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Werewolves of Ulterra #1
Fate Awakened
A fierce werewolf consumed by his past. A human used as bait. A connection neither expects.
A MONSTER TO EVERYONE BUT HER …
Hans lives only for vengeance. No more Pack. No friends. Only the dark void inside him tormenting him about his past. Yet when he meets a dark-haired beauty, desire tears through him and changes everything. But werewolves never take mates, and to claim her would doom him and ensure the rising evil wins.
AN ORDINARY HUMAN TO EVERYONE BUT HIM …
One moment Briony’s eating in the tavern, and the next a necromancer has her tied up in a cave as bait for a werewolf. Stuck in the middle of a centuries old battle, she needs to escape. Now. Except when the werewolf arrives and she gets her chance, she doesn’t run. No—she helps him and decides to join him to face a formidable enemy who will do anything to kill her. And with each day that passes, every gentle touch, every silky purr, the werewolf claws his way further into her heart.
BOUND TOGETHER AGAINST AN ANCIENT EVIL …
They have one month to work together to take down a sorceress. One month to decide to remain together forever. Everyone in Briony’s life has left her, and she doesn’t believe in love anymore. Secrets in Hans’s past prevent him from making Briony his. They may save the world, but will they save each other?
Publishers Note: The hero of the story is a walk-on-two-legs mythological kind of werewolf. He is not a human man who shifts into a wolf. The book cover accurately depicts what the hero looks like. He is in this form the entire book. If you like a little monster in your man—this book is perfect for you. If you enjoy sweeping fantasy with a happy ever after—this book is for you. Possible triggers are listed on the author's website.
A MONSTER TO EVERYONE BUT HER …
Hans lives only for vengeance. No more Pack. No friends. Only the dark void inside him tormenting him about his past. Yet when he meets a dark-haired beauty, desire tears through him and changes everything. But werewolves never take mates, and to claim her would doom him and ensure the rising evil wins.
AN ORDINARY HUMAN TO EVERYONE BUT HIM …
One moment Briony’s eating in the tavern, and the next a necromancer has her tied up in a cave as bait for a werewolf. Stuck in the middle of a centuries old battle, she needs to escape. Now. Except when the werewolf arrives and she gets her chance, she doesn’t run. No—she helps him and decides to join him to face a formidable enemy who will do anything to kill her. And with each day that passes, every gentle touch, every silky purr, the werewolf claws his way further into her heart.
BOUND TOGETHER AGAINST AN ANCIENT EVIL …
They have one month to work together to take down a sorceress. One month to decide to remain together forever. Everyone in Briony’s life has left her, and she doesn’t believe in love anymore. Secrets in Hans’s past prevent him from making Briony his. They may save the world, but will they save each other?
Publishers Note: The hero of the story is a walk-on-two-legs mythological kind of werewolf. He is not a human man who shifts into a wolf. The book cover accurately depicts what the hero looks like. He is in this form the entire book. If you like a little monster in your man—this book is perfect for you. If you enjoy sweeping fantasy with a happy ever after—this book is for you. Possible triggers are listed on the author's website.
339 pages, ebook
Published July 24, 2022
329 people are currently reading
1346 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
October 17, 2022
Am I the only one wishing this had more 🌶️? It started off 🥵 and then all we get is a bunch of tension throughout the first half of the book.
I feel the first 🌶️ scene was the best one, so I was hoping for more or spicier ones to come.
The plot was alright. Hans is really possessive over Briony but kinda plays hot and cold with her.
Wolfs purr?
There where some interesting parts, but I wasn’t sucked into the world and at times i got bored and speed read to get through parts.
I feel the first 🌶️ scene was the best one, so I was hoping for more or spicier ones to come.
The plot was alright. Hans is really possessive over Briony but kinda plays hot and cold with her.
Wolfs purr?
There where some interesting parts, but I wasn’t sucked into the world and at times i got bored and speed read to get through parts.
November 14, 2022
Thank you net galley for sending me a free copy of Fate Awakened in exchange for a honest review.
The only way to describe this properly is entertaining. This book was a quick read, with action and fantasy elements and of course werewolf (excuse me I meant vulk) romance.
Although it might seem intimidating at first due to the long dictionary of all the creatures/locations in the book and their abilities, the plot and the writing make it very easy to follow along.
I liked the plot for the most part, although in certain cases especially towards the end it seemed a bit TOO simplistic. The characters all had some personality traits that made them stand out and easy to remember, and apart from a few cringe worthy moments the romance between Hans and Briony was really interesting to read about.
The only way to describe this properly is entertaining. This book was a quick read, with action and fantasy elements and of course werewolf (excuse me I meant vulk) romance.
Although it might seem intimidating at first due to the long dictionary of all the creatures/locations in the book and their abilities, the plot and the writing make it very easy to follow along.
I liked the plot for the most part, although in certain cases especially towards the end it seemed a bit TOO simplistic. The characters all had some personality traits that made them stand out and easy to remember, and apart from a few cringe worthy moments the romance between Hans and Briony was really interesting to read about.
November 7, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book really surprised me! I didn't think the plot was that compelling. I was expecting the classic monster romance with a lot of spicy 🌶 and few plot twists. Instead I found myself with exactly the opposite.
One thing I didn't like is the expectation at the beginning of the book regarding the spicy.
The first scene is very 🥵 and detailed, while the others are hastily written. The author should have done the opposite for create more suspense.
However the story is very interesting and the characters are well described.
The love story is well written apart from a few cringe scenes (e.g. the warewolf purring).
Anyway I absolutely recommend this book!
This book really surprised me! I didn't think the plot was that compelling. I was expecting the classic monster romance with a lot of spicy 🌶 and few plot twists. Instead I found myself with exactly the opposite.
One thing I didn't like is the expectation at the beginning of the book regarding the spicy.
The first scene is very 🥵 and detailed, while the others are hastily written. The author should have done the opposite for create more suspense.
However the story is very interesting and the characters are well described.
The love story is well written apart from a few cringe scenes (e.g. the warewolf purring).
Anyway I absolutely recommend this book!
March 8, 2025
So I definitely judged this one by its cover...it took me a long time to read this because the cover was not doing it for me. I finally picked this up on a long plane ride because I needed something light for my sleep-deprived brain. I ended up really liking this! I think this was my first official monster romance and it wasn't at all what I was expecting. It was pretty sweet and had a surprising amount of worldbuilding. There also wasn't honestly a whole lot of spice and what spice there was got glossed over pretty quickly.
Briony is a human who gets summoned in a spell to be a distraction for Hans, a Vulk/werewolf, by an evil magicwielder. It turns out that she is Hans's ~fated mate~ but will he choose her or power??? TBD.
✅ M/F paranormal romance
✅ Monster romance - "werewolf" where he is kind of a wolf/man hybrid for most of the book
Thanks so much to Jocelyn Montana and BooksGoSocial for this ARC through NetGalley. All opinions are my own. Fate Awakened is available now!
Briony is a human who gets summoned in a spell to be a distraction for Hans, a Vulk/werewolf, by an evil magicwielder. It turns out that she is Hans's ~fated mate~ but will he choose her or power??? TBD.
✅ M/F paranormal romance
✅ Monster romance - "werewolf" where he is kind of a wolf/man hybrid for most of the book
Thanks so much to Jocelyn Montana and BooksGoSocial for this ARC through NetGalley. All opinions are my own. Fate Awakened is available now!
May 10, 2023
TAKE ALL THE ⭐ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
THIS WAS ONE HUNDRED PERCENT A HIT FOR ME! ❤️❤️
Wow! I generally never try this genre but boy! Did i feel happy that i choose this book to read? ABSOLUTELY!
I will be looking forward to the next book!
THIS WAS ONE HUNDRED PERCENT A HIT FOR ME! ❤️❤️
Wow! I generally never try this genre but boy! Did i feel happy that i choose this book to read? ABSOLUTELY!
I will be looking forward to the next book!
September 24, 2022
DNF 44%
Waste of my time. This “romance novel” is lacking romance. Say it with me, Sex is not love.
Waste of my time. This “romance novel” is lacking romance. Say it with me, Sex is not love.
August 27, 2022
Hans and Briony were magic together.
Hans and Briony’s story are a true testament of real love in the face of adversity. Hans lives only for vengeance. No more Pack. No friends. Only the dark void inside him tormenting him about his past. Briony was just an ordinary human who worked with the town’s doctor’s office with an uncanny ability to heal others. Living a monotonous life dreaming of adventure her world changes in an instant. One moment Briony’s eating in the tavern, and the next a necromancer has her tied up in a cave as bait for a werewolf. Putting Briony right in the middle of a centuries old battle between supernatural beings. Unfortunately, as fate would have it both Hans and Briony has been bonded to one another. Tethered in a way that they can feel and sense each other’s feelings and thoughts.
This is a story of opposites attract. Hans have been raised to believe that werewolves didn’t choose mates. Especially when this kind has been cursed to live in their current wolf form without the ability to shift into their human form. Even knowing this, Hans is drawn to Briony and has an overwhelming need to protect her and always keep her close to him. Briony has a heart of gold. She is a natural healer and helper. She has always put the wellbeing of others before herself. Therefore, she didn’t think twice about joining Hans on his journey to face his past and confront his demons.
Hans and Briony have one month to work together to take down a sorceress from Hans' past who has returned with nefarious intent. They have one month to decide to accept the mate bond that has been thrust upon them during their journey together. Everyone in Briony’s life has left her, and she doesn’t believe in love anymore because she has never been shown love before. Secrets in Hans’s past prevent him from making Briony his, but he can’t help wanting and loving her. She has shown him kindness, patience and love and he doesn’t want to lose her like he’s lost so many things he’s loved in the past.
Hans and Briony’s story is one of Hope, Adventure, Understanding, Pain, Redemption, Acceptance and Love.
Hans and Briony’s story are a true testament of real love in the face of adversity. Hans lives only for vengeance. No more Pack. No friends. Only the dark void inside him tormenting him about his past. Briony was just an ordinary human who worked with the town’s doctor’s office with an uncanny ability to heal others. Living a monotonous life dreaming of adventure her world changes in an instant. One moment Briony’s eating in the tavern, and the next a necromancer has her tied up in a cave as bait for a werewolf. Putting Briony right in the middle of a centuries old battle between supernatural beings. Unfortunately, as fate would have it both Hans and Briony has been bonded to one another. Tethered in a way that they can feel and sense each other’s feelings and thoughts.
This is a story of opposites attract. Hans have been raised to believe that werewolves didn’t choose mates. Especially when this kind has been cursed to live in their current wolf form without the ability to shift into their human form. Even knowing this, Hans is drawn to Briony and has an overwhelming need to protect her and always keep her close to him. Briony has a heart of gold. She is a natural healer and helper. She has always put the wellbeing of others before herself. Therefore, she didn’t think twice about joining Hans on his journey to face his past and confront his demons.
Hans and Briony have one month to work together to take down a sorceress from Hans' past who has returned with nefarious intent. They have one month to decide to accept the mate bond that has been thrust upon them during their journey together. Everyone in Briony’s life has left her, and she doesn’t believe in love anymore because she has never been shown love before. Secrets in Hans’s past prevent him from making Briony his, but he can’t help wanting and loving her. She has shown him kindness, patience and love and he doesn’t want to lose her like he’s lost so many things he’s loved in the past.
Hans and Briony’s story is one of Hope, Adventure, Understanding, Pain, Redemption, Acceptance and Love.
August 18, 2022
This book starts off hot and heavy. Lots of spice and then dives into the plot. This is a paranormal monster/human shifter romance. Tropes include alpha, primal, possessive and fated mates.
Briony is a outcast in the town she lives in, fighting for everything she has. She has special healing magic in a town where magic is outlawed. Hans is a Vulk, a werewolf, a creature that Briony believes devours people. After being kidnapped and forced the consume a special potion, Briony goes into a heat and Hand finds her. Their meeting is less than conventional. They become Runebound and the adventure begins trying to make sense of what’s going on. Meanwhile an evil force is rising to gain power in the land. Briony and Hans have to learn what is brewing between them while staying safe and keeping the balance of their land.
I really enjoyed this book more than I thought I would. The world pulled me in and hasn’t let go. This was my first shifter romance with knotting and I’m here for it. Due to previous trauma, Briony had some hard choices to make and she grew from them. I enjoyed the emotional push and pull the main characters went through. With the events playing out in this story I am excited to see where things go from here with the other characters we were introduced to.
Briony is a outcast in the town she lives in, fighting for everything she has. She has special healing magic in a town where magic is outlawed. Hans is a Vulk, a werewolf, a creature that Briony believes devours people. After being kidnapped and forced the consume a special potion, Briony goes into a heat and Hand finds her. Their meeting is less than conventional. They become Runebound and the adventure begins trying to make sense of what’s going on. Meanwhile an evil force is rising to gain power in the land. Briony and Hans have to learn what is brewing between them while staying safe and keeping the balance of their land.
I really enjoyed this book more than I thought I would. The world pulled me in and hasn’t let go. This was my first shifter romance with knotting and I’m here for it. Due to previous trauma, Briony had some hard choices to make and she grew from them. I enjoyed the emotional push and pull the main characters went through. With the events playing out in this story I am excited to see where things go from here with the other characters we were introduced to.
December 18, 2022
good
But dragged a bit. I know she was probably telling a lot of the story to prep for more books but it got to a point that I was skimming. Even though he was a wolf he read more like a man most of the time. Med steam
But dragged a bit. I know she was probably telling a lot of the story to prep for more books but it got to a point that I was skimming. Even though he was a wolf he read more like a man most of the time. Med steam
February 1, 2023
Almost DNF at 65% but powered through
Loved the initial spice and relationship but the plot was so hard to keep interest in. Too many new/unfamiliar things being introduced at any given time, made the story hard to follow and get into.
Loved the initial spice and relationship but the plot was so hard to keep interest in. Too many new/unfamiliar things being introduced at any given time, made the story hard to follow and get into.
July 25, 2022
This is an ARC Review for Fate awakened by Jocelyn Montana
This book was amazing, I literally couldn't put it down. It's not just a monster romance it's a creation of a whole new world and I cannot wait to read more.
The initial story is about Hans (vulk, think werewolf but doesn't need the moon to be all hairy) and Briony, a human. Briony lives in a small village that she doesn't truly feel part of and suddenly has the Kings guards enter the tavern where she lives to come and pick her up. Lo and behold she ends up meeting Hans and here the story takes flight.
With magic and monsters and Vae and knots 😏😉 and underworld nasties there is not alot that this book doesn't have and its amazing in its world building. It truly kept me riveted, and the build up to the end whilst also leaving little bits hanging for more stories, left me not only happy about the ending but also excited for more and wanting to read more from the other characters, and now I saw that Juri get a book I know I'm going to be waiting like a puppy for treats!!
This book was amazing, I literally couldn't put it down. It's not just a monster romance it's a creation of a whole new world and I cannot wait to read more.
The initial story is about Hans (vulk, think werewolf but doesn't need the moon to be all hairy) and Briony, a human. Briony lives in a small village that she doesn't truly feel part of and suddenly has the Kings guards enter the tavern where she lives to come and pick her up. Lo and behold she ends up meeting Hans and here the story takes flight.
With magic and monsters and Vae and knots 😏😉 and underworld nasties there is not alot that this book doesn't have and its amazing in its world building. It truly kept me riveted, and the build up to the end whilst also leaving little bits hanging for more stories, left me not only happy about the ending but also excited for more and wanting to read more from the other characters, and now I saw that Juri get a book I know I'm going to be waiting like a puppy for treats!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 25, 2022
Overall a really good fantasy romance; I wouldn’t call this paranormal romance despite the MMC being a werewolf-like creature called Vulk, there’s a lot of high fantasy elements (plus a lot of info like OG creatures & magic system that you need to learn to understand what’s happening) and while romance is clearly the over arching theme there’s a lot of adventuring, magical discovery, and a magical war going on. It had a lot going on but not in an overwhelming way, in a “this was well plotted and executed” way (as a fellow writer).
The steamy scenes were really well written, there’s a lot of passion and heat involved even when they were dancing around the will they won’t they about the bond.
(SPOILER beyond this point)
.
.
.
.
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I personally loved that 90% of the scenes are with the MMC in vulk form, and even if he never shifted fully I would’ve loved him lol (all about that monster love) but I get the significance of him being able to finally take the form and to express his love for her in a form that’s more compatible. But if that’s not your thing, please don’t hold it against the author, just skip this one.
The steamy scenes were really well written, there’s a lot of passion and heat involved even when they were dancing around the will they won’t they about the bond.
(SPOILER beyond this point)
.
.
.
.
.
I personally loved that 90% of the scenes are with the MMC in vulk form, and even if he never shifted fully I would’ve loved him lol (all about that monster love) but I get the significance of him being able to finally take the form and to express his love for her in a form that’s more compatible. But if that’s not your thing, please don’t hold it against the author, just skip this one.
August 29, 2022
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. I thought this books was going to be one thing and it turned into a lovely fantasy epic meets shifter romance.
The only reason it isn’t getting more stars is because the author made up their own language and it was super frustrating. Not that I haven’t read and enjoyed books where they make up fantasy words, they just usually also ease you into it. In this book it wasn’t always easy to extrapolate the meaning from context and I don’t think I should have to read a glossary before I read a book. I ended up flipping back and forth several times until I had most of the common words down but until then I considered just putting the book down. I’m glad I persevered, but I would understand if others did not.
ARC generously provided by NetGalley and BooksGoSocial in exchange for fair and honest review.
The only reason it isn’t getting more stars is because the author made up their own language and it was super frustrating. Not that I haven’t read and enjoyed books where they make up fantasy words, they just usually also ease you into it. In this book it wasn’t always easy to extrapolate the meaning from context and I don’t think I should have to read a glossary before I read a book. I ended up flipping back and forth several times until I had most of the common words down but until then I considered just putting the book down. I’m glad I persevered, but I would understand if others did not.
ARC generously provided by NetGalley and BooksGoSocial in exchange for fair and honest review.
July 26, 2022
Wow I loved ulterra, the world building was excellent a vivid fantasy world of magical creatures. Han's is a vulk a werewolf and he is lured by a necromancer to the captured Briony.
Although they don't meet under the best circumstances their romance builds slowly and is beautiful.
The side characters were really good and I look forward to reading more of the vae especially Katisa, I'm already excited to read juri's book.
I will definitely be looking out for more from this author and I loved this world so much I can't wait to re-visit. A well written well thought out fantasy world.
I was lucky enough to read a copy of this on netgally but will definitely buy it as soon as it comes out to add to my fantasy collection. Fabulous read.
Although they don't meet under the best circumstances their romance builds slowly and is beautiful.
The side characters were really good and I look forward to reading more of the vae especially Katisa, I'm already excited to read juri's book.
I will definitely be looking out for more from this author and I loved this world so much I can't wait to re-visit. A well written well thought out fantasy world.
I was lucky enough to read a copy of this on netgally but will definitely buy it as soon as it comes out to add to my fantasy collection. Fabulous read.
July 26, 2022
I could not put this book down. I finished it in one sitting. I loved the world building in the story, everything connected so well and there were many twist throughout the book. This was a different take on the werewolf mate trope that I'd come to love from my early days on Wattpad. It was very refreshing and engaging. Our main characters Briony and Hans had a lot to overcome if they wanted to be together. They had a lot of up hill battles to fight to become their best selves and leave their painful pasts behind. I was screaming at Hans through half the books because I couldn't believe how stubborn he was being. Jocelyn Montana is a great story teller and was able to weave together multiple elements to completely bring this story to life. I could tell she really took her time and tried to make every trope her own and succeeded in doing so.
July 26, 2022
I received an ARC copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I enjoyed this book a lot. The characters were well developed and interesting and the world building was really well though out. The fmc had just enough pep to make her interesting and engaging without being brash or grating. She knew her own mind and developed well throughout the story. The mc was grumpy and rough and emotionally damaged and I loved him.
A great cast of side characters that I look forward to learning more about and plenty of material to fuel more adventures in this world. The spicy side was just enough but I’d always go for more of the option was available but it all fit well into the story and didn’t feel gratuitous. Finished on a HEA which is what we all need.
Well worth a read and I look forward to more.
I enjoyed this book a lot. The characters were well developed and interesting and the world building was really well though out. The fmc had just enough pep to make her interesting and engaging without being brash or grating. She knew her own mind and developed well throughout the story. The mc was grumpy and rough and emotionally damaged and I loved him.
A great cast of side characters that I look forward to learning more about and plenty of material to fuel more adventures in this world. The spicy side was just enough but I’d always go for more of the option was available but it all fit well into the story and didn’t feel gratuitous. Finished on a HEA which is what we all need.
Well worth a read and I look forward to more.
August 3, 2022
-arc review-
I’m obsessed and can’t wait for more! I love a monster romance but I love a monster romance WITH PLOT even more! I was completely drawn in by the end of chapter one. I’m he world building and lore was fantastic. The character development for Briony and Hans was absolutely perfect. I’m excited to get The next book
I’m obsessed and can’t wait for more! I love a monster romance but I love a monster romance WITH PLOT even more! I was completely drawn in by the end of chapter one. I’m he world building and lore was fantastic. The character development for Briony and Hans was absolutely perfect. I’m excited to get The next book
August 6, 2022
I'm leaving a voluntary review of this ARC which I got through BookSirens.
First of all, I think everyone grew up watching cartoons where werewolves looked like upright wolfmen wearing ragged clothes and Finally we have an author who gave us that instead of a human who becomes a regular wolf, so I was immediately onboard!
Add to that the fact that the heroine is used as werewolf bait tied up in a cave and you have my full attention!
I think this might be better termed fantasy romance than the usual paranormal romance. There's a lot of world building here, lots of descriptions and the beginning of the book has a rather large glossary, there's also a map. The story,after the steamy meeting of our characters, becomes a huge sweeping fantasy quest, full of tons of odd creatures, dangerous travel and a mighty enemy on their tail. I really enjoyed that unlike a lot of PNR, this book takes place a lot in nature and the mountains, I think fantasy beings should be in their fantasy environment, so I appreciated that here.
However I also think I wasn't expecting just how much questing would be going on and thought it'd be more on the romance side. There are a few steamy scenes,well spaced throughout and it was my first book with knotting, which was really exciting and hot. But I did get a little frustrated with all their travels and other characters that kept arriving,so I did do some skimming. The characters were likable but I just didn't find that I became very attached to them.
The writing is good, particularly the descriptions of nature and the surroundings were very vivid and beautiful.
It's a good solid fantasy,but be aware it's got a lot more going on and a lot more characters than a typical book of the genre,if you want a fast smutty werewolf read,this isn't it. But if you love The Last Unicorn or Lord of the Rings and high fantasy with epic quests, battles and beasts, you'll love this!
First of all, I think everyone grew up watching cartoons where werewolves looked like upright wolfmen wearing ragged clothes and Finally we have an author who gave us that instead of a human who becomes a regular wolf, so I was immediately onboard!
Add to that the fact that the heroine is used as werewolf bait tied up in a cave and you have my full attention!
I think this might be better termed fantasy romance than the usual paranormal romance. There's a lot of world building here, lots of descriptions and the beginning of the book has a rather large glossary, there's also a map. The story,after the steamy meeting of our characters, becomes a huge sweeping fantasy quest, full of tons of odd creatures, dangerous travel and a mighty enemy on their tail. I really enjoyed that unlike a lot of PNR, this book takes place a lot in nature and the mountains, I think fantasy beings should be in their fantasy environment, so I appreciated that here.
However I also think I wasn't expecting just how much questing would be going on and thought it'd be more on the romance side. There are a few steamy scenes,well spaced throughout and it was my first book with knotting, which was really exciting and hot. But I did get a little frustrated with all their travels and other characters that kept arriving,so I did do some skimming. The characters were likable but I just didn't find that I became very attached to them.
The writing is good, particularly the descriptions of nature and the surroundings were very vivid and beautiful.
It's a good solid fantasy,but be aware it's got a lot more going on and a lot more characters than a typical book of the genre,if you want a fast smutty werewolf read,this isn't it. But if you love The Last Unicorn or Lord of the Rings and high fantasy with epic quests, battles and beasts, you'll love this!
March 7, 2023
Written by Jocelyn Montana, this book follows Brony, a woman who is kidnapped and dragged into a world of werewolves and monsters, and Hans, the werewolf that protects everyone else from those monsters.
I really loved this book, THOUGH IT OPENS WITH VERY ADULT SPICEY TIMES AND YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED.
But, seriously, super enjoyed this book. Hans and Brony get to know each other while trying to save themselves and everyone around them, and unraveling old, old mysteries.
This is the start of a series, with the second book already release.
One big note, I read this on Amazon Kindle, so the plot was interesting but there were points where the writing wasn't the best. But I really enjoyed the characters and plot.
I really loved this book, THOUGH IT OPENS WITH VERY ADULT SPICEY TIMES AND YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED.
But, seriously, super enjoyed this book. Hans and Brony get to know each other while trying to save themselves and everyone around them, and unraveling old, old mysteries.
This is the start of a series, with the second book already release.
One big note, I read this on Amazon Kindle, so the plot was interesting but there were points where the writing wasn't the best. But I really enjoyed the characters and plot.
July 27, 2022
This was a fab monster romance by a new-to-me author. In fact, I did receive an arc of it but have also purchased it for re-reading fun ;) This well written story had great world building and fascinating characters. Action, suspense, steamy chemistry and love unfolded at a great pace and really had me rooting for them. I enjoyed this story of good vs. evil and look forward to the next book :D
November 22, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for giving me the opportunity to read this eARC for an honest review.
Fate Awakened was a great fantasy read with;
Good characters and world building, dual POV, grumpy/sunshine, shifters, cockatrice, incubus, magicwielders, werewolves, necromancer, knotting and so much more!
I loved Hans and Briony, the two MC’s. The story itself was cool and charming, and had a lot of fantasy creatures which was fun to read about. The phasing of the story was also nice (not too slow).
Rating 4 stars.
Fate Awakened was a great fantasy read with;
Good characters and world building, dual POV, grumpy/sunshine, shifters, cockatrice, incubus, magicwielders, werewolves, necromancer, knotting and so much more!
I loved Hans and Briony, the two MC’s. The story itself was cool and charming, and had a lot of fantasy creatures which was fun to read about. The phasing of the story was also nice (not too slow).
Rating 4 stars.
October 10, 2022
I thought that this book was OK. It didn’t light me on fire. But I strongly suspect that it will some people, depending on what you’re looking for in a monster romance. The writing and editing is mechanically fine. The plot holds together and the characters are likeable enough. So, it all just comes down to personal preference. And this is where I was left to just kind of shrug.
Sure, Hans is a monster who doesn’t take human form. But he feels awfully human-like. This is exacerbated by just how colloquial a lot of the dialogue is. I was often yanked out of the narrative by some particular turn of phrase that just felt a little too normal to be coming out of the mouth of a non-human who presumably wasn’t socialized in modern America.
Similarly, despite being a planet with two suns, two moons, and fantasy creatures, surprisingly recognizable things would pop up—like Baba Yaga. I mean sure, all the monsters were recognizable ones. Though sometimes called something different, there were elves, shifters, goblins, trolls, etc. But when mythological characters show up by name, I’m left wondering if this is a different world or a far future post-apocalyptic Earth. Either is fine. But the fact that I’ve finished the book and can’t tell you isn’t. In the end, it just felt inconsistent.
Mostly though, I found that I was just bored with a lot of it. There’s an interesting fight to save the world going on. But it feels like set dressing to the romance. And, as sweet as that romance is, it wasn’t enough to keep me interested for 330 pages.
So, all in all, I’ll call this a middle of the road read for me, while acknowledging that it’ll float someone’s boat for sure.
Sure, Hans is a monster who doesn’t take human form. But he feels awfully human-like. This is exacerbated by just how colloquial a lot of the dialogue is. I was often yanked out of the narrative by some particular turn of phrase that just felt a little too normal to be coming out of the mouth of a non-human who presumably wasn’t socialized in modern America.
Similarly, despite being a planet with two suns, two moons, and fantasy creatures, surprisingly recognizable things would pop up—like Baba Yaga. I mean sure, all the monsters were recognizable ones. Though sometimes called something different, there were elves, shifters, goblins, trolls, etc. But when mythological characters show up by name, I’m left wondering if this is a different world or a far future post-apocalyptic Earth. Either is fine. But the fact that I’ve finished the book and can’t tell you isn’t. In the end, it just felt inconsistent.
Mostly though, I found that I was just bored with a lot of it. There’s an interesting fight to save the world going on. But it feels like set dressing to the romance. And, as sweet as that romance is, it wasn’t enough to keep me interested for 330 pages.
So, all in all, I’ll call this a middle of the road read for me, while acknowledging that it’ll float someone’s boat for sure.
July 26, 2022
Came for the knotting. Stayed for the epic adventure.
This book seriously caught me off guard with how into the plot I got when I was just expecting another knotty (get it, naughty/knotty?!) romance. I thought it would be another wham-bam-thankyouma'am but I'll admit I'm very happy I was wrong. There are unexpected twists and turns and new characters that I hope get their own story. Highly recommend to anyone into shifter-adventure romances.
This book seriously caught me off guard with how into the plot I got when I was just expecting another knotty (get it, naughty/knotty?!) romance. I thought it would be another wham-bam-thankyouma'am but I'll admit I'm very happy I was wrong. There are unexpected twists and turns and new characters that I hope get their own story. Highly recommend to anyone into shifter-adventure romances.
December 10, 2022
seems counterproductive to write a book about a werewolf and then make him not a werewolf anymore
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 30, 2023
3.5 stars
I really did like this book and would have rounded up except for one thing. As the story progressed I started getting annoyed at how Hans continued to act like he was courting Briony despite adamantly refusing to even entertain the idea of taking her as a mate. Now, I know that Briony went into things knowing how it would all end, but it was still really frustrating to me.
I had the read the prequel(?) / short story of this series in Monsters Before Men: A Beastly Paranormal Romance Anthology and I really liked it. I was actually really hoping that this book would have something to do with the main characters there. Unfortunately, it had absolutely nothing to do with it at all. So that was a little disappointing. But it didn't detract from this story.
The world created here is kind of neat. I like the different worlds thing and all the different races. A long time ago there was this huge war and the the Vulk king at the time made a choice that would forever affect his entire race. His decision cost his people their soul in exchange for making them stronger. It is the Vulk's duty to protect that realm, but that war all but wiped them out and now there are only 10. Hans is an alpha that should be the alpha, but after the loss of his brother he has chosen to live his life in solitude. Until one day when he was following the scent of magic and comes across a human female strapped to a bench who he just can't resist.
Briony has had a hard life and has very little. Not from the village where she lives, she has nothing to offer to a possible husband and is often belittled. When what appears to be two royal guards show up for her, she goes willingly thinking the king has heard of her healing creams. It doesn't take long for her to realize that the ones that have taken are not royal guards...and not even human. Forced to drink who knows what, and strapped down to become a distraction for the Vulk, Briony is unable to fight back or escape. But when Hans finds her, escape is the last thought on her mind.
Maybe because of what she was forced to drink, these two cannot resist each other. And after a bought of mindless sex, they each end up branded with a rune that binds them together and gives them a choice of how things end. But before any of that, the baddie shows up and of course there's a fight. The two of them manage to drive her back and escape, but not without damage. From there, it's these two and another Vulk traveling the land in order to figure out the rune, find a cure for Hans, and prevent an ancient evil from being brought back. I especially liked their time with the Vae. The inclusion of Baba Yaga surprised me a bit, and she had a much better personality than other books I've read with her in them. And I'm hoping we get more of the god Seth in the future because he was just fun. Along the way we learn a lot about Vulk history and that Briony even has her own magic.
We eventually get the big fight against the baddie and the ancient evil. I thought it was a pretty good fight overall and was believable enough. It was great to see Hans finally accept that he is the pack Alpha and to act like it. When it's all over, the couple is out of time and Hans has to make a choice. Fortunately, a different choice he has made gives him the opportunity to change things. And this time, the choice is easy to make. He even makes a new "friend"....one I also hope to get more of going forward.
I really did like this book and would have rounded up except for one thing. As the story progressed I started getting annoyed at how Hans continued to act like he was courting Briony despite adamantly refusing to even entertain the idea of taking her as a mate. Now, I know that Briony went into things knowing how it would all end, but it was still really frustrating to me.
I had the read the prequel(?) / short story of this series in Monsters Before Men: A Beastly Paranormal Romance Anthology and I really liked it. I was actually really hoping that this book would have something to do with the main characters there. Unfortunately, it had absolutely nothing to do with it at all. So that was a little disappointing. But it didn't detract from this story.
The world created here is kind of neat. I like the different worlds thing and all the different races. A long time ago there was this huge war and the the Vulk king at the time made a choice that would forever affect his entire race. His decision cost his people their soul in exchange for making them stronger. It is the Vulk's duty to protect that realm, but that war all but wiped them out and now there are only 10. Hans is an alpha that should be the alpha, but after the loss of his brother he has chosen to live his life in solitude. Until one day when he was following the scent of magic and comes across a human female strapped to a bench who he just can't resist.
Briony has had a hard life and has very little. Not from the village where she lives, she has nothing to offer to a possible husband and is often belittled. When what appears to be two royal guards show up for her, she goes willingly thinking the king has heard of her healing creams. It doesn't take long for her to realize that the ones that have taken are not royal guards...and not even human. Forced to drink who knows what, and strapped down to become a distraction for the Vulk, Briony is unable to fight back or escape. But when Hans finds her, escape is the last thought on her mind.
Maybe because of what she was forced to drink, these two cannot resist each other. And after a bought of mindless sex, they each end up branded with a rune that binds them together and gives them a choice of how things end. But before any of that, the baddie shows up and of course there's a fight. The two of them manage to drive her back and escape, but not without damage. From there, it's these two and another Vulk traveling the land in order to figure out the rune, find a cure for Hans, and prevent an ancient evil from being brought back. I especially liked their time with the Vae. The inclusion of Baba Yaga surprised me a bit, and she had a much better personality than other books I've read with her in them. And I'm hoping we get more of the god Seth in the future because he was just fun. Along the way we learn a lot about Vulk history and that Briony even has her own magic.
We eventually get the big fight against the baddie and the ancient evil. I thought it was a pretty good fight overall and was believable enough. It was great to see Hans finally accept that he is the pack Alpha and to act like it. When it's all over, the couple is out of time and Hans has to make a choice. Fortunately, a different choice he has made gives him the opportunity to change things. And this time, the choice is easy to make. He even makes a new "friend"....one I also hope to get more of going forward.
August 3, 2022
What an exciting and extraordinary masterpiece! Fate Awakened is an addicting and mesmerizing introduction to what promises to be a wickedly unforgettable and decadently seductive series. I am dying for more of this marvelous world and its brilliant characters. They have stolen my heart, and I truly don't want it back if I can enjoy and savor their stories.
Briony has carved out a small life for herself. Surrounded by indifference and prejudice, she is fighting for some measure of happiness. Forced to play a dangerous part in a deadly plan, she must use her wits and hold onto her heart because what comes next is beyond her wildest imaginings. Hans is on the hunt when he finds the unthinkable. The temptation is beyond any control he has even as a seasoned warrior. It calls to his very soul and leaves him struggling as to his next move. Can these two work together for the safety of their world, or will they lose it all including their hearts due to stubborn headstrong habits?
Not knowing what to expect, I was honestly blown away by this incredible adventure! This rich and diverse world with its intriguing and stunning characters have left it's mark on my heart, and I will treasure it for a very long time to come. Briony and Hans are out of this world wonderful and so insanely opposites that I couldn't put this book down. It snagged my attention and kept me glued to my chair as I explored and treasures every step of this journey.
Jocelyn Montana has won my loyalty as a reader, and I truly can't wait to see what she creates next. Beyond a doubt it will be marvelous and it will be a living work of art. She is without a doubt an extremely gifted author who loves giving of herself to others. I am still marvekong over this magnificent story that she has created so lovingly and magnificently. Don't walk but run to pickup this book and enjoy it!
Briony has carved out a small life for herself. Surrounded by indifference and prejudice, she is fighting for some measure of happiness. Forced to play a dangerous part in a deadly plan, she must use her wits and hold onto her heart because what comes next is beyond her wildest imaginings. Hans is on the hunt when he finds the unthinkable. The temptation is beyond any control he has even as a seasoned warrior. It calls to his very soul and leaves him struggling as to his next move. Can these two work together for the safety of their world, or will they lose it all including their hearts due to stubborn headstrong habits?
Not knowing what to expect, I was honestly blown away by this incredible adventure! This rich and diverse world with its intriguing and stunning characters have left it's mark on my heart, and I will treasure it for a very long time to come. Briony and Hans are out of this world wonderful and so insanely opposites that I couldn't put this book down. It snagged my attention and kept me glued to my chair as I explored and treasures every step of this journey.
Jocelyn Montana has won my loyalty as a reader, and I truly can't wait to see what she creates next. Beyond a doubt it will be marvelous and it will be a living work of art. She is without a doubt an extremely gifted author who loves giving of herself to others. I am still marvekong over this magnificent story that she has created so lovingly and magnificently. Don't walk but run to pickup this book and enjoy it!
September 15, 2022
Briony is idling. Working as a medical assistant to stash money so she can leave this tiny town. The people aren't bad, it's just her aunt lives her (who she hates for good reason) and the amorous butcher doesn't understand no. There's also the pesky issue of how she actually heals people. Imagine her surprise when 2 weirdos steal her off her tavern stool, tie her up and make her take some unknown medicine. And then a vulk walks in...
Spoilers ahead.
While I'm not an fan of drugged dub-con, she did admit to thinking he was attractive aside from the drug. Anything less than a clear, sober, uncoerced yes is a no. I'm just saying she wasn't traumatized because he was her mate before she realized what mates meant. She didn't feel her agency was stolen and admitted the timeline for intimacy was moved up but was not against her will. But, trigger warnings for those that would rather skip that. There were a lot of interesting things I did enjoy about this story. The world building was excellent, except Durk (or whatever it was Kole said) isn't in the index in the front. I can't tell from context if it was a line of beings or rule of a particular area. But all the characters and other beings are fleshed out well. There was a plot with several sub plots entwined. The characters developed and grew. The world was detailed without info dump descriptions. And it engaged the readers and kept them looking for the next line. I'm curious to see where the rest of the vulk find mates as Briony (unless more pop up) was the last known of her kind. There's another race that vulk can father children with but only 1 race were called mates. And I'm really curious to see if vulk can father daughters.
Spoilers ahead.
While I'm not an fan of drugged dub-con, she did admit to thinking he was attractive aside from the drug. Anything less than a clear, sober, uncoerced yes is a no. I'm just saying she wasn't traumatized because he was her mate before she realized what mates meant. She didn't feel her agency was stolen and admitted the timeline for intimacy was moved up but was not against her will. But, trigger warnings for those that would rather skip that. There were a lot of interesting things I did enjoy about this story. The world building was excellent, except Durk (or whatever it was Kole said) isn't in the index in the front. I can't tell from context if it was a line of beings or rule of a particular area. But all the characters and other beings are fleshed out well. There was a plot with several sub plots entwined. The characters developed and grew. The world was detailed without info dump descriptions. And it engaged the readers and kept them looking for the next line. I'm curious to see where the rest of the vulk find mates as Briony (unless more pop up) was the last known of her kind. There's another race that vulk can father children with but only 1 race were called mates. And I'm really curious to see if vulk can father daughters.
August 2, 2022
With so many contemporary/urban monster romances around, I’m always soooo excited to find one that’s set in an actual fantasy world. And Fate Awakened did not disappoint.
Briony is a doctor’s apprentice, spending a night out, drinking the tavern, when she is suddenly stolen away to be used as bait to capture a werewolf. Briony’s first thought is to do anything to survive, but when her scent draws said werewolf, who is almost made of shadow itself,… it becomes an entirely different story.
I was so very pleasantly surprised at how scorching hot the first steam scene in the cave is. Montana did not hold back and it made me so excited to see what was going to happen next if this was Briony and Hans’s first interaction.
However, with such a hot start to the book, the middle of the book did struggle a little bit to match the original pace, but there was enough action and relationship building between other characters to keep up attention (granted, it was going to be really, really hard to beat how good that cave scene was). Also, that Hans returns to his human form at the end of the book may appeal to some readers, but I’m a monster lover through and through so I was hoping for more Beastly Hans. This is entirely personal taste.
Overall, a solid 3 star fantasy monster romance, but I’m gonna bump it up a star for 1) that it’s actually set in a fantasy world, and 2) how good the cave scene was. No further questions.
*I received an eARC from BooksGoSocial & NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*
Briony is a doctor’s apprentice, spending a night out, drinking the tavern, when she is suddenly stolen away to be used as bait to capture a werewolf. Briony’s first thought is to do anything to survive, but when her scent draws said werewolf, who is almost made of shadow itself,… it becomes an entirely different story.
I was so very pleasantly surprised at how scorching hot the first steam scene in the cave is. Montana did not hold back and it made me so excited to see what was going to happen next if this was Briony and Hans’s first interaction.
However, with such a hot start to the book, the middle of the book did struggle a little bit to match the original pace, but there was enough action and relationship building between other characters to keep up attention (granted, it was going to be really, really hard to beat how good that cave scene was). Also, that Hans returns to his human form at the end of the book may appeal to some readers, but I’m a monster lover through and through so I was hoping for more Beastly Hans. This is entirely personal taste.
Overall, a solid 3 star fantasy monster romance, but I’m gonna bump it up a star for 1) that it’s actually set in a fantasy world, and 2) how good the cave scene was. No further questions.
*I received an eARC from BooksGoSocial & NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*
October 12, 2022
Book Review…Fate Awakened by Jocelyn Montana
A MONSTER TO EVERYONE BUT HER …Hans lives only for vengeance. No more Pack. No friends. Yet when he meets a dark-haired beauty, desire tears through him and changes everything. But werewolves never take mates, and to claim her would doom him.
AN ORDINARY HUMAN TO EVERYONE BUT HIM …One moment Briony’s eating in the tavern, and the next a necromancer has her tied up in a cave as bait for a werewolf. She needs to escape. Now. Except when the werewolf arrives and she gets her chance, she doesn’t run. And with each day that passes, every gentle touch, every silky purr, the werewolf claws his way into her heart.
BOUND TOGETHER AGAINST AN ANCIENT EVIL …They have one month to work together to take down a sorceress & to decide to remain together. Everyone in Briony’s life has left her. Secrets in Hans’s past prevent him from making Briony his. They may save the world, but will they save each other?
This is a quick entertaining read with plentyof passion and heat! I liked this one! The characters were fun, interesting and they stood out. Briony and Hans's are the definition of opposites attract but it made for a good story seeing them come together and overcome their own personal problems. The details of the fantasy world and the magical creatures were vivid and I really really liked this world! Hopefully there will be some more! Thank you Rockstar Book Tours and Jocelyn Montana for sharing this book with me!
A MONSTER TO EVERYONE BUT HER …Hans lives only for vengeance. No more Pack. No friends. Yet when he meets a dark-haired beauty, desire tears through him and changes everything. But werewolves never take mates, and to claim her would doom him.
AN ORDINARY HUMAN TO EVERYONE BUT HIM …One moment Briony’s eating in the tavern, and the next a necromancer has her tied up in a cave as bait for a werewolf. She needs to escape. Now. Except when the werewolf arrives and she gets her chance, she doesn’t run. And with each day that passes, every gentle touch, every silky purr, the werewolf claws his way into her heart.
BOUND TOGETHER AGAINST AN ANCIENT EVIL …They have one month to work together to take down a sorceress & to decide to remain together. Everyone in Briony’s life has left her. Secrets in Hans’s past prevent him from making Briony his. They may save the world, but will they save each other?
This is a quick entertaining read with plentyof passion and heat! I liked this one! The characters were fun, interesting and they stood out. Briony and Hans's are the definition of opposites attract but it made for a good story seeing them come together and overcome their own personal problems. The details of the fantasy world and the magical creatures were vivid and I really really liked this world! Hopefully there will be some more! Thank you Rockstar Book Tours and Jocelyn Montana for sharing this book with me!
November 27, 2022
This is a phenomenal story and I found myself annoyed every time I had to put this book down; "adulting" was seriously a struggle for me while reading this! Just a forewarning because the talented Jocelyn Montana will easily capture your imagination with this smart and well developed romantic tale.
Our hero, Hans Volak is a vulk; a wolf-like being with enhanced strength and healing. Vulks dedicate their lives to killing spawn (think evil beings from another realm). For 186yrs he has fought to keep the world safe. Hans enjoys his solitude and carries a darkness within him fueled by fury and grief.
Our brave heroine, Briony Pritel, is a survivor. She is considered an outsider in her human village. When a disguised ogre-like-creature comes for her its no surprise when she is quickly handed over by her own townspeople. She then becomes an unwilling pawn in villainous schemes to defeat Hans.
Hans and Briony's relationship is a slow burn. Hans is grumpy and often snarling but has a soft spot for the heroine. I really enjoyed their flirtatious banter. But sadly vulks don't take mates. As Briony tries to guard her heart and Hans tries to understand the possessive emotions Briony stirs within him, they too must work together to vanquish the enemy. There are guarded secrets to be told, deadly battles to win, hexs to break, and a mystery to be solved before Hans and Briony achieve their HEA. You will LOVE every minute of this adventure!!
Fate Awakened by Jocelyn Montana is a new all-time favorite for me! I will eagerly be awaiting the next book in this series. Highly recommended!!
Dual POV
Vivid and poetic world building
Spicy fated-mates-monster-romance with lots of licking, knotting, bitting, a breeding bench and a primal chase.
No virgins, no cheating, no sharing or ow/om drama
Violence - battle/war
Heroine was given a desire inducing drug by the enemy to distract the hero
Map/Glossary of Terms/Epilogue
Our hero, Hans Volak is a vulk; a wolf-like being with enhanced strength and healing. Vulks dedicate their lives to killing spawn (think evil beings from another realm). For 186yrs he has fought to keep the world safe. Hans enjoys his solitude and carries a darkness within him fueled by fury and grief.
Our brave heroine, Briony Pritel, is a survivor. She is considered an outsider in her human village. When a disguised ogre-like-creature comes for her its no surprise when she is quickly handed over by her own townspeople. She then becomes an unwilling pawn in villainous schemes to defeat Hans.
Hans and Briony's relationship is a slow burn. Hans is grumpy and often snarling but has a soft spot for the heroine. I really enjoyed their flirtatious banter. But sadly vulks don't take mates. As Briony tries to guard her heart and Hans tries to understand the possessive emotions Briony stirs within him, they too must work together to vanquish the enemy. There are guarded secrets to be told, deadly battles to win, hexs to break, and a mystery to be solved before Hans and Briony achieve their HEA. You will LOVE every minute of this adventure!!
Fate Awakened by Jocelyn Montana is a new all-time favorite for me! I will eagerly be awaiting the next book in this series. Highly recommended!!
Dual POV
Vivid and poetic world building
Spicy fated-mates-monster-romance with lots of licking, knotting, bitting, a breeding bench and a primal chase.
No virgins, no cheating, no sharing or ow/om drama
Violence - battle/war
Heroine was given a desire inducing drug by the enemy to distract the hero
Map/Glossary of Terms/Epilogue
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