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Can they overcome their dark pasts?

Life was predictable for Matthias O’Brian until he met her. Developing software by day and working as a pack enforcer at night kept him busy enough. So when the beautifully broken woman he meets outside the bar begs to leave with him, how can he say no? He had no idea how that single decision would change everything.

Rock bottom wasn’t where Mackenna Henderson thought she’d be at twenty-six. When her clothing boutique goes out of business and she can’t pay rent, she’s forced to move back into her parent’s house. Living under their roof means living under their scrutiny. The pressure sends her running into the arms of her ex which proves to be yet another mistake. But when a handsome stranger steps into their fight and whisks her away, she thinks moving back home might not be such a bad decision after all.

One incredible night leads to more than either of them could have imagined. They both feel this bone-deep attraction they aren’t allowed to act on, but how long can they resist? And how long can Matthias protect her from her ex’s schemes?


This book contains sexual themes and violence that is intended for audiences 18 and older.

221 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 8, 2022

569 people are currently reading
346 people want to read

About the author

Heather MacKinnon

41 books308 followers
Heather MacKinnon is a USA Today best-selling romance author living in North Carolina with her husband, adorable son, and three trouble making dogs. She grew up on Long Island and spent her young adult years living in various states in New England. This led to her subsequent addiction to Dunkin’ Donuts lattes and her gratuitous use of the word “wicked”. After a lifetime of enjoying other people’s words, she decided to write down some of her own.

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5 stars
279 (43%)
4 stars
191 (30%)
3 stars
117 (18%)
2 stars
38 (5%)
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10 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
Profile Image for Southern Lady Reads.
935 reviews1,389 followers
April 26, 2023
This one is interesting purely for the Captain America-like main character which is basically my husband's MO. He's the good guy and a massive human being - so obviously loving it but also the writing is decent!!!

yay for decent writing in Kindle Unlimited smut!

↑↑Update: April 4/24/2023↑↑

Gals... sometimes I just need to listen to smutty shifter romance audiobooks while I'm prepping for a long day in the lab...

...and so far, this one is good. Let's hope it stays that way!

↑↑Update: April 4/24/2023↑↑

NOTES:
- Kindle Unlimited
- Adult Fantasy - I can tell it's about to heat up
- CWs: Abusiv3 boyfriend and cheating (not in the main relationship)
Profile Image for Sara.
494 reviews4 followers
dnf
December 28, 2022
I'm too old for the barely 20, let's get drunk because it's funny books. When the FMC is found drunk and vomiting behind the bar, only to need the MC to "save" her from her ex or whatever, I'm out. I'm just not the audience for this author.
722 reviews6 followers
May 20, 2024
I don’t think the MCs being wolf shifters has much effect on any of the story and the book really didn’t need it or benefit from it. Nor did the fact that they were fated mates feel like it mattered. It reads like a contemporary romance in every way that counts. FMC meets MMC, he helps her set up a website for her failed business, her parents don’t believe in her, her ex-boyfriend stalks her, the MCs hang out together and fall in love, and they all lived happily ever after.
Profile Image for Maryoma.
109 reviews1 follower
November 6, 2022
I feel like if you didn’t read any of the previous books even tho they are different series, you will be lost. The author never explains anything and just thinks that you know all those characters and events that happened before.

Dont know if I’ll read the rest of this series but we will see.
Profile Image for Evelyn Dotson.
2,064 reviews17 followers
March 7, 2022
Matthias is one of Bea’s enforcers and was dating Evey when he broke it off because he met his fated mate. McKenna had been gone for a few years and came back. Everyone calls her Mack and she is a friendly sweet person who has had a crappy life. Her mother treats her badly in comparison to her older sister. She had had a clothing store for a few years but because of a few circumstances had to shut it down and came home. She also developed a reputation that was totally undeserved. Matthias will do anything for her to protect her. Owen, her ex, is mean to her and is trying to get her back. Matthias has a few run-ins with him and they are not good. Meanwhile, someone is killing humans and leaving them for others to find. When things start going great for Matthias and Mack, Owen comes along and ruins it. Mack will try to save the others from him but find out the deplorable things he has really been involved with and she needs help…who will come to the rescue? Another FANTASTIC book in a new series from Heather MacKinnon~ You will want to grab it while you can and be prepared for an exciting journey.
Profile Image for Ruth Hinojos.
372 reviews4 followers
March 2, 2022
En este libro vemos a Matthias, un ejecutor, conociendo a Mackenna en la noche más horrible que ella haya tenido. Cuando pasan la noche más increíble, saben que no pueden estar lejos el uno del otro. Pero cuando Owen amenaza a Mack, Matthias hace todo lo posible para protegerla.

Fue un libro rápido de leer, lleno de acción y suceden muchas cosas, vemos la vulnerabilidad de Matthias y el corazón roto de Mack y cómo se ayudan mutuamente para sanar las heridas.

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In this book we see Matthias, an enforcer, meeting Mackenna in the most awful night she ever had. When they spent the most amazing night they know they can't be apart from each other. But when Owen threthens Mack Matthias does everything he can to protect her.

It was a fast paced book full of action and things happening, we see the vulnerability of Matthias and the broken heart of Mack and how they help each other to heal the wounds.
Profile Image for The Caffeinated Grimoire.
730 reviews5 followers
March 12, 2022
Loved 💖

I have read Heather's Southern Werewolves series and a couple of the sister spin off books, though it isn't a necessity to read them before this book as it can be read as a standalone.
Mackenna is down on her luck after a failing business she's forced to return to live with her parents and live under their scrutiny. When Mack decides to go out for a drink with her abusive ex she never expected that he night would end with her being saved by a handsome enforcer of the local pack.
There is a definite chemistry between Mack and Matthias. They find in eachother what has been missing from their lives but both have dark pasts and demons that threaten to bring them down. Learning to trust and love eachother won't be their only obstacle especially when certain people don't know how to let go.
HEA guaranteed in more ways than one 💖 I'll be going to finish off the stories I've missed now...
Definitely recommend reading 📚
Profile Image for Tracey  Trask.
135 reviews1 follower
March 3, 2022
I was given an ARC of this book for an honest opinion that I give freely. Fair warning, there are some triggering scenes with dating violence.

Matthias is - WOW - amazing. I don't know how Heather MacKinnon keeps reaching these depths, but the character building is quite good. Matthias' guilt that he has been carrying around for years is palpable, you can really empathize. The same with Mack's desire to break free from the stigma she has been living under. You just find yourself rooting for the two of them from the start.

This is a fast paced story. it will hold your attention, to the point you won't want to put it down. You'll be taken on an emotional roller coaster and rooting for Matthias throughout. MacKinnon knocked it out of the park again. I can't wait to see what the next book in the series brings...
Profile Image for read by Jennifer.
124 reviews2 followers
August 16, 2022
“Captain America?” she asked with a nod at my shirt. “How… fitting.”

Holy guacamole, Batman! Was this one ever good. I have had some favorite packs along the way but Mitthias takes the cake for BEST MAN EVER!!

Heather MacKinnon knocks this one out of the park. Not only is Matthias my kind of alpha male, he's great with kids, and he's a freaking comic fan!

The heat between Matthias and Mack is off the charts without it being "oh great, they're fated mates". Matthias has a past that is his kryptonite but Mack does not let that phase her just like her bad rep doesn't matter to him.

Even with the climax, and that stereotypical response that Mack makes, this is an easy love story and I can’t get enough of it!

If I had to sum this book up in a few words it would be: wholesome hero helps dimond in the rough heroine to shine like the precious jewel she is.
Profile Image for Charlee Garden.
Author 9 books19 followers
March 6, 2022
Honestly, Matthias is my dream man. Nerdy, buff, and a gentleman? Yes please. His dynamic with everyone he interacts with is so genuine that I found myself forgetting that he's not actually a real person. He's so well rounded.

Mack is 100% that b*tch, and she cracks me up. The story also attacks lookism in a way we don't see often. Mack may be perfect on the outside, but appearances aren't everything and MacKinnon really drives that home with the way Mack is portrayed. Her constantly struggle with her family and business are in direct contrast to the perfection of her looks.

Plus the end was really twisted and made my dark little soul happy.

*disclaimer: it does have an HEA because duh. It's a romance but man were the plot twists a doozy.
Profile Image for Maygan Feirabend.
5 reviews
March 11, 2022
Another MacKinnon novel that did not disappoint! This novel was full of romance, action, and witty protagonists. I highly recommend reading the prequel books from the Southern Werewolf series because you will become more familiar with the setting and the supporting characters mentioned throughout the story, but it was not necessary to follow this story line either. It was an easy enjoyable read that keeps you engaged from the first page to the last. The chemistry between Mack and Matthias is almost tangible and their individual character flaws made for such relatable characters. I am crossing my fingers for more stories to come - maybe with Hux next? - because I really just love reading Mackinnon’s work.
Profile Image for Frances Phillips.
210 reviews15 followers
March 18, 2022
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
POV: Dual 1st Person
M/F
Stand Alone? This is part of a series that is best read in order but the couple’s story is complete.

Holy Hot Werewolf, Batman! This story was…. Wow! Just… wow! I read it in like 2-3 hours it was so good. I devoured this book!

The story was *chefs kiss* magnifique! Fated mates, and Badass werewolf packs, a murderous werewolf killing humans, a mystery, decent spice, mortal danger, daring rescues and a story that kept me on the edge of my seat and reading as fast and my eyes could move.

This book was enthralling and I am absolutely obsessed now! I can’t wait for the next book!
Profile Image for Ashante Williams.
2,036 reviews3 followers
May 24, 2025
matthias & mackenna: triggers- domestic abuse, family discord. this was an interesting start to the series for me. so mackenna has a failed business and had to move back home with her parents. matthias is one of the pack's top enforcers. after saving her from her ex and getting to know her better, he finds out that she's his true mate, but he's already with someone else. despite her attempts, he turns her down until he can be free. only mackenna's ex is not willing to let her go and he's up to no good. I like the concept and it's definitely hot. I'm just hoping it gets better throughout the series. (NO CHEATING IN THIS BOOK).
Profile Image for Debbie  Victorino.
448 reviews12 followers
March 11, 2022
Awesome book!

This is book #1 in a new fantastic series! It will grab you in the first chapter and you can not put it down. It is action packed, great characters, well written and very steamy. I loved the plot and you will fall in love with Matthias. He makes one fantastic book boyfriend. The minute he sees Mackenna he feels drawn to her. Matthias has not had it easy and neither has Mackenna. The character development is amazing. These 2 are fated mates, but it isn't easy. They have to fight to be together. Can they make it through everything to be together? Will the have a happy ever after? You will need to read the book to find out. This is a fantastic story it has everything and will make you laugh, cry and actually believe in true love!!!!
Profile Image for Merry One Maria.
2,267 reviews10 followers
October 15, 2022
A good story for Matthias and Mack

This is my first read from this author and I enjoyed reading this book. It had a good storyline as nd characters. Matthias is just an all around good person. He is like Captain America as his BFF calls him affectionately. Mack, the female lead character, short for Makenna, has had a rough time of late. Her business fell, she lost her store front, her apartment, and her mobile phone has been turned off. Yet through all her trials and tribulations, Mack sees Matthias as the good person that he is . Read On
Profile Image for Mariska.
659 reviews2 followers
March 11, 2023
Rather Good!

I have to give 5 stars To a werewolf romance With the fated mate trope That does not employ The mail mate Acting like An over possessive Caveman stereotype. Seeing two fated Mates Who are Instinctually caring and nurturing of each other Is a genuine Refreshing change.
Profile Image for Taylor Jefferson.
620 reviews8 followers
January 5, 2024
2.5

This was fine but entirely forgettable. There are so many fated mate, shifter romances out there and this adds nothing new or unique. Also on of the female main characters struggles was that she was TOO pretty. I get that being attractive can have some drawbacks but this was a big focus for her character and I just couldn't bring myself to care.
Profile Image for Amanda.
170 reviews4 followers
January 17, 2024
Loved

I loved this book and it is written well. I will be getting more books from Heather. This book had me hooked and I had to find out what happened to Matthias and Mack. They are a fated couple but they have issues from their past they need to deal with to move on. I’m excited to read Emily’s story next.
Profile Image for Dorothy Y Nunamacher .
997 reviews10 followers
March 17, 2022
Heather MacKinnon has done it again. Every book just keeps getting better and better. Matthias is by far my favorite enforcer, but wait it's only the beginning of the series. I wonder who's going to be my next new book boyfriend.....
Profile Image for Gale Albright.
2,920 reviews19 followers
August 4, 2022
I enjoyed the premise of the story. I felt bad for Mack and how everyone treated her. I felt her family left a lot to be desired. Matthias was an amazing boyfriend and I really thought he was rather perfect.
Profile Image for Kenzie.
477 reviews
November 28, 2022
3.5/5
Matthias is a sweetheart. He's a pack enforcer that is ready to help. Mackenna is suffering from losing her business and is just attempting to stay away from her ex boyfriend.

"I wanted to be mad. Hell, I was mad, but there was nothing I could do about it. I couldn’t yell at Matthias for having a girlfriend when he’d done nothing to lead me on this whole night. I’d been the aggressor. I’d been the one pursuing him."
Profile Image for Amanda.
159 reviews28 followers
March 10, 2023
DNF 16%.
I didn’t really like Mack, she’s full of herself and got pushed when her flirting didn’t work with Matthias, she was crazy pushy and rude. And nothing would make her character likeable to me after that. At least Matthias has some self respect in that moment.
Profile Image for Gina Marie.
1,783 reviews9 followers
March 23, 2023
Matthias & Mack

I got a little over halfway done with this book before I decided to quit. I just couldn’t get a connection to either main character and I hated the high school ish drama from the town. Even the BFF was a mean girl type. Nope, not for me.
Profile Image for Lena Blazejova.
285 reviews2 followers
June 25, 2023
Matthias a Mackenna

Fated werewolves...kdyz dva k sobe patri vzdy si k sobe najdou cestu a u vlkodlaku tomu napomaha i osud.
Pribeh nas zavede mezi lidi a vlkodlaky, mezi pratelstvi a lasku a dostaneme se do situaci, ktere nebudou uplne ruzove, ale hodne toho vysvetli.
323 reviews1 follower
October 8, 2023
Nice Series Starter

It's my first Heather MacKinnon novel and definitely calls for another. The characters were well developed and colorful, and I liked the storyline. It had a depth to it, leaving you anxious to read more.
48 reviews
February 27, 2025
The first half of the book was really good, but the ending just didn't make much sense and the villains and heroine all of the sudden became extremely stupid.

What a shame. I loved the main hero though, he was perfect.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews

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