me. This one lands somewhere in the middle. I really loved Michele and Diego. But when it came to Haley and Leland, I thought they were really boring and I didn't care about them or their relationship at all. I wish this would have been more focused on Diego or Michele, because that's where the interesting stuff was happening. Every time I started vibing with the story, the scene would go to Haley and Leland and my vibe would instantly be gone.
But with that being said, the plot was decent enough, and I recommend giving it a shot if your into werewolf stories.
Special thanks to NetGalley for providing a digital copy in exchange for an honest review
Werewolf books are a hit or miss kind of thing to me. This one lands somewhere in the middle. I really loved Michele and Diego. But when it came to Haley and Leland, I thought they were really boring and I didn't care about them or their relationship at all. I wish this would have been more focused on Diego or Michele, because that's where the interesting stuff was happening. Every time I started vibing with the story, the scene would go to Haley and Leland and my vibe would instantly be gone.
But with that being said, the plot was decent enough, and I recommend giving it a shot if your into werewolf stories.
Special thanks to NetGalley for providing a digital copy in exchange for an honest review
June 18, 2021
Ms. Kelley has managed to deliver a tale baying with real world issues, subtle LGBTQ inclusiveness, empowered women, and oh yeah, werewolves are real. Woof!
Read full review in the 2021 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2021 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
May 21, 2024
EDGE OF THE WOODS was such a fun paranormal romance and I’m really looking forward to more in this series! Jules Kelley has a great writing “voice” that was easy to read and kept me interested from beginning to end. The romance builds a little slower in this one but there’s plenty of flirting and sexual tension to keep things steamy. I loved the idea of a town full of humans and werewolves living peacefully together while the outside world has no idea the supernatural exists. And making things more interesting is that the town feeds into the rumors of werewolves as a tourist attraction for the town. Add the new human deputy into the mix and it created some great tension as Haley tries to keep her town’s secret while also falling for Leland. The politics around born wolves vs. turned wolves was also really interesting and I hope we dive a little deeper into this in the later books in the series.
Haley and Leland were just super cute together and I especially loved how they treated each other. There was so much care and consent in their relationship and they each took the time to make sure the other was on the same page. Also bonus points that both MCs were not skinny or covered in muscles. While there’s nothing wrong with that, it’s nice to see romances that show a variety of body types.
**ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
Content Warning: past abuse
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Favorite Quotes:
"I really wanna kiss you right now, Fern."
"What a coincidence." She cleared her throat, her mouth suddenly dry. "Because I really want you to kiss me."
Haley and Leland were just super cute together and I especially loved how they treated each other. There was so much care and consent in their relationship and they each took the time to make sure the other was on the same page. Also bonus points that both MCs were not skinny or covered in muscles. While there’s nothing wrong with that, it’s nice to see romances that show a variety of body types.
**ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
Content Warning: past abuse
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Favorite Quotes:
"I really wanna kiss you right now, Fern."
"What a coincidence." She cleared her throat, her mouth suddenly dry. "Because I really want you to kiss me."
August 21, 2021
I must say, I am sceptical about prologues in books. Sometimes they tend to give too much information and ruin the intrigue of the story. But prologue of "Edge of The Woods" is not only very, very intriguing, but also beautifully written!
So, storyline... first we meet Leland, a new deputy of Pine Grove, who decided to take a break from big city, but had no idea that small towns can be even crazier. I must say, it's fair judgment, yet quite often situation in fantasy books. But I don't mind small town mystery trope, it's one of my favorites actually. As a person Leland is kind, very polite, genuine and simple guy. Not what I expected from city cop, to be honest.
Soon after first crazy events of the book, we meet Haley Fern, the reserve director. She is quite young for her position as director and as the alpha of local werewove pack. We learn that she is caring, down to Earth and just loves her food.
It don't take long until those two start liking each other (we see things from their both perspectives), yet their romance felt... school like. Very cute and fluffy, which didn't interested me much. It was adorable: them carefully tip-toeing around their feelings and Haley secrets. So, for sweet romance lovers this book should be a lovely read. But I was more interested into the pack itself, fragile peace line with vampires and the mysterious attacks that suddenly fell on Haley's and Leland's shoulders.
Yet, it got 4 stars from me because it wanted to see more of the the way pack lives and acts with each other. See more inner vampire world as well. However, that's what second book for, isn't it?
Overall, I truly enjoyed this book. It's very well written, lovely style, goes from school romance to "tame me in this river" in a heart beat (so be aware, there is some spice) and characters are interesting. Also, book have a LGBTQ+ representation, for example, main character is openly talking about being attracted to both female and male. And she isn't alone representing the community 😊
So, storyline... first we meet Leland, a new deputy of Pine Grove, who decided to take a break from big city, but had no idea that small towns can be even crazier. I must say, it's fair judgment, yet quite often situation in fantasy books. But I don't mind small town mystery trope, it's one of my favorites actually. As a person Leland is kind, very polite, genuine and simple guy. Not what I expected from city cop, to be honest.
Soon after first crazy events of the book, we meet Haley Fern, the reserve director. She is quite young for her position as director and as the alpha of local werewove pack. We learn that she is caring, down to Earth and just loves her food.
It don't take long until those two start liking each other (we see things from their both perspectives), yet their romance felt... school like. Very cute and fluffy, which didn't interested me much. It was adorable: them carefully tip-toeing around their feelings and Haley secrets. So, for sweet romance lovers this book should be a lovely read. But I was more interested into the pack itself, fragile peace line with vampires and the mysterious attacks that suddenly fell on Haley's and Leland's shoulders.
Yet, it got 4 stars from me because it wanted to see more of the the way pack lives and acts with each other. See more inner vampire world as well. However, that's what second book for, isn't it?
Overall, I truly enjoyed this book. It's very well written, lovely style, goes from school romance to "tame me in this river" in a heart beat (so be aware, there is some spice) and characters are interesting. Also, book have a LGBTQ+ representation, for example, main character is openly talking about being attracted to both female and male. And she isn't alone representing the community 😊
May 24, 2021
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Edge of the Woods is the first book in a refreshing new werewolf series. The story follows Haley Fern, the alpha of a Montana werewolf pack, and Leland Sommers, new deputy sheriff in town - and the only one who doesn't know that half the town's population are werewolves.
I really enjoyed this book! I liked that it was a twist on the typical werewolf story in that the entire town was in on the secret, and Leland, the newcomer, was the odd one out. The underlying mystery kept me hooked, and while I saw the direction it was going in, I was still surprised by who the villain turned out to be! I loved that it was the female MC who was the supernatural half of the relationship, and I liked watching her navigate being pack alpha. I found Haley so relatable - having this responsibility thrown upon her, learning how to negotiate the role, and ending up being completely distracted by the new guy in town.
And while we're there, I loved Haley and Leland together. They had such a positive relationship in every way. With so many questionable relationships in many fantasy novels, I really enjoyed this one. The emphasis on consent, the fact they never had a bad word to say about each other, that they handled situations like adults and actually considered what was best for the other. Also a shoutout for diversity and rep!
Edge of the Woods is a well-written, fast-paced read, though I did feel that the story ended quite quickly! I would have loved to see a little more of what happened after the immediate resolution! Overall, a refreshing, sweet and captivating story, I will definitely be looking out for book 2!
Edge of the Woods is the first book in a refreshing new werewolf series. The story follows Haley Fern, the alpha of a Montana werewolf pack, and Leland Sommers, new deputy sheriff in town - and the only one who doesn't know that half the town's population are werewolves.
I really enjoyed this book! I liked that it was a twist on the typical werewolf story in that the entire town was in on the secret, and Leland, the newcomer, was the odd one out. The underlying mystery kept me hooked, and while I saw the direction it was going in, I was still surprised by who the villain turned out to be! I loved that it was the female MC who was the supernatural half of the relationship, and I liked watching her navigate being pack alpha. I found Haley so relatable - having this responsibility thrown upon her, learning how to negotiate the role, and ending up being completely distracted by the new guy in town.
And while we're there, I loved Haley and Leland together. They had such a positive relationship in every way. With so many questionable relationships in many fantasy novels, I really enjoyed this one. The emphasis on consent, the fact they never had a bad word to say about each other, that they handled situations like adults and actually considered what was best for the other. Also a shoutout for diversity and rep!
Edge of the Woods is a well-written, fast-paced read, though I did feel that the story ended quite quickly! I would have loved to see a little more of what happened after the immediate resolution! Overall, a refreshing, sweet and captivating story, I will definitely be looking out for book 2!
May 15, 2021
"She smiled as she drew closer to him, hoping she looked suductive and not just like an idiot." - From Edge of the Woods
4 stars.
This is a sexy fun story with great writing and characters. The cover is beautiful, and it only got better from there. Diverse characters that physically weren't perfect, and were fine with that. I had just been asking for a romance with a bigger female lead that wasn't damaged about her size. It also included many unique plot points with a female alpha (who wasn't good at fighting), turned wolf verses born one politics, and having the town sort of all "in" on the knowledge. I thought the vampires needed more talking about, and the "mystery" was pretty simple and predictable, but I enjoyed the ride. A number of loose sort of ends that I hope future books include to tie them up.
4 stars.
This is a sexy fun story with great writing and characters. The cover is beautiful, and it only got better from there. Diverse characters that physically weren't perfect, and were fine with that. I had just been asking for a romance with a bigger female lead that wasn't damaged about her size. It also included many unique plot points with a female alpha (who wasn't good at fighting), turned wolf verses born one politics, and having the town sort of all "in" on the knowledge. I thought the vampires needed more talking about, and the "mystery" was pretty simple and predictable, but I enjoyed the ride. A number of loose sort of ends that I hope future books include to tie them up.
May 17, 2021
Wow, what a wonderful story. Normally when I read werewolf story I expect another soulmate AU, where the werewolf part is secondary to the romance. That did not happen in this book. You could take the romance part out entirely and the events of this book (most of them) would still happen. I loved it. Well written, well rounded characters, I look forward to more from this author.
Also lots of LGBTQ+ representation without it being the main point of the story as well.
*Thank you to the publisher for this eARC.
Also lots of LGBTQ+ representation without it being the main point of the story as well.
*Thank you to the publisher for this eARC.
January 4, 2022
Pine Grove is a small town with a big secret: a pack of werewolves lives there.
Leland Sommers comes to this town to work as a new deputy. Haley Fern is the alpha of the pack that lives in Pine Grove and is instructed not to reveal the town’s secret to the newcomer. However, while on his way to Pine Grove from Arizona, he finds a naked and injured young man. As the young man is being treated, Haley recognises his injury: he has been bitten by another werewolf. How will she investigate the attack without arousing Leland’s suspicions?
The first thing that attracted me to this book was the cover, and as I read the description, I also thought I would like the story. I’m glad to say I was right. The story is gripping and the characters endearing. I also want to thank the author for bringing so much diversity into this book in such a natural way.
I’m not necessarily a big fan of mysteries and investigations, but I was still drawn into this story. While the romance between Leland and Haley had a lot to do with it, I still wanted to know what happened to Diego and what was going on at the preserve.
I’m really looking forward to the next book and will probably read the previous books by this author.
I give it a 4/5.
I recommend this book!
Thanks to NetGalley, City Owl Press and Jules Kelley for an advanced reading copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Leland Sommers comes to this town to work as a new deputy. Haley Fern is the alpha of the pack that lives in Pine Grove and is instructed not to reveal the town’s secret to the newcomer. However, while on his way to Pine Grove from Arizona, he finds a naked and injured young man. As the young man is being treated, Haley recognises his injury: he has been bitten by another werewolf. How will she investigate the attack without arousing Leland’s suspicions?
The first thing that attracted me to this book was the cover, and as I read the description, I also thought I would like the story. I’m glad to say I was right. The story is gripping and the characters endearing. I also want to thank the author for bringing so much diversity into this book in such a natural way.
I’m not necessarily a big fan of mysteries and investigations, but I was still drawn into this story. While the romance between Leland and Haley had a lot to do with it, I still wanted to know what happened to Diego and what was going on at the preserve.
I’m really looking forward to the next book and will probably read the previous books by this author.
I give it a 4/5.
I recommend this book!
Thanks to NetGalley, City Owl Press and Jules Kelley for an advanced reading copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
October 15, 2021
Thank you Netgalley and City Owl Press for the chance to read Jules Kelley's Edge of the woods. I love reading werewolf stories, and this one was had a good start. but kinda lost steam part of the way through. I enjoyed Haley's character, new alpha of the local pack, but wasn't sold on the relationship between her and Leland. This was a quick read, and I did like the overall story. I really liked the diversity in the story with LGBT characters which blended into the story.
January 26, 2025
An interesting story with fun characters and good pacing. Kept me glued to the pages to see what happened next.
July 22, 2022
I must say, I am sceptical about prologues in books. Sometimes they tend to give too much information and ruin the intrigue of the story. But prologue of "Edge of The Woods" is not only very, very intriguing, but also beautifully written!
So, storyline... first we meet Leland, a new deputy of Pine Grove, who decided to take a break from big city, but had no idea that small towns can be even crazier. I must say, it's fair judgment, yet quite often situation in fantasy books. But I don't mind small town mystery trope, it's one of my favorites actually. As a person Leland is kind, very polite, genuine and simple guy. Not what I expected from city cop, to be honest.
Soon after first crazy events of the book, we meet Haley Fern, the reserve director. She is quite young for her position as director and as alpha of local werewolve pack. Soon we learn that she is caring, down to Earth and just loves her food. And I truly liked her, even though sometimes I felt like smacking that girl across the face 😅
It don't take long until those two start liking each other and their romance felt very... school like. Very cute and fluffy, which didn't interested me much. It was adorable them carefully tip-toeing around their feelings and Haley secrets. So, for sweet romance lovers this book should be a lovely story to read. But I was more interested into the pack itself, fragile peace line with vampires and the mysterious attacks that suddenly fell on Haley's and Leland's shoulders.
Yet, it got 4 stars from me because it wanted to see more of the the way pack lives and acts with each other. See more inner vampire world as well. However, that's what second book for, isn't it?
Overall, I truly enjoyed this book. It's very well written, lovely style, goes from school romance to "tame me in this river" in a heart beat (so be aware, there is some spice) and characters are interesting. Also, book have a LGBTQ+ representation, for example, main character is openly talking about being attracted to both female and male. And she isn't the only person representing the community.
So, storyline... first we meet Leland, a new deputy of Pine Grove, who decided to take a break from big city, but had no idea that small towns can be even crazier. I must say, it's fair judgment, yet quite often situation in fantasy books. But I don't mind small town mystery trope, it's one of my favorites actually. As a person Leland is kind, very polite, genuine and simple guy. Not what I expected from city cop, to be honest.
Soon after first crazy events of the book, we meet Haley Fern, the reserve director. She is quite young for her position as director and as alpha of local werewolve pack. Soon we learn that she is caring, down to Earth and just loves her food. And I truly liked her, even though sometimes I felt like smacking that girl across the face 😅
It don't take long until those two start liking each other and their romance felt very... school like. Very cute and fluffy, which didn't interested me much. It was adorable them carefully tip-toeing around their feelings and Haley secrets. So, for sweet romance lovers this book should be a lovely story to read. But I was more interested into the pack itself, fragile peace line with vampires and the mysterious attacks that suddenly fell on Haley's and Leland's shoulders.
Yet, it got 4 stars from me because it wanted to see more of the the way pack lives and acts with each other. See more inner vampire world as well. However, that's what second book for, isn't it?
Overall, I truly enjoyed this book. It's very well written, lovely style, goes from school romance to "tame me in this river" in a heart beat (so be aware, there is some spice) and characters are interesting. Also, book have a LGBTQ+ representation, for example, main character is openly talking about being attracted to both female and male. And she isn't the only person representing the community.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 24, 2021
It’s perfectly fine, with cinnamon roll leads who are thoughtful and kind. However, I was bored. Maybe because the baddies were telegraphed very early so I knew what would happen. Or maybe because it had a lack of nuance - it’s pleasant but that’s it.
May 23, 2021
Leland is use to moving around and never really feeling settled anywhere decides to take a job as a deputy in a small town. Quiet town where nothing ever happens? Sounds perfect to him and he can get in some fishing time... except on his way in to town he finds a naked young man by the side of the road. Not knowing where he should take him he calls one of the few numbers he has, Haley the nature preserve director. And unknown to him the local alpha of the wolf pack. He’s heard there are silly tourist rumors of werewolves in town... he has no idea that half the town are in fact werewolves.
Diego, the unlucky man on the road has some wounds that suggest an animal attack. Problem is Haley knows right away that those are the marks of a werewolf and he’s been turned into one. By who? That is the question. And something Haley needs to figure out especially if a member of her pack is responsible. Something sinister is afoot and Diego has no memory of what happened to him. Or why his cell phone was found near the scene of a crime. Not to mention he’s not exactly pleased to find that he’s been turned into a werewolf and surprise werewolves exist.
A deputy with no knowledge of werewolves is a bit of a problem for Haley. But it’s not a secret you tell just anyone. Can they get to the truth of what’s going on without him finding out the truth of the town he’s moved to? Can Haley really balance starting a relationship with the new deputy with her pack responsibilities and such a big secret? And who attacked Diego? Does it have anything to do with some growing tensions between born and turned wolves? The answers to all those questions are buried somewhere in this story... but before you find anything useful prepare to be bored to tears by Haley and Leland’s romance where you might be mistaken into thinking they are teenagers for how ridiculous they are....
The romance between Haley Leland was rather boring to be honest I was more interested in probably everyone else in the story. Michele and Diego were way better characters than Haley or Leland. Also I feel like Haley was hung up on having lived in the town so long like so much that she only referenced it about half a million times. I’m not from a small town but it seemed a bit excessive and incredibly tedious after awhile yes we all get it you grew up there now you are in a leadership position now shit up about it. She kept on about that like it’s a personality trait.
So did I like this book? I wanted to... alas I did not it was boring and predictable and I guessed the bad guy the moment they appeared. The immature romance was the worst part. When at half way nothing happened I started skimming a bit and did anything else happen? I mean things happened but where they in anyway interesting? Nope this book was so slow and dragged so much. And since this is an ARC I am reading it requires honesty right? Well at 90% I couldn’t force myself to go on I can just guess the end it’s sooo predictable and I don’t care. Haley is mostly annoyingly insecure and not insecure in a way that it feels real like anybody can be insecure she really might as well had been 16 for how she acted. Sorry Haley I don’t think the job as alpha is for you. So I have no idea how it ends and honestly can’t find it in myself to care.
Maybe this just wasn’t for me... Obviously other people like it I just really didn’t. It was painfully boring. The cover however is nice I’m a sucker for a good cover. Wish the story could have been better.
Diego, the unlucky man on the road has some wounds that suggest an animal attack. Problem is Haley knows right away that those are the marks of a werewolf and he’s been turned into one. By who? That is the question. And something Haley needs to figure out especially if a member of her pack is responsible. Something sinister is afoot and Diego has no memory of what happened to him. Or why his cell phone was found near the scene of a crime. Not to mention he’s not exactly pleased to find that he’s been turned into a werewolf and surprise werewolves exist.
A deputy with no knowledge of werewolves is a bit of a problem for Haley. But it’s not a secret you tell just anyone. Can they get to the truth of what’s going on without him finding out the truth of the town he’s moved to? Can Haley really balance starting a relationship with the new deputy with her pack responsibilities and such a big secret? And who attacked Diego? Does it have anything to do with some growing tensions between born and turned wolves? The answers to all those questions are buried somewhere in this story... but before you find anything useful prepare to be bored to tears by Haley and Leland’s romance where you might be mistaken into thinking they are teenagers for how ridiculous they are....
The romance between Haley Leland was rather boring to be honest I was more interested in probably everyone else in the story. Michele and Diego were way better characters than Haley or Leland. Also I feel like Haley was hung up on having lived in the town so long like so much that she only referenced it about half a million times. I’m not from a small town but it seemed a bit excessive and incredibly tedious after awhile yes we all get it you grew up there now you are in a leadership position now shit up about it. She kept on about that like it’s a personality trait.
So did I like this book? I wanted to... alas I did not it was boring and predictable and I guessed the bad guy the moment they appeared. The immature romance was the worst part. When at half way nothing happened I started skimming a bit and did anything else happen? I mean things happened but where they in anyway interesting? Nope this book was so slow and dragged so much. And since this is an ARC I am reading it requires honesty right? Well at 90% I couldn’t force myself to go on I can just guess the end it’s sooo predictable and I don’t care. Haley is mostly annoyingly insecure and not insecure in a way that it feels real like anybody can be insecure she really might as well had been 16 for how she acted. Sorry Haley I don’t think the job as alpha is for you. So I have no idea how it ends and honestly can’t find it in myself to care.
Maybe this just wasn’t for me... Obviously other people like it I just really didn’t. It was painfully boring. The cover however is nice I’m a sucker for a good cover. Wish the story could have been better.
August 18, 2021
4.4⭐
Thank you to Netgalley and the author for the ARC!
Edge of the Woods is the first book in the series. I absolutely loved the writing style because it kinda reminded me of Melvin Burgess books, which I was obsessed with in my teen years.
Fun, quirky, simple, sexy yet entertaining story.
I haven't read about werewolves for a long time so it was a great book to get my hands on!
I loved the epilogue. It was very well written and I actually read if few times.
Haley. Finally a main character who was not a skinny mini! It was a delight to read about the girl who has curves and is still seen as a sex icon.
Leland, the new sheriff in town, fell in love with Haley almost immediately. Haley as well. But of course they couldn't express their feelings straight away. As much as I enjoy a slow burn romance, this was going on for way too long. I'd consider this book as Young Adult and would liked to see characters acting more mature. It was obvious from the first time they met they wanted to get intimate. I don't know about you but being in my 20's I don't waste much time on flirting and tend to get straight into business.
If you're not into adult stuff, be aware that this book contains sexual theme!
Werewolves. As much as I enjoyed reading about them, there were few things which stopped me from giving 5 stars. The werewolves meeting was kinda awkward. Food, food, food. That was the main point of it. I really wanted to find out more about the pack. More about their characters, more chapters of them being in their true form.
Diego was one of my favorite characters but I felt like he could've got a bit more attention from the author. Lets wait for the sequel to find out, maybe he did! Poor guy was turned against his will but Haley took a good care of the young guy. I actually thought, that Diego became happier after joining the pack. He was taken care of, respected and he finally felt like he had a family.
I really enjoyed the read, I know I say it a lot but it was such a delight to read it because it was written so well! If you're looking for a quick book - Edge of the Woods is perfect for you!
A bit of adventure, some moments of intimacy (ok, a lot of moments!), fighting and of course romance.
I cannot wait to see where the sequel takes us!
Thank you to Netgalley and the author for the ARC!
Edge of the Woods is the first book in the series. I absolutely loved the writing style because it kinda reminded me of Melvin Burgess books, which I was obsessed with in my teen years.
Fun, quirky, simple, sexy yet entertaining story.
I haven't read about werewolves for a long time so it was a great book to get my hands on!
I loved the epilogue. It was very well written and I actually read if few times.
Haley. Finally a main character who was not a skinny mini! It was a delight to read about the girl who has curves and is still seen as a sex icon.
Leland, the new sheriff in town, fell in love with Haley almost immediately. Haley as well. But of course they couldn't express their feelings straight away. As much as I enjoy a slow burn romance, this was going on for way too long. I'd consider this book as Young Adult and would liked to see characters acting more mature. It was obvious from the first time they met they wanted to get intimate. I don't know about you but being in my 20's I don't waste much time on flirting and tend to get straight into business.
If you're not into adult stuff, be aware that this book contains sexual theme!
Werewolves. As much as I enjoyed reading about them, there were few things which stopped me from giving 5 stars. The werewolves meeting was kinda awkward. Food, food, food. That was the main point of it. I really wanted to find out more about the pack. More about their characters, more chapters of them being in their true form.
Diego was one of my favorite characters but I felt like he could've got a bit more attention from the author. Lets wait for the sequel to find out, maybe he did! Poor guy was turned against his will but Haley took a good care of the young guy. I actually thought, that Diego became happier after joining the pack. He was taken care of, respected and he finally felt like he had a family.
I really enjoyed the read, I know I say it a lot but it was such a delight to read it because it was written so well! If you're looking for a quick book - Edge of the Woods is perfect for you!
A bit of adventure, some moments of intimacy (ok, a lot of moments!), fighting and of course romance.
I cannot wait to see where the sequel takes us!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 13, 2021
I love a good werewolf story and this was exactly that. Pretty predictable as far as werewolf stories go but I found it all very interesting with the side tangents of science and the wildlife.
I got this from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review:
Pack dynamics. I wish we got more of this. The pack is hinted to be have been small but it wasn’t digested as well as I would have liked. Diego seems to only interact with Haley and Michelle and I would have like to see him interact with other pack members and become a part of the pack through these these dynamics rather than just from sole acceptance of Haley.
Diego. He is thrown into all of this chaos and reacts so realistically. Confusion. Anger. Acceptance. He can’t help but miss his old life and wants to be feel normal again but it is subtlety hinted that his past life wasn’t a slice of cake as well. Would this life be better for him? Will he find a family who loves and cherishes him? This was a big question that was answered through implications of a pack but I wish we again got to see more interactions of acceptance of Diego into pack.
Romance. The romance between Haley and Leland was love at first sight. It may seem like they found love because they were the only two available in this small town but their banter and connection made a lot of sense. Leland doesn’t know about werewolves which keeps Haley on her toes. She’s challenged which is interesting to watch. Their romance is awkward at times. Consent is very big in this book which I appreciate but sometimes it felt like you awkwardly asking your high school crush to touch your boob. I was rooting for them though. Very cute.
A CRUMB OF ROMANCE FOR DIEGO. What I THINK is a crumb of romance happened. But I don’t want to spoil. This makes me very eager for the sequel which I hope focuses on Diego. I understand why this wasn’t dived into deeper because ultimately this novel is about Haley.
I got this from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review:
Pack dynamics. I wish we got more of this. The pack is hinted to be have been small but it wasn’t digested as well as I would have liked. Diego seems to only interact with Haley and Michelle and I would have like to see him interact with other pack members and become a part of the pack through these these dynamics rather than just from sole acceptance of Haley.
Diego. He is thrown into all of this chaos and reacts so realistically. Confusion. Anger. Acceptance. He can’t help but miss his old life and wants to be feel normal again but it is subtlety hinted that his past life wasn’t a slice of cake as well. Would this life be better for him? Will he find a family who loves and cherishes him? This was a big question that was answered through implications of a pack but I wish we again got to see more interactions of acceptance of Diego into pack.
Romance. The romance between Haley and Leland was love at first sight. It may seem like they found love because they were the only two available in this small town but their banter and connection made a lot of sense. Leland doesn’t know about werewolves which keeps Haley on her toes. She’s challenged which is interesting to watch. Their romance is awkward at times. Consent is very big in this book which I appreciate but sometimes it felt like you awkwardly asking your high school crush to touch your boob. I was rooting for them though. Very cute.
A CRUMB OF ROMANCE FOR DIEGO. What I THINK is a crumb of romance happened. But I don’t want to spoil. This makes me very eager for the sequel which I hope focuses on Diego. I understand why this wasn’t dived into deeper because ultimately this novel is about Haley.
December 23, 2021
Edge of the Woods, Moonrise Book 1, Jules Kelley
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: General Fiction (Adult), Romance, Sci-fi & Fantasy
I love this kind of fantasy, and was keen to read this book. A whole new series, love that idea. I did enjoy the story, do want to read more but felt there were things here that ( for me ) could have been better.
Haley – love her but...she's Alpha but it takes til right at the end before she really seems to believe or act like it.
Leland, the new sheriff, was a great guy, loved the interaction and attraction between him and Hayley but....I do find stories where the supernatural is hidden a little hard to take. That's personal on my side, of course, but it just seems so difficult to ensure a secret of that magnitude stays secret.
Diego, he's a great kid, coped well with what happened and I do hope the tentative moves towards a romance follows through. Given who the other person is that would really tie supernatural ends together.
,
I'd like to see more of the Pack, we really only meet Hayley, Michelle. Jo and Diego and I would like to see more interaction with other members. I didn't guess who was moving things, driving the murder story line and would have liked to see more motivations. There was some explanation but it wouldn't have been the whole story. It felt a little out of character from the little we learned, I wanted to know the back story.
Of course first books in a series have a lot to ask, a good story line to keep the reader engrossed, while delivering a new world setting and group(s) of characters. That's tough, and I think this novel delivers pretty well, my comments aside. I'm a reader, not an author – that's something way beyond my skill set!
I'm looking forward to seeing where this story line goes next.
Stars: Three and a half, its a good start but I have a few things that didn't sit well with me.
ARC supplied by Netgally and publishers
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: General Fiction (Adult), Romance, Sci-fi & Fantasy
I love this kind of fantasy, and was keen to read this book. A whole new series, love that idea. I did enjoy the story, do want to read more but felt there were things here that ( for me ) could have been better.
Haley – love her but...she's Alpha but it takes til right at the end before she really seems to believe or act like it.
Leland, the new sheriff, was a great guy, loved the interaction and attraction between him and Hayley but....I do find stories where the supernatural is hidden a little hard to take. That's personal on my side, of course, but it just seems so difficult to ensure a secret of that magnitude stays secret.
Diego, he's a great kid, coped well with what happened and I do hope the tentative moves towards a romance follows through. Given who the other person is that would really tie supernatural ends together.
,
I'd like to see more of the Pack, we really only meet Hayley, Michelle. Jo and Diego and I would like to see more interaction with other members. I didn't guess who was moving things, driving the murder story line and would have liked to see more motivations. There was some explanation but it wouldn't have been the whole story. It felt a little out of character from the little we learned, I wanted to know the back story.
Of course first books in a series have a lot to ask, a good story line to keep the reader engrossed, while delivering a new world setting and group(s) of characters. That's tough, and I think this novel delivers pretty well, my comments aside. I'm a reader, not an author – that's something way beyond my skill set!
I'm looking forward to seeing where this story line goes next.
Stars: Three and a half, its a good start but I have a few things that didn't sit well with me.
ARC supplied by Netgally and publishers
May 21, 2021
Edge of the Woods is a fast paced werewolf fantasy with a side of slow burn romance. As well as a bit of a who-done-it. This book is for fans of werewolf fantasy such as Shiver, Winter’s Wolf, and Matefinder.
Haley Fern is the new Alpha in a pack located in a small town she has lived in all her life. Taking on the responsibility sooner than she thought she would have to, she has a raging desire to prove herself competent. Enter the unauthorized, nonconsensual turning of a person into a werewolf. Followed by the town’s brand new, kept in the dark about werewolves Deputy finding said confused turned person. Havoc. A whole town in on a charade to make sure their secret isn’t uncovered. During which Haley Fern and Deputy Leland work together to find out who the attacker among them is as they grow closer.
I really like the overall premise of the book; the characters are well developed and the world building is good. Representation was thoughtful. Even though the main romance is a M/F romance I consider both characters bisexual or at least queer. Secondary characters include a gay man and a trans woman. The romance was endearing and laced with humor. The passion between the main characters was steamy and I was rooting for them the whole time. More could’ve been done with the vampires near the end perhaps but I understand holding back. I liked the differentiation between the werewolf form versus the alpha form being more horror movie-like. I would’ve liked the description of the characters to be more flushed out in the beginning because I found I was constantly re-imagining them when bits of new details were presented. The only thing missing story-wise was a scene in the end after the conflict was resolved to indicate more solidly the direction of Haley and Leland’s future. I suppose I will just have to wait for book 2 for that.
Haley Fern is the new Alpha in a pack located in a small town she has lived in all her life. Taking on the responsibility sooner than she thought she would have to, she has a raging desire to prove herself competent. Enter the unauthorized, nonconsensual turning of a person into a werewolf. Followed by the town’s brand new, kept in the dark about werewolves Deputy finding said confused turned person. Havoc. A whole town in on a charade to make sure their secret isn’t uncovered. During which Haley Fern and Deputy Leland work together to find out who the attacker among them is as they grow closer.
I really like the overall premise of the book; the characters are well developed and the world building is good. Representation was thoughtful. Even though the main romance is a M/F romance I consider both characters bisexual or at least queer. Secondary characters include a gay man and a trans woman. The romance was endearing and laced with humor. The passion between the main characters was steamy and I was rooting for them the whole time. More could’ve been done with the vampires near the end perhaps but I understand holding back. I liked the differentiation between the werewolf form versus the alpha form being more horror movie-like. I would’ve liked the description of the characters to be more flushed out in the beginning because I found I was constantly re-imagining them when bits of new details were presented. The only thing missing story-wise was a scene in the end after the conflict was resolved to indicate more solidly the direction of Haley and Leland’s future. I suppose I will just have to wait for book 2 for that.
March 27, 2023
This is like a pretty perfect 3 I think
Maybe a little less
The story of Haley, Leland and Diego was better than I thought, the cover (not the Goodreads one) is not very pretty, so my expectations were low. I read this because I have been given the arc copy of the sequel.
I saw a lot of people saying this was a slow burn and romance as a subplot. I'll have to disagree, the romance was what drove the book in my opinion, the rest of the story paced very differently to the romance. Not that I was mad about the romance, it was quite cute and I liked their relationship. Although it was quite a bit of instant attraction which put me off a little. It wasn't really a slow burn, they kissed before the halfway mark, which is in my opinion not where the slow burn should start burning. But they did get their HEA in the very end, so if that was what people thought was the slow part then that might be correct.
I liked the representation in this book, very openly gay, bisexual and trans characters, but where it didn't dominate anything about their personality and was just part of them like everything else.
Also the way their bodies are described is quite nice, they aren't skinny og incredibly hulky people, like the characters in this genre are typically, they seem like normal people with people bodies. The consent was also really nice, done in a normal and sexy way that was refreshing, also for things like kissing.
The romance was definitely way better written than the action, I found it a little slow paced compared the rest of the story. It felt like action happened because it needed to happen to progress something in the main characters relationship.
All in all not a bad or great experience, I enjoyed myself while reading it.
Maybe a little less
The story of Haley, Leland and Diego was better than I thought, the cover (not the Goodreads one) is not very pretty, so my expectations were low. I read this because I have been given the arc copy of the sequel.
I saw a lot of people saying this was a slow burn and romance as a subplot. I'll have to disagree, the romance was what drove the book in my opinion, the rest of the story paced very differently to the romance. Not that I was mad about the romance, it was quite cute and I liked their relationship. Although it was quite a bit of instant attraction which put me off a little. It wasn't really a slow burn, they kissed before the halfway mark, which is in my opinion not where the slow burn should start burning. But they did get their HEA in the very end, so if that was what people thought was the slow part then that might be correct.
I liked the representation in this book, very openly gay, bisexual and trans characters, but where it didn't dominate anything about their personality and was just part of them like everything else.
Also the way their bodies are described is quite nice, they aren't skinny og incredibly hulky people, like the characters in this genre are typically, they seem like normal people with people bodies. The consent was also really nice, done in a normal and sexy way that was refreshing, also for things like kissing.
The romance was definitely way better written than the action, I found it a little slow paced compared the rest of the story. It felt like action happened because it needed to happen to progress something in the main characters relationship.
All in all not a bad or great experience, I enjoyed myself while reading it.
January 4, 2022
A queer friendly werewolf book? Sign me up!
Haley Fern is a new to being the alpha of her pack - she's passionate about her community and is working to live up to her mom's legacy.
Leland left something bad behind in Tucson to take a job in the middle of nowhere Montana. He lands in Pine Grove hoping for a quieter life - and promptly runs in to an unexplained death and a naked teenager who had been attacked by an animal.
I loved that this book featured a bisexual heroine and a probably bisexual hero. It also had a trans character and other LGBTQ representation. I also loved that neither Haley or Leland are idealized versions of themselves. They aren't six pack abs and model worthy air-brushed bodies. They also aren't idealized in the way they interacted. Leland is shy and not great with women and relationship interactions. Haley is overwhelmed with her responsibilities and not sure how to deal with the fact that she is keeping a big part of herself from Leland. Overall - it all felt very relatable - even given the fantasy nature of what was happening.
What I didn't love - and I know this is the first book in a series - is that I kind of felt like I was left hanging. The book ended at a natural stopping point - but there was so much left hanging. I also felt, throughout the book like I had missed a chapter or backstory or something.
I give this one a solid 3.5 stars and I am interested to see where things go. Especially between Diego and Val.
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all my own.
Haley Fern is a new to being the alpha of her pack - she's passionate about her community and is working to live up to her mom's legacy.
Leland left something bad behind in Tucson to take a job in the middle of nowhere Montana. He lands in Pine Grove hoping for a quieter life - and promptly runs in to an unexplained death and a naked teenager who had been attacked by an animal.
I loved that this book featured a bisexual heroine and a probably bisexual hero. It also had a trans character and other LGBTQ representation. I also loved that neither Haley or Leland are idealized versions of themselves. They aren't six pack abs and model worthy air-brushed bodies. They also aren't idealized in the way they interacted. Leland is shy and not great with women and relationship interactions. Haley is overwhelmed with her responsibilities and not sure how to deal with the fact that she is keeping a big part of herself from Leland. Overall - it all felt very relatable - even given the fantasy nature of what was happening.
What I didn't love - and I know this is the first book in a series - is that I kind of felt like I was left hanging. The book ended at a natural stopping point - but there was so much left hanging. I also felt, throughout the book like I had missed a chapter or backstory or something.
I give this one a solid 3.5 stars and I am interested to see where things go. Especially between Diego and Val.
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all my own.
May 28, 2021
Overall an enjoyable book, and while it's not one that I'll be likely to pick up and read multiple times, I will be keeping an eye out for the next one in the series.
The characters are generally interesting and all have their own clear personalities and motivations, and the plot neatly tied everything and everyone together. At least three of the characters (one main, two side) are clearly identified as being queer, and there are subtle hints woven through of other characters that are also queer.
There is a whole miscommunication style plot that runs through most of the book, which isn't my favourite thing to read, as it makes me feel anxious, but that is pretty much resolved by the end of the book.
The main antagonist, though mentioned and hinted at, never actually appears until the last handful of chapters, though they were oily enough that I was almost glad they weren't in the book more, and one of the other antagonists is pretty clearly hinted at, to the extent that I was very aware they weren't on the side of the main characters within a handful of paragraphs of the first clue.
I'm actually as interested in hearing the stories of the side characters in this book as I am to read more about the main characters... possibly more interested in a couple of cases, as the side characters are well written and have interesing back stories.
So, yeah, liked it, didn't love it, but am interested to read more... especially about certain side characters!
The characters are generally interesting and all have their own clear personalities and motivations, and the plot neatly tied everything and everyone together. At least three of the characters (one main, two side) are clearly identified as being queer, and there are subtle hints woven through of other characters that are also queer.
There is a whole miscommunication style plot that runs through most of the book, which isn't my favourite thing to read, as it makes me feel anxious, but that is pretty much resolved by the end of the book.
The main antagonist, though mentioned and hinted at, never actually appears until the last handful of chapters, though they were oily enough that I was almost glad they weren't in the book more, and one of the other antagonists is pretty clearly hinted at, to the extent that I was very aware they weren't on the side of the main characters within a handful of paragraphs of the first clue.
I'm actually as interested in hearing the stories of the side characters in this book as I am to read more about the main characters... possibly more interested in a couple of cases, as the side characters are well written and have interesing back stories.
So, yeah, liked it, didn't love it, but am interested to read more... especially about certain side characters!
May 30, 2021
Haley Fern has been the alpha of her local werewolf pack in Pine Grove, Montana for less than a year when their law enforcement liaison retires, and Leland Sommers, a man who knows nothing about werewolves or their world, is hired in his place. On his first day in the area Leyland shows up with an injured teenage boy he found on the road–a boy Haley knows has just been bitten. Working out wh bit the kid is not easy as it could be as Leyland is asking questions whilst also looking at Hayley in a way that just flusters her. Can the alpha figure out who is attacking innocent people on her wildlife preserve and protect her pack? Or will the new sheriff and her growing attraction to him put her entire world in danger?
This was a dramatic story that merged a mystery story around the wolf bite and who was responsible for it together with the attraction between Hayley and Leyland and keeping werewolves secret. I enjoyed the story with its twists and turns - some of which were connected to the wolf bite and some were connected to the relationship between Hayley and Leyland. Some of the inter wolf politics were interesting and some seemed a bit stupid and I was definitely thinking to myself who was bad and was responsible a long time before the story went in that direction. Well written and easy to read/understand. I would be interested in seeing the direction that the series takes next. Contains explicit sexual content.
This was a dramatic story that merged a mystery story around the wolf bite and who was responsible for it together with the attraction between Hayley and Leyland and keeping werewolves secret. I enjoyed the story with its twists and turns - some of which were connected to the wolf bite and some were connected to the relationship between Hayley and Leyland. Some of the inter wolf politics were interesting and some seemed a bit stupid and I was definitely thinking to myself who was bad and was responsible a long time before the story went in that direction. Well written and easy to read/understand. I would be interested in seeing the direction that the series takes next. Contains explicit sexual content.
March 23, 2022
Edge of the Woods
Moonrise, Book 1
by Jules Kelley
I received a digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first book in a series and a good set up for the continuation of a story with many open ended side plots. This is a great “own voices” offering in contemporary paranormal romance. While the primary romance is between a hetero couple the heroine is bisexual. One of the primary side characters is trans and another is gay. The gender fluidity and and variety of sexual orientations is treated within the book as run of the mill normal. Additionally the main couple are both curvy with love handles and belly creases which only increase their attraction to one another and the many of the leadership roles in the community are primarily held by women. The person that provides a packed picnic basket for one of their dates is a male side character who is a great cook. Nice to see normalization of non stereotyped characters.
This is a contemporary wolf shifter/werewolf romance. Vampires are also present but do not feature prominently though their is evidence that they may be more involved in later books. There’s a lot of action and some steam but nothing that goes beyond heavy petting though what does happen does not shy away from describing the full events but this occurs only 3-4 times if it’s something you’d bleeder to skip over.
Trigger warnings - bad parents, law enforcement ptsd.
4.5/5
Moonrise, Book 1
by Jules Kelley
I received a digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first book in a series and a good set up for the continuation of a story with many open ended side plots. This is a great “own voices” offering in contemporary paranormal romance. While the primary romance is between a hetero couple the heroine is bisexual. One of the primary side characters is trans and another is gay. The gender fluidity and and variety of sexual orientations is treated within the book as run of the mill normal. Additionally the main couple are both curvy with love handles and belly creases which only increase their attraction to one another and the many of the leadership roles in the community are primarily held by women. The person that provides a packed picnic basket for one of their dates is a male side character who is a great cook. Nice to see normalization of non stereotyped characters.
This is a contemporary wolf shifter/werewolf romance. Vampires are also present but do not feature prominently though their is evidence that they may be more involved in later books. There’s a lot of action and some steam but nothing that goes beyond heavy petting though what does happen does not shy away from describing the full events but this occurs only 3-4 times if it’s something you’d bleeder to skip over.
Trigger warnings - bad parents, law enforcement ptsd.
4.5/5
May 21, 2021
Loved it, (But was hoping for more).
I enjoyed this book. It was a bit slow on things and I felt like I wanted to learn more about certain characters and the world they reside in. I hope the author will expand on in the next book. I think there needs to be more established world rules to help me better understand the dynamics of the world, like Yes there are Werewolves and Vampires in this story, but why do they stay hidden in secret, what happens to the people who discover these mythical creatures are real? Are there more fantasy creatures that exist in this world besides them? Perhaps, they don't know that. But is it possible?
I feel like the "antagonist" character was flat compared to the rest of the characters in the book. I would have liked to seen more from them, or got a better look into their character than the brief moment we got.
I understand the book was in a perspective of mostly Leland and Fern, and Leland doesn't know any of the characters in the town that well. But I think just a little more insight or even interaction without knowing the person was the antagonist would have went a long way. Or did I forget, and that did happen? (I don't even remember who the antagonist was...usually I focus in on them).
I did however, really like this book and I hope to be able to read more. So Keep writing and I'll keep reading.
I enjoyed this book. It was a bit slow on things and I felt like I wanted to learn more about certain characters and the world they reside in. I hope the author will expand on in the next book. I think there needs to be more established world rules to help me better understand the dynamics of the world, like Yes there are Werewolves and Vampires in this story, but why do they stay hidden in secret, what happens to the people who discover these mythical creatures are real? Are there more fantasy creatures that exist in this world besides them? Perhaps, they don't know that. But is it possible?
I feel like the "antagonist" character was flat compared to the rest of the characters in the book. I would have liked to seen more from them, or got a better look into their character than the brief moment we got.
I understand the book was in a perspective of mostly Leland and Fern, and Leland doesn't know any of the characters in the town that well. But I think just a little more insight or even interaction without knowing the person was the antagonist would have went a long way. Or did I forget, and that did happen? (I don't even remember who the antagonist was...usually I focus in on them).
I did however, really like this book and I hope to be able to read more. So Keep writing and I'll keep reading.
May 26, 2021
I received a copy of this book through LibraryThing in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I’m someone who typically doesn’t read this genre of books. In reality, the last time I read anything paranormal romance was Twilight when I was 12. That being said, I was pleasantly surprised by this. I thought the actual writing was well done and engaging. Although the plot was a bit predictable at some times, it was generally interesting. I wasn’t really invested in the romance but they were cute together and I thought the POV characters were pretty likable. I also thought the inclusion of LGBT characters was really well done. The characters didn’t feel tokenized and the fact that they were LGBT was “disclosed” nonchalantly instead of making it a big deal or making it their entire personality. It felt realistic. Overall a fun and quick read.
I’m someone who typically doesn’t read this genre of books. In reality, the last time I read anything paranormal romance was Twilight when I was 12. That being said, I was pleasantly surprised by this. I thought the actual writing was well done and engaging. Although the plot was a bit predictable at some times, it was generally interesting. I wasn’t really invested in the romance but they were cute together and I thought the POV characters were pretty likable. I also thought the inclusion of LGBT characters was really well done. The characters didn’t feel tokenized and the fact that they were LGBT was “disclosed” nonchalantly instead of making it a big deal or making it their entire personality. It felt realistic. Overall a fun and quick read.
June 2, 2021
An enjoyable well written werewolf story. I liked the two main characters, the female alpha werewolf and the new deputy who has no idea werewolves are real. When a newly turned teenager is found by the new deputy a story unfolds that involving rogue werewolves, angry vampires, treachery and intrigue. The book starts with a bang and had me hooked from the first page, and then takes its time to build to a satisfying climax. It is a long book for its genre but keeps you entertained throughout. There is a lot of will they won"t they and sexual tension. Some humorous moments, some graphic descriptions of the aftermath of attacks and a good ending, with room left for more in the series. Highly recommended
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 12, 2021
This was a really good story. I hadn’t read a werewolf book in a long while and this one was very enjoyable. The whole mystery subplot and all the action at the end really elevated the book, it was very nerve-racking, but in a good way. Though I kind of wish we’d have gotten more of Leland and Haley after the conflict had resolved itself and all the secrets were out in the open. They were so cute together. This was a pretty diverse read in regard to LGBTQ+ characters and that’s always appreciated. I loved the author’s writing and I’d love to read more of her work, especially if she chose to expand on this universe.
I received an eArc via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received an eArc via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 17, 2021
My thanks to @Netgalley for the digital Arc of this book for an honest review.
It's been a while since i read this type of steamy romance/action book, but i thoroughly enjoyed it!
It was a well written exciting story, the first of many hopefully. I really enjoyed the meticulously organised werewolf society, the glimpse of the cool vampire camp, and how they all fitted into the human world. The characters were colourful and they felt real. The story was engaging, and while i don't read much romance anymore, i had fun with the love story too.
I recommend it for anyone who enjoys a light, exciting, sexy read.
It's been a while since i read this type of steamy romance/action book, but i thoroughly enjoyed it!
It was a well written exciting story, the first of many hopefully. I really enjoyed the meticulously organised werewolf society, the glimpse of the cool vampire camp, and how they all fitted into the human world. The characters were colourful and they felt real. The story was engaging, and while i don't read much romance anymore, i had fun with the love story too.
I recommend it for anyone who enjoys a light, exciting, sexy read.
August 24, 2021
3.5
This was a squishy, feel good read. It's chocked full of diversity, has two sweet cinnamon bun leads, and a mild background mystery. But it's the fact that the mystery is in the background that leads me to have not loved it more than I did. (I liked it plenty though.) Haley and the deputy are both lovely and they are genuinely careful with each-other in a really heart-warming way. There is no toxicity here. But I'm afraid that's just not enough to carry a werewolf novel on it's own. I needed a little more action, a little more bite, so to speak. I do look forward to seeing where the series goes and would be more than happy to read book two
This was a squishy, feel good read. It's chocked full of diversity, has two sweet cinnamon bun leads, and a mild background mystery. But it's the fact that the mystery is in the background that leads me to have not loved it more than I did. (I liked it plenty though.) Haley and the deputy are both lovely and they are genuinely careful with each-other in a really heart-warming way. There is no toxicity here. But I'm afraid that's just not enough to carry a werewolf novel on it's own. I needed a little more action, a little more bite, so to speak. I do look forward to seeing where the series goes and would be more than happy to read book two
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