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Lux Catena #1
What a Wolf Desires
Lizette Butler is determined to escape the clutches of her powerful pack alpha, Maxime Simard. He rejected her once, and she won’t let him control her destiny again. Raised by humans, she knows she’ll never be good enough for him, even if desire sizzles between them every time they’re together. But when Max orders her home unexpectedly, their forbidden attraction is as fiery and undeniable as ever.
Max has everything he could ever want—wealth, power, and a loyal army of wolves at his command. But the only thing he truly desires is Lizette, and he’ll stop at nothing to claim her. He’ll be ruthless if he has to, even if it means making her a prisoner while he fights for their future.
But when secrets come to light and outside forces threaten to tear them apart, it’s not just the future that’s at stake. Now, they’re in a fight for their lives and their love.
Max has everything he could ever want—wealth, power, and a loyal army of wolves at his command. But the only thing he truly desires is Lizette, and he’ll stop at nothing to claim her. He’ll be ruthless if he has to, even if it means making her a prisoner while he fights for their future.
But when secrets come to light and outside forces threaten to tear them apart, it’s not just the future that’s at stake. Now, they’re in a fight for their lives and their love.
262 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 21, 2018
896 people are currently reading
983 people want to read
About the author
Amy Pennza
59 books810 followersAmy Pennza is a USA Today Bestselling Author of steamy fantasy romance. After becoming a lawyer because everyone insisted writing wasn’t a “real job,” she stubbornly wrote anyway—and is delighted to have proved them wrong. She’s grateful to spend her days crafting dirty, swoony books about magic, swords, and unforgettable characters. She lives in the Great Lakes region with her husband and five children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 175 reviews
December 26, 2019
Rating: 3.5 Stars
Even shifters have relationship problems and when Lizette and Max find themselves mated and under difficult and unconventional circumstances things go from bad to worse for them.
Max has known since first setting eyes on Lizette that she was his wolf’s mate. There was no doubt in his mind that she was his other half. But he knew that for Lizette, who’d been raised in the human world, away from pack life, this revelation wouldn’t be so easily accepted. Trying to give her time and hopeful that living among her kind would facilitate any easier transition to matehood, Max kept his distance.
But his distance came off as avoidance and indifference so it hugely backfires. Lizette, who’s never felt as if she really fit in anywhere, grew up not understanding the feelings Max brought out in her. So after one disastrous night, Lizette finds herself bombarded with feelings she doesn’t understand and an Alpha who’s actions push her deeper into unknown territory.
These two were so at odds that when they are forced back together, things quickly escalate. There is definitely an intense attraction between them but they have to resolve their issues before their relationship can progress. I enjoyed this part of the story most of all because I loved how Max laid his heart bare for her when he realizes he couldn’t live without her in his life. His willingness to still give her an out even knowing that this separation would slowly kill him, cemented his feelings for her.
Lizette was a bit too antagonistic towards Max – I get where she’s coming from but she still came off too shrew-ish about it. Especially since she didn’t seem to take her Gift or the target this made her, seriously. I still appreciated that she never ventured into TSTL territory even if a few times she did come close. Once their misunderstanding is cleared up, Max manages to woo Lizette and I loved them as a united front.
The baddie was pretty obvious and the conflict he represents was secondary to the romance.
This author does a good job of putting her own spin on the shifter/pack lifestyle especially with the and I’m definitely interested in checking out more of this series. Remy’s book is next and I hope Dom’s will follow soon after :)
Memorable Moment: I was surprised Max was so open about his feelings for Lizette. The fact that he says “I love you” first and doesn’t pressure Lizette into reciprocating isn’t typical for a Hero. The fact that he confesses as soon as he realizes his feelings for her and doesn’t hesitate or doubt himself was charming. The scene right after the diner was both sweet and steamy.
Would I recommend? Yes, I really enjoyed reading this one. It was safe and I read it in one sitting.
SAFETY INFO:
Even shifters have relationship problems and when Lizette and Max find themselves mated and under difficult and unconventional circumstances things go from bad to worse for them.
Max has known since first setting eyes on Lizette that she was his wolf’s mate. There was no doubt in his mind that she was his other half. But he knew that for Lizette, who’d been raised in the human world, away from pack life, this revelation wouldn’t be so easily accepted. Trying to give her time and hopeful that living among her kind would facilitate any easier transition to matehood, Max kept his distance.
But his distance came off as avoidance and indifference so it hugely backfires. Lizette, who’s never felt as if she really fit in anywhere, grew up not understanding the feelings Max brought out in her. So after one disastrous night, Lizette finds herself bombarded with feelings she doesn’t understand and an Alpha who’s actions push her deeper into unknown territory.
These two were so at odds that when they are forced back together, things quickly escalate. There is definitely an intense attraction between them but they have to resolve their issues before their relationship can progress. I enjoyed this part of the story most of all because I loved how Max laid his heart bare for her when he realizes he couldn’t live without her in his life. His willingness to still give her an out even knowing that this separation would slowly kill him, cemented his feelings for her.
Lizette was a bit too antagonistic towards Max – I get where she’s coming from but she still came off too shrew-ish about it. Especially since she didn’t seem to take her Gift or the target this made her, seriously. I still appreciated that she never ventured into TSTL territory even if a few times she did come close. Once their misunderstanding is cleared up, Max manages to woo Lizette and I loved them as a united front.
The baddie was pretty obvious and the conflict he represents was secondary to the romance.
This author does a good job of putting her own spin on the shifter/pack lifestyle especially with the and I’m definitely interested in checking out more of this series. Remy’s book is next and I hope Dom’s will follow soon after :)
Memorable Moment: I was surprised Max was so open about his feelings for Lizette. The fact that he says “I love you” first and doesn’t pressure Lizette into reciprocating isn’t typical for a Hero. The fact that he confesses as soon as he realizes his feelings for her and doesn’t hesitate or doubt himself was charming. The scene right after the diner was both sweet and steamy.
Would I recommend? Yes, I really enjoyed reading this one. It was safe and I read it in one sitting.
SAFETY INFO:
July 16, 2019
2.5 STARS
Max has known since first setting eyes on Lizette that she was his mate, but he was a grown man and a alpha and she a 15-year-old girl who knew nothing of the wolf world, a revelation he knew wouldn’t be easy for Lizette, who’d been raised in the human world, away from pack life. He tried to ensure she was safe and comfortable but attempted to keep an emotional distance, one night and its events fray his control and leads to a bite that changes everything. In an attempt to give Lizette time, he sends her away to college, but Lizette feels like she has been banished, and sees his distance as avoidance and indifference. After 5 years, Max as alpha orders her back, and they find themselves at odds from the get go, and things quickly escalate, especially as Max has been keeping more than one secret.
Max had the potential to be a delicious alpha wolf, but his assertiveness and dominance didn’t manifest as I thought they would, at times he came across as a bit of an ass, but not a hot one.
Things also felt a tad rushed, and I found myself waiting to be drawn into Max and Lizette’s relationship but that never happened.
Acquired via KU.
Max has known since first setting eyes on Lizette that she was his mate, but he was a grown man and a alpha and she a 15-year-old girl who knew nothing of the wolf world, a revelation he knew wouldn’t be easy for Lizette, who’d been raised in the human world, away from pack life. He tried to ensure she was safe and comfortable but attempted to keep an emotional distance, one night and its events fray his control and leads to a bite that changes everything. In an attempt to give Lizette time, he sends her away to college, but Lizette feels like she has been banished, and sees his distance as avoidance and indifference. After 5 years, Max as alpha orders her back, and they find themselves at odds from the get go, and things quickly escalate, especially as Max has been keeping more than one secret.
Max had the potential to be a delicious alpha wolf, but his assertiveness and dominance didn’t manifest as I thought they would, at times he came across as a bit of an ass, but not a hot one.
Things also felt a tad rushed, and I found myself waiting to be drawn into Max and Lizette’s relationship but that never happened.
Acquired via KU.
November 26, 2018
2,5 stars
Couldn't connect with characters! h was a little whinny... Complain a lot... But in the end just accepted everything!!!
There where some plot holes or poorly explain situations!!!
Its really a case of "its not you, its me"!
Couldn't connect with characters! h was a little whinny... Complain a lot... But in the end just accepted everything!!!
There where some plot holes or poorly explain situations!!!
Its really a case of "its not you, its me"!
December 24, 2024
Just ew. I don’t like age gap romance especially when the MC raises the FC when she was a teen then now he’s making her suck his dick like a good little girl (that’s a quote). It’s just gross and ick.
March 27, 2023
What a Wolf Desires is the first book in the Lux Catena series and features Lizette and Maxime. Liz and Max are fated mates but there is a lot of baggage between the two of them. Liz didn't grow up in a shifter pack and hasn't always felt like she belonged. Max is older, an alpha, and knows a lot more about the world and shifter dynamics than Liz. When Max claims yet also rejects Liz...well let's just say he done f*cked up. When he calls Liz back to their pack after she builds a life for herself, he knows he has a lot to make up for.
However, there is a LOT more at play here that Liz doesn't realize and Max hasn't been completely honest with her or himself. Danger is afoot and it will take Liz trusting Max to stay alive. Will these two find common ground and realize just how perfect they are for each other?
I don't know what it is about the rejected fated mate trope but when written correctly, I LOVE IT. The angst and push/pull with all that sexual tension just really hits all my buttons. Max was all domineering alpha and possessive and it was delicious. Liz was a little annoying at times but I liked her character growth. She really came into herself in a good way. The side characters were entertaining and the smut was SO good. Overall, a really well written fated mates shifter romance with heat, action and suspense, violence, and a couple to swoon for.
“But you lied. You hurt me, Maxime. You took what I didn’t offer. You stole what wasn’t freely given, and then you sent me away. You hurt me. And I don’t forgive you.”
However, there is a LOT more at play here that Liz doesn't realize and Max hasn't been completely honest with her or himself. Danger is afoot and it will take Liz trusting Max to stay alive. Will these two find common ground and realize just how perfect they are for each other?
“You’re the first thing I think about when I wake. When I close my eyes, yours is the face I see. Cut me open, and you’ll find your name written across my heart. You are a fever in my blood, Lizette.”
I don't know what it is about the rejected fated mate trope but when written correctly, I LOVE IT. The angst and push/pull with all that sexual tension just really hits all my buttons. Max was all domineering alpha and possessive and it was delicious. Liz was a little annoying at times but I liked her character growth. She really came into herself in a good way. The side characters were entertaining and the smut was SO good. Overall, a really well written fated mates shifter romance with heat, action and suspense, violence, and a couple to swoon for.
November 19, 2022
⭐⭐⭐
The book is 3.5 stars. Starts so strong but fizzles and dives off a cliff at the end.
Good characters but the pacing is off. Almost 300 pages but the book take place over 3 days and the couple doesn't get it right until 60/70% of the book and then the ending is sped up and the main mystery is anticlimactic. The sexmy scenes are so hot and pull you in but the teasing will they-oh-no-they-wont energy burns as a "slow burn".
Icky alert:
😬 She meets Max (MMC) at 15. He becomes her caretaker. He recognizes that she could be his mate but he holds off (and becomes hands-off about her upbringing until she is 19)
😬 Max is 12 years older than the FMC. She grew up as a human with humans and he doesn't think to consider really teaching her about important wolf cultural heritage like the mate bond
😬 slow build is just a bunch of the FMC not believing the MMC or the MMC not understanding how human upbringing has changed her perspective
😬 they have an accidental mate bond bite with heavy sexual activity at 19. The FMC may be a wolf but it was gross to me. He's a grown man sexually perving on a teenager.
Even with alllllll of that I did finish the book and I'm glad I did. I really enjoyed aspects of the FMC personality and I loved the spicy scenes. I just lost interedt once they finally consummated their love.
The book is 3.5 stars. Starts so strong but fizzles and dives off a cliff at the end.
Good characters but the pacing is off. Almost 300 pages but the book take place over 3 days and the couple doesn't get it right until 60/70% of the book and then the ending is sped up and the main mystery is anticlimactic. The sexmy scenes are so hot and pull you in but the teasing will they-oh-no-they-wont energy burns as a "slow burn".
Icky alert:
😬 She meets Max (MMC) at 15. He becomes her caretaker. He recognizes that she could be his mate but he holds off (and becomes hands-off about her upbringing until she is 19)
😬 Max is 12 years older than the FMC. She grew up as a human with humans and he doesn't think to consider really teaching her about important wolf cultural heritage like the mate bond
😬 slow build is just a bunch of the FMC not believing the MMC or the MMC not understanding how human upbringing has changed her perspective
😬 they have an accidental mate bond bite with heavy sexual activity at 19. The FMC may be a wolf but it was gross to me. He's a grown man sexually perving on a teenager.
Even with alllllll of that I did finish the book and I'm glad I did. I really enjoyed aspects of the FMC personality and I loved the spicy scenes. I just lost interedt once they finally consummated their love.
Want to read
October 8, 2021💝 FREE on Amazon today (11/30/2018)!💝
November 27, 2018
Easy read
Held my attention read it fast. Some parts were good others ok...maybe 3.5 stars. Lots of chemistry but things resolved very quickly. Will read the next
Held my attention read it fast. Some parts were good others ok...maybe 3.5 stars. Lots of chemistry but things resolved very quickly. Will read the next
February 1, 2022
Maxime Simard the Alpha of the New York Territory knew that Lizette Butler was his mate when he first arrived at the courthouse to bring her back to his Pack to live and learn amongst her own kind. Due to their difference in age he kept his distance while providing for her every need. When Lizette turned 19 he made rash decision to mark her then sent her away to college.
Lizette was always raised as human by her biological werewolf parents as well as the foster parents she lived with after her parents deaths. Lizette was more comfortable in the human world because she felt out of place in the werewolf world simply because she didn't find out she was a werewolf until long after her parents died. Max allowed Lizette to go away on her own for 5 years. In doing so Lizette became comfortable living as a human and not wanting to return back to her pack; until the day Max sent his hunters to go and get her.
Max has been pining away after Lizette over the 5 years she was gone but he knew it was time for her to come back to the Pack because she still didn't know about herself. Lizette knew she was given the gift of healing but what she didn't now was that she had the ability to help latent wolves shift into their actual animal. In doing so; she was a rare werewolf who had a target on her back. Latent wolves were werewolves who couldn't shift. If a latent wolf doesn't shift they are disowed by their pack, unable to mate with pure blood wolves and most likely put to death. Max knew this about Lizette and wanted to complete their mate bond so that he could keep her safe and to prevent any other wolves from trying to claim he so they wouldn't try to exploit her gift.
Lizette was a little annoying. She let her preconceived notions about mates and matebonds keep her from completing her mating to Max. She was so blinded by her desire to live as a human that she constantly went toe totoe with Max about keeping her with him and the Pack. She was so hell bent on living a human life she didn't realize the blessed life she could have with Max. Max knew he needed to right his wrong and prove to Lizette that he loved and cared about her and he wanted to protect her and keep her safe. He wasn't interested I mating her just because of the rare power she possesed. Once Lizette realized all the good she could do for latent wolves within the pack giving them a fighting chance to live healthly lives she was onboard to help. Unbeknownst to Max he had a traitor in his ranks who was against latent wolves being given the ability to shift the same as pure blood wolves.
With a 12 year age difference I felt that Lizette still had alot of growing up to do. Yes; Max made a mistake by marking her on an impulse without getting her consent first. He worked hard to gain her trust and earn her love. It wasn't an easy road and Max had alot of walls to tear down before he could rightfully claim the woman that belonged to him.
Lizette was always raised as human by her biological werewolf parents as well as the foster parents she lived with after her parents deaths. Lizette was more comfortable in the human world because she felt out of place in the werewolf world simply because she didn't find out she was a werewolf until long after her parents died. Max allowed Lizette to go away on her own for 5 years. In doing so Lizette became comfortable living as a human and not wanting to return back to her pack; until the day Max sent his hunters to go and get her.
Max has been pining away after Lizette over the 5 years she was gone but he knew it was time for her to come back to the Pack because she still didn't know about herself. Lizette knew she was given the gift of healing but what she didn't now was that she had the ability to help latent wolves shift into their actual animal. In doing so; she was a rare werewolf who had a target on her back. Latent wolves were werewolves who couldn't shift. If a latent wolf doesn't shift they are disowed by their pack, unable to mate with pure blood wolves and most likely put to death. Max knew this about Lizette and wanted to complete their mate bond so that he could keep her safe and to prevent any other wolves from trying to claim he so they wouldn't try to exploit her gift.
Lizette was a little annoying. She let her preconceived notions about mates and matebonds keep her from completing her mating to Max. She was so blinded by her desire to live as a human that she constantly went toe totoe with Max about keeping her with him and the Pack. She was so hell bent on living a human life she didn't realize the blessed life she could have with Max. Max knew he needed to right his wrong and prove to Lizette that he loved and cared about her and he wanted to protect her and keep her safe. He wasn't interested I mating her just because of the rare power she possesed. Once Lizette realized all the good she could do for latent wolves within the pack giving them a fighting chance to live healthly lives she was onboard to help. Unbeknownst to Max he had a traitor in his ranks who was against latent wolves being given the ability to shift the same as pure blood wolves.
With a 12 year age difference I felt that Lizette still had alot of growing up to do. Yes; Max made a mistake by marking her on an impulse without getting her consent first. He worked hard to gain her trust and earn her love. It wasn't an easy road and Max had alot of walls to tear down before he could rightfully claim the woman that belonged to him.
August 11, 2022
So, this is a book about soulmate except, when they first met, one of them was 15 and the other in his 30s, he became her legal guardian and she LIVED with him and somehow when she's over 18 is suddenly desperate to fuck her and feels like that's chill. I was steadily becoming more icked out when I came across the typo 'his cocked twitched' and, I don't know why, but that was the last straw today.
2 stars - one for the audacity, and one because I learned something about myself today.
2 stars - one for the audacity, and one because I learned something about myself today.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 18, 2023
This was interesting to read. Books about shifters have always been my bread and butter so that gives this series some extra points. But there were moments when I had to stop and think, "What?"
One such moment came at the end of chapter 22. The line delivery just sounded cliché and forced. I would have accepted his explanation for the previous events over hers. Her explanation just ... did not sound natural. I get that it was supposed to be a cute moment between them with her finally saying the words but still.
This last chapter seemed to be the climax as this is where the final showdown happens. And it takes just a few paragraphs. I get that the main focus is Max and Lizette but I would have accepted the main conflict to be revealed in a later book. Each book centers around a different couple but they are all in the same pack and dealing with the same things so it would have worked if done right. Set up hints in the first book, then continue on, leading to a reveal at the end of the third book then the big conflict in the fourth. Instead, the conflict happened in this last chapter and the person confessed to everything. Their feelings on what Lizette could do was pretty much made clear a chapter or so before but no one really questioned it aside from Max telling them to shove it, essentially.
I still enjoyed this book but I feel like it could have been so much more. The blurb implied that they would be fighting for their lives and love. Okay, where was that fight? The closest they came to that was between Max and Lizette themselves with her reluctance to complete the bond. But that wasn't life threatening to them. At least not in the context of them actually dropping dead. The next would be that main conflict I mentioned but there wasn't really much fighting in that moment. Just a really well-timed dodge and a thud.
At the beginning of the book, it was implied that Max "took" something without her permission. Previous reading experience would lead me to think of the human meaning of those words, not the shifter meaning. I can safely say he didn't assault her, not in human terms at least. You really gotta be careful with that wording.
Regardless, the book was a fun read. Predictable but good. I wasn't the best I had read but it was pretty good. I'd recommend the book but I wouldn't say it was the best. I still plan to finish the series and check out more from this author though so on to the next one.
One such moment came at the end of chapter 22. The line delivery just sounded cliché and forced. I would have accepted his explanation for the previous events over hers. Her explanation just ... did not sound natural. I get that it was supposed to be a cute moment between them with her finally saying the words but still.
This last chapter seemed to be the climax as this is where the final showdown happens. And it takes just a few paragraphs. I get that the main focus is Max and Lizette but I would have accepted the main conflict to be revealed in a later book. Each book centers around a different couple but they are all in the same pack and dealing with the same things so it would have worked if done right. Set up hints in the first book, then continue on, leading to a reveal at the end of the third book then the big conflict in the fourth. Instead, the conflict happened in this last chapter and the person confessed to everything. Their feelings on what Lizette could do was pretty much made clear a chapter or so before but no one really questioned it aside from Max telling them to shove it, essentially.
I still enjoyed this book but I feel like it could have been so much more. The blurb implied that they would be fighting for their lives and love. Okay, where was that fight? The closest they came to that was between Max and Lizette themselves with her reluctance to complete the bond. But that wasn't life threatening to them. At least not in the context of them actually dropping dead. The next would be that main conflict I mentioned but there wasn't really much fighting in that moment. Just a really well-timed dodge and a thud.
At the beginning of the book, it was implied that Max "took" something without her permission. Previous reading experience would lead me to think of the human meaning of those words, not the shifter meaning. I can safely say he didn't assault her, not in human terms at least. You really gotta be careful with that wording.
Regardless, the book was a fun read. Predictable but good. I wasn't the best I had read but it was pretty good. I'd recommend the book but I wouldn't say it was the best. I still plan to finish the series and check out more from this author though so on to the next one.
April 17, 2020
Enjoyable listening experience on Audible. Narrator did a good job. She fits the characters nicely and the performance is clear.
Loved the passion between Lizette and Maxime. Loved the wolf shifter aspect too. The premise was entertaining and I liked the characters. Maxime found out Lizette was his mate, but she was only 15 at the time and he was over 10 years older or so, so he keeps away from her. This is understandable, but I don't get why he didn't try when she was 18 years old; it's not until she's 24 that he finally decides to claim her. This story starts with Lizette being dragged back to the pack after living on her own as a human in college for 5 years, so she's not excited about going back. There's bad blood between Maxime and Lizette; Maxime pretty much makes bad decision after bad decision when it comes to how he treats Lizette. Lizette is attracted to Max, but he has mostly ignored her or treated her unfavorably when they were in each other's company. Max has a long way to go to win Lizette over. There's also a cool element of the shifters having some other powers besides just being able to change; one of Lizette's powers is highly sought after, so she's in danger from other shifters and needs to be protected. Lizette isn't the easiest to protect and let's herself get into some not so great situations. This was a pretty quick story; I enjoyed what was there, but would've loved to have a bit more meat to the story and for sure more to the ending. Overall, the story was steamy and entertaining. Looking forward to reading the rest of the series!
Loved the passion between Lizette and Maxime. Loved the wolf shifter aspect too. The premise was entertaining and I liked the characters. Maxime found out Lizette was his mate, but she was only 15 at the time and he was over 10 years older or so, so he keeps away from her. This is understandable, but I don't get why he didn't try when she was 18 years old; it's not until she's 24 that he finally decides to claim her. This story starts with Lizette being dragged back to the pack after living on her own as a human in college for 5 years, so she's not excited about going back. There's bad blood between Maxime and Lizette; Maxime pretty much makes bad decision after bad decision when it comes to how he treats Lizette. Lizette is attracted to Max, but he has mostly ignored her or treated her unfavorably when they were in each other's company. Max has a long way to go to win Lizette over. There's also a cool element of the shifters having some other powers besides just being able to change; one of Lizette's powers is highly sought after, so she's in danger from other shifters and needs to be protected. Lizette isn't the easiest to protect and let's herself get into some not so great situations. This was a pretty quick story; I enjoyed what was there, but would've loved to have a bit more meat to the story and for sure more to the ending. Overall, the story was steamy and entertaining. Looking forward to reading the rest of the series!
July 21, 2019
I liked this story.
It's well written.
It has it's own slant on the shifter mate connection and shifter history.
Brooding dominant Hero and strong heroine.
At times the heroine makes unwise choices but this is covered by the fact that she was raised mostly by humans.
No intimate scenes with anyone other than the Hero and heroine but the heroine has an ex in the past and there is a brief scene where she almost gets intimate with him.
Secondary characters for future books in series possibly and breadcrumbs dropped for next book.
HEA.
It's well written.
It has it's own slant on the shifter mate connection and shifter history.
Brooding dominant Hero and strong heroine.
At times the heroine makes unwise choices but this is covered by the fact that she was raised mostly by humans.
No intimate scenes with anyone other than the Hero and heroine but the heroine has an ex in the past and there is a brief scene where she almost gets intimate with him.
Secondary characters for future books in series possibly and breadcrumbs dropped for next book.
HEA.
November 16, 2025
3.5 stars
April 27, 2019
Amount of sex 3.5 / 5
How explicit are the sex scenes 4 / 5
Story 4.5 / 5
Overall: 4.5 / 5
I always love a good paranormal romance. There is something about a strong alpha that makes me go weak in the knees! What a Wolf Desires is the first book in the Lux Catena series and tells the story of Maxime Simard and Lizette Butler. In this story, Max is the Alpha wolf, and he has known that Lizette is his true mate. Although, Lizette has had a bit of a rough childhood, and due to that, she has a lot of misconceived thoughts about mating. She’s also not sure about Max, and afraid of her feelings.
Lizette’s cousin Remy and his best friend, Dominic, visit her with the purpose of bringing her home. Five years have gone by since she left and Max is afraid that he may lose Lizette forever if he is unable to explain how important she is to him and the pack.
What a Wolf Desires had an exciting storyline, and I quickly became engrossed in the story. I enjoyed the characters and look forward to the next book in the series!
Voluntarily Reviewed a Gifted Copy
How explicit are the sex scenes 4 / 5
Story 4.5 / 5
Overall: 4.5 / 5
I always love a good paranormal romance. There is something about a strong alpha that makes me go weak in the knees! What a Wolf Desires is the first book in the Lux Catena series and tells the story of Maxime Simard and Lizette Butler. In this story, Max is the Alpha wolf, and he has known that Lizette is his true mate. Although, Lizette has had a bit of a rough childhood, and due to that, she has a lot of misconceived thoughts about mating. She’s also not sure about Max, and afraid of her feelings.
Lizette’s cousin Remy and his best friend, Dominic, visit her with the purpose of bringing her home. Five years have gone by since she left and Max is afraid that he may lose Lizette forever if he is unable to explain how important she is to him and the pack.
What a Wolf Desires had an exciting storyline, and I quickly became engrossed in the story. I enjoyed the characters and look forward to the next book in the series!
Voluntarily Reviewed a Gifted Copy
October 28, 2023
No real setup to random magical powers popping up. It almost felt like this was a summary of a book the author had read and was trying to recreate it as best she could but didn't quite remember everything that happened. Just wasn't really any depth to this leaving it lackluster and boring in most parts, I just didn't care about the characters or the plot.
September 28, 2023
Grooming and non con - couldn’t even finish the book. There isn’t a build up really. It’s a no for me dogg
October 16, 2022
There were parts of this that I really liked. There were a few parts that felt a bit lacking but overall a fairly enjoyable read. I’d put this at a solid 3.5 stars, it’s a little better than 3 stars but not quite 4. I can’t quite justify bumping GR to 4 stars though.
I liked Max’s intensity. I can never get enough of all that possessive “mine, mine,mine” business. I enjoyed h’s resistance. She tried to put up some resistance and I was proud of her for it. Ultimately she ends up folding too quickly and easily but she pushed back more than some doormats I’ve read.
It’s weird because Max didn’t really do anything that terrible. His greatest failure in my opinion was withholding so much important information from her. He gives his flimsy reasons but ultimately it all felt like excuses to forgive himself for his fuckups.
He didn’t tell her that she possessed this super coveted rare gift, that both her parents had it too before their deaths, or that he knew she was his mate from the moment he met her. He “accidentally” claimed her without permission and then sent her away with zero explanation. It was a bit bewildering.
My biggest issue was the love epiphany came to quickly and easily to Max. Like one chapter before he basically admitted he didn’t love her but since they were “lux cantina” (this worlds version of fated mates) the love would come later. Then he momentarily believes she killed herself and suddenly he loves her. I understand the realization he could have lost her forever prompted this revelation but it just lacked authenticity.
Ultimately the same with her. Different situation but similar premise. She suddenly realizes she actually loves him. It just irked me. I think if the book was longer and had more time to build it up it would have all felt more genuine.
Slow burn, there is some oral a bit before this but no sex until 75%.
Virgin h
H’s sexual history is extremely vague
No OW drama
Mild OM drama
5 year separation, pre book
The h was definitely celibate during separation as she’s a virgin, absolutely no mention of sexual activity OR LACK THEREOF of H during separation.
No cheating
No cliffhanger
HEA
Safety - technically pretty safe. The h almost had sex with OM before the 5 year separation. She had NO CLUE that H was her mate. He’d avoided her completely after rescuing her from human foster care. I think because he felt it would have been inappropriate. He assumed she’d eventually come to him but since she never really had contact with him it didn’t happen. I would have classed this much safer if author had mentioned if H remained celibate during this time frame or the separation but alas she did not.
I liked Max’s intensity. I can never get enough of all that possessive “mine, mine,mine” business. I enjoyed h’s resistance. She tried to put up some resistance and I was proud of her for it. Ultimately she ends up folding too quickly and easily but she pushed back more than some doormats I’ve read.
It’s weird because Max didn’t really do anything that terrible. His greatest failure in my opinion was withholding so much important information from her. He gives his flimsy reasons but ultimately it all felt like excuses to forgive himself for his fuckups.
He didn’t tell her that she possessed this super coveted rare gift, that both her parents had it too before their deaths, or that he knew she was his mate from the moment he met her. He “accidentally” claimed her without permission and then sent her away with zero explanation. It was a bit bewildering.
My biggest issue was the love epiphany came to quickly and easily to Max. Like one chapter before he basically admitted he didn’t love her but since they were “lux cantina” (this worlds version of fated mates) the love would come later. Then he momentarily believes she killed herself and suddenly he loves her. I understand the realization he could have lost her forever prompted this revelation but it just lacked authenticity.
Ultimately the same with her. Different situation but similar premise. She suddenly realizes she actually loves him. It just irked me. I think if the book was longer and had more time to build it up it would have all felt more genuine.
Slow burn, there is some oral a bit before this but no sex until 75%.
Virgin h
H’s sexual history is extremely vague
No OW drama
Mild OM drama
5 year separation, pre book
The h was definitely celibate during separation as she’s a virgin, absolutely no mention of sexual activity OR LACK THEREOF of H during separation.
No cheating
No cliffhanger
HEA
Safety - technically pretty safe. The h almost had sex with OM before the 5 year separation. She had NO CLUE that H was her mate. He’d avoided her completely after rescuing her from human foster care. I think because he felt it would have been inappropriate. He assumed she’d eventually come to him but since she never really had contact with him it didn’t happen. I would have classed this much safer if author had mentioned if H remained celibate during this time frame or the separation but alas she did not.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 23, 2019
Really liked parts and really creeped out in others
This is the first book I’ve read by this writer. It had some good reviews and was available in KU.
There were some really good aspects to the story and her writing.
Good editing with really a writing style that got me involved and interested in the characters and the story.
The story itself was pretty interesting and engaging enough that I kept reading, even when some parts really turned me off.
There were also some parts that really did turn me off.
The main male character, Max really bothered me in many parts and in the end his creep factor could not be overcome for me. He as described as 12 years older then Lizzette (she is 15 when they first meet and he is 27). He knows from the that first meeting that they are mates and “he will be the first and last man to ever touch her.” Uumm sorry 😐 but that is just a little too creepy for me. This gets worse for me as their relationship gets closer and more intimate. Frankly he comes off just too bossy and demeaning for me. He is described at one point as needing to slow down because basically unlike him, she’s very inexperienced. Well, jeeze, ummm yes of course and yuck.
Lizzette I’m torn about because I really liked her for the majority of the book. Really she made the book the most enjoyable because she was very strong, funny and in soooo many ways relatable. But how was she gone 5 years and had so little life experience. I just couldn’t buy into that with her strong personality and character.
The next book is not in KU and is $2.99, so based on this one don’t think I’ll be buying it just yet. If it goes down in price or is in KU I’d likely read it.
This is the first book I’ve read by this writer. It had some good reviews and was available in KU.
There were some really good aspects to the story and her writing.
Good editing with really a writing style that got me involved and interested in the characters and the story.
The story itself was pretty interesting and engaging enough that I kept reading, even when some parts really turned me off.
There were also some parts that really did turn me off.
The main male character, Max really bothered me in many parts and in the end his creep factor could not be overcome for me. He as described as 12 years older then Lizzette (she is 15 when they first meet and he is 27). He knows from the that first meeting that they are mates and “he will be the first and last man to ever touch her.” Uumm sorry 😐 but that is just a little too creepy for me. This gets worse for me as their relationship gets closer and more intimate. Frankly he comes off just too bossy and demeaning for me. He is described at one point as needing to slow down because basically unlike him, she’s very inexperienced. Well, jeeze, ummm yes of course and yuck.
Lizzette I’m torn about because I really liked her for the majority of the book. Really she made the book the most enjoyable because she was very strong, funny and in soooo many ways relatable. But how was she gone 5 years and had so little life experience. I just couldn’t buy into that with her strong personality and character.
The next book is not in KU and is $2.99, so based on this one don’t think I’ll be buying it just yet. If it goes down in price or is in KU I’d likely read it.
March 17, 2020
What a Wolf Desires by Amy Pennza has been in my to-be-read pile since last year. I haven't read a paranormal romance in a while, and I picked the right book to change what I have been reading. When I started reading, I wasn't aware that this is the first book in the Lux Catena series. I was super excited to read this book, and I wasn't let down at all.
There was so much about this book that I enjoyed. Although the author doesn't add anything groundbreaking about her werewolves, I like her personal touches. In previous werewolf books, I have seen gifts or abilities. Still, in this book, the author thought about them and made them essential to the story. What a Wolf Desires also has some pretty awesome characters. I loved both Max and Lizette. They had a lot of push and pull with each other, but in the end, it was worth it. While they had their fights and misunderstandings, they also had exceptional moments of understanding. There was also a twist at the end that took me a little off guard. I got hints of it throughout the story, but by the end, I had forgotten about all the warnings. It had me on the edge of my seat for a second!
When I started What a Wolf Desires, I was so ready for something different, and I was not disappointed. I wasn't even halfway through with this book before I ended up downloading the other two in the series on my Kindle Unlimited. I would recommend this book and will be looking forward to reading more by this author soon!
*I received a free copy of the book for review from the author via Voracious Readers Only*
There was so much about this book that I enjoyed. Although the author doesn't add anything groundbreaking about her werewolves, I like her personal touches. In previous werewolf books, I have seen gifts or abilities. Still, in this book, the author thought about them and made them essential to the story. What a Wolf Desires also has some pretty awesome characters. I loved both Max and Lizette. They had a lot of push and pull with each other, but in the end, it was worth it. While they had their fights and misunderstandings, they also had exceptional moments of understanding. There was also a twist at the end that took me a little off guard. I got hints of it throughout the story, but by the end, I had forgotten about all the warnings. It had me on the edge of my seat for a second!
When I started What a Wolf Desires, I was so ready for something different, and I was not disappointed. I wasn't even halfway through with this book before I ended up downloading the other two in the series on my Kindle Unlimited. I would recommend this book and will be looking forward to reading more by this author soon!
*I received a free copy of the book for review from the author via Voracious Readers Only*
April 20, 2022
I really enjoyed this shifter read even though I thought Maxim was an overbearing ass for the way he had previously treated Lizette but he did redeem himself by the end of the book. Lizette was raised in a household where her parents barely saw her and when they died when she was seven she was thrust into a foster system and given to a family who needed her for the money. Raised as a human but a wolf shifter, she always seems lost. Maxim finally tracked her down when she was 15 and was able to take her in but that only made her life even harder because she had no idea how to be a shifter. Maxim is the alpha of one of the largest packs in the world and the minute he met Lizette he realized she was his mate so I believe he is doing his best to avoid her until she reaches her adulthood. Lizette is also a wolf healer and not just any healer but one who can help turn latent wolves into true shifters. There are those out there who do not like that, only wanting purebred wolves to be able to shift and wanting to kill off the latent's to keep their shifters lines pure. Even though I really enjoyed the book I felt that the Lux Catena, the true mating between two shifters could have been explained better but it really didn't seem needed for the storyline. Lizette and Maxim had great chemistry and the storyline was interesting. I just expected a bit more from this author. Will I read more from this series, of course I will.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 18, 2021
This is the first book in what is to be a great series....I never heard of Bloodsingers before, but it is a very compelling Gift and I never heard of Lux Catena before either instead of Mating, but it is very interesting indeed.
This is a story full of heat and mystery. Both characters are very strong in their own ways, but that is what makes them right for each other even though Lizette is very weary of Max's intentions. The characters know what they want out of life even though Lizette's ideas of what she wants is not what she thought. Max knows right away that 15 year old Lizette is his mate, she has been raised by humans and he must give her space to grow into a woman if she's to accept who she is and if she is to accept him the most powerful Alpha this side of the Canadian Border and finish the Lux Catena with him. After all Lizette is not aware of the Gift that she has, 0ne that could change the way of life for many.
Find out what special Gift Lizette has and if she returns to Max after 5 years of living on her own and thinking that Max just sent her away 5 years ago with no feelings at all.
There is a lot of hotness at the near end, so get your towel ready, I loved it!
This is a story full of heat and mystery. Both characters are very strong in their own ways, but that is what makes them right for each other even though Lizette is very weary of Max's intentions. The characters know what they want out of life even though Lizette's ideas of what she wants is not what she thought. Max knows right away that 15 year old Lizette is his mate, she has been raised by humans and he must give her space to grow into a woman if she's to accept who she is and if she is to accept him the most powerful Alpha this side of the Canadian Border and finish the Lux Catena with him. After all Lizette is not aware of the Gift that she has, 0ne that could change the way of life for many.
Find out what special Gift Lizette has and if she returns to Max after 5 years of living on her own and thinking that Max just sent her away 5 years ago with no feelings at all.
There is a lot of hotness at the near end, so get your towel ready, I loved it!
September 14, 2019
This is a enjoyable story. I liked the characters and the beginning really drew me in. I kept wondering what was going to happen and why. Then the characters kept me engaged for the rest of the story.
I am a lover of the wolf shifter stories and I picked this up because I have book two to read. It was worth it. Gives me insight into the pack. Including Remy and Lizette’s relationship.
This story really made me feel for Max. How strong he is and patient. He really came full circle. Lizette drew me in then after a bit I felt (which I understood) she was just holding out. It seemed then all of a sudden she had a light bulb moment and things changed. Max started to become lighter. Which I liked.
Remy and Dom were good secondary characters. This showed a little of their unknown problem but how they work well with their Alpha for the good of the pack.
This is a first time author for me. As I said I love shifter stories so I’m not sure why I haven’t read this series before. I will be heading off for book 2 tomorrow.
I am a lover of the wolf shifter stories and I picked this up because I have book two to read. It was worth it. Gives me insight into the pack. Including Remy and Lizette’s relationship.
This story really made me feel for Max. How strong he is and patient. He really came full circle. Lizette drew me in then after a bit I felt (which I understood) she was just holding out. It seemed then all of a sudden she had a light bulb moment and things changed. Max started to become lighter. Which I liked.
Remy and Dom were good secondary characters. This showed a little of their unknown problem but how they work well with their Alpha for the good of the pack.
This is a first time author for me. As I said I love shifter stories so I’m not sure why I haven’t read this series before. I will be heading off for book 2 tomorrow.
February 23, 2021
Lizette (hoping I am spelling it right it’s audio) has been tossed around from home to home after the death of her parents and then when her fosters gave her to the wolf pack. After some events the alpha agrees to let her go to college and have her own life. Five years later she’s angry as can be when 5 hunters show up to bring her home. Don’t worry I didn’t give anything away. That’s the just the beginning. This books was engaging and pretty faced paced. Alot is happening both in the present and through flashbacks. The characters are lovable, well mostly and though I feel like the narrator did good it was a bit hard to keep her characters straight other then Max because he spoke in a French/English mix. There’s emotional turmoil both from the normal alpha feelings and the broken soul who isn’t sure of her place. The ending end isn’t a cliffhanger but you feel like there’s more to be said. The love story is complete but the over all story is not. I enjoyed it enough to add the next one to my TBR pile!
June 8, 2022
I seriously can't get enough of Amy Pennza and the world's she creates.
Lizette is a character that I enjoyed learning about. She's damaged, but fierce and contains so much power in her little body without knowing it. In a world of shifters and dominance she's able to hold her own in a graceful and masterful way that leaves even the most dominant shifters wondering what they just witnessed.
Oooooh did I really enjoy Max. I loved the mix of scared to lose her and she's already mine sprinkled in throughout the pages. He is *chef's kiss* with his alpha tendencies and his gentler moments. Really enjoyed is very minimal groveling and his whispering in her ears.
The two of them are fireworks on a page, not just in their steam but when the two butt heads everyone around them is forced to suck it up and wait.
Can not wait to read the next book in this series and if you haven't fully engrossed yourself in all that is Amy Pennza, what are you doing?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Lizette is a character that I enjoyed learning about. She's damaged, but fierce and contains so much power in her little body without knowing it. In a world of shifters and dominance she's able to hold her own in a graceful and masterful way that leaves even the most dominant shifters wondering what they just witnessed.
Oooooh did I really enjoy Max. I loved the mix of scared to lose her and she's already mine sprinkled in throughout the pages. He is *chef's kiss* with his alpha tendencies and his gentler moments. Really enjoyed is very minimal groveling and his whispering in her ears.
The two of them are fireworks on a page, not just in their steam but when the two butt heads everyone around them is forced to suck it up and wait.
Can not wait to read the next book in this series and if you haven't fully engrossed yourself in all that is Amy Pennza, what are you doing?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 23, 2025
What a Wolf Desires
There's an age gap between the two main characters but he does wait a decade for her to reach her mid 20’s. I usually have mixed feelings about age gaps because of our youth worshipping culture, but on the other hand, men mature slower so there's also a benefit to them being older. Contrary to that though, I get tired of reading about young girls who tend to be reckless and judgemental without life experience.
However, with all that said, these two came together okay. He starts out overbearing and controlling but learns better, and his patience allows her to grow at the speed she needs to.
One concept I appreciated came from this quote,
“If she’d learned anything over her years of dealing with testosterone-poisoned males, it was to pick her battles.”
The idea of testosterone being a poison is an interesting one. I'm forever wondering why men feel the need to visit so much violence against women and it's interesting to consider that it may be because testosterone is like a poison, corrupting their thoughts and feelings all the time.
There's an age gap between the two main characters but he does wait a decade for her to reach her mid 20’s. I usually have mixed feelings about age gaps because of our youth worshipping culture, but on the other hand, men mature slower so there's also a benefit to them being older. Contrary to that though, I get tired of reading about young girls who tend to be reckless and judgemental without life experience.
However, with all that said, these two came together okay. He starts out overbearing and controlling but learns better, and his patience allows her to grow at the speed she needs to.
One concept I appreciated came from this quote,
“If she’d learned anything over her years of dealing with testosterone-poisoned males, it was to pick her battles.”
The idea of testosterone being a poison is an interesting one. I'm forever wondering why men feel the need to visit so much violence against women and it's interesting to consider that it may be because testosterone is like a poison, corrupting their thoughts and feelings all the time.
February 21, 2020
This is the first book that I’ve read by Amy Pennza and I was highly pleased. I found AP via Twitter and looked up her books on Amazon. I am a big fan of shifter romances and of course the HEA. That being said, I definitely enjoy the struggle/missteps/misunderstandings that are the journey to HEA.
Maxime seems the stereo-typical BDM (big dumb man) or rather BDW/BDA (big dumb wolf/alpha). He’s made some pretty big blunders with Lizette but can’t explain his reasons at the time. As Alpha, he has to keep the best interest of the pack as his number one priority.
Lizette feels that she doesn’t really belong and this is the lens in which she views how others treat her, especially Max.
Once she is forced to return to the Lodge/pack after her time at college, enjoy the fireworks between ‘little miss independent’ and the ‘big bad bossy alpha’.
I’d definitely recommend and look forward to more books in this series.
Maxime seems the stereo-typical BDM (big dumb man) or rather BDW/BDA (big dumb wolf/alpha). He’s made some pretty big blunders with Lizette but can’t explain his reasons at the time. As Alpha, he has to keep the best interest of the pack as his number one priority.
Lizette feels that she doesn’t really belong and this is the lens in which she views how others treat her, especially Max.
Once she is forced to return to the Lodge/pack after her time at college, enjoy the fireworks between ‘little miss independent’ and the ‘big bad bossy alpha’.
I’d definitely recommend and look forward to more books in this series.
March 20, 2022
I should have shared my thoughts on this sooner but life got in the way. I enjoyed reading of Lizette and Max. I definitely want to continue this series.
This is about wolf shifters. Max the alpha of a New York territory knew the young wolf Lizette was his fated mate from the day he met her but kept it to himself as he wanted her to experience life . Lizette feels rejected as in a heat of jealousy Max marks her as his then sends her away.
This story begins a series that is connected to the strength of fire and passion involved in becoming fated mates which the author calls the Lux Catena.
I think every wolf shifter lover out there needs to read this book as it was enthralling as well as riveting to me.
I voluntarily chose to read a complimentary copy and offer my opinion which your reading above and then wonder what she liked about this but if I shared any of that you wouldn't want to read this because it would spoil the whole story for you.
This is about wolf shifters. Max the alpha of a New York territory knew the young wolf Lizette was his fated mate from the day he met her but kept it to himself as he wanted her to experience life . Lizette feels rejected as in a heat of jealousy Max marks her as his then sends her away.
This story begins a series that is connected to the strength of fire and passion involved in becoming fated mates which the author calls the Lux Catena.
I think every wolf shifter lover out there needs to read this book as it was enthralling as well as riveting to me.
I voluntarily chose to read a complimentary copy and offer my opinion which your reading above and then wonder what she liked about this but if I shared any of that you wouldn't want to read this because it would spoil the whole story for you.
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