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Shadow Winged #1
Shadow Winged
The dark gods of my people are back, and they’re hunting the shadow-winged — like me.
Being a bush pilot is the third most dangerous job in the world. I’m Piper Tikaani, and I take that in stride. As an Inupiaq Raven Clan shapeshifter—flying is second nature, whether in my supernatural form or tackling the skies in my Super Cub.
Strong winds, rugged terrain, and rough clients are all the excitement I need. But when a family friend is found dead on the roof of his wilderness cabin, I find myself caught in a world of hidden treasure and a new, dark reality.
Now the people I love hide things from me and ancient, terrifying beasts stalk the land.
To survive, I must discover the truth about the treasure, my clan, and myself—which means exposing my secret to the very creatures hunting me: ice age were-predators determined to see me dead.
Being a bush pilot is the third most dangerous job in the world. I’m Piper Tikaani, and I take that in stride. As an Inupiaq Raven Clan shapeshifter—flying is second nature, whether in my supernatural form or tackling the skies in my Super Cub.
Strong winds, rugged terrain, and rough clients are all the excitement I need. But when a family friend is found dead on the roof of his wilderness cabin, I find myself caught in a world of hidden treasure and a new, dark reality.
Now the people I love hide things from me and ancient, terrifying beasts stalk the land.
To survive, I must discover the truth about the treasure, my clan, and myself—which means exposing my secret to the very creatures hunting me: ice age were-predators determined to see me dead.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 17, 2021
466 people are currently reading
512 people want to read
About the author
Jilleen Dolbeare
47 books183 followersJilleen Dolbeare is the author of the Shadow Winged Chronicles, an urban fantasy series about a shape-shifting bush pilot in Alaska.
She loves riding horses, warm ocean beaches, and long walks in the mountains, none of which she can do in the Arctic, so she writes.
Her activities are riding her four-wheeler on cold ocean beaches (often frozen or covered with ice), and long walks to and from work when it’s 40 below—in the dark. She does keep her stakes sharp for those vamps that show up during the 67 days of night.
Jilleen lives with her husband and two hungry cats in Barrow, Alaska where she also discovered her love and admiration of the Inupiaq people and their folklore.
She loves riding horses, warm ocean beaches, and long walks in the mountains, none of which she can do in the Arctic, so she writes.
Her activities are riding her four-wheeler on cold ocean beaches (often frozen or covered with ice), and long walks to and from work when it’s 40 below—in the dark. She does keep her stakes sharp for those vamps that show up during the 67 days of night.
Jilleen lives with her husband and two hungry cats in Barrow, Alaska where she also discovered her love and admiration of the Inupiaq people and their folklore.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
June 4, 2022
The story itself is packed full of everything. In some ways, it makes the story more detailed, in others it makes it a little hard to read. Sometimes I needed more action than introspection. I liked Piper, she's a strong protagonist with unique attributes and some family secrets that might be best kept hidden. I enjoyed the romantic element with Fletcher, they seemed sweet together. There were times where their relationship seemed a little forced than completely natural.
I liked the author's detail in the Alaskan bush life, that was interesting and pretty well detailed. I don't think I'd be so relaxed in a small plane or living someplace where I literally had to fly to get there.
I enjoyed the Native mythology in the story! It was well done and well represented.
All in all, it's a fun book with lots to unpack and an interesting world was created by the author.
I liked the author's detail in the Alaskan bush life, that was interesting and pretty well detailed. I don't think I'd be so relaxed in a small plane or living someplace where I literally had to fly to get there.
I enjoyed the Native mythology in the story! It was well done and well represented.
All in all, it's a fun book with lots to unpack and an interesting world was created by the author.
September 18, 2021
Not your average Urban Fantasy
Set in the wilds of Alaska, the main character Piper is a bush aircfraft pilot who is bolshy yet also touchingly innocent and naive. She meets Fletcher and the two become embroiled in a Gold mystery that threads through the whole book.
I loved the different setting and I read the book in two sittings, it grabbed me and didn't let go. The final action sequences had my heart racing.
I love the different mythologies here and Pipers different skillset, along with her best friend Bran. The secondary characters are well developed but I'm looking forward to seeing more of them in Book 2. An exciting and well written debut. Eagerly awaiting book 2.
Set in the wilds of Alaska, the main character Piper is a bush aircfraft pilot who is bolshy yet also touchingly innocent and naive. She meets Fletcher and the two become embroiled in a Gold mystery that threads through the whole book.
I loved the different setting and I read the book in two sittings, it grabbed me and didn't let go. The final action sequences had my heart racing.
I love the different mythologies here and Pipers different skillset, along with her best friend Bran. The secondary characters are well developed but I'm looking forward to seeing more of them in Book 2. An exciting and well written debut. Eagerly awaiting book 2.
November 30, 2022
Wow, Shadow Winged is an unique and informative shifter book that gripped me in suspense, but also peaked my curiosity!
The take on shifters was a rather unique one because of the main character Piper’s ability to shift to multiple forms at will. It’s hard not to admire Piper. She’s determined, stead-fast, successful, and seems to have it all, except a relationship, which she doesn’t let bother her, until she meets Fletcher (we’ll talk about Fletcher later). Piper runs a bush pilot business with her father, and it’s clear Jilleen Dolbeare did her research to get the details clear and concise, making it easy for the reader to understand the logistics of flying, while imagining the beauty that is Alaska.
It was interestingly informative and peaked my curiosity because of its information on the Inuoiaq and their folklore. I find myself rather intrigued by the Inuoiaq and wanting to learn more due to Jilleen Dolbeare’s captivating writing.
I found myself gripped in suspense navigating the web of plot twists Jilleen Dolbeare masterfully crafted. One of the shockers being that Piper discovers a secret about her dad and her history that was mind blowing! While the story started a tad slow for me, the plot develops rapidly with more twists and turns than a rollercoaster.
Piper continues to have her best friend, the witch in denial, Bran by her side. Bran calls Piper out keeping her honest and on her toes, especially when it comes to Fletcher. Fletcher started out as a customer, but he doesn’t stop at that. There’s something mysterious about him, the cabin that he inherited, and the danger surrounding him. Despite it all Piper finds herself drawn to Fletcher and fortunately for her romantically awkward self, he reciprocates, but there’s plenty to get in their way.
Trust me when I say you won’t want to put this book down! Also, make sure you have the second book ready, you won’t want to wait!
The take on shifters was a rather unique one because of the main character Piper’s ability to shift to multiple forms at will. It’s hard not to admire Piper. She’s determined, stead-fast, successful, and seems to have it all, except a relationship, which she doesn’t let bother her, until she meets Fletcher (we’ll talk about Fletcher later). Piper runs a bush pilot business with her father, and it’s clear Jilleen Dolbeare did her research to get the details clear and concise, making it easy for the reader to understand the logistics of flying, while imagining the beauty that is Alaska.
It was interestingly informative and peaked my curiosity because of its information on the Inuoiaq and their folklore. I find myself rather intrigued by the Inuoiaq and wanting to learn more due to Jilleen Dolbeare’s captivating writing.
I found myself gripped in suspense navigating the web of plot twists Jilleen Dolbeare masterfully crafted. One of the shockers being that Piper discovers a secret about her dad and her history that was mind blowing! While the story started a tad slow for me, the plot develops rapidly with more twists and turns than a rollercoaster.
Piper continues to have her best friend, the witch in denial, Bran by her side. Bran calls Piper out keeping her honest and on her toes, especially when it comes to Fletcher. Fletcher started out as a customer, but he doesn’t stop at that. There’s something mysterious about him, the cabin that he inherited, and the danger surrounding him. Despite it all Piper finds herself drawn to Fletcher and fortunately for her romantically awkward self, he reciprocates, but there’s plenty to get in their way.
Trust me when I say you won’t want to put this book down! Also, make sure you have the second book ready, you won’t want to wait!
November 29, 2021
I found the setting of this book to be fascinating since I know little about Alaskan life or bush pilots. I liked the main characters: Piper Tikaani is a kick-butt pilot who ferociously defends her people. I enjoyed her relationship with her best friend. The interior artwork is lovely and evocative. The plot has enough twists and turns to keep you reading - I finished the book and immediately wanted the next one!
If you like urban fantasy, I highly recommend this new series!
Background note: I chose this book in part intending to support an Inupiaq writer; therefore it was disappointing to immediately learn that the author lives in Alaska but is not native. The author addresses the representation issue by creating a main character who has been raised outside of her culture. I hope that she will continue to be careful and to involve Inupiaq people in future books in the series.
I received this book through Voracious Readers but chose it from many other options and am glad that I did!
If you like urban fantasy, I highly recommend this new series!
Background note: I chose this book in part intending to support an Inupiaq writer; therefore it was disappointing to immediately learn that the author lives in Alaska but is not native. The author addresses the representation issue by creating a main character who has been raised outside of her culture. I hope that she will continue to be careful and to involve Inupiaq people in future books in the series.
I received this book through Voracious Readers but chose it from many other options and am glad that I did!
December 7, 2021
I was provided a free copy of this book by Voracious Readers in exchange of a review. Overall I enjoyed the story but the plot and definitely the ending felt unresolved. The who the why are left hanging I'm not a big fan of mysterious corporations as bad guys. Also it just felt like for the majority if the book the characters are just running around trying to be amateur sleuths and failing. This made the story a little slow and left me frustrated as a reader. I also found the way the main characters sexual naivety was portrayed a little unrealistic. In this modern day and age even a Virgin has a basic understanding of what to expect and the character actedore like a sheltered 16 year old. What I did like was the paranormal world the author created, it felt very resolved and the combination of paranormal with Alaska native history was well done.
April 25, 2022
A different type of shifter story. Set in Alaska, Piper is a half native/half Irish bush pilot working for her father. She's also a shifter, due to her being descended from Raven, the trixter spirit.
The author has done a nice job tying together the area myths into her story. I enjoyed it other than the romance quotient in the middle (not a big fan of romantic subplots), but that's my thing, not everyone's.
The author has done a nice job tying together the area myths into her story. I enjoyed it other than the romance quotient in the middle (not a big fan of romantic subplots), but that's my thing, not everyone's.
May 6, 2022
Really good
Love the story and the characters. And werehumans are awesome!
Definitely will check out the other books.
Kept me entertained.
Love the story and the characters. And werehumans are awesome!
Definitely will check out the other books.
Kept me entertained.
July 6, 2022
Raventastic!
A new quirky heroine perfect for fans of Mercy and Jane. I hope this series grows to include many more books!
A new quirky heroine perfect for fans of Mercy and Jane. I hope this series grows to include many more books!
March 13, 2023
Great read!
This book kept me reading from front to back! I could not put it down. I enjoyed the Alaskan folklore and the way the book kept things interesting.
This book kept me reading from front to back! I could not put it down. I enjoyed the Alaskan folklore and the way the book kept things interesting.
November 21, 2021
Shadow Winged is the debut novel of Jileen Dolbeare, and I'm willing to admit that it was the cover that immediately caught my attention here! Though what kept me interested was the description. I need more urban fantasy in my life!
Piper Tikaani is one of a kind – no matter how you look at it. She's a female bush pilot and an Inupiaq shapeshifter. Neither are exactly common, but Piper is proud of what she has made of her life. It helps that she usually doesn't have to deal with anything worse than an annoying tourist here and there.
Right up until something awful happened, of course. Now a family friend is dead, a death that kicked off a whole series of events for Piper to have to deal with. Now she's in a race for her life – quite literally.
"Werewolves are bad, but ice age predators are worse, especially werepredators..."
Can we just take a second to appreciate that tagline? Of course, I was going to read Shadow Winged after seeing that! Shadow Winged is the first novel in a series of the same name, and guys, I am SO excited that there's going to be more of this.
Shadow Winged was such a fun and thrilling read! Picture urban fantasy with a MacGuffin-esque plot, with a dash of danger and romance on the side. It's a perfect combination, and it certainly worked to keep me invested for the entire read.
Personally, what really sold me on this story was the main character, Piper. I loved getting to know her. And trust me, there's a lot to learn about her. The bio alone probably made that pretty obvious, though, huh?
As I'm sitting here writing this review, I'm finding myself wanting to go back and read Shadow Winged for the second time. That's probably the best praise I can give this read. So please, consider reading it.
Thanks to Ice Raven Publications and #Reedsy for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Read more reviews over at Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks
Piper Tikaani is one of a kind – no matter how you look at it. She's a female bush pilot and an Inupiaq shapeshifter. Neither are exactly common, but Piper is proud of what she has made of her life. It helps that she usually doesn't have to deal with anything worse than an annoying tourist here and there.
Right up until something awful happened, of course. Now a family friend is dead, a death that kicked off a whole series of events for Piper to have to deal with. Now she's in a race for her life – quite literally.
"Werewolves are bad, but ice age predators are worse, especially werepredators..."
Can we just take a second to appreciate that tagline? Of course, I was going to read Shadow Winged after seeing that! Shadow Winged is the first novel in a series of the same name, and guys, I am SO excited that there's going to be more of this.
Shadow Winged was such a fun and thrilling read! Picture urban fantasy with a MacGuffin-esque plot, with a dash of danger and romance on the side. It's a perfect combination, and it certainly worked to keep me invested for the entire read.
Personally, what really sold me on this story was the main character, Piper. I loved getting to know her. And trust me, there's a lot to learn about her. The bio alone probably made that pretty obvious, though, huh?
As I'm sitting here writing this review, I'm finding myself wanting to go back and read Shadow Winged for the second time. That's probably the best praise I can give this read. So please, consider reading it.
Thanks to Ice Raven Publications and #Reedsy for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Read more reviews over at Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks
March 24, 2025
For some reason, I thought this was a stand-alone. I was confused when the MCs kept bringing up that time they fault a demon, and before any info could be talked about to catch the reader up, they would laugh and move on. I found out later that the demon story was a novella before this first official book in what looks like a long series. This was probably a 4.5 star read, but lost points for having an AI audiobook nerrorator. This is a high 3.5 star read, I will label it as 4. I will probably continue, but thinking this was a standalone, I did not grab the next book back when I had a little money. So that will happen later.
February 25, 2022
Loved it first book I have given 5 stars to. Read it in one day ( it was the weekend)
I chose this book from Voracious Readers Only
Set in Alaska about a Native American bush pilot who is not all what she seems.
Found the Native American legends interesting. Loved the story, the characters and the differing immortals, Shadow Winged and Were.
I especially enjoyed the main character Piper written about a strong woman who can protect herself and those she loves.
Can’t wait for the 2nd book due out in April 2022 Shadow Strife
Read the 2 novella’s Shadow Lair & Shadow Wolf which just seem to be setting the scene and filling in gaps.
I chose this book from Voracious Readers Only
Set in Alaska about a Native American bush pilot who is not all what she seems.
Found the Native American legends interesting. Loved the story, the characters and the differing immortals, Shadow Winged and Were.
I especially enjoyed the main character Piper written about a strong woman who can protect herself and those she loves.
Can’t wait for the 2nd book due out in April 2022 Shadow Strife
Read the 2 novella’s Shadow Lair & Shadow Wolf which just seem to be setting the scene and filling in gaps.
March 17, 2023
This is my first book by this author but it won't be the last.
I really enjoyed the characters, story and supernatural element. Can't wait to read more
I really enjoyed the characters, story and supernatural element. Can't wait to read more
November 7, 2022
This was seriously different! Firstly because it opened up a door into a culture and world I had not been exposed to, secondly because of the very intricate plot, which had me guessing throughout, and thirdly a new twist on Shifters. By this, I mean I've never read a book where a Shifter can change form at will, from Raven to Wolf to Otter, from one to another so seemlessly. And boy are there twists aplenty!
Piper is one such shifter, I enjoyed her character immensely. Her basically perfect world, not withstanding her total lack of romantic interludes, is turned on it head when she meets Fletcher. She discovers things about her father, her past which boggle her mind, heck, it boggled my mind! I'm not surprised she has a hard time processing all of it, but it doesn't end there. The plot develops, one breath at a time, like a balloon slowly being filled until one has a full, round ball, full of mystery, deceipt and action. Her friend Bran is a delight! Always supportive of Piper, she's a witch, which she'll very quickly slap that title down! I loved how she obviously IS a witch but refuses to accept it, saying she uses magic, not spells. Like, duh, there's a difference? Love her.
Fletcher is a very fetching character, not only to look at, he has his own inhabitions, his own fears, his own dilemmas and a thing for Piper.... thank goodness she got her romantic mojo together, I was beginning to despair! He's the quintessential gentleman, sigh.... With his inheritance of a cabin, he could not have imagined what he would discover, that he would be set upon, that his life is in serious danger. I enjoyed how we get to get a mere glimpse of what is truly unfolding, as the pot thickness!
I love that it touches on Folklore of the Inuoiaq people, a very fascinating culture I'm interested to read more of. And the world the author describes is riveting. A world of natural beauty and gorgeous scenery. The beginning was a bit slow going for me, but things heated up quickly after that, that by the end of book I, I didn't even stop, I went straight into book 2!
Piper is one such shifter, I enjoyed her character immensely. Her basically perfect world, not withstanding her total lack of romantic interludes, is turned on it head when she meets Fletcher. She discovers things about her father, her past which boggle her mind, heck, it boggled my mind! I'm not surprised she has a hard time processing all of it, but it doesn't end there. The plot develops, one breath at a time, like a balloon slowly being filled until one has a full, round ball, full of mystery, deceipt and action. Her friend Bran is a delight! Always supportive of Piper, she's a witch, which she'll very quickly slap that title down! I loved how she obviously IS a witch but refuses to accept it, saying she uses magic, not spells. Like, duh, there's a difference? Love her.
Fletcher is a very fetching character, not only to look at, he has his own inhabitions, his own fears, his own dilemmas and a thing for Piper.... thank goodness she got her romantic mojo together, I was beginning to despair! He's the quintessential gentleman, sigh.... With his inheritance of a cabin, he could not have imagined what he would discover, that he would be set upon, that his life is in serious danger. I enjoyed how we get to get a mere glimpse of what is truly unfolding, as the pot thickness!
I love that it touches on Folklore of the Inuoiaq people, a very fascinating culture I'm interested to read more of. And the world the author describes is riveting. A world of natural beauty and gorgeous scenery. The beginning was a bit slow going for me, but things heated up quickly after that, that by the end of book I, I didn't even stop, I went straight into book 2!
January 31, 2022
Interesting
I really enjoyed the book it isa unique take on shape shifting and the. Twists are intriguing. I'm definitely going to be reading more of this series Piper isn't your typical heroine and I like that and learning about her as she learns what she can do. one thing though I wish the author had put the pronunciation for the term used for the bigfoot in notes at the back of the book.
I really enjoyed the book it isa unique take on shape shifting and the. Twists are intriguing. I'm definitely going to be reading more of this series Piper isn't your typical heroine and I like that and learning about her as she learns what she can do. one thing though I wish the author had put the pronunciation for the term used for the bigfoot in notes at the back of the book.
April 5, 2024
If I could have read this in all one sitting, I would have
I really really tried, though. It’s 3:20 am as I’m writing this, and I stayed up until after 4 am last night. I loved all the characters, but especially how Alaska itself was one of the main characters.
The people and culture of Alaska are so unique. I’ve been lucky enough to visit a couple of times, and one of my college roommates was Alaskan. Reading this made me feel like I was back up there, where guns and bear spray are everyday things if you’re anywhere near the bush.
There’s something about living in a place where one wrong step — a misjudgment about the weather, or a run-in with a deadly animal — can end your life, it’s easier to believe in mysticism and the old gods. And the native people are more revered because even in this day and age of technology, living that far north means technology doesn’t work as well. Your cell phone might be fine in town, but out in the bush you need to know what you’re doing.
Anyway, all this is to say that this book gets it right. I loved that the author, in her intro, explained that she wasn’t a native, but that she’d researched very carefully and tried her best to be respectful. I think she did a great job.
I really really tried, though. It’s 3:20 am as I’m writing this, and I stayed up until after 4 am last night. I loved all the characters, but especially how Alaska itself was one of the main characters.
The people and culture of Alaska are so unique. I’ve been lucky enough to visit a couple of times, and one of my college roommates was Alaskan. Reading this made me feel like I was back up there, where guns and bear spray are everyday things if you’re anywhere near the bush.
There’s something about living in a place where one wrong step — a misjudgment about the weather, or a run-in with a deadly animal — can end your life, it’s easier to believe in mysticism and the old gods. And the native people are more revered because even in this day and age of technology, living that far north means technology doesn’t work as well. Your cell phone might be fine in town, but out in the bush you need to know what you’re doing.
Anyway, all this is to say that this book gets it right. I loved that the author, in her intro, explained that she wasn’t a native, but that she’d researched very carefully and tried her best to be respectful. I think she did a great job.
June 3, 2024
The premise had so much potential, although reading it left me wondering if the author knew Alaskan natives or Anchorage very well. Naming crossroads of two streets in Anchorage that don’t intersect to meet up, for example. There were specific references to other Native peoples’ mythologies and beliefs intermingled, which would make sense if the book didn’t specify the peoples that the main character hails from. There were some strange undertones that I, as a native, read as particularly problematic such as implying that the people mixed with white were superior to other natives (the mixed person was stronger/more powerful, the full native person was described as dirty and primitive). I really wanted to like this book and this premise as a fan of supernatural fiction that was billed as written from the Native perspective, unfortunately the indigenous perspective was lacking. The potential was there, possibly better flushed with a sensitivity reader.
July 14, 2024
And I'm giving it 5 stars even though they used AI to do the audiobook narration, which I hate.
This is such a cool book and I look forward to the rest of the series. The Alaskan in me totally LOVED it! All the Anchorage street names made my heart happy. If you like urban fantasy and have any interest at all in Alaska and Alaskan mythology, this is amazing.
Piper is a bush pilot working out of a fictional airline that is housed on Lake Hood, which is right near where I grew up and right across from the airport. A friend of her family is found dead at his remote cabin and Piper has to fly out the new owner, Fletcher, out to the cabin. What follows is a great, detailed, and well-written mystery with tons of action. It reminded me of the Mercy Thompson series. I definitely recommend this to anyone who loves Mercy. Just avoid the audiobook.
This is such a cool book and I look forward to the rest of the series. The Alaskan in me totally LOVED it! All the Anchorage street names made my heart happy. If you like urban fantasy and have any interest at all in Alaska and Alaskan mythology, this is amazing.
Piper is a bush pilot working out of a fictional airline that is housed on Lake Hood, which is right near where I grew up and right across from the airport. A friend of her family is found dead at his remote cabin and Piper has to fly out the new owner, Fletcher, out to the cabin. What follows is a great, detailed, and well-written mystery with tons of action. It reminded me of the Mercy Thompson series. I definitely recommend this to anyone who loves Mercy. Just avoid the audiobook.
April 9, 2022
SO GOOD!
I am a classic YA Dystopian girl. My experience with Urban Fantasy is mostly limited to ye ol' greats: Rowling, Riordan, and Meyer.
This debut novel from Jilleen Dolbeare is so thrilling! There are not one, not two, but quite a few surprising plot twists & reveals, that are beautifully foreshadowed.
The history and imagery is so interesting, I don't know much about native histories and Alaska in general, but you can really tell the author knows her stuff.
The characters are beautifully thought out and complex and real.
And we love a rugged, mysterious, blue-eyed hottie in this house!
I am a classic YA Dystopian girl. My experience with Urban Fantasy is mostly limited to ye ol' greats: Rowling, Riordan, and Meyer.
This debut novel from Jilleen Dolbeare is so thrilling! There are not one, not two, but quite a few surprising plot twists & reveals, that are beautifully foreshadowed.
The history and imagery is so interesting, I don't know much about native histories and Alaska in general, but you can really tell the author knows her stuff.
The characters are beautifully thought out and complex and real.
And we love a rugged, mysterious, blue-eyed hottie in this house!
January 3, 2023
The start of something good.
I love finding a new series with a new and different world. The Shadow Winged Chronicles is just that a new and exciting world of cryptids, lore and Alaskan beauty. Piper is a raven shifter and a pilot working for her dad in his business flying goods and people around Alaska. An old friend has died and his heir has arrived to take possession of his camp in the wilderness. Sparks fly and secrets are revealed as mystery after mystery is thrust into the couples path. The past is somewhat revealed and new enemies emerge as friends find strength to fight for each other. Thoroughly enjoyable and I can’t wait to start the next book.
I love finding a new series with a new and different world. The Shadow Winged Chronicles is just that a new and exciting world of cryptids, lore and Alaskan beauty. Piper is a raven shifter and a pilot working for her dad in his business flying goods and people around Alaska. An old friend has died and his heir has arrived to take possession of his camp in the wilderness. Sparks fly and secrets are revealed as mystery after mystery is thrust into the couples path. The past is somewhat revealed and new enemies emerge as friends find strength to fight for each other. Thoroughly enjoyable and I can’t wait to start the next book.
March 4, 2024
Unusual and compelling story!
I love supernatural fiction but can get a little bored sometimes of tortured vampires and complicated enemies to lovers storylines! Imagine my relief when I read this story which contained neither of those! Instead, we are faced with creatures from legend and greedy humans alongside wonderful main characters and a compelling story. A brilliant book, I am off to download the second one immediately!
I love supernatural fiction but can get a little bored sometimes of tortured vampires and complicated enemies to lovers storylines! Imagine my relief when I read this story which contained neither of those! Instead, we are faced with creatures from legend and greedy humans alongside wonderful main characters and a compelling story. A brilliant book, I am off to download the second one immediately!
July 14, 2024
I almost DNF.
There were some good elements. The history, the mystery, the growth of the character. Some Christian elements which I absolutely loved.
But in the end, it just seemed a schlep to try and finish the book. Too much repetitiveness. Fly, shift, hurt. Dad refusing to talk. Fly, shift, hurt. Commiserate and drink coke with friend. Fly, shift, hurt, Dad the a**-hole and drink coke with friend. Rinse and repeat ad nauseam. With nothing actually solved or explained or happening.
Dad loves her supposedly SO much. But the moment she was hurt, he refused that she was treated properly. But barely took care of her. His business were more important to him, so he left her ALONE in the wilderness with a complete stranger.
He didn't provide her with much care apart from what... bandages and chicken soup?! She wasn't even washed or bathed for 5 days, and another man had to dress her and care for her bodily functions!! And the dad didn't mind one bit! Or what it would do to her when she woke up and realise that. No dignity!
Dad refused to even tell the mom, so no female care! I was horrified at the lack of love and care these 2 men showed her. While we were told how wonderful the man looked after her. By not getting her proper medical care? Not washing or bathing her? Five days later the wounds were still bleeding and oozing on the bedding?! Were she even given pain medication?
After we found out who the dad was.... could he honestly not have had ANY way of helping her? No contacts he had made over the years, that could come and give her an IV drip? With pain and fever meds? Some stitches? A wash? Some kind of care or healing? He couldn't take a few weeks off from his business? It made zero sense and seemed more like the writer just wanted to add some random suffering in for no reason. It had zero effect and made no difference to the story.
Still... I continued.
The Dad gave some horrifying explanation of their family, which left more questions than answers and we're told she basically just forgot it all?!?! Really?! And when she had questions, he refused to even SPEAK to her? His daughter that he apparently love so much?! Yeah. We see that.
The whole fighting scene in the end then also dragged and dragged and dragged. Same repetitiveness. Fight. Rest. Talk. Fight. Rest. Talk. Fight. Rest. Talk. On and on and on. It wasn't interesting or exciting. It was just boring.
At some point she and the mc then fled... where to? To her loving daddy of course. Until they were tired of hiding, then they.... just went home! Yeah. I'm tired of hiding, let's just ignore the reason I was hiding in the first place. I could've just hit my head against a wall at that point. And did the daddy help her AT ALL? No. He went to work and expected the same of her.
Gosh, for someone who is who he says he is... work is quite important, hey? <*Roll my eyes*> Which (again) just made no sense at all.
I won't finish the series.
There were some good elements. The history, the mystery, the growth of the character. Some Christian elements which I absolutely loved.
But in the end, it just seemed a schlep to try and finish the book. Too much repetitiveness. Fly, shift, hurt. Dad refusing to talk. Fly, shift, hurt. Commiserate and drink coke with friend. Fly, shift, hurt, Dad the a**-hole and drink coke with friend. Rinse and repeat ad nauseam. With nothing actually solved or explained or happening.
Dad loves her supposedly SO much. But the moment she was hurt, he refused that she was treated properly. But barely took care of her. His business were more important to him, so he left her ALONE in the wilderness with a complete stranger.
He didn't provide her with much care apart from what... bandages and chicken soup?! She wasn't even washed or bathed for 5 days, and another man had to dress her and care for her bodily functions!! And the dad didn't mind one bit! Or what it would do to her when she woke up and realise that. No dignity!
Dad refused to even tell the mom, so no female care! I was horrified at the lack of love and care these 2 men showed her. While we were told how wonderful the man looked after her. By not getting her proper medical care? Not washing or bathing her? Five days later the wounds were still bleeding and oozing on the bedding?! Were she even given pain medication?
After we found out who the dad was.... could he honestly not have had ANY way of helping her? No contacts he had made over the years, that could come and give her an IV drip? With pain and fever meds? Some stitches? A wash? Some kind of care or healing? He couldn't take a few weeks off from his business? It made zero sense and seemed more like the writer just wanted to add some random suffering in for no reason. It had zero effect and made no difference to the story.
Still... I continued.
The Dad gave some horrifying explanation of their family, which left more questions than answers and we're told she basically just forgot it all?!?! Really?! And when she had questions, he refused to even SPEAK to her? His daughter that he apparently love so much?! Yeah. We see that.
The whole fighting scene in the end then also dragged and dragged and dragged. Same repetitiveness. Fight. Rest. Talk. Fight. Rest. Talk. Fight. Rest. Talk. On and on and on. It wasn't interesting or exciting. It was just boring.
At some point she and the mc then fled... where to? To her loving daddy of course. Until they were tired of hiding, then they.... just went home! Yeah. I'm tired of hiding, let's just ignore the reason I was hiding in the first place. I could've just hit my head against a wall at that point. And did the daddy help her AT ALL? No. He went to work and expected the same of her.
Gosh, for someone who is who he says he is... work is quite important, hey? <*Roll my eyes*> Which (again) just made no sense at all.
I won't finish the series.
November 29, 2023
My biggest problem with this book was the characters.
I didn't see the sparks fly between the main leads. Piper does mention how attractive she finds his eyes and body and she gushes excitedly with her friend but I don't feel it and I don't get it either. They barely spent time together and most of that time he was pushing her away, he lied to her. Why is she into him other than his body? And she also seems to be all about body. I cringed at the descriptions of what she wore and how she never did laundry but I feel like these quirks were used as stand-ins for a personality. Who is Piper? I have no clue.
Same thing with the trust. Both of them trust each other so easily based on literally nothing. This naiveté comes back when they try to figure out who the alpha is. I don't get how these two survived until whatever age they're supposed to be. The dude is supposedly 5 years or so out of uni and she wouldn't be much younger but they read as 16.
The dad is a quiet weirdo, the sister feels Piper's age, the mom is a caricature of a person, Piper is 2D, Fletch (I finally remembered his name) is supposedly hot, dominant and hates himself. The best friend is the closest thing to a real person and even she seemed a bit exaggerated.
The best thing about this book was Jane. The implications of her character, holy shit. I wish this book was fully about interacting with all the cryptoids and nothing else. The bigfoot, Piper changing into all these animals. I loved that. The actual plot can go in the garbage, I only want the lore.
So basically the strongest part of the book is the worldbuilding and everything else was a disappointment. 2 stars for the lore and Jane
I didn't see the sparks fly between the main leads. Piper does mention how attractive she finds his eyes and body and she gushes excitedly with her friend but I don't feel it and I don't get it either. They barely spent time together and most of that time he was pushing her away, he lied to her. Why is she into him other than his body? And she also seems to be all about body. I cringed at the descriptions of what she wore and how she never did laundry but I feel like these quirks were used as stand-ins for a personality. Who is Piper? I have no clue.
Same thing with the trust. Both of them trust each other so easily based on literally nothing. This naiveté comes back when they try to figure out who the alpha is. I don't get how these two survived until whatever age they're supposed to be. The dude is supposedly 5 years or so out of uni and she wouldn't be much younger but they read as 16.
The dad is a quiet weirdo, the sister feels Piper's age, the mom is a caricature of a person, Piper is 2D, Fletch (I finally remembered his name) is supposedly hot, dominant and hates himself. The best friend is the closest thing to a real person and even she seemed a bit exaggerated.
The best thing about this book was Jane. The implications of her character, holy shit. I wish this book was fully about interacting with all the cryptoids and nothing else. The bigfoot, Piper changing into all these animals. I loved that. The actual plot can go in the garbage, I only want the lore.
So basically the strongest part of the book is the worldbuilding and everything else was a disappointment. 2 stars for the lore and Jane
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 22, 2024
Piper is a bush pilot in Alaska. She is part Inupiaq and has the ability to shift into either a raven or a wolf.
One of her flying jobs is to deliver Fletcher to a cabin and land he has inherited, things start to get interesting. The cabin used to belong to a friend of her family who was a prospector. Fletcher spends some time looking for any gold that might have been left around and discovers that others have been searching as well.
After telling Piper about what’s been happening and what he has found, they do some looking around for clues as to who, what and why someone is searching. They are aided at times by Piper’s best friend, Bran, a witch and bits of information supplied by Piper’s dad.
As the book goes along, secrets become revealed as well as more appearing. There is also suspense, mystery, a bit of humour, some romance and very interesting characters.
This is a very well written book with a lot of detail including native myths and legends. I was expecting this from my previous readings of this authors books, especially the Portlock Detective Agency with Heather G Harris.
I really enjoyed this and am looking forward to the next book.
One of her flying jobs is to deliver Fletcher to a cabin and land he has inherited, things start to get interesting. The cabin used to belong to a friend of her family who was a prospector. Fletcher spends some time looking for any gold that might have been left around and discovers that others have been searching as well.
After telling Piper about what’s been happening and what he has found, they do some looking around for clues as to who, what and why someone is searching. They are aided at times by Piper’s best friend, Bran, a witch and bits of information supplied by Piper’s dad.
As the book goes along, secrets become revealed as well as more appearing. There is also suspense, mystery, a bit of humour, some romance and very interesting characters.
This is a very well written book with a lot of detail including native myths and legends. I was expecting this from my previous readings of this authors books, especially the Portlock Detective Agency with Heather G Harris.
I really enjoyed this and am looking forward to the next book.
September 4, 2024
The dark gods of my people are back, and they’re hunting the shadow-winged — like me.
Being a bush pilot is the third most dangerous job in the world. I’m Piper Tikaani, and I take that in stride. As an Inupiaq Raven Clan shapeshifter—flying is second nature, whether in my supernatural form or tackling the skies in my Super Cub.
Strong winds, rugged terrain, and rough clients are all the excitement I need. But when a family friend is found dead on the roof of his wilderness cabin, I find myself caught in a world of hidden treasure and a new, dark reality.
Now the people I love hide things from me and ancient, terrifying beasts stalk the land.
To survive, I must discover the truth about the treasure, my clan, and myself—which means exposing my secret to the very creatures hunting me: ice age were-predators determined to see me dead.
Interesting mix of mythology and lore and good story telling, I enjoyed this and look forward to the next in the series.
Being a bush pilot is the third most dangerous job in the world. I’m Piper Tikaani, and I take that in stride. As an Inupiaq Raven Clan shapeshifter—flying is second nature, whether in my supernatural form or tackling the skies in my Super Cub.
Strong winds, rugged terrain, and rough clients are all the excitement I need. But when a family friend is found dead on the roof of his wilderness cabin, I find myself caught in a world of hidden treasure and a new, dark reality.
Now the people I love hide things from me and ancient, terrifying beasts stalk the land.
To survive, I must discover the truth about the treasure, my clan, and myself—which means exposing my secret to the very creatures hunting me: ice age were-predators determined to see me dead.
Interesting mix of mythology and lore and good story telling, I enjoyed this and look forward to the next in the series.
May 3, 2025
3.5/5 stars. I liked this book but there were a few things that I struggled with.
They kept referencing something that happened in the past with her sister and I either want a more detailed retelling or there must be a book about it because it is referenced so many times.
I also was frustrated with how many times Piper went behind other people’s backs to do things because she felt like they needed to be done and didn’t want to fight them about it. Let’s communicate better!!!!!
I did think that the folklore was super interesting and I like Piper and Fletcher.
I liked that this book was closed door but still had some good romantic moments.
I am very intrigued to learn more about Piper’s powers and how to defeat the bad guys. I am excited to keep going and I hope some of my frustrations get better :)
They kept referencing something that happened in the past with her sister and I either want a more detailed retelling or there must be a book about it because it is referenced so many times.
I also was frustrated with how many times Piper went behind other people’s backs to do things because she felt like they needed to be done and didn’t want to fight them about it. Let’s communicate better!!!!!
I did think that the folklore was super interesting and I like Piper and Fletcher.
I liked that this book was closed door but still had some good romantic moments.
I am very intrigued to learn more about Piper’s powers and how to defeat the bad guys. I am excited to keep going and I hope some of my frustrations get better :)
August 19, 2022
I really wanted to like this book. Shapeshifters based on the legends in Alaska is a new - for me - view. However, it just fell flat. The writer tried to cover too much, There was too many mentions of a back story that probably should have been the first book in the series instead of this one, and worst of all - and may I say I really, REALLY hate this plot device!- the MC's father refuses to tell what what she needs to know, under the guise of protecting her. WHY do people do that?? So she gets blindsided over and over again because she is unaware. But anyway she was whiny and the ending was awkward. Nice try, but needs work. That's a no for me.
August 11, 2023
Piper is a Inupiaq Native with a secret ability; as a descendant of Raven, she can take the form of ravens and wolves. Her best friend is “not a witch” (but can influence feelings, zap people, etc). Piper gets thrown into a world of gold, and the people who would do anything to claim it. I really really really liked the Native American myth and legends in this. From their creation to the “Sky People” to the ability gifted to others to take animal shapes, to the Urayuli (Bigfoot-like creatures), it was fascinating. Lots of ends that didn’t get tied up, so I’m sure they’ll be addressed later.
August 13, 2023
Fun Adventure!
What a treat it is to pick up an urban fantasy series featuring Alaskan folklore. The protagonist Piper Tikaani is not only Inupiaq—one of Alaska’s indigenous peoples—but also a kick-ass bush pilot and a shape-shifter.
The book goes straight into the action with Piper flying a client to a remote cabin. Author Jilleen Dolbeare writes about bush flying with obvious authority. And the action never lets up while Piper discovers the mystery behind her existence.
This is a fun adventure, and Dolbeare’s writing brought Alaska and its glorious wilderness alive for me. The best part, of course, was learning about Inupiaq folklore.
I recommend this book!
What a treat it is to pick up an urban fantasy series featuring Alaskan folklore. The protagonist Piper Tikaani is not only Inupiaq—one of Alaska’s indigenous peoples—but also a kick-ass bush pilot and a shape-shifter.
The book goes straight into the action with Piper flying a client to a remote cabin. Author Jilleen Dolbeare writes about bush flying with obvious authority. And the action never lets up while Piper discovers the mystery behind her existence.
This is a fun adventure, and Dolbeare’s writing brought Alaska and its glorious wilderness alive for me. The best part, of course, was learning about Inupiaq folklore.
I recommend this book!
October 8, 2025
Repeat of her other series
I like this book but at the same I found it annoying. First a 29 yr old virgin? highly unlikely specially bc shifters have high seggs drives. Second her father drops this bombshell of top secret information 9n his daughter then doesnt answer any questions. Why bother telling her at all then. Third main character goes after bad guy whos sitting in a jeep and drives off when confronted. Piper has a loaded gun, duh! shoot out the tires!
This series has a very similiar feel to the splinter series. Different characters but its the same vibe, whole bunch of problems at once that all get fixed at the end of the book.
I like this book but at the same I found it annoying. First a 29 yr old virgin? highly unlikely specially bc shifters have high seggs drives. Second her father drops this bombshell of top secret information 9n his daughter then doesnt answer any questions. Why bother telling her at all then. Third main character goes after bad guy whos sitting in a jeep and drives off when confronted. Piper has a loaded gun, duh! shoot out the tires!
This series has a very similiar feel to the splinter series. Different characters but its the same vibe, whole bunch of problems at once that all get fixed at the end of the book.
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