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Tooth & Claw #1
Cold Hearted
A woman on the run…
I came to Longtooth, Alaska looking for a safe place to hide. All I wanted was to keep my head down, do my job, and enjoy the peace and quiet. But there’s no peace to be found once I meet Longtooth’s cantankerous bush pilot. Caleb Kinoyit is surly and rude and mean. He’s also, unfortunately, the most attractive man I’ve ever met. And as the long, Alaskan winter nights stretch on, I find myself warming to his rough charm just as much as I’m falling for the beauty of my new home.
A town with a secret…
There’s something different about Longtooth—something the locals won’t talk about with outsiders. And I am definitely an outsider. But when my dangerous past finally tracks me down, Longtooth can’t keep its secrets from me any longer, and the revelation upends the world as I know it. The only truth I can be sure of anymore are my feelings for Caleb. But will love be enough to save me? Or will I have to sacrifice myself to save the ones I love?
I came to Longtooth, Alaska looking for a safe place to hide. All I wanted was to keep my head down, do my job, and enjoy the peace and quiet. But there’s no peace to be found once I meet Longtooth’s cantankerous bush pilot. Caleb Kinoyit is surly and rude and mean. He’s also, unfortunately, the most attractive man I’ve ever met. And as the long, Alaskan winter nights stretch on, I find myself warming to his rough charm just as much as I’m falling for the beauty of my new home.
A town with a secret…
There’s something different about Longtooth—something the locals won’t talk about with outsiders. And I am definitely an outsider. But when my dangerous past finally tracks me down, Longtooth can’t keep its secrets from me any longer, and the revelation upends the world as I know it. The only truth I can be sure of anymore are my feelings for Caleb. But will love be enough to save me? Or will I have to sacrifice myself to save the ones I love?
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 28, 2020
633 people are currently reading
8191 people want to read
About the author
Heather Guerre
13 books1,015 followersHeather Guerre writes sexy-sweet fantasy, sci-fi, and contemporary romances. A hopeless romantic and an unapologetic nerd, Heather loves everything to do with romance, aliens, shifters, monsters, magic, and outer space.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,031 reviews
January 26, 2025
Reread 01/26/25: forever one of my favorite series fr
This is me casuallybegging asking everyone to read this series.
MAIN CHARACTER NAMES AND AGES
Grace Rossi (29) | Caleb Kinoyit (31)
FEATURES
∘ wolf shifter-human romance
∘ dislike to lovers (one-sided, Caleb’s end)
∘ neighbors (rooms in inn are next to each other)
∘ fish out of water fmc
∘ stoic/grump mmc
∘ small town
REVIEW
Grace is a school teacher who moved to Alaska to escape her stalker ex. Immediately upon arrival, Caleb dislikes her due to a preconceivedscent notion. He manages to be both rude and chivalrous, a charming contradiction.
I loved the pack dynamics, which is so different from the alpha/beta hierarchy I’m familiar with. The people in Teekkonlit Valley really are just a community who look out for one another. Every single person was important to the pack, and it gave the book such a cozy feeling.
Honestly, this book would’ve worked even without the paranormal aspects. It was even better WITH them. The characters are so well-rounded and fully-realized that they, rather than their ability to shift, made the story compelling.
I’ve read this series before, and I’ll be reading it again. and again. and again.
OW/OM DRAMA past OM — Grace’s emotionally abusive ex-boyfriend is a significant part of the story (she is not interested in him AT ALL)
CHEATING none
THIRD ACT BREAKUP no
ENDING HEA — no epilogue
POV singular (Grace) / third person
SPICE LEVEL 3.5 / 5
RATING 5 / 5
Reread Notes: Edited original review to fit current review format, but contents are the same. Also, this book is still fire. Heather Guerre stan until I die.
This is me casually
MAIN CHARACTER NAMES AND AGES
Grace Rossi (29) | Caleb Kinoyit (31)
FEATURES
∘ wolf shifter-human romance
∘ dislike to lovers (one-sided, Caleb’s end)
∘ neighbors (rooms in inn are next to each other)
∘ fish out of water fmc
∘ stoic/grump mmc
∘ small town
REVIEW
Grace is a school teacher who moved to Alaska to escape her stalker ex. Immediately upon arrival, Caleb dislikes her due to a preconceived
I loved the pack dynamics, which is so different from the alpha/beta hierarchy I’m familiar with. The people in Teekkonlit Valley really are just a community who look out for one another. Every single person was important to the pack, and it gave the book such a cozy feeling.
Honestly, this book would’ve worked even without the paranormal aspects. It was even better WITH them. The characters are so well-rounded and fully-realized that they, rather than their ability to shift, made the story compelling.
I’ve read this series before, and I’ll be reading it again. and again. and again.
OW/OM DRAMA past OM — Grace’s emotionally abusive ex-boyfriend is a significant part of the story (she is not interested in him AT ALL)
CHEATING none
THIRD ACT BREAKUP no
ENDING HEA — no epilogue
POV singular (Grace) / third person
SPICE LEVEL 3.5 / 5
RATING 5 / 5
Reread Notes: Edited original review to fit current review format, but contents are the same. Also, this book is still fire. Heather Guerre stan until I die.
March 21, 2023
5 Anyway You Want Me Stars ⭐
Lonely and broken, Grace accepts a teaching position in Longtooth, Alaska. Attempting to leave her past behind, Grace wants to desperately fit in even while battling depression that threatens to sink her. However, in a tight community immersed in secrets, it's harder then she thought.
But maybe I could choose to belong here, in this other-world, where the sky was made of diamond dust and magic. Where the killing cold was somehow melting the ice inside of me.
Not all the locals are accepting of new folk and it seems that local pilot, Caleb Kinoyit is one of them. Where many are friendly, Grace tries to avoid Caleb and his judgements at every turn. Yet for whatever reason, they're inexplicably linked.
As if I hadn’t noticed before. But really, how dare he? How dare he be so fucking hot and also be such a massive jerk?
I really enjoyed the mystery and the story unfolding in Longbooth. Not that it wasn't obvious, but I liked that it was wolfkin territory yet a carefully guarded secret which Grace wasn't privy to. The writing was so good that I lapped up the slow burn and the resistance between Grace and Caleb. His dislike was evident, and it masked what he was really feeling.
There's nothing like imminent danger and being trapped together in a remote cabin to work out all the pent-up sexual frustration and underlying emotions. And of course, the mystery surrounding both Grace and Caleb getting revealed.
"If I claim you, if you accept my claim, there’ll never be anyone else but me."
Trust me and take a chance. This author has a way of turning cliché into impressive. Well I would say that since she penned one of my all-time favourite books Mutually Beneficial. 💜
Lonely and broken, Grace accepts a teaching position in Longtooth, Alaska. Attempting to leave her past behind, Grace wants to desperately fit in even while battling depression that threatens to sink her. However, in a tight community immersed in secrets, it's harder then she thought.
But maybe I could choose to belong here, in this other-world, where the sky was made of diamond dust and magic. Where the killing cold was somehow melting the ice inside of me.
Not all the locals are accepting of new folk and it seems that local pilot, Caleb Kinoyit is one of them. Where many are friendly, Grace tries to avoid Caleb and his judgements at every turn. Yet for whatever reason, they're inexplicably linked.
As if I hadn’t noticed before. But really, how dare he? How dare he be so fucking hot and also be such a massive jerk?
I really enjoyed the mystery and the story unfolding in Longbooth. Not that it wasn't obvious, but I liked that it was wolfkin territory yet a carefully guarded secret which Grace wasn't privy to. The writing was so good that I lapped up the slow burn and the resistance between Grace and Caleb. His dislike was evident, and it masked what he was really feeling.
There's nothing like imminent danger and being trapped together in a remote cabin to work out all the pent-up sexual frustration and underlying emotions. And of course, the mystery surrounding both Grace and Caleb getting revealed.
"If I claim you, if you accept my claim, there’ll never be anyone else but me."
Trust me and take a chance. This author has a way of turning cliché into impressive. Well I would say that since she penned one of my all-time favourite books Mutually Beneficial. 💜
August 8, 2022
[ᴊᴀɴ. ᴛᴡᴇɴᴛʏ ᴛᴡᴇɴᴛʏ-ᴛᴡᴏ] ᴛʜʀᴇᴇ.⁵
I mean … I like this book, a lot. The setting is still really great and Heather Guerre's take on werewolves is one of the best I've come across.
BUT, I think Caleb got on my nerves a lot more this time around. Like - the way he was so hot and cold with Grace got on my last nerve. This woman did NOTHING, I repeat, NOTHING to him and he acted like she ran over his dog, or something. I think having his pov would have been very helpful. Cause as it stands his emotional constipation gave me major whiplash.
Eh, then again hot werewolves - who am I to complain 🤷♀️
[ᴊᴜɴ. ᴛᴡᴇɴᴛʏ ᴛᴡᴇɴᴛʏ-ᴏɴᴇ] ᴛʜʀᴇᴇ⋆⁷⁵
♫ sᴏɴɢ ʀᴇᴄ ♫ ~ Wolf (FIRST AID KIT)
-ˏˋ ＭＹ ＯＶＥＲＡＬＬ ＴＨＯＵＧＨＴ(Ｓ) ˎˊ-
~ 🐺✨ᴛʜᴏᴜɢʜᴛ ɴᴜᴍʙᴇʀ ᴏɴᴇ✨🐺 ~
TBH, I think COLD HEARTED would've been so much better if it hadn't been so straightforward in marketing itself as a werewolf romance. What I mean is - there's a bit of a mystery in regards to the whole town. There's something a bit off about them, but Gracie can't put her finger on what. I liked that Gracie didn't automatically know that all of the towns people were werewolves - or wolf-kin. Instead, little things would happen and the "tension" built more and more as the book went on.
However, as much as I liked the werewolf lore in COLD HEARTED I will say my main critique is that it's not explained very well. It's kinda revealed to Grace in the last half of the book, and thus things appear very rushed. We never get Caleb's POV and due to that we never really get a strong sense of what Heather Guerre's wolf-kin are really like. There was a lot of telling vs. showing when it came to the big wolf-kin "reveal."
~ 🐺✨ᴛʜᴏᴜɢʜᴛ ɴᴜᴍʙᴇʀ ᴛᴡᴏ✨🐺 ~
Why aren't all shifter//werewolf//supernatural romances set in Alaska? Seriously, why? Personally, I think it's that many authors - not just PNR writers - under utilize or dismiss the value that a fleshed out setting brings to a story. It's clear that HEATHER GUERRE knew what she was doing. She didn't just casually set her story in Alaska, no, she made Alaska feel like a secondary character. It gave the story a very atmospheric feeling and it both demonstrated Grace's initial isolation and eventual emotional transformation.
~ 🐺✨ᴛʜᴏᴜɢʜᴛ ɴᴜᴍʙᴇʀ ᴛʜʀᴇᴇ✨🐺 ~
That said. . . *sighs* I didn't love everything about the romance. My main gripe with the love story between Caleb and Grace is that they spent a lot of the book apart and not communicating. There was a lot of staring happening, there was a lot of silence in the same room occurring, and there were a few false starts thrown in for good measure. In addition, their transition from enemies-to-lovers was a touch abrupt. I think they needed just a few more cute moments before they jumped into a relationship.
Surprisingly though, I actually didn't mind the abrupt turn from enemies-to-lovers. . . and you know why? It's because this book was so gosh darn good. I was just so invested in Gracie's journey that I seriously didn't care. And honestly I think the issues I have with the romance are easily fixable. Just include Caleb's POV. We only get Grace's POV the entire book, and because of that we don't really know W-T-H is going on with Caleb and why he's constantly running so hot//cold. I think if we'd gotten Caleb's POV a lot of the confusion and mixed signals on his end would've been cleared up.
~ 🐺✨ᴍʏ ꜰɪɴᴀʟ ᴛʜᴏᴜɢʜᴛ✨🐺 ~
All in all, COLD HEARTED was an interesting, fun, and highly entertaining take on werewolves. While it's not without its issues I think they're all easy to overlook. Because honestly? The heart of the story is Gracie. It's Gracie's story of growth, healing, and finding a home. The romance is solid and Caleb has the whole "gruff-grumpy-alphamale" vibe down pat. Also, he's a pilot. . . what's hotter than that?
Moreover, the side characters and the setting really round out the book. The bond between Natasha and Grace was so beautiful to witness develop. Also, seeing Grace interact with her students and get them into reading was really sweet. And the fact that almost the entire town are wolf-kin doesn't hurt either. Probably, the biggest "disappointment" of the book is the ending. The whole Alex plot was a little annoying and I just didn't care about the drama he brought. I think having him just be this past abusive boyfriend Grace was getting over would've been a lot better. The screen time he took up could've been dedicated to Caleb and the other wolf-kin. But again, it doesn't make or break the book. . . it's kinda just there.
Thus, I highly recommend COLD HEARTED. It took me by surprise and when I tell you guys I couldn't put it down, I mean it. I'll be on the look out for more books by HEATHER GUERRE because, wow, she sure can she write. So, if you're in the mood for a slow-burn // enemies-to-lovers // PNR story, check out COLD HEARTED.
I mean … I like this book, a lot. The setting is still really great and Heather Guerre's take on werewolves is one of the best I've come across.
BUT, I think Caleb got on my nerves a lot more this time around. Like - the way he was so hot and cold with Grace got on my last nerve. This woman did NOTHING, I repeat, NOTHING to him and he acted like she ran over his dog, or something. I think having his pov would have been very helpful. Cause as it stands his emotional constipation gave me major whiplash.
Eh, then again hot werewolves - who am I to complain 🤷♀️
“Are you going to fall off?” he asked impatiently as she clumsily boarded behind him.
“Hopefully not.”
“Seriously, Grace. Don’t fall off.”
“Oh, well, now that you told me not to, I definitely won’t.”
[ᴊᴜɴ. ᴛᴡᴇɴᴛʏ ᴛᴡᴇɴᴛʏ-ᴏɴᴇ] ᴛʜʀᴇᴇ⋆⁷⁵
ᴀ ʙʀɪᴇꜰ ᴀꜱɪᴅᴇ ▸//▸ well i guess i'm adding another entry to my "midnight-reads" shelf way sooner than i thought. . . fun? *sighs* i need to get some sleep you guys. so many books so little time.
♫ sᴏɴɢ ʀᴇᴄ ♫ ~ Wolf (FIRST AID KIT)
-ˏˋ ＭＹ ＯＶＥＲＡＬＬ ＴＨＯＵＧＨＴ(Ｓ) ˎˊ-
~ 🐺✨ᴛʜᴏᴜɢʜᴛ ɴᴜᴍʙᴇʀ ᴏɴᴇ✨🐺 ~
THIS is how you make werewolves // werewolf lore feeling interesting and inventive.
I started
Cold Hearted
expecting the typical shifter romance. Here's how it usually goes; the MCs meet, stare at each other for an hour, start f*cking immediately, declare their love for one another, the hero at some point literally or metaphorically pees in a circle around the heroine, and then they frolic off into the sunset, FIN. That. . . did not at all happen in COLD HEARTED. Instead we got a slow-burn romance, deep themes of found family, an interesting take on werewolf lore, and a heroine who called the hero out on his hot-and-cold behavior. TBH, I think COLD HEARTED would've been so much better if it hadn't been so straightforward in marketing itself as a werewolf romance. What I mean is - there's a bit of a mystery in regards to the whole town. There's something a bit off about them, but Gracie can't put her finger on what. I liked that Gracie didn't automatically know that all of the towns people were werewolves - or wolf-kin. Instead, little things would happen and the "tension" built more and more as the book went on.
However, as much as I liked the werewolf lore in COLD HEARTED I will say my main critique is that it's not explained very well. It's kinda revealed to Grace in the last half of the book, and thus things appear very rushed. We never get Caleb's POV and due to that we never really get a strong sense of what Heather Guerre's wolf-kin are really like. There was a lot of telling vs. showing when it came to the big wolf-kin "reveal."
~ 🐺✨ᴛʜᴏᴜɢʜᴛ ɴᴜᴍʙᴇʀ ᴛᴡᴏ✨🐺 ~
I LOVED the setting and I am now starting a petition that all shifter//werewolf books be set in Alaska.
Why aren't all shifter//werewolf//supernatural romances set in Alaska? Seriously, why? Personally, I think it's that many authors - not just PNR writers - under utilize or dismiss the value that a fleshed out setting brings to a story. It's clear that HEATHER GUERRE knew what she was doing. She didn't just casually set her story in Alaska, no, she made Alaska feel like a secondary character. It gave the story a very atmospheric feeling and it both demonstrated Grace's initial isolation and eventual emotional transformation.
~ 🐺✨ᴛʜᴏᴜɢʜᴛ ɴᴜᴍʙᴇʀ ᴛʜʀᴇᴇ✨🐺 ~
Slow-burn//enemies-to-lovers in PNR is my literal kryptonite.
The romance in COLD HEARTED was delicious. While not perfect - i'll get to that in a moment - it was really good. First, Gracie and Caleb as characters were very well done. We got to know Grace really well before the romance took center stage. Thus, I cheered for her as she began to actually feel things for Caleb, I rooted for her as she stood up to Caleb and told him off, I "awwhhh'd" when she finally kissed him, and I got misty eyed when they finally said "I love you" to one another. Essentially, the romance between Caleb and Grace felt a lot more earned vs. if Caleb had just been like, "you mate. me man. we f*ck. the end." Their road to love was rocky, but honestly? It fit both characters. That said. . . *sighs* I didn't love everything about the romance. My main gripe with the love story between Caleb and Grace is that they spent a lot of the book apart and not communicating. There was a lot of staring happening, there was a lot of silence in the same room occurring, and there were a few false starts thrown in for good measure. In addition, their transition from enemies-to-lovers was a touch abrupt. I think they needed just a few more cute moments before they jumped into a relationship.
Surprisingly though, I actually didn't mind the abrupt turn from enemies-to-lovers. . . and you know why? It's because this book was so gosh darn good. I was just so invested in Gracie's journey that I seriously didn't care. And honestly I think the issues I have with the romance are easily fixable. Just include Caleb's POV. We only get Grace's POV the entire book, and because of that we don't really know W-T-H is going on with Caleb and why he's constantly running so hot//cold. I think if we'd gotten Caleb's POV a lot of the confusion and mixed signals on his end would've been cleared up.
~ 🐺✨ᴍʏ ꜰɪɴᴀʟ ᴛʜᴏᴜɢʜᴛ✨🐺 ~
I'm obviously going to move to Alaska and fall in love with a sky-cowboy.
All in all, COLD HEARTED was an interesting, fun, and highly entertaining take on werewolves. While it's not without its issues I think they're all easy to overlook. Because honestly? The heart of the story is Gracie. It's Gracie's story of growth, healing, and finding a home. The romance is solid and Caleb has the whole "gruff-grumpy-alphamale" vibe down pat. Also, he's a pilot. . . what's hotter than that?
Moreover, the side characters and the setting really round out the book. The bond between Natasha and Grace was so beautiful to witness develop. Also, seeing Grace interact with her students and get them into reading was really sweet. And the fact that almost the entire town are wolf-kin doesn't hurt either. Probably, the biggest "disappointment" of the book is the ending. The whole Alex plot was a little annoying and I just didn't care about the drama he brought. I think having him just be this past abusive boyfriend Grace was getting over would've been a lot better. The screen time he took up could've been dedicated to Caleb and the other wolf-kin. But again, it doesn't make or break the book. . . it's kinda just there.
Thus, I highly recommend COLD HEARTED. It took me by surprise and when I tell you guys I couldn't put it down, I mean it. I'll be on the look out for more books by HEATHER GUERRE because, wow, she sure can she write. So, if you're in the mood for a slow-burn // enemies-to-lovers // PNR story, check out COLD HEARTED.
December 26, 2021
*3.75* It started out somewhat similar to another popular book about a woman that moves to Alaska, and a cantankerous pilot that doesn't want her there. However, it quickly changed into a different kind of story. I had a good time reading this, but felt that the h was awfully dense when it came to some glaringly obvious signs of what was going on around her.
This is the slowest of slow burns I've read since my last Zapata book.
This is the slowest of slow burns I've read since my last Zapata book.
Read
February 7, 2022Excellent werewolf romance. Don't mind me, just making my way through Heather Guerre's backlist.
October 6, 2024
I'm so glad I decided to read this while I was depressed lol I even specifically looked up "depressed fmc" on reddit and saw this being recommended a lot lmaoooo
This reminded me a lot of Twilight, but more mature and for people who are Team Jacob. This is like if Elsie Silver wrote Twilight 🤣
I cried like a baby and this wasn't even an emotional book 😩 but at first I cried because the fmc said a lot of stuff I wish I could put into words and I was like OH GOD FINALLY SOMEONE WHO UNDERSTANDS !!
And then I cried because suddenly she wasn't like me anymore and she got all of these people who cared about her and even got herself a hot wolfy boyfriend 😭 so I was like damn I lost another one
Why can't I also start over in Alaska, get adopted by an Alaskan mother, and join a werewolf pack? Why do I have to be depressed all alone? Is there any wolf pack open for adoption??? 🫠
But I also was happy for the fmc, there was something satisfying about reading a lonely character who slowly realized that the people around her care about her, wanted her around, and that she was capable of being loved. Good for her. I'm jealous as fuck, but good for her.
I really loved the romance mixed with the found family feel. It was all REALLY hitting all the spots. I was mentally weak and this book was like I'M GONNA HIT YOU with so many feelings and I wasn't even mad about it 😩 this is also making me want more grumpy guy x hella depressed girl romance
I also could relate to the fmc too much. Probably way too much lol
There was this annoying thing she did where she was upset that people thought of her as an outsider and would prob think of her that way forever, yet she never really made an effort to socialize and just spent her time in her room working or reading because she had depression and had bad social anxiety.
At a glance that was an annoying thing to read about in an FMC. But for me it was realistic and DEFINITELY something I would do in that situation, and probably had done before 🤣 I think it was a realistic portrayal IMO. I want to be accepted but I also don't like being around people and hate talking. So now what 🤣
Anyways, great read. Not perfect, and if I'm being honest if I wasn't in thecorrect mental state I probably would've dnfed, but I'm glad I didn't. I love me some feel good werewolf romance <3
This reminded me a lot of Twilight, but more mature and for people who are Team Jacob. This is like if Elsie Silver wrote Twilight 🤣
I cried like a baby and this wasn't even an emotional book 😩 but at first I cried because the fmc said a lot of stuff I wish I could put into words and I was like OH GOD FINALLY SOMEONE WHO UNDERSTANDS !!
And then I cried because suddenly she wasn't like me anymore and she got all of these people who cared about her and even got herself a hot wolfy boyfriend 😭 so I was like damn I lost another one
Why can't I also start over in Alaska, get adopted by an Alaskan mother, and join a werewolf pack? Why do I have to be depressed all alone? Is there any wolf pack open for adoption??? 🫠
But I also was happy for the fmc, there was something satisfying about reading a lonely character who slowly realized that the people around her care about her, wanted her around, and that she was capable of being loved. Good for her. I'm jealous as fuck, but good for her.
I really loved the romance mixed with the found family feel. It was all REALLY hitting all the spots. I was mentally weak and this book was like I'M GONNA HIT YOU with so many feelings and I wasn't even mad about it 😩 this is also making me want more grumpy guy x hella depressed girl romance
I also could relate to the fmc too much. Probably way too much lol
There was this annoying thing she did where she was upset that people thought of her as an outsider and would prob think of her that way forever, yet she never really made an effort to socialize and just spent her time in her room working or reading because she had depression and had bad social anxiety.
At a glance that was an annoying thing to read about in an FMC. But for me it was realistic and DEFINITELY something I would do in that situation, and probably had done before 🤣 I think it was a realistic portrayal IMO. I want to be accepted but I also don't like being around people and hate talking. So now what 🤣
Anyways, great read. Not perfect, and if I'm being honest if I wasn't in the
June 7, 2022
4 stars
It's been a long time since I liked a shifter book so much. It took a new take on the trope that I haven't read about before. I think I loved it so much was because it had my favourite tropes:
-Forced proximity
-Enemies to lovers
-Slow burn
Looking forward to reading more from the author.
It's been a long time since I liked a shifter book so much. It took a new take on the trope that I haven't read about before. I think I loved it so much was because it had my favourite tropes:
-Forced proximity
-Enemies to lovers
-Slow burn
Looking forward to reading more from the author.
June 16, 2025
I was looking for a paranormal romance and found this book on a must-read list.
Grace moves to Longtooth, Alaska, after being hired as the new English literature teacher. She’s relocating from the lower 48 to hide from her ex-boyfriend, Alex, who has been stalking her despite a restraining order.
Her first hint that some Longtooth residents distrust outsiders comes from the airplane pilot, Caleb Kinoyit. Having just met him, she’s puzzled by his apparent dislike, but she thinks she can deal with it. Or maybe not—she finds herself drawn to him. Caleb lifts her spirits, which have been low since her troubles with Alex.
Grace enjoys her new job and hopes the town becomes more welcoming so she can make Longtooth her home. But will the town reveal her secrets to her?
I liked how Grace and Caleb's relationship developed. It was a slow burn, and the suspense was present even though you could guess what was happening in this secluded Alaskan town.
Cliffhanger: No
3.5/5 Fangs
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Grace moves to Longtooth, Alaska, after being hired as the new English literature teacher. She’s relocating from the lower 48 to hide from her ex-boyfriend, Alex, who has been stalking her despite a restraining order.
Her first hint that some Longtooth residents distrust outsiders comes from the airplane pilot, Caleb Kinoyit. Having just met him, she’s puzzled by his apparent dislike, but she thinks she can deal with it. Or maybe not—she finds herself drawn to him. Caleb lifts her spirits, which have been low since her troubles with Alex.
Grace enjoys her new job and hopes the town becomes more welcoming so she can make Longtooth her home. But will the town reveal her secrets to her?
I liked how Grace and Caleb's relationship developed. It was a slow burn, and the suspense was present even though you could guess what was happening in this secluded Alaskan town.
Cliffhanger: No
3.5/5 Fangs
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
June 4, 2025
THIS is the level of paranormal I want from my paranormal romances! No over the top, instant alpha male werewolf crap. I had so much fun!
I do think I would have liked it even more if it were a little bit longer. Just 10 more pages here and there to flesh out some of the characters and relationships. I really enjoyed so many parts of this story and I just wanted to see more from everything. The last 25% was also a little chaotic.
I do think I would have liked it even more if it were a little bit longer. Just 10 more pages here and there to flesh out some of the characters and relationships. I really enjoyed so many parts of this story and I just wanted to see more from everything. The last 25% was also a little chaotic.
August 1, 2022
This has a long, slow start because Grace begins essentially waking from a long period of ennui and it's the clingy kind that makes her numb in ways that would have been more frustrating if the setting weren't so interesting. And a lot of that numbness is wrapped up in the ex she is fleeing and the author holds details a little too close for a bit.
Fortunately, the knowledge withholding eases before I got too impatient and I liked seeing Grace develop some fire. I particularly liked that she called Caleb on his crap behavior and never put up with less than being treated like she deserved.
And Caleb is sweet when he isn't reacting out of remembered hurt from a past relationship. I don't remember if we got an age for him, so assuming he's low-to-mid twenties worked fine for me and let me give him a bit of a break on being a little stupid relationship-wise.
And the supernatural community ended up working out for me, too. I liked them a lot and seeing them trying their best through some misreads and miscommunication was endearing.
But my favorite part, and I know this is totally personal, was how Grace talked about teaching high schoolers English—mostly because she says things Melissa and I have been saying for years. We practically teach kids to hate reading by larding them down with opaque slogs and then drilling them on theme and symbolism. It doesn't hurt that Grace specifically mentions books I love (starting with introducing her students to Howl’s Moving Castle to explore character).
Anyway, this is a really weak four stars because at least half a star is loving Grace-the-teacher. The romance works. The community is endearing. And as Grace warms up and comes alive she's great to get to know. And Caleb gets over himself. So lots of win, right?
A note about Steamy: There are a couple of explicit sex scenes putting this in the middle of my steam tolerance. I actually liked how well those worked out. They required some working together in interesting ways and if that piques your interest, all the better. Though it's probably more mundane than you're thinking...
Fortunately, the knowledge withholding eases before I got too impatient and I liked seeing Grace develop some fire. I particularly liked that she called Caleb on his crap behavior and never put up with less than being treated like she deserved.
And Caleb is sweet when he isn't reacting out of remembered hurt from a past relationship. I don't remember if we got an age for him, so assuming he's low-to-mid twenties worked fine for me and let me give him a bit of a break on being a little stupid relationship-wise.
And the supernatural community ended up working out for me, too. I liked them a lot and seeing them trying their best through some misreads and miscommunication was endearing.
But my favorite part, and I know this is totally personal, was how Grace talked about teaching high schoolers English—mostly because she says things Melissa and I have been saying for years. We practically teach kids to hate reading by larding them down with opaque slogs and then drilling them on theme and symbolism. It doesn't hurt that Grace specifically mentions books I love (starting with introducing her students to Howl’s Moving Castle to explore character).
Anyway, this is a really weak four stars because at least half a star is loving Grace-the-teacher. The romance works. The community is endearing. And as Grace warms up and comes alive she's great to get to know. And Caleb gets over himself. So lots of win, right?
A note about Steamy: There are a couple of explicit sex scenes putting this in the middle of my steam tolerance. I actually liked how well those worked out. They required some working together in interesting ways and if that piques your interest, all the better. Though it's probably more mundane than you're thinking...
February 27, 2023
I really enjoyed this book and it managed to surprise me as well. I did not see the twist coming, which so rarely happens for me. So if you are going to read this, don’t read any spoilers.
This is a slow mover though and has a really stark feel to it in the beginning. I think this was done deliberately, everything felt cold, the landscape, the characters, the plot. I know this is considered a slow burn, but I call it more of a slow thaw.
It’s told in third person but limited to only Grace’s POV. This worked for the most part, but I think there were opportunities to have some of Caleb’s POV in there as well, maybe in bits and pieces.
The writing here is very compelling though and the build up and reveals are done very well. My biggest critique of this book is it it felt unsatisfying. At the end I still felt like some of my questions hadn’t been answered. I wanted to know more about Grace’s ex, about their time together. I didn’t see him as evil, even at the very end. He was cold, for sure, but I would have liked more revelation on this. Maybe after Grace’s eyes were opened to what he was, I’d have liked her to connect the dots a bit with his past behaviour. Because for real, he just seemed like a boring guy who had trouble letting go of her. I need more creep factor I guess, more complexity to really fear him.
I also wondered about Grace’s depression and anxiety and if they were linked it was implied but I just wanted it tied up tighter for me.
But this was a very good read and once it got going, I was gripped! I would have liked for it to be longer and to have the author lean in to the horror/suspense portion of it a little more.
The next book isn’t set in this town or with any characters from this book, so I’m not sure if I will continue with the series or not. I really like this town and the stark Alaskan setting and want to read more of it. I’m a little disappointed that the author doesn’t revisit it in book 2 or 3.
This is a slow mover though and has a really stark feel to it in the beginning. I think this was done deliberately, everything felt cold, the landscape, the characters, the plot. I know this is considered a slow burn, but I call it more of a slow thaw.
It’s told in third person but limited to only Grace’s POV. This worked for the most part, but I think there were opportunities to have some of Caleb’s POV in there as well, maybe in bits and pieces.
The writing here is very compelling though and the build up and reveals are done very well. My biggest critique of this book is it it felt unsatisfying. At the end I still felt like some of my questions hadn’t been answered. I wanted to know more about Grace’s ex, about their time together. I didn’t see him as evil, even at the very end. He was cold, for sure, but I would have liked more revelation on this. Maybe after Grace’s eyes were opened to what he was, I’d have liked her to connect the dots a bit with his past behaviour. Because for real, he just seemed like a boring guy who had trouble letting go of her. I need more creep factor I guess, more complexity to really fear him.
I also wondered about Grace’s depression and anxiety and if they were linked it was implied but I just wanted it tied up tighter for me.
But this was a very good read and once it got going, I was gripped! I would have liked for it to be longer and to have the author lean in to the horror/suspense portion of it a little more.
The next book isn’t set in this town or with any characters from this book, so I’m not sure if I will continue with the series or not. I really like this town and the stark Alaskan setting and want to read more of it. I’m a little disappointed that the author doesn’t revisit it in book 2 or 3.
December 18, 2022
3.5 stars
I enjoyed the atmospheric writing and setting. It really put me there and I got a sense of the community as well as the town.
At first I really liked reading the heroines thoughts and her reactions. I think I connected with her because she suffered from depression and maybe other things as well. I felt like I could relate to some things like the fact that she felt bad for wanting to isolate and had to always put on a mask and interact with people under the guise of being "normal" -whatever that means. But as the story progressed and we understand that her affliction comes from "outside factors" it kinda ruined it for me. Not that I enjoyed the book less but I felt rather disappointed that she had a quick cure.
The hero was a bit of a jerk, very judgemental but eh, it wasn't that big of a deal really. I think by the end I actually liked them together a lot.
I loved the cultural diversity of the region, the community spirit and the cast of characters. I also, liked that as much as it focused on a love story, other things weren't ignored.
I enjoyed the atmospheric writing and setting. It really put me there and I got a sense of the community as well as the town.
At first I really liked reading the heroines thoughts and her reactions. I think I connected with her because she suffered from depression and maybe other things as well. I felt like I could relate to some things like the fact that she felt bad for wanting to isolate and had to always put on a mask and interact with people under the guise of being "normal" -whatever that means. But as the story progressed and we understand that her affliction comes from "outside factors" it kinda ruined it for me. Not that I enjoyed the book less but I felt rather disappointed that she had a quick cure.
The hero was a bit of a jerk, very judgemental but eh, it wasn't that big of a deal really. I think by the end I actually liked them together a lot.
I loved the cultural diversity of the region, the community spirit and the cast of characters. I also, liked that as much as it focused on a love story, other things weren't ignored.
June 30, 2021
Listen. I get it. Not everyone hits it off at first. And enemies-to-lovers is an absolutely thrilling trope. But Caleb was a complete, total dick to her. The SUPER MEGA LOVE HAPPY ending was like... no. Girl, he did NOT treat you right for 3/4 of the book. I'd tell Grace to keep looking and use Caleb as a rebound.
November 19, 2022
If you were Team Jacob, this is your book.
Like literally. This is totally Twilight reworked and I LOVED it. Hahaha!
4.5 stars
2.5 on the spice scale
CW: depression, domestic abuse, gore, violence, vampire related bloodiness
Like literally. This is totally Twilight reworked and I LOVED it. Hahaha!
4.5 stars
2.5 on the spice scale
CW: depression, domestic abuse, gore, violence, vampire related bloodiness
May 24, 2022
4 stars. I ended up really liking this book - but the first half was a slog. I felt like there was too much of the heroine’s internal monologue and very little actually happening. The hero and heroine barely interacted for the entire first half of the book. And no, that’s not an exaggeration. I marked the point where they did more than just have a quick moment of interaction and were actually with each other more frequently. Once I got past the first half, the rest of the book was much more enjoyable.
This book has the heroine moving to Alaska to escape her stalker ex boyfriend who won’t leave her alone. It’s no big surprise when he follows her to Alaska. She arrives in this small town - where everyone initially treats her as an outsider - and does her best to just get through each day. The hero is very rude to her from the beginning. It’s a bit of an enemies to lovers, except she doesn’t really treat him like an enemy… it’s all him. As I said, the first half of the book has little interaction between the hero and heroine, but is mostly about the heroine settling into her life and interacting with the townsfolk. Eventually he starts to thaw towards her, and that’s where the rest of the story begins.
I will say, that I was a little disappointed with the romance aspect of this book. Even though the story is slow burn (no sex until 75%), I didn’t feel like the hero and heroine really spend enough time together during this book to get to know each other and fall in love. Sure, they both saw good qualities in each other, but convincing love in romance books is built on more than noticing some good qualities in passing. I wish that they had at least become friends sooner, because the way that he pushed her away so much was just a bit of a downer after a while.
Also, if you don’t like your heroines making all the first moves… this book may not be for you.
Overall though, after 50% I really enjoyed the story (the first half wasn’t bad, just ok). I’m looking forward to the next book since the hero seems to be a less grumpy and antagonistic in that one. I usually like a grumpy hero, but I’m not in the mood for another right now.
Safety depends on preferences with this one, it’s safe for me, but I imagine some of you may not like some aspects of this story. No virgins, heroine was in a relationship for 2 years. He wants her back, but she is not interested at all. There’s also some jealousy the hero experiences caused by OM paying attention to and flirting with the heroine (once again, no interest on her part). No OW drama. The hero’s past may not work for those of you who want shifter romances to have true mates. This doesn’t. The hero was with a woman 5 years ago who he wanted to mate, but she strung him along for a year, moved on to another man, and then moved away. Hero not made out to be a manwhore, but we are told nada about him besides the history with the one ex. No scenes with OM/OW, no cheating.
TW are all listed at the front of the book, which I absolutely love and appreciate any author who does that.
This book has the heroine moving to Alaska to escape her stalker ex boyfriend who won’t leave her alone. It’s no big surprise when he follows her to Alaska. She arrives in this small town - where everyone initially treats her as an outsider - and does her best to just get through each day. The hero is very rude to her from the beginning. It’s a bit of an enemies to lovers, except she doesn’t really treat him like an enemy… it’s all him. As I said, the first half of the book has little interaction between the hero and heroine, but is mostly about the heroine settling into her life and interacting with the townsfolk. Eventually he starts to thaw towards her, and that’s where the rest of the story begins.
I will say, that I was a little disappointed with the romance aspect of this book. Even though the story is slow burn (no sex until 75%), I didn’t feel like the hero and heroine really spend enough time together during this book to get to know each other and fall in love. Sure, they both saw good qualities in each other, but convincing love in romance books is built on more than noticing some good qualities in passing. I wish that they had at least become friends sooner, because the way that he pushed her away so much was just a bit of a downer after a while.
Also, if you don’t like your heroines making all the first moves… this book may not be for you.
Overall though, after 50% I really enjoyed the story (the first half wasn’t bad, just ok). I’m looking forward to the next book since the hero seems to be a less grumpy and antagonistic in that one. I usually like a grumpy hero, but I’m not in the mood for another right now.
Safety depends on preferences with this one, it’s safe for me, but I imagine some of you may not like some aspects of this story. No virgins, heroine was in a relationship for 2 years. He wants her back, but she is not interested at all. There’s also some jealousy the hero experiences caused by OM paying attention to and flirting with the heroine (once again, no interest on her part). No OW drama. The hero’s past may not work for those of you who want shifter romances to have true mates. This doesn’t. The hero was with a woman 5 years ago who he wanted to mate, but she strung him along for a year, moved on to another man, and then moved away. Hero not made out to be a manwhore, but we are told nada about him besides the history with the one ex. No scenes with OM/OW, no cheating.
TW are all listed at the front of the book, which I absolutely love and appreciate any author who does that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 5, 2023
I loved it. Even though I really wanted to know the hero's POV as he was kinda distant in the beginning, I still loved it.
This author is wonderful with words, she creates such relatable characters in such relatable settings. I'm gonna read everything else out there by her.
This author is wonderful with words, she creates such relatable characters in such relatable settings. I'm gonna read everything else out there by her.
September 1, 2021
Dear Ms. Guerre: please write more books, because you are very good at it. Tysm
December 31, 2025
Ignore the campy 2010s style cover please 🙏 this cooked
Ok so imagine Twilight without the racist/Mormon/generally conservative undertones. Then add a heavy focus on building community and recovering from depression and social isolation. And fully grown adult MCs in their late 20s/early 30s. The ML is your standard order grumpy-growly macho man, but I didn’t even hate him! The relationship development is really slow-burn and satisfying, and all of the emotional beats feel anchored, earned, and believable.
I’ve read several genuinely god-awful paranormal romances this year (Mate) so I kind of forgot they can be actually good
Ok so imagine Twilight without the racist/Mormon/generally conservative undertones. Then add a heavy focus on building community and recovering from depression and social isolation. And fully grown adult MCs in their late 20s/early 30s. The ML is your standard order grumpy-growly macho man, but I didn’t even hate him! The relationship development is really slow-burn and satisfying, and all of the emotional beats feel anchored, earned, and believable.
I’ve read several genuinely god-awful paranormal romances this year (Mate) so I kind of forgot they can be actually good
April 27, 2024
Alright, maybe not 5 stars but this just turned my crank when I was feeling down.
It had that 'gothic' feel at the start when she is new to the small community of Teekkonlit Valley. So much mystery surrounding her. A definite feeling of Us and Them. Not that they are unfriendly (well not all of them) but they keep her apart.
Grace herself has mysteries too.
She's the ice queen. Running from a crazy ex.
It leaves you lots to mull over. It's not a super hard mystery. But the detail remained elusive for long enough to keep the mystery alive.
There's a bit of 'Northern Exposure' humour to the locals, but not pushed too far.
Caleb is a dick for the first 3rd, but their connection devolves into a one-upmanship relationship because she just isn't going to turn the other cheek.
After a while it started to remind me of Curran and Kate's courtship (minus the swords). Cute and contentious.
It was also a nice arc of Caleb bringing the warmth of life back to Grace who was numb from her psycho ex.
What really pulled me into the story was the attention to details.
Safety is good.
It had that 'gothic' feel at the start when she is new to the small community of Teekkonlit Valley. So much mystery surrounding her. A definite feeling of Us and Them. Not that they are unfriendly (well not all of them) but they keep her apart.
Grace herself has mysteries too.
She's the ice queen. Running from a crazy ex.
It leaves you lots to mull over. It's not a super hard mystery. But the detail remained elusive for long enough to keep the mystery alive.
There's a bit of 'Northern Exposure' humour to the locals, but not pushed too far.
Caleb is a dick for the first 3rd, but their connection devolves into a one-upmanship relationship because she just isn't going to turn the other cheek.
After a while it started to remind me of Curran and Kate's courtship (minus the swords). Cute and contentious.
It was also a nice arc of Caleb bringing the warmth of life back to Grace who was numb from her psycho ex.
What really pulled me into the story was the attention to details.
Safety is good.
November 1, 2022
A satisfying shifter story!
I really enjoyed the environment and world Guerre built in this book. She mentions the research she did in her notes at the end of the book, and I must say it showed her writing; I felt totally immersed in this little town out in the middle of nowhere, Alaska. She painted a vivid picture for me and one of the ways she did this was in creating not only main characters who were interesting, but also a cast of supporting characters I cared about. So much so that I would love to read another book set in Longtooth.
This book is a very slow burn, but I was engaged and invested throughout the story due to good tension and character development. I liked Grace and empathized with her struggles. Caleb was a grumpy ass-hat through much of the book, but by the end, I loved him.
One of the only criticisms I have would be that it was single POV. It works within the story but I think having at least a little of the hero’s POV may have pushed it up to a 5-star read for me. Overall, I’m impressed with this author and look forward to reading more from her.
I really enjoyed the environment and world Guerre built in this book. She mentions the research she did in her notes at the end of the book, and I must say it showed her writing; I felt totally immersed in this little town out in the middle of nowhere, Alaska. She painted a vivid picture for me and one of the ways she did this was in creating not only main characters who were interesting, but also a cast of supporting characters I cared about. So much so that I would love to read another book set in Longtooth.
This book is a very slow burn, but I was engaged and invested throughout the story due to good tension and character development. I liked Grace and empathized with her struggles. Caleb was a grumpy ass-hat through much of the book, but by the end, I loved him.
One of the only criticisms I have would be that it was single POV. It works within the story but I think having at least a little of the hero’s POV may have pushed it up to a 5-star read for me. Overall, I’m impressed with this author and look forward to reading more from her.
November 29, 2024
Second read 3.5 stars. I don't know why I gave this book such a high rating the first time. This poor woman gets gaslit and retraumatized but not only the "hero" but by the whole town. It takes forever for anyone to use their words and she gets blamed for not picking up subtle social cues in a society she doesn't know at all. Plus the "hero" is a douchebag to her for most of the book but she's still strangely attracted to him.
I appreciate that the audiobook is now available through hoopla but don't know how I could have loved this so much.
The hero had pursued another woman really strongly a few years ago and i never got the impression that he thinks grace is better other than she's there and willing. But he holds himself back a lot in a way that isn't fair or romantic.
First read. 5 stars. This book was incredible! I really enjoyed the town, the relationship, and all the amazing characters. I want more.
I appreciate that the audiobook is now available through hoopla but don't know how I could have loved this so much.
The hero had pursued another woman really strongly a few years ago and i never got the impression that he thinks grace is better other than she's there and willing. But he holds himself back a lot in a way that isn't fair or romantic.
First read. 5 stars. This book was incredible! I really enjoyed the town, the relationship, and all the amazing characters. I want more.
October 28, 2022
2.5 stars
I did enjoy parts of this, the hero was not one of them. He did one cute thing and behaved like a dick the rest of the book. And I am really too old for that sullen, hot / cold, teenage Edward Cullen thing. And even more tired of the woman, like, come on, just stay the fuck away. Almost every conversation they had also almost always felt somehow immature to me and it just grated on my nerves.
Also completely unnecessary SA scene, that never gets mentioned again, but shows of how „decent“ Caleb is for protecting Grace? I really don‘t know the purpose of it.
I may be a little harsh, since I just wanted a little palate cleanser between some more heavier reads, but this just did not work for me.
I did enjoy parts of this, the hero was not one of them. He did one cute thing and behaved like a dick the rest of the book. And I am really too old for that sullen, hot / cold, teenage Edward Cullen thing. And even more tired of the woman, like, come on, just stay the fuck away. Almost every conversation they had also almost always felt somehow immature to me and it just grated on my nerves.
Also completely unnecessary SA scene, that never gets mentioned again, but shows of how „decent“ Caleb is for protecting Grace? I really don‘t know the purpose of it.
I may be a little harsh, since I just wanted a little palate cleanser between some more heavier reads, but this just did not work for me.
January 20, 2025
4.5 ⭐️LOVED this stand alone PNR! The ptsd and trauma rep of the FMC was FANTASTIC! Some of the best I’ve read.
The slow burn romance was delicious and I loved how it was also a slow burn found family to! Super excited to listen to the next one when it comes to audio
The slow burn romance was delicious and I loved how it was also a slow burn found family to! Super excited to listen to the next one when it comes to audio
May 15, 2024
I really like this style of small town romance where it’s completely isolated from nearly everything so everyone just has to rely on each other. This obviously took it a step further with the “pack” energy which I thought paired really nicely with this kind of story. I love the way their mind connection works even with non wolf members of their pack.
I did think some of the big secret reveals were a bit clunky because they basically retroactively make Grace kind of dumb for not realizing how odd some of the interactions were with people in her previous life (and new life).
Also, as much as I think grumpy Caleb changing his mind about Grace was pretty compelling, and even though we eventually learn why he’s guarded, I think I could have used more conversations between them to understand why they liked each other. We don’t even really get any closure on Caleb’s previous relationship that he was willing to mate with, but she changed her mind leaving him heartbroken. That backstory color, in a way, sort of cheapened the love pairing in this book since it seems like Caleb instinctually jumps quickly to mating any girl that sparked his wolfy interest that happens to move to town. For as much time as the two of them have to spend together in that cabin alone , it’s really surprising that they didn’t spend more of that time getting to know each other and going over these details. Caleb still feels like an enigma at the end of the book and I’m not sure that was the goal.
I did think some of the big secret reveals were a bit clunky because they basically retroactively make Grace kind of dumb for not realizing how odd some of the interactions were with people in her previous life (and new life).
Also, as much as I think grumpy Caleb changing his mind about Grace was pretty compelling, and even though we eventually learn why he’s guarded, I think I could have used more conversations between them to understand why they liked each other. We don’t even really get any closure on Caleb’s previous relationship that he was willing to mate with, but she changed her mind leaving him heartbroken. That backstory color, in a way, sort of cheapened the love pairing in this book since it seems like Caleb instinctually jumps quickly to mating any girl that sparked his wolfy interest that happens to move to town. For as much time as the two of them have to spend together in that cabin alone , it’s really surprising that they didn’t spend more of that time getting to know each other and going over these details. Caleb still feels like an enigma at the end of the book and I’m not sure that was the goal.
October 4, 2025
This was insanely fun!!
Grace moves to a small isolated town in Alaska to escape from her stalker ex. But she doesn’t know the town is full of wolf shifters. Caleb is one of them, and their hate to love sloooow burn had me up until 2am to finish it. The mortal peril in this one was delicious. I was on the edge of my seat waiting for the next shoe to drop. Graces character development and accepting of love and support from others was so tender. Caleb is insanely hot and obsessed and I loved him!!
This is a great fast paced palate cleanser. I can’t wait to jump into the rest of the series!
Grace moves to a small isolated town in Alaska to escape from her stalker ex. But she doesn’t know the town is full of wolf shifters. Caleb is one of them, and their hate to love sloooow burn had me up until 2am to finish it. The mortal peril in this one was delicious. I was on the edge of my seat waiting for the next shoe to drop. Graces character development and accepting of love and support from others was so tender. Caleb is insanely hot and obsessed and I loved him!!
This is a great fast paced palate cleanser. I can’t wait to jump into the rest of the series!
November 17, 2025
Will be in my next vlog
August 15, 2022
Unfortunately, this book didn't work out for me. I don't understand authors who write the most delicious slow burn only to make the change to lovers abruptly. Tell me: how come Grace and Caleb had more chemistry when they were at each other's throats than when they were supposedly together?
Now listen, i kinda like Gracie (meh) but girlie must have one hell of a blindfold not to realize some stuff. I don't know about you all but when some items appear in my face that were stolen by ...i would think some s*it is about to go down and not ignore the signs and stuff them under a blanket until it's too late. I mean...come on. Also what was with that ending?? They really left town for a secluded cabin where Caleb puffed his chest saying to not worry, he'll save the day only to have and Gracie doing it all? And what in the world was all that pressure Caleb put on Grace at the end to join the gang/pack? You've been sleeping together for like a second after "disliking" each other for a century and you want her to be a part of your family/pack and do it all with you even when she told you she doesn't trust people/doesn't have a good relationship with her family/did everything by herself her entire life????
Boy, what a mess.
Now listen, i kinda like Gracie (meh) but girlie must have one hell of a blindfold not to realize some stuff. I don't know about you all but when some items appear in my face that were stolen by ...i would think some s*it is about to go down and not ignore the signs and stuff them under a blanket until it's too late. I mean...come on. Also what was with that ending?? They really left town for a secluded cabin where Caleb puffed his chest saying to not worry, he'll save the day only to have and Gracie doing it all? And what in the world was all that pressure Caleb put on Grace at the end to join the gang/pack? You've been sleeping together for like a second after "disliking" each other for a century and you want her to be a part of your family/pack and do it all with you even when she told you she doesn't trust people/doesn't have a good relationship with her family/did everything by herself her entire life????
Boy, what a mess.
December 24, 2025
I just read Cold Hearted by Heather Guerre and here is what I thought about it:
If you were a Twilight kid—by which I mean you read Twilight when you were like 10 years old and really loved that series and perhaps it was even what got you into reading in the first place—and are looking for the magic of the experience of Twilight without the unapologetic misrepresentation of indigenous communities, problematic age gaps, or the pervasive conservative Mormonism encroaching on your brain, then Cold Hearted is the book for you.
This is a paranormal romance at it’s finest. We follow Grace who has relocated to remote Alaska to teach English at the local public school and start a new life. Of course, she’s got secrets. There she encounters a friendly, tight-knit community with its own secrets. She encounters one of the local, single, hot dudes and can’t help but find his grumpy demeanor and overall largeness incredibly appealing. It’s a tale as old as time but done incredibly well.
I’m not much of a romance reader, especially when the entire story hinges on the relationship of a pair of characters—typically I do not find that compelling. This book surprised me however because the relationship between the main couple was so dependent on the community and the characters that made up the community gave the story higher stakes. I think there was also a significant amount of personal internal struggle that the individual characters were dealing with, and it added to the romantic momentum of the story.
I have minor complaints here and there but nothing so significant that it detracted from my enjoyability in a significant way.
4.5/5
If you were a Twilight kid—by which I mean you read Twilight when you were like 10 years old and really loved that series and perhaps it was even what got you into reading in the first place—and are looking for the magic of the experience of Twilight without the unapologetic misrepresentation of indigenous communities, problematic age gaps, or the pervasive conservative Mormonism encroaching on your brain, then Cold Hearted is the book for you.
This is a paranormal romance at it’s finest. We follow Grace who has relocated to remote Alaska to teach English at the local public school and start a new life. Of course, she’s got secrets. There she encounters a friendly, tight-knit community with its own secrets. She encounters one of the local, single, hot dudes and can’t help but find his grumpy demeanor and overall largeness incredibly appealing. It’s a tale as old as time but done incredibly well.
I’m not much of a romance reader, especially when the entire story hinges on the relationship of a pair of characters—typically I do not find that compelling. This book surprised me however because the relationship between the main couple was so dependent on the community and the characters that made up the community gave the story higher stakes. I think there was also a significant amount of personal internal struggle that the individual characters were dealing with, and it added to the romantic momentum of the story.
I have minor complaints here and there but nothing so significant that it detracted from my enjoyability in a significant way.
4.5/5
May 28, 2021
*** Book Q & A***
* How did the book make you feel?: This book was wonderful and I couldn’t put it down.
* How do you feel about how the story was told?: I absolutely loved the setting of a small town in Alaska and there was an air of mystery. I appreciated the research and the liberties taken by the author regarding the language and indigenous cultures.
* What did you think about the main characters?: The main characters were wonderful and well-developed. I really appreciate the strong FMC’s this author portrays.
* Which parts of the book stood out to you?: The H was so cagey and the h wasn’t a damsel in distress. I loved the mutual respect and the development of the relationship.
* What themes/tropes did you detect in the story?: Werewolves and vampires
* What did you think about the ending?: I was happy about it but was left with a few questions. Are the werewolves immortal? Are all of the vampires really evil? Will they get married and have children? I would’ve loved an epilogue, but I’m assuming there will be a sequel or several.
* What is your impression of the author?: I’m blowing through every book by this author. Her character development and storytelling is exceptional and more people need to be aware of her wonderful books!
* How did the book make you feel?: This book was wonderful and I couldn’t put it down.
* How do you feel about how the story was told?: I absolutely loved the setting of a small town in Alaska and there was an air of mystery. I appreciated the research and the liberties taken by the author regarding the language and indigenous cultures.
* What did you think about the main characters?: The main characters were wonderful and well-developed. I really appreciate the strong FMC’s this author portrays.
* Which parts of the book stood out to you?: The H was so cagey and the h wasn’t a damsel in distress. I loved the mutual respect and the development of the relationship.
* What themes/tropes did you detect in the story?: Werewolves and vampires
* What did you think about the ending?: I was happy about it but was left with a few questions. Are the werewolves immortal? Are all of the vampires really evil? Will they get married and have children? I would’ve loved an epilogue, but I’m assuming there will be a sequel or several.
* What is your impression of the author?: I’m blowing through every book by this author. Her character development and storytelling is exceptional and more people need to be aware of her wonderful books!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 11, 2021
This story wasn't too shabby. Not too exciting, but it kept me invested until the ending. I can't ask for more than that.
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