What do you think?
Rate this book
Outcast Mates #1
Mongrel
Mongrel, a creature more wolf than man, leads a lonely life on the fringes of pack society—until the night a handsome vampire shows up with a mysterious request.
Bowie, a vampire cursed to a life of endless nights, maintains close ties with his human family. When young girls in their village go missing, he must act quickly. But to find them, he’ll need to convince the local werewolf pack to loan him their best tracker—a wolf known as the Mongrel.
Though he hates the slur, Andras is used to being called Mongrel. When Bowie refuses to refer to him by anything but his given name, Andras can’t help a flicker of unexpected trust toward the stranger. He volunteers to help Bowie, risking banishment.
Can two tenderhearted men overcome their traumatic pasts and work together to rescue the girls before it’s too late? Or will the world’s most prolific killer snuff the flames of their passion along with the lives of the captives?
***
This steamy love story spans the country of Hungary as Andras and Bowie journey through cities and wilderness on their quest to right a villain’s wicked wrongs. Mongrel features a sweetly possessive werewolf, a cinnamon roll of a vampire, and the worst killer in history. A surprisingly fluffy MM Paranormal/Historical Romance considering the subject matter.
HEA guaranteed with loads of laughs along the way and no cliffhanger ending!
Bowie, a vampire cursed to a life of endless nights, maintains close ties with his human family. When young girls in their village go missing, he must act quickly. But to find them, he’ll need to convince the local werewolf pack to loan him their best tracker—a wolf known as the Mongrel.
Though he hates the slur, Andras is used to being called Mongrel. When Bowie refuses to refer to him by anything but his given name, Andras can’t help a flicker of unexpected trust toward the stranger. He volunteers to help Bowie, risking banishment.
Can two tenderhearted men overcome their traumatic pasts and work together to rescue the girls before it’s too late? Or will the world’s most prolific killer snuff the flames of their passion along with the lives of the captives?
***
This steamy love story spans the country of Hungary as Andras and Bowie journey through cities and wilderness on their quest to right a villain’s wicked wrongs. Mongrel features a sweetly possessive werewolf, a cinnamon roll of a vampire, and the worst killer in history. A surprisingly fluffy MM Paranormal/Historical Romance considering the subject matter.
HEA guaranteed with loads of laughs along the way and no cliffhanger ending!
280 pages, Paperback
First published November 12, 2021
322 people are currently reading
1164 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 239 reviews
November 21, 2021
Well this book sure was a trip.
I suppose you can add several stars if you know absolutely nothing about 17th century Hungary. If this took place in some sort of madeup fantasy land, it would be just... kinda meh shifter romance. Forgettable but passable. Sex scenes were okay.
Characters are kinda wet blankets. Main hero is oh so shunned by his oh so terrible pack because he looks A MONSTER! aka he has a cute tail and ears. Monstrous, I tell you. *rolls eyes* The other is the charming (i guess) vampire Bowie who is SO TORN about being a vampire, guys! He has to drink blood but he is a good guy and he hates it!
And I guess these two fall in love. mostly because they are in the same place and nice to each other. I didn't feel a thing for their romance.
Which, okay i guess.
BUT.
But. It is SET IN 17TH CENTURY HUNGARY! And while I am not from that country, I am still European and lot of its absolutely painful to read. At some points, I wasn't sure if I should laugh or cry. The author absolutely fails at bringing the atmosphere of the country and historical point to life.
Exhibit one: the vampire is named Bowie. (its a short for Beauregard. which... i am pretty sure its either last name or name of a castle, but perhaps it could be a first name. Bowie is travesty either way. Only person who should be called bowie is the musician.)
Exhibit two: the animal main hero munches on in one scene is... a raccoon. In 17th century hungary. Sure. a classic animal.
Exhibit three: the vampire has a noble family which is totally chill and okay with him not only being a vampire (as you do), but also with him being gay. In 17th century hungary. His little niece asks him if the werewolf he brought home is his "beau".
Exhibit four: vampire's sad backstory:
Exhibit five: oh noe, poor maiden girls are being kidnapped, i wonder who could it be in 17th century hungary!
I suspected who it was from a summary and in the first moment the name was namedropped i knew and I was like "surely not..." but surely yes.
The author mentions research she did for the book and I kinda... like, yes, you obviously did read a book about this historical figure, because the vampire spend like 3 pages giving us a political overview of their life. But. If you did spend time on research why couldnt you do like... more of it.
I stopped really caring after a certain point and just quickly checked the rest but it doesnt really improve.
Look, yes, i know, its just a smut erotica. I am not expecting miracles or for author to do meticulous research. But I have read some pretty good historical romances/eroticas which didnt make me want to tear my hair out, like Gentleman Wolf by Joanna Chambers.
And I am double sad now because 17th century Hungary is such amazing setting for a gothic romance/erotica featuring werewolfs. i want the book i imagined when i read that summary.
Sigh.
I suppose you can add several stars if you know absolutely nothing about 17th century Hungary. If this took place in some sort of madeup fantasy land, it would be just... kinda meh shifter romance. Forgettable but passable. Sex scenes were okay.
Characters are kinda wet blankets. Main hero is oh so shunned by his oh so terrible pack because he looks A MONSTER! aka he has a cute tail and ears. Monstrous, I tell you. *rolls eyes* The other is the charming (i guess) vampire Bowie who is SO TORN about being a vampire, guys! He has to drink blood but he is a good guy and he hates it!
And I guess these two fall in love. mostly because they are in the same place and nice to each other. I didn't feel a thing for their romance.
Which, okay i guess.
BUT.
But. It is SET IN 17TH CENTURY HUNGARY! And while I am not from that country, I am still European and lot of its absolutely painful to read. At some points, I wasn't sure if I should laugh or cry. The author absolutely fails at bringing the atmosphere of the country and historical point to life.
Exhibit one: the vampire is named Bowie. (its a short for Beauregard. which... i am pretty sure its either last name or name of a castle, but perhaps it could be a first name. Bowie is travesty either way. Only person who should be called bowie is the musician.)
Exhibit two: the animal main hero munches on in one scene is... a raccoon. In 17th century hungary. Sure. a classic animal.
Exhibit three: the vampire has a noble family which is totally chill and okay with him not only being a vampire (as you do), but also with him being gay. In 17th century hungary. His little niece asks him if the werewolf he brought home is his "beau".
Exhibit four: vampire's sad backstory:
Exhibit five: oh noe, poor maiden girls are being kidnapped, i wonder who could it be in 17th century hungary!
I suspected who it was from a summary and in the first moment the name was namedropped i knew and I was like "surely not..." but surely yes.
The author mentions research she did for the book and I kinda... like, yes, you obviously did read a book about this historical figure, because the vampire spend like 3 pages giving us a political overview of their life. But. If you did spend time on research why couldnt you do like... more of it.
I stopped really caring after a certain point and just quickly checked the rest but it doesnt really improve.
Look, yes, i know, its just a smut erotica. I am not expecting miracles or for author to do meticulous research. But I have read some pretty good historical romances/eroticas which didnt make me want to tear my hair out, like Gentleman Wolf by Joanna Chambers.
And I am double sad now because 17th century Hungary is such amazing setting for a gothic romance/erotica featuring werewolfs. i want the book i imagined when i read that summary.
Sigh.
April 14, 2024
This book, by a new-to-me author and set in early-17th century Hungary, was a good blend of mystery, adventure, and romance.
The MCs are squishy marshmallows: one sad wolf shifter named Andras who's called "Mongrel" by his cruel pack mates because he can't shift to a full human form and one charming, noble vampire named Bowie who has a dark past of his own.
Bowie asks the pack to lend him their best tracker, and Andras, who is in fact the best tracker, volunteers. The two follow the trail of missing girls all the way from a small Hungarian village to a castle in Pest. The journey is made even trickier since Bowie can only travel by night. In true vampire lore, sunlight will burn him.
I adored the MCs and the tender love that blossomed between them. I also liked Bowie's family and Andras' "grandma" Ava (the woman who raised him).
I have two complaints, the first being that the story is told solely from Andras' POV. Even though Bowie is well sketched and doesn't hide anything from Andras, I still missed his voice. This is a personal preference obviously, but I much prefer dual POV.
A bigger issue is that the ending felt incredibly rushed. The MCs get a tentative HEA, but there is no epilogue.
Worse still, the plot, which revolves around a villain based on a historical figure, ceases abruptly. Indeed, we're left with more questions than answers. The author states that she didn't kill the villain for the sake of historical accuracy.
LOL Really? This is a book of FICTION. Not just that, it's a M/M ROMANCE between a werewolf and a vampire. There were bits that stretched historical credulity, but I was cool with that because I wasn't expecting a history lesson.
But it irks that the author was fine with one MC being called Bowie (in 17th century Hungary ffs!), but providing closure by having the villain unalived in a terrible and well-deserved fashion was a no-no.
Still 4 stars because I enjoyed the story.
The MCs are squishy marshmallows: one sad wolf shifter named Andras who's called "Mongrel" by his cruel pack mates because he can't shift to a full human form and one charming, noble vampire named Bowie who has a dark past of his own.
Bowie asks the pack to lend him their best tracker, and Andras, who is in fact the best tracker, volunteers. The two follow the trail of missing girls all the way from a small Hungarian village to a castle in Pest. The journey is made even trickier since Bowie can only travel by night. In true vampire lore, sunlight will burn him.
I adored the MCs and the tender love that blossomed between them. I also liked Bowie's family and Andras' "grandma" Ava (the woman who raised him).
I have two complaints, the first being that the story is told solely from Andras' POV. Even though Bowie is well sketched and doesn't hide anything from Andras, I still missed his voice. This is a personal preference obviously, but I much prefer dual POV.
A bigger issue is that the ending felt incredibly rushed. The MCs get a tentative HEA, but there is no epilogue.
Worse still, the plot, which revolves around a villain based on a historical figure, ceases abruptly. Indeed, we're left with more questions than answers. The author states that she didn't kill the villain for the sake of historical accuracy.
LOL Really? This is a book of FICTION. Not just that, it's a M/M ROMANCE between a werewolf and a vampire. There were bits that stretched historical credulity, but I was cool with that because I wasn't expecting a history lesson.
But it irks that the author was fine with one MC being called Bowie (in 17th century Hungary ffs!), but providing closure by having the villain unalived in a terrible and well-deserved fashion was a no-no.
Still 4 stars because I enjoyed the story.
April 8, 2024
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes down below.
I roll onto my back, exposing my belly. Bowie takes the hint and rubs it. Bliss.
I really enjoyed this book a lot. I tend to avoid historical books, but it’s easier for me to deal with when it’s paranormal fantasy. There was also plenty of real history in the story which added another level to the book. We’ve got an outcast werewolf and a cinnamon roll vampire who doesn’t like killing, plenty of time spent as a wolf and wolfy behavior, as well as a cross country rescue mission from a notorious serial killer. So very entertaining, the writing was fantastic, and the romance was adorable, believable and steamy (not super high heat, but what as there was high quality).
But first I lick him from chin to forehead. Repeatedly. He squints his eyes shut and takes it like a champ. Only when I’ve licked so much he’s having a hard time breathing do I relent. Bowie smiles at me, chuckling, and wipes my slobber from his face. “Thank you for the bath.”
It doesn’t get the full five stars because, sadly, there was no epilogue, and their future felt uncertain. I have no doubt they love each other, but when one MC is immortal and the other isn’t, you want an explanation about how that is going to be solved. Hints were dropped about mates, but we didn’t learn what that might mean. I’ll choose to believe they live happily together forever.
“Your skin on mine reminds me of what it feels like to have the sun shining down on a warm spring day.”
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Wolf shifter
Historical romance
Hunter/tracker
Paranormal fantasy, Historical
Class difference
Cinnamon roll vampire
Outcast MC
Rescue mission
Serial killer
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Body/appearance shaming
Kidnapped children
Blood consumption
Retelling of past unintentional murder (MC, bloodlust)
Mentions of past suicide attempts (MC)
Killing wild animals for food (on page)
Alcohol consumption (not to excess)
Captivity
Injured MC
Graphic violence
On-page murder
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: An ex lover of Bowie kisses him briefly when they run into him. Bowie turns away and makes it clear he’s with Andras now.
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Historical paranormal romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
Main characters’ age: 20 and 43 (turned at 20)
Series: Standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 284
“May I pet you on occasion?” asks Bowie as we approach a small log hut. “For verisimilitude, of course.” I rub my cheek against his leg and huff, secretly enjoying the fact he smells like me. He reaches down and strokes my fur. “My goodness, you’re soft.” Oh, that feels nice. I tip my head up for more, and he offers it with a smile. If this is what being a pet wolf is like, sign me up.
He draws me in, plants a soft kiss on my forehead, and releases my cheeks. I could swoon. I don’t.
Bowie drops his head to my shoulder. His back shakes as he cries in silence. I’m here with him while he suffers, petting his hair. The water grows cool. My knees begin to ache. His skin has pruned. But none of that matters. Sometimes pain insists on time, so time it shall have.
“I’m not opposed to a ruckus.”
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
I roll onto my back, exposing my belly. Bowie takes the hint and rubs it. Bliss.
I really enjoyed this book a lot. I tend to avoid historical books, but it’s easier for me to deal with when it’s paranormal fantasy. There was also plenty of real history in the story which added another level to the book. We’ve got an outcast werewolf and a cinnamon roll vampire who doesn’t like killing, plenty of time spent as a wolf and wolfy behavior, as well as a cross country rescue mission from a notorious serial killer. So very entertaining, the writing was fantastic, and the romance was adorable, believable and steamy (not super high heat, but what as there was high quality).
But first I lick him from chin to forehead. Repeatedly. He squints his eyes shut and takes it like a champ. Only when I’ve licked so much he’s having a hard time breathing do I relent. Bowie smiles at me, chuckling, and wipes my slobber from his face. “Thank you for the bath.”
It doesn’t get the full five stars because, sadly, there was no epilogue, and their future felt uncertain. I have no doubt they love each other, but when one MC is immortal and the other isn’t, you want an explanation about how that is going to be solved. Hints were dropped about mates, but we didn’t learn what that might mean. I’ll choose to believe they live happily together forever.
“Your skin on mine reminds me of what it feels like to have the sun shining down on a warm spring day.”
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Wolf shifter
Historical romance
Hunter/tracker
Paranormal fantasy, Historical
Class difference
Cinnamon roll vampire
Outcast MC
Rescue mission
Serial killer
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Body/appearance shaming
Kidnapped children
Blood consumption
Retelling of past unintentional murder (MC, bloodlust)
Mentions of past suicide attempts (MC)
Killing wild animals for food (on page)
Alcohol consumption (not to excess)
Captivity
Injured MC
Graphic violence
On-page murder
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: An ex lover of Bowie kisses him briefly when they run into him. Bowie turns away and makes it clear he’s with Andras now.
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Historical paranormal romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
Main characters’ age: 20 and 43 (turned at 20)
Series: Standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 284
“May I pet you on occasion?” asks Bowie as we approach a small log hut. “For verisimilitude, of course.” I rub my cheek against his leg and huff, secretly enjoying the fact he smells like me. He reaches down and strokes my fur. “My goodness, you’re soft.” Oh, that feels nice. I tip my head up for more, and he offers it with a smile. If this is what being a pet wolf is like, sign me up.
He draws me in, plants a soft kiss on my forehead, and releases my cheeks. I could swoon. I don’t.
Bowie drops his head to my shoulder. His back shakes as he cries in silence. I’m here with him while he suffers, petting his hair. The water grows cool. My knees begin to ache. His skin has pruned. But none of that matters. Sometimes pain insists on time, so time it shall have.
“I’m not opposed to a ruckus.”
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
November 11, 2021
4.5
Although it states in the blurb that it will be a fluffy romance, I hadn't expected it to be quite as cute and fluffy with the background story of hunting for stolen girls.
It took my a little bit to get into, the pacing a bit slow to start with having to establish the story and characters. Once I did though I really enjoyed it.
Andras and Bowie were adorable together, nothing much like a stereotypical werewolf and vampire.
Pretty steamy, very sweet and I hope we see these characters again
Although it states in the blurb that it will be a fluffy romance, I hadn't expected it to be quite as cute and fluffy with the background story of hunting for stolen girls.
It took my a little bit to get into, the pacing a bit slow to start with having to establish the story and characters. Once I did though I really enjoyed it.
Andras and Bowie were adorable together, nothing much like a stereotypical werewolf and vampire.
Pretty steamy, very sweet and I hope we see these characters again
Read
December 7, 2021I'm leaving this with no rating because I DNFed it at 20%.
I'm not able to get in to it and I guess it's moodiness not the book.
So will shelf this and maybe get back to it later.
I'm not able to get in to it and I guess it's moodiness not the book.
So will shelf this and maybe get back to it later.
September 27, 2022
Who doesn't love and underdog... AND FUCKING VAMPIRES HELLS YEAH! 🤩❤️🔥🥰
Andras, the mongrel, is a Shifter that even in his human form, has ears and tails, and Bowie is just a sassy vampire with an actually good heart. 🤣
They get together to find some missing girls, using Andras nose to track them and Bowie's mind to guide them. I loved this world, I know is a series so with this first installments I'm very hopeful for something reaaaaally good.
In this I loved the complexity of the characters, the insecurities that Andras and Bowie had, how they complemented each other and how they wanted each other but still kept their distance until they were ready.
It was a lovely surprise this story, I hope the other books remain with this same charm. 🥰
Andras, the mongrel, is a Shifter that even in his human form, has ears and tails, and Bowie is just a sassy vampire with an actually good heart. 🤣
They get together to find some missing girls, using Andras nose to track them and Bowie's mind to guide them. I loved this world, I know is a series so with this first installments I'm very hopeful for something reaaaaally good.
In this I loved the complexity of the characters, the insecurities that Andras and Bowie had, how they complemented each other and how they wanted each other but still kept their distance until they were ready.
It was a lovely surprise this story, I hope the other books remain with this same charm. 🥰
September 12, 2023
Otra de las muchas novelas que empiezo de casualidad porque no tengo autocontrol. Sinceramente ya no me fijo en las portadas, he aprendido que hay que ir hacia delante, sin miedo a nada.
“Your skin on me reminds me of what it feels like to have the sun shinning down on a warm spring day. ”
¿Qué me ha parecido? Sinceramente me ha gustado mucho más de lo que creía. No paraba de tener una sonrisa en los labios. Los personajes son carismáticos y tiernos, pecan un poco de insípidos, pero para mi se encasillan en la categoría de “cozy”.
“Yours is the opposite, though just as nice, like a crisp evening breeze on an early fall night. ”
Ahora, en cuanto a la novela en sí, le falta profundidad y desarrollo en parte de los personajes como acabo de mencionar anteriormente. A pesar de todo, me ha gustado mucho y he ido directa a los siguientes libros.
Totalmente recomendable.
“Your skin on me reminds me of what it feels like to have the sun shinning down on a warm spring day. ”
¿Qué me ha parecido? Sinceramente me ha gustado mucho más de lo que creía. No paraba de tener una sonrisa en los labios. Los personajes son carismáticos y tiernos, pecan un poco de insípidos, pero para mi se encasillan en la categoría de “cozy”.
“Yours is the opposite, though just as nice, like a crisp evening breeze on an early fall night. ”
Ahora, en cuanto a la novela en sí, le falta profundidad y desarrollo en parte de los personajes como acabo de mencionar anteriormente. A pesar de todo, me ha gustado mucho y he ido directa a los siguientes libros.
Totalmente recomendable.
May 11, 2023
Continuing my efforts to try new authors, this was my first Lee Colgin book. I had picked it up after her panel at GRL 2022. This was a sweet story between a vampire and a shifter who is never fully human (he always has ears, a tail and some fur) who set out to find some kidnapped human girls. That part of the story is based upon an actual historic figure that I knew nothing about but sounds horrifying.
I liked both MCs but was hoping for a little more tension in both the romance and the story. There is a lot of time spent traveling and some parts were very interesting while some just dragged. I also thought the ending needed a bit more closure. I would have liked to see Andras stand up a bit to his pack and have some conversation considering how reluctant they were to let him go at the start.
An enjoyable story overall and I'll be giving another book in the series a try.
I liked both MCs but was hoping for a little more tension in both the romance and the story. There is a lot of time spent traveling and some parts were very interesting while some just dragged. I also thought the ending needed a bit more closure. I would have liked to see Andras stand up a bit to his pack and have some conversation considering how reluctant they were to let him go at the start.
An enjoyable story overall and I'll be giving another book in the series a try.
March 20, 2024
It wasn't heart bleeding, love, but I liked it. We only get Andras POV, which I really hate, but I was too invested in finding the girls to care.
Oh, and it would have been nice to see something happen with the Alpha asshole.
"Though his heart doesn’t beat, mine pounds loud enough for two."
“Frocks and stockings don’t make a man, Andras. Character does, and yours is fine as any.”
Oh, and it would have been nice to see something happen with the Alpha asshole.
"Though his heart doesn’t beat, mine pounds loud enough for two."
“Frocks and stockings don’t make a man, Andras. Character does, and yours is fine as any.”
November 18, 2021
“Well, the offer stands. I promise not to bite.”
I laugh. “The vampire promises not to bite.”
“Unless you ask nicely.”
“And if I ask meanly?”
“Then I shall withhold my sharp kisses until you learn some manners.”
Who would have thought that a book whose premise is to find a kidnapper could have the cutest and sweetest of all the MCs? I really liked the balance of meanness and fluffiness. I’ve got to admit that I couldn't resist and already peep who are going to be the next MCs and I can’t wait! I was hoping he was going to have his own story. Fingers crossed that Janos gets his own because I really enjoyed all the parts where he was in.
After all the things Andras had to endure from his pack, meeting Bowie felt like a ray of sunshine. Ironic since he’s a vampire but you get it. Despite being part of the supernatural word Andras is clueless of the other beings out there making the scene in the Incubus’ place so funny (and eventually super steamy). And don’t be fooled by the sweetness, there are quite a few really hot moments between them.
A vampire on a mission. An outcast werewolf. Found family. A lovely story with wonderful characters.
*Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book in exchange for a free and honest review*
November 8, 2021
Despite the premise of a Vampire and Werewolf searching for missing young girls in the hands of a sadistic murderess, this book was actually pretty sweet. Bowie was absolutely adorable. He was so kind to Andras, even when they first met. He refused to refer to him as Mongrel, which was the name introduced to him from the werewolf alpha and Andras himself. It was what Andras was used to being called in his pack, so why should he assume Bowie would be any different. My heart broke for Andras. He had never known the love and friendship of a pack, only harsh words and loneliness. The only person who he ever had was Ava, the woman who raised him.
Bowie changed all that. Their relationship was slow burn, but it was lovely. Andras could be himself around Bowie. He never made him feel ashamed of his appearance which was not the same as his werewolf peers. In fact, Bowie often complimented it. Bowies family was also wonderful and accepted Andras like a long lost friend. It was great to see him so readily accepted for once in his life. It helped strengthen the bond between him and Bowie, knowing Bowies family liked him as well.
I enjoyed meeting the other side characters as well which were a mix of vampires, incubi, and other supernaturals. I look forward to the next book in the series which appears to feature an Incubi we met in this one. The last book I read by this author, Across the Sapphire Sea, also had an MC as an incubi and it was my favorite book written by this author to date. Fingers crossed this next incubi book is a win for me as well!
Bowie changed all that. Their relationship was slow burn, but it was lovely. Andras could be himself around Bowie. He never made him feel ashamed of his appearance which was not the same as his werewolf peers. In fact, Bowie often complimented it. Bowies family was also wonderful and accepted Andras like a long lost friend. It was great to see him so readily accepted for once in his life. It helped strengthen the bond between him and Bowie, knowing Bowies family liked him as well.
I enjoyed meeting the other side characters as well which were a mix of vampires, incubi, and other supernaturals. I look forward to the next book in the series which appears to feature an Incubi we met in this one. The last book I read by this author, Across the Sapphire Sea, also had an MC as an incubi and it was my favorite book written by this author to date. Fingers crossed this next incubi book is a win for me as well!
November 11, 2021
I loved Andras, he is a mongrel, a very unflattering name for someone who’s father is an actual wolf and his mother was a shifter. He is hated by his packed and treated horribly. Bowie is a vampire who has a heart of gold. He is just a sweet man. Even after everything Andras has gone through, it never destroyed his heart. Bowie comes to the pack looking for their best tracker and the Alpha begrudgingly agrees for Andras to go with Bowie. Other than Ava who is so sweet to Andras, Bowie is the first one to only refer to him by name. Bowie needs his help to find missing children. We then have them trying to figure out who stole the children, where they were taken to and how to get them back. The bad guy is really evil and I wanted to see some torture, I mean punishment. Along they way, our MC’s fall in love and they made such a cute couple. Along the way we meet some interesting characters and I can’t wait for the next book. I hope we get to see Bowie and Andras again.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion
November 22, 2021
Simply fantastic!! I absolutely loved Bowie and Andras!! They work together trying to save a young girl. The story featured a real-life serial killer! I loved the way the author blended real life with fiction. I loved the way that Bowie saw past to the man that Andras was. Overall the story is fantastic, it’s really well written. Highly recommend. I am voluntarily leaving a review form an advanced copy that I received. My reviews are solely based on my thoughts and opinions.
February 9, 2022
A werewolf helps a vampire to track down a historical serial killer in old-timey Hungary and fall in love. I mean, that’s straightforward enough, right? This book was okay. I’m not sure what was missing for me, but it definitely felt a bit lackluster. The characters were really simple without much depth and the romance was predictable, with no real build up or tension. It’s not bad, it was enjoyable in its way, but it’s just not top-shelf historical fantasy.
August 24, 2022
Meh it was ok
December 28, 2024
I really liked this. The characters are lovely and the adventure isn't stressful or angsty. A vampire being sweet, polite and a sunshine understanding LI is a lovely change. Both MCs are kind and gentle to each other and I love there's no internal angst in their relationship. The setting in xvii century Hungary with Countess Bathory as the villain was great, not too deep into history to make it heavy (I love historical as much as anyone but this romantic adventure didn't call for it).
Read
November 13, 2025DNF 20%
A furry and a guy who surely was wearing a fedora based on the way he spoke bore me to death for 20% of an entire book. Any book I read after The Lookout’s Ghost by A. Knightley was going to have a tough time, but this is extra not for me.
A furry and a guy who surely was wearing a fedora based on the way he spoke bore me to death for 20% of an entire book. Any book I read after The Lookout’s Ghost by A. Knightley was going to have a tough time, but this is extra not for me.
November 15, 2021
This book. I loved every second of this book. I couldn't put it down. I had to buy a hard copy of this one because it quickly became one of my favorite Lee Colgin books - it was so sweet and yet so insanely intense! The amount of time and research Colgin put into getting the history right is so evident - it was like stepping back into the past to read it.
Plus the romance - GAH! It was truly so intense. The passion between Andras and Bowie was out of this world. Bowie may just be one of my all time favorite characters - we love a tortured vampire, but this one holds a special place in my heart.
I didn't want this book to end - it was everything I want in a MM fantasy. Dark and sweet, angsty and happy. Characters that will rip your heart out and make you fall in love with them.
I cannot recommend this book enough. I want to read it over and over again. There aren't many others out there like it!
Plus the romance - GAH! It was truly so intense. The passion between Andras and Bowie was out of this world. Bowie may just be one of my all time favorite characters - we love a tortured vampire, but this one holds a special place in my heart.
I didn't want this book to end - it was everything I want in a MM fantasy. Dark and sweet, angsty and happy. Characters that will rip your heart out and make you fall in love with them.
I cannot recommend this book enough. I want to read it over and over again. There aren't many others out there like it!
November 29, 2021
Bowie the vampire approaches a werewolf pack to enlist their best tracker into helping him find a number of girls who have gone missing, and outcast Mongel/Andras leaps at the opportunity to escape his cruel pack.
I found the romance between Bowie and Andras incredibly sweet. I really enjoy pairings that suit each other and help each other heal and grow, and I thought the romance scenes were lovely. The plot moved at a good pace and I enjoyed watching the relationship between the two main characters grow.
I would have wished for the story to be a bit more fleshed out - to my mind there was a strong enough plot that it didn't feel tacked onto the romance at all, which was a real strength, but sometimes certain parts of the story seemed rushed, especially the beginning, where I felt as though Andras' treatment by the pack was not explored in enough detail, as well as the ending, which in my opinion wrapped up too quickly. I would like to have known more about what happens to the villain(s), and whether Andras ends up leaving his pack for good. Potential sequel material regarding whether Bowie can prevent him from going feral? There seemed a lot left to explore. Two really sweet characters with a lovely romance.
The perfect start to my Indiecember 2021!
I found the romance between Bowie and Andras incredibly sweet. I really enjoy pairings that suit each other and help each other heal and grow, and I thought the romance scenes were lovely. The plot moved at a good pace and I enjoyed watching the relationship between the two main characters grow.
I would have wished for the story to be a bit more fleshed out - to my mind there was a strong enough plot that it didn't feel tacked onto the romance at all, which was a real strength, but sometimes certain parts of the story seemed rushed, especially the beginning, where I felt as though Andras' treatment by the pack was not explored in enough detail, as well as the ending, which in my opinion wrapped up too quickly. I would like to have known more about what happens to the villain(s), and whether Andras ends up leaving his pack for good. Potential sequel material regarding whether Bowie can prevent him from going feral? There seemed a lot left to explore. Two really sweet characters with a lovely romance.
The perfect start to my Indiecember 2021!
September 24, 2024
The narrator did a great job with Mongrel. The way he read all the characters was spot on. The difference between the Vampire Bowie and Andras is remarkable. It felt like another narrator was telling the story. The story is more plot-driven, and the spice was used in the right dose. I highly recommend it.
October 9, 2022
***3.6***
This is a new to me author and I am pleasantly surprised. The story was engaging and interesting, the characters likable and the romance sweet. There was no normal courtship going on as they are actually on a quest to find the girls who have been kidnapped from various villages. What you have to dismiss in your head is your knowledge about actual historical times and customs. You really have to treat this as a parallel universe or some such, where neither chaperones, order of succession nor fear of being accused of sodomy (and thus killed or imprisoned) is a thing. Also, I would think vampires would want to settle down literally anywhere else than in the Hungarian-Romanian area where volks actually believe/d in vampires and rituals exists to prevent a potential vampiric rising after death...
What I did miss though was some sort of resolution with the pack alpha. I don't think he would take it too kindly to lose two of his pack, however despised one of them might be.
So if you just read it without the historical angle it was quite an ok read IMO and I will try the next in the series.
This is a new to me author and I am pleasantly surprised. The story was engaging and interesting, the characters likable and the romance sweet. There was no normal courtship going on as they are actually on a quest to find the girls who have been kidnapped from various villages. What you have to dismiss in your head is your knowledge about actual historical times and customs. You really have to treat this as a parallel universe or some such, where neither chaperones, order of succession nor fear of being accused of sodomy (and thus killed or imprisoned) is a thing. Also, I would think vampires would want to settle down literally anywhere else than in the Hungarian-Romanian area where volks actually believe/d in vampires and rituals exists to prevent a potential vampiric rising after death...
What I did miss though was some sort of resolution with the pack alpha. I don't think he would take it too kindly to lose two of his pack, however despised one of them might be.
So if you just read it without the historical angle it was quite an ok read IMO and I will try the next in the series.
February 7, 2022
2nd time I read something from this author that everyone raves about and I'm left unmoved. The characters are ok, the story is ok but I will forget about this entire thing in .2 seconds. The historical detail is very very iffy to an almost laughable degree. I found the villain and storyline to be lazy and without tension.
September 13, 2025
I was pleasantly surprised by this. I haven't read this kind of setting for a paranormal/shifter novel (Hungary in 1610) and it had some interesting historical elements added to the plot. There's a couple more books after this set in the same universe (though I don't think they're really connected) and I will definitely give them a chance. This was very much what I was in the mood for right now - a shifter romance with a lot of time spent in the wolf form.
I really liked both characters and I felt the author did a good job of showing us the history of these men and who they are as people. They were a good fit for each other and I loved them together. The wolf was a bit stoic - quiet, a little anxious and sad. The vampire was sunshine - friendly, observant, caring. Both had some trauma. They each accepted the other as they were and it allowed for them to be wholly themselves in the other's company. I liked the fairly traditional werewolf and vampire dynamics. I loved the intimacy of the shared feedings and all of the cuddling and non sexual touching. They were very sweet.
I enjoyed the writing - it was a little lyrical but not super flowery. The sex wasn't super hot because of that but it was sweet. The plot itself was well done and wasn't bogged down with lots of side plots or confusing lore. There was a bit of history thrown in but not enough to overwhelm. It was an interesting choice to use real life figures in a paranormal novel but I didn't mind it. I liked the progression of the romance and really my only complaint there is the unequal timing of the love confessions. I'm just really obsessed with love declarations and this fell short there for me. I also wish the book hadn't ended quite so abruptly. I think there could have been at least one more chapter to wrap things up tighter. And I get very stressed in books with vampires when the lifespan of their LI isn't addressed so I really wish there had been some resolution there. Shout out to Bowie's entire family because they were awesome!
Nicknames: my dear, my darling
*
*
*
*
*
Safety (may contain spoilers)
SA/rape: None
Other person drama: One of Bowie's ex lovers kisses Bowie in greeting but Bowie turns away and makes it clear he's with Andras. The ex tries to provoke jealousy in Andras a bit but Bowie squashes it.
I really liked both characters and I felt the author did a good job of showing us the history of these men and who they are as people. They were a good fit for each other and I loved them together. The wolf was a bit stoic - quiet, a little anxious and sad. The vampire was sunshine - friendly, observant, caring. Both had some trauma. They each accepted the other as they were and it allowed for them to be wholly themselves in the other's company. I liked the fairly traditional werewolf and vampire dynamics. I loved the intimacy of the shared feedings and all of the cuddling and non sexual touching. They were very sweet.
I enjoyed the writing - it was a little lyrical but not super flowery. The sex wasn't super hot because of that but it was sweet. The plot itself was well done and wasn't bogged down with lots of side plots or confusing lore. There was a bit of history thrown in but not enough to overwhelm. It was an interesting choice to use real life figures in a paranormal novel but I didn't mind it. I liked the progression of the romance and really my only complaint there is the unequal timing of the love confessions. I'm just really obsessed with love declarations and this fell short there for me. I also wish the book hadn't ended quite so abruptly. I think there could have been at least one more chapter to wrap things up tighter. And I get very stressed in books with vampires when the lifespan of their LI isn't addressed so I really wish there had been some resolution there. Shout out to Bowie's entire family because they were awesome!
Nicknames: my dear, my darling
The water grows cool. My knees begin to ache. His skin has pruned. But none of that matters. Sometimes pain insists on time, so time it shall have.
The wolf desires ownership, but I am the master here. And I want Bowie to choose me.
Smelling myself on him, my scent mixed with his, brings a possessive growl to my throat. I hold it in. Growling in this form isn’t sexy; it’s weird.
*
*
*
*
*
Safety (may contain spoilers)
SA/rape: None
Other person drama: One of Bowie's ex lovers kisses Bowie in greeting but Bowie turns away and makes it clear he's with Andras. The ex tries to provoke jealousy in Andras a bit but Bowie squashes it.
March 22, 2022
First of all, I would like to tell you all about how freakishly adorable this book is. Truly, it was a story I didn't know I needed until I finally picked it up in between some more serious books. Mongrel is light read that will keep you entertained for two days, perhaps, for it isn't a long story, nor should it have been, in my opinion. The length was just right. All in all I will happily give it a 4/5 rating
I needed something fluffy, something that doesn't force you to to look for underlying messages amongst the pages. You know how the story will go, how it will end, which is perfectly fine. As I said, you don't have to expect too much, but can still enjoy it immensely if you enjoy adorable M/M pairings drowned in supernatural/fantasy settings. I, for one, am a big fan of these kind of things, sue me ;)
While the story behind it is nice, don't expect too much historical accuracy. Some historical themes/names are there, but there are a lot of flaws. Did that take away any enjoyment reading this? Again, no. I wasn't expecting a history book, nor should you when picking up a book like this, in my opinion. Let's be real, we are here solely for the vamp/wolf goodness, no?
The only thing that did bother me a little, but it is a terrible pet peeve of mine when it comes to stories including werewolves, is Andras referring to 'his wolf' as a second person/thing/creature, while in the end, and how I see it, they are still the same being.
I needed something fluffy, something that doesn't force you to to look for underlying messages amongst the pages. You know how the story will go, how it will end, which is perfectly fine. As I said, you don't have to expect too much, but can still enjoy it immensely if you enjoy adorable M/M pairings drowned in supernatural/fantasy settings. I, for one, am a big fan of these kind of things, sue me ;)
While the story behind it is nice, don't expect too much historical accuracy. Some historical themes/names are there, but there are a lot of flaws. Did that take away any enjoyment reading this? Again, no. I wasn't expecting a history book, nor should you when picking up a book like this, in my opinion. Let's be real, we are here solely for the vamp/wolf goodness, no?
The only thing that did bother me a little, but it is a terrible pet peeve of mine when it comes to stories including werewolves, is Andras referring to 'his wolf' as a second person/thing/creature, while in the end, and how I see it, they are still the same being.
November 23, 2021
Oh, this was such a lovely surprise. I love it when I get to know new authors and they totally surprise me with lovely reads.
This is nearly the full package: this historical is told from Andras POV. The story was very well done and in perfect harmony with the relationship development.
The build-up between Andras snd Bowie was lovely and in parts really hot. I loved reading it
There are two minor criticisms but as I said, nothing major
First, there was a built-up of expectations in regards of Andras and Bettina and some other characters, which let me hope there will be a second book ... we will see
And second, the end I'd rather quick and there are some open questions left.
All in all a great Read and a great introduction yo a new author.
I got an ARC of this book and I am happy to give my honest review
This is nearly the full package: this historical is told from Andras POV. The story was very well done and in perfect harmony with the relationship development.
The build-up between Andras snd Bowie was lovely and in parts really hot. I loved reading it
There are two minor criticisms but as I said, nothing major
First, there was a built-up of expectations in regards of Andras and Bettina and some other characters, which let me hope there will be a second book ... we will see
And second, the end I'd rather quick and there are some open questions left.
All in all a great Read and a great introduction yo a new author.
I got an ARC of this book and I am happy to give my honest review
July 30, 2022
I liked Bowie and Andras relationship a lot, they were so sweet together. I wish their first time together , and there were some loose plot threads at the end, but nothing that bothered me too much. Overall a surprisingly sweet romance considering the darker plot elements, and an enjoyable read.
November 28, 2021
3.5
Very cool introduction to this world and I love the take on Elizabeth Bathory. Couple of inconsistencies but nothing major. Excited for the next one :)
Very cool introduction to this world and I love the take on Elizabeth Bathory. Couple of inconsistencies but nothing major. Excited for the next one :)
July 26, 2022
This story was sweet and I loved it. It had some very light angst and was overall sweet, with a little bit of action/danger. It was pretty nice read 💗😊👍
November 1, 2023
Easily one of the best MM Paranormal Romances I've ever read. The characters are wonderful, the story is compelling, and the love Bowie and Andras share is beautiful. If I could give this more than 5 stars, I would.
January 3, 2022
Raccoons in Europe and obvious mistakes, that looking into Google maps could fix took me out of the book way too often..
And let's not start about the villain. So it was nice and fluffy, maybe even cool, story for anyone who isn't from Europe 😅
And let's not start about the villain. So it was nice and fluffy, maybe even cool, story for anyone who isn't from Europe 😅
Displaying 1 - 30 of 239 reviews