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Shifter Nation: Marked Over Forty #1
Forbidden Midlife Mate
My new boss awakened something deep inside me,
And it’s not just another hot flash.
When my husband ran off with our saloon’s hostess, I left Montana, joining my college-aged son in Oregon. Eugene’s a far cry from my little hometown, But I did my best to blend in with the locals, And tried heading out for a jog. I thought I saw a hippie gathering deep into the trail—Until they changed into a pack of wolves. I screamed and ran for my life, But my clumsy ass tripped and blacked out. Now I’m waking up on a handsome stranger’s couch, With zero recollection of what I’d seen.
Rex is intimidating and rough around the edges, But something about him sets me on fire. Things get even hotter when he ends up being my boss. Too bad Rex is the only one who wants me around. My coworkers at the rock club have it in for me, And when they threaten me after work one night, A nightmare comes to life before my very eyes. In mere seconds, they shift from men to snarling wolves, But I realize that nightmare is just beginning When I look down at my trembling hands And see snow-white paws instead.
Steamy shifter love scenes and an HEA inside! No cheating or cliffhanger in this standalone romance. Readers 18+.
And it’s not just another hot flash.
When my husband ran off with our saloon’s hostess, I left Montana, joining my college-aged son in Oregon. Eugene’s a far cry from my little hometown, But I did my best to blend in with the locals, And tried heading out for a jog. I thought I saw a hippie gathering deep into the trail—Until they changed into a pack of wolves. I screamed and ran for my life, But my clumsy ass tripped and blacked out. Now I’m waking up on a handsome stranger’s couch, With zero recollection of what I’d seen.
Rex is intimidating and rough around the edges, But something about him sets me on fire. Things get even hotter when he ends up being my boss. Too bad Rex is the only one who wants me around. My coworkers at the rock club have it in for me, And when they threaten me after work one night, A nightmare comes to life before my very eyes. In mere seconds, they shift from men to snarling wolves, But I realize that nightmare is just beginning When I look down at my trembling hands And see snow-white paws instead.
Steamy shifter love scenes and an HEA inside! No cheating or cliffhanger in this standalone romance. Readers 18+.
Kindle Edition
First published January 5, 2023
1266 people are currently reading
322 people want to read
About the author
Meg Ripley
171 books457 followersGrab a free copy of Alpha's Midlife Baby, the prequel to the Fated Over Forty series, when you sign up for Meg's newsletter ==> https://www.authormegripley.com
Meg Ripley is an author of steamy shifter romances. A Seattle native who’s relocated to New England, she can often be found whipping up her next tale curled up in a local coffee house with a cappuccino and her laptop.
Meg Ripley is an author of steamy shifter romances. A Seattle native who’s relocated to New England, she can often be found whipping up her next tale curled up in a local coffee house with a cappuccino and her laptop.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
January 11, 2023
Lori moves closer to her son who is now in college after getting a divorce from her husband. She could not stay where she was in a small town, where everyone knew her business and felt like they were talking about her.
She starts a new fitness routine and while out for a jog ends up seeing something she shouldn't when a pack of shifters are meeting and she sees them change. After falling while running away from them, she has her memory wiped by the sister of the Alpha.
Rex is the Alpha of his wolf pack, he allows his sister to wipe Lori's memory as he doesn't think she is a threat, even though his gamma disagrees with him. However, even though he drops Lori off after she awakens and he tries to forget about her, he cant. He has been waiting for his mate for years and his mother always foretold that his mate would be someone special, but she couldn't mean a human could she.
Lori needs a job and she ends up in Rex's bar, she has experience from running her own bar so he ends up offering her a job thinking that it will help keep an eye on her. But this only ends up causing trouble within his pack, to the point where his gamma ends up attacking them once they leave the bar one night. However, its only then that Lori realises that she is actually a wolf shifter herself when she shifts to help Rex in the fight. But is Lori prepared for what this will mean for her life going forward.
I enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
She starts a new fitness routine and while out for a jog ends up seeing something she shouldn't when a pack of shifters are meeting and she sees them change. After falling while running away from them, she has her memory wiped by the sister of the Alpha.
Rex is the Alpha of his wolf pack, he allows his sister to wipe Lori's memory as he doesn't think she is a threat, even though his gamma disagrees with him. However, even though he drops Lori off after she awakens and he tries to forget about her, he cant. He has been waiting for his mate for years and his mother always foretold that his mate would be someone special, but she couldn't mean a human could she.
Lori needs a job and she ends up in Rex's bar, she has experience from running her own bar so he ends up offering her a job thinking that it will help keep an eye on her. But this only ends up causing trouble within his pack, to the point where his gamma ends up attacking them once they leave the bar one night. However, its only then that Lori realises that she is actually a wolf shifter herself when she shifts to help Rex in the fight. But is Lori prepared for what this will mean for her life going forward.
I enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 10, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️, 🌶️🌶️ At 234 pages, this is a quick read. I liked the story and the characters enough to wish the book was longer so more details could be brought out about Maddy and Selena and what powers they may possibly possess. There’s an HEA.
March 12, 2024
Great story
I was so excited to find a shifter series for women in their forties. I loved this story. It was a steady pace and continued with cute things I could relate too as well as some twists I enjoyed! I love the added magical elements and the HEA! I will be reading the next book as I love this pack and the world the author has created!!!
I was so excited to find a shifter series for women in their forties. I loved this story. It was a steady pace and continued with cute things I could relate too as well as some twists I enjoyed! I love the added magical elements and the HEA! I will be reading the next book as I love this pack and the world the author has created!!!
January 15, 2023
This was a very enjoyable book and it was easy to relate to when your ex cheats and leaves you wondering what to do now well you up and move away and start over. Lori is devastated after her husband up an runs away with the Saloon’s hostess and now not knowing what to do she up and moves from Montana to Eugene Oregon where her son Conner is attending college. Now she’s looking for work and starts her day with a jog and notices a group gathering and when they turn into wolves she screams and runs but trips over and blacks out. Now she wakes up on a sexy man’s couch who she learns is called Rex but she is shocked by her attraction and desire for the man she just meet. Now she turns up at the Rock club to ask about a job and straight away Rex gives her one but she feels that not everyone likes her but doesn’t know why but Rex does and this puts her at ease. There is danger, drama, action, fear, curiosity, magic, wolves, surprises, mates and love are just a few things going on inside this book that has you turning the pages want to find out what happens.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 6, 2023
Rated
3 Stars: ⭐⭐⭐
Kindle Unlimited Read
3 Stars: ⭐⭐⭐
Kindle Unlimited Read
October 5, 2025
What a breath of fresh air to have an FMC over 40. She actually took a few days to think about critical life decisions, not just jumping in head first while yelling "we're mates, that's good enough for me".
April 13, 2024
An enjoyable read with Shifters and mates, and trouble around every corner. Nothing will keep these mates apart except miscommunication.
The pages kept turning because I wanted to know what happened.
These books are quick and easy reads.
Keeping a secret has never been so big
The pages kept turning because I wanted to know what happened.
These books are quick and easy reads.
Keeping a secret has never been so big
September 24, 2025
First of all, this did not get off to a promising start for me. First the cliche woman running and tripping over a root in the ground cliche, with added knocking herself out. Droll. Then an alpha who doesn’t know the signs of a mate pull, doesn’t know why his wolf is going crazy or why he is super drawn to the unknown woman. Droll x 2. At least there’s some redemption in him finally considering it, just dismissing it due to belief mates can’t be human.
After trip, fall and knocked out, Lori gains consciousness but can’t remember where she lives, she just moved. She mentions her ID being in her car, but Rex doesn’t take her back to the park where it would be parked so she can get it? Really? He takes her towards home once she recalls what street she lives on instead, not thought whatsoever taking her back to her car for that. At this point, I’m two chapters in and have rolled my eyes at least four times, not good but I pressed on.
Then there’s Rex’s third in command, Dave. One incident and he’s questioning his alpha? Says the most ridiculous thing about Lori, not once realizing the stupidity of his thinking, which didn’t match up to anything that happened. Dave aggressively starts to go towards the alpha’s sister, who points out his stupidity thinking, even saying how she’s lucky she is the alpha’s sister and said Alpha is standing right there and has to step in between? His third in command was going to assault the alpha’s sister! Again he questions his Alpha, in Rex’s own business, and making all these assumptions. Dave makes more statements that show disloyalty, including indicating his Alpha does not know what he’s doing by saying I’m not so sure about that when the alpha informs he knows what he’s doing. Why is he third in command? I’m seeing cliché issue brewing. Only made it as far as chapter 4 at this point. It makes ZERO sense the Dave wound be the alpha’s third in command. ZERO.
Rex is so concerned about his tryst with Lori and very aware of what would be thought about it, yet he leaves scent evidence of it where his huge trouble making third in command would come across it? Really? And Dave is overwritten, there’s no world building supporting his off the bat attitude and Rex doesn’t take any real action towards Dave’s continued disrespect! And knows Dave would be causing dissension within the pack that he’s supposed to be a guardian for and does nothing?
And I saw Lori from the very beginning with the scene with the raven. I saw Connor upon his first introduction. So neither were surprises to me. There was no wondering, no guessing, just knew.
That leaves the why. There is never any information as to why. Lori is FORTY-EIGHT! Why is there not an explanation for why it was this long coming out.
I found the world building and the relationship building both not really there.
I have no desire to read the next book and there’s a total of 12 books in this series?! May or may not read the next book, most likely will be one read due to not having something else to read.
After trip, fall and knocked out, Lori gains consciousness but can’t remember where she lives, she just moved. She mentions her ID being in her car, but Rex doesn’t take her back to the park where it would be parked so she can get it? Really? He takes her towards home once she recalls what street she lives on instead, not thought whatsoever taking her back to her car for that. At this point, I’m two chapters in and have rolled my eyes at least four times, not good but I pressed on.
Then there’s Rex’s third in command, Dave. One incident and he’s questioning his alpha? Says the most ridiculous thing about Lori, not once realizing the stupidity of his thinking, which didn’t match up to anything that happened. Dave aggressively starts to go towards the alpha’s sister, who points out his stupidity thinking, even saying how she’s lucky she is the alpha’s sister and said Alpha is standing right there and has to step in between? His third in command was going to assault the alpha’s sister! Again he questions his Alpha, in Rex’s own business, and making all these assumptions. Dave makes more statements that show disloyalty, including indicating his Alpha does not know what he’s doing by saying I’m not so sure about that when the alpha informs he knows what he’s doing. Why is he third in command? I’m seeing cliché issue brewing. Only made it as far as chapter 4 at this point. It makes ZERO sense the Dave wound be the alpha’s third in command. ZERO.
Rex is so concerned about his tryst with Lori and very aware of what would be thought about it, yet he leaves scent evidence of it where his huge trouble making third in command would come across it? Really? And Dave is overwritten, there’s no world building supporting his off the bat attitude and Rex doesn’t take any real action towards Dave’s continued disrespect! And knows Dave would be causing dissension within the pack that he’s supposed to be a guardian for and does nothing?
And I saw Lori from the very beginning with the scene with the raven. I saw Connor upon his first introduction. So neither were surprises to me. There was no wondering, no guessing, just knew.
That leaves the why. There is never any information as to why. Lori is FORTY-EIGHT! Why is there not an explanation for why it was this long coming out.
I found the world building and the relationship building both not really there.
I have no desire to read the next book and there’s a total of 12 books in this series?! May or may not read the next book, most likely will be one read due to not having something else to read.
January 7, 2023
A Wild Beginning !! . . .
Recently moved to Eugene, Lori Jensen had gone out for a jog, still having no luck figuring out how to use the fancy fitness tracker on her wrist. Thinking about the bar she used to own and run before her husband ran off with the hostess, Lori was amazed that she had covered over a mile! A raven flew past her and landed. It seemed to be trying to communicate, so Lori began to follow it as it flew from tree-to-tree. The path narrowed, the trees grew closer, and she was alone, except for the raven who flew back to her and made a loud Caw of impatience. At the top of a hill, she looked down and saw 20 people below. As a wolf joined them, another turned into a wolf as well! Unfortunately she screamed and drew their attention to her. She ran, tripped on a root, and fell unconscious.
When she opened her eyes, a handsome man looked down at her. His voice was gentle, and she passed out again. Lori had been taken to Alpha shifter Rex and his sister, Dawn. Dean, the gamma, paced nervously, wanting them to get rid of the human who could bring danger to them. But Dawn was mixing something magical to make her forget. Rex’s wolf was inexplicably restless. When he woke Lori, he felt a sizzle as he touched her to help her sit up. Then he drove her to her apartment. As he drove away, his wolf was still going crazy trying to tell him something.
Looking for a job, Lori walked into a bar since she was expert at that kind of work. Rex was the owner so he finally agreed to hire her. Despite her perfect performance with customers, supplies, and drinks, Dean (a bartender) wants her out of there. When Dean interrupted her off-hours jogging workout, he told her he wanted her gone from the bar. He told her to quit. And if she wouldn’t, there would be consequences. A few nights later, as she and Rex left the bar with Lori feeling feverish and weak, Dean and two others came out of the shadows. Dean shifted and attacked Lori! Rex was forced to shift to fight off Dean as Randy and Adam circled Lori. Dean sent the two to take down Rex. Instead, Rex disabled both of them. When Dean challenged Rex, as he had always intended, Rex was distracted hearing Lori’s thoughts enter his wolf’s mind! Would the distraction prove fatal to Rex? And what was happening to Lori?
Recently moved to Eugene, Lori Jensen had gone out for a jog, still having no luck figuring out how to use the fancy fitness tracker on her wrist. Thinking about the bar she used to own and run before her husband ran off with the hostess, Lori was amazed that she had covered over a mile! A raven flew past her and landed. It seemed to be trying to communicate, so Lori began to follow it as it flew from tree-to-tree. The path narrowed, the trees grew closer, and she was alone, except for the raven who flew back to her and made a loud Caw of impatience. At the top of a hill, she looked down and saw 20 people below. As a wolf joined them, another turned into a wolf as well! Unfortunately she screamed and drew their attention to her. She ran, tripped on a root, and fell unconscious.
When she opened her eyes, a handsome man looked down at her. His voice was gentle, and she passed out again. Lori had been taken to Alpha shifter Rex and his sister, Dawn. Dean, the gamma, paced nervously, wanting them to get rid of the human who could bring danger to them. But Dawn was mixing something magical to make her forget. Rex’s wolf was inexplicably restless. When he woke Lori, he felt a sizzle as he touched her to help her sit up. Then he drove her to her apartment. As he drove away, his wolf was still going crazy trying to tell him something.
Looking for a job, Lori walked into a bar since she was expert at that kind of work. Rex was the owner so he finally agreed to hire her. Despite her perfect performance with customers, supplies, and drinks, Dean (a bartender) wants her out of there. When Dean interrupted her off-hours jogging workout, he told her he wanted her gone from the bar. He told her to quit. And if she wouldn’t, there would be consequences. A few nights later, as she and Rex left the bar with Lori feeling feverish and weak, Dean and two others came out of the shadows. Dean shifted and attacked Lori! Rex was forced to shift to fight off Dean as Randy and Adam circled Lori. Dean sent the two to take down Rex. Instead, Rex disabled both of them. When Dean challenged Rex, as he had always intended, Rex was distracted hearing Lori’s thoughts enter his wolf’s mind! Would the distraction prove fatal to Rex? And what was happening to Lori?
January 4, 2023
This was simply spectacular read, great characters and scenario that you’ll love every moment of
I will not give away too much about the plot of this story as I do not want to spoil the read for others, Lori had been running a bar with her husband who had decided to run off with the hostess so she had decided to leave the town she lived in and to move out where her son Mason was at university.
Whilst she had been out jogging, she had lost her way and had come across a group of people who she had seen one suddenly change into a wolf, after crying out and making a speedy exit she had unfortunately fallen and knocked herself out.
Rex had seen the woman that had been brought into the lodge and his inner wolf had been going mad but he could not understand what it was trying to tell him, however the spell his sister performed ensured that she had no recollection of the sighting.
Imagine his surprise when straight off the street she had appeared in to the bar the Pack owned asking if there was any work, he had taken her on with some objections from his Gamma and a few other members but she was a hard worker and knew her way around a bar.
As Rex and Lori had worked together, she had noticed that some of his employees seemed to not like her but it was not until they were attacked that she discovered who Rex was and exactly what was happening, she had been feeling not quite herself but never could have foreseen the truth.
When Rex takes Lori to his lodge, she meets his mother who is also a witch and is able to allow her to see back into her history and she is able to see the past lives she has lived and her relationship with the moon goddess.
I guarantee that you will love this read and there are plenty of other surprises that I guarantee you will find to be amazing, I guarantee that you will not be left like myself anxiously waiting for the next book in this series.
I assure you that you will love every moment of this book it is simply a fantastic read.
I voluntarily received and review an Advanced Reader Copy
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the great writing.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I will not give away too much about the plot of this story as I do not want to spoil the read for others, Lori had been running a bar with her husband who had decided to run off with the hostess so she had decided to leave the town she lived in and to move out where her son Mason was at university.
Whilst she had been out jogging, she had lost her way and had come across a group of people who she had seen one suddenly change into a wolf, after crying out and making a speedy exit she had unfortunately fallen and knocked herself out.
Rex had seen the woman that had been brought into the lodge and his inner wolf had been going mad but he could not understand what it was trying to tell him, however the spell his sister performed ensured that she had no recollection of the sighting.
Imagine his surprise when straight off the street she had appeared in to the bar the Pack owned asking if there was any work, he had taken her on with some objections from his Gamma and a few other members but she was a hard worker and knew her way around a bar.
As Rex and Lori had worked together, she had noticed that some of his employees seemed to not like her but it was not until they were attacked that she discovered who Rex was and exactly what was happening, she had been feeling not quite herself but never could have foreseen the truth.
When Rex takes Lori to his lodge, she meets his mother who is also a witch and is able to allow her to see back into her history and she is able to see the past lives she has lived and her relationship with the moon goddess.
I guarantee that you will love this read and there are plenty of other surprises that I guarantee you will find to be amazing, I guarantee that you will not be left like myself anxiously waiting for the next book in this series.
I assure you that you will love every moment of this book it is simply a fantastic read.
I voluntarily received and review an Advanced Reader Copy
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the great writing.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 5, 2023
Reviewed at Shifter Haven
Forbidden Midlife Mate begins the Shifter Nation: Marked Over Forty series with a fast-paced, well-written, intriguing story that quickly drew me in. Anything you’d really need to know before picking up this story for yourself can be found in the Cover Description for I try very hard to give spoiler-free reviews. What I do feel comfortable mentioning is that we met Rex briefly in Bear’s Midlife Christmas which wrapped up the Fated Over Forty series, and I’d definitely recommend that series if you haven’t discovered it yet.
Rex and Lori have a very strong story full of danger, intrigue, and sizzling passion. It’s not easy beginning your life over again far from all you’re familiar with, but when your husband cheats with an employee… well, that jerk got kicked to the curb real fast no matter what Lori’s future might look like. And being somewhat premenopausal wasn’t helping how she was dealing with the changes in her life one little bit. She wasn’t sure which was worse, the cheating ex or the hot flashes… most days the hot flashes won. She’s begun jogging (very slowly) as a counter to those hot flashes and that will lead her to a world unknown, and the man she was destined to spend her life with. But not before there is a ton of danger and mystery tossed her way.
I enjoyed Forbidden Midlife Mate very much. I was fascinated by Rex when we met previously and simply fell more under his spell during this story. I adored Lori, she’s stronger than she believes, funny, and realistic in her reactions to what’s going on in her life. There are some nasty villains that this couple will be dealing with along with some discoveries that will change just about everything for them. I had fun here, got caught up in another Shifter Nation connected series, and I’m definitely looking forward to more.
If you love a well-written, emotional, action-packed, sizzling with passion Shifter Romance then you’d feel right at home with Forbidden Midlife Mate.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or author’s team via Booksprout. The opinions expressed in this review are my own – good, bad, or indifferent.*
Forbidden Midlife Mate begins the Shifter Nation: Marked Over Forty series with a fast-paced, well-written, intriguing story that quickly drew me in. Anything you’d really need to know before picking up this story for yourself can be found in the Cover Description for I try very hard to give spoiler-free reviews. What I do feel comfortable mentioning is that we met Rex briefly in Bear’s Midlife Christmas which wrapped up the Fated Over Forty series, and I’d definitely recommend that series if you haven’t discovered it yet.
Rex and Lori have a very strong story full of danger, intrigue, and sizzling passion. It’s not easy beginning your life over again far from all you’re familiar with, but when your husband cheats with an employee… well, that jerk got kicked to the curb real fast no matter what Lori’s future might look like. And being somewhat premenopausal wasn’t helping how she was dealing with the changes in her life one little bit. She wasn’t sure which was worse, the cheating ex or the hot flashes… most days the hot flashes won. She’s begun jogging (very slowly) as a counter to those hot flashes and that will lead her to a world unknown, and the man she was destined to spend her life with. But not before there is a ton of danger and mystery tossed her way.
I enjoyed Forbidden Midlife Mate very much. I was fascinated by Rex when we met previously and simply fell more under his spell during this story. I adored Lori, she’s stronger than she believes, funny, and realistic in her reactions to what’s going on in her life. There are some nasty villains that this couple will be dealing with along with some discoveries that will change just about everything for them. I had fun here, got caught up in another Shifter Nation connected series, and I’m definitely looking forward to more.
If you love a well-written, emotional, action-packed, sizzling with passion Shifter Romance then you’d feel right at home with Forbidden Midlife Mate.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or author’s team via Booksprout. The opinions expressed in this review are my own – good, bad, or indifferent.*
April 9, 2023
My favorite part of this whole book was the mother son bond Lori had with Connor. Their relationship was just really sweet, as it was clear that they both loved each other a lot and cared a lot to notice any changes and worried about each other. Connor wanting to have dinner with his mom 🥺 he’s a sweetie.
I also liked that this story is about a middle aged recent divorcée, who’s a mother, newly single, but also kind and strong and capable. Her discussion over her age and going through perimenopause was really refreshing (probably because most shifter books I’ve read have young protagonists (often even younger than me now 😭), and while I’m still pretty young, I love that her outlook is still that she’s got lots to learn and experience and that she loves herself. She’s a great protagonist to follow, realistically portrayed and easy to like. Rex was fine, although we don’t really get to know him particularly well; I love that he can’t resist the mate bond (even though he’s kinda dumb to not recognize it at first haha) and sticks up for his choice to hire Lori, and the way he thinks the world of her as he gets to know her. There are a couple sex scenes, but they’re actually pretty tame (I think when books get labeled “steamy” my expectations get raised haha); it works for the story, but I think it’s also just good to know going in.
I think my only gripe (being that this book is pretty short at a bit over 200 pages) is that we don’t get to know any of the characters particularly in depth. (And that the asshole characters are that shallow and annoying irritated me.) But it’s still a sweet, romantic read about fate, love, family, destiny, and finding who you are, at any age.
I also liked that this story is about a middle aged recent divorcée, who’s a mother, newly single, but also kind and strong and capable. Her discussion over her age and going through perimenopause was really refreshing (probably because most shifter books I’ve read have young protagonists (often even younger than me now 😭), and while I’m still pretty young, I love that her outlook is still that she’s got lots to learn and experience and that she loves herself. She’s a great protagonist to follow, realistically portrayed and easy to like. Rex was fine, although we don’t really get to know him particularly well; I love that he can’t resist the mate bond (even though he’s kinda dumb to not recognize it at first haha) and sticks up for his choice to hire Lori, and the way he thinks the world of her as he gets to know her. There are a couple sex scenes, but they’re actually pretty tame (I think when books get labeled “steamy” my expectations get raised haha); it works for the story, but I think it’s also just good to know going in.
I think my only gripe (being that this book is pretty short at a bit over 200 pages) is that we don’t get to know any of the characters particularly in depth. (And that the asshole characters are that shallow and annoying irritated me.) But it’s still a sweet, romantic read about fate, love, family, destiny, and finding who you are, at any age.
May 14, 2023
Uncomplicated World, simple shifter romance
This is mostly a sweet and uncomplicated story. This world is simple and not to intricate or developed. Some of the shifters in this pack (the Alphas mother and sister) are witches and healers. Humans are unaware of shifters existence and shifters intend to keep it that way. Any who discover them are dealt with before they can alert others. Not a lot of attention to detail in this world. Can't help but wonder what happens to their clothes when the shift to wolf form as they're still wearing then during the shift. Even more curious, when they shift back they are fully clothed again.
While some shifters have been known to dally with humans, relationships and revealing their nature are forbidden. So when a woman (the MFC) accidentaly sees wolves shifting, she is taken to the pack house and the alpha, to determine her fate. But he feels oddly protective of her. If she were a shifter he might have believed he'd found his mate, but she was human and that isn't possible. Still, he can't bring himself to harm her and instead has his sister (who is also a witch) erase those memories.
When the MFC shows up at his club seeking work, he hires her against the protests of his 3rd in command who still believes she should have been killed. His jealousy of the Alpha and belief that he should lead make him a danger to both the Alpha and the MFC.
But this heroine is much more than even she ever knew and her life is about to change forever.
This is a story for those who enjoy simple, uncomplicated romances with a slow burn. 4 stars
This is mostly a sweet and uncomplicated story. This world is simple and not to intricate or developed. Some of the shifters in this pack (the Alphas mother and sister) are witches and healers. Humans are unaware of shifters existence and shifters intend to keep it that way. Any who discover them are dealt with before they can alert others. Not a lot of attention to detail in this world. Can't help but wonder what happens to their clothes when the shift to wolf form as they're still wearing then during the shift. Even more curious, when they shift back they are fully clothed again.
While some shifters have been known to dally with humans, relationships and revealing their nature are forbidden. So when a woman (the MFC) accidentaly sees wolves shifting, she is taken to the pack house and the alpha, to determine her fate. But he feels oddly protective of her. If she were a shifter he might have believed he'd found his mate, but she was human and that isn't possible. Still, he can't bring himself to harm her and instead has his sister (who is also a witch) erase those memories.
When the MFC shows up at his club seeking work, he hires her against the protests of his 3rd in command who still believes she should have been killed. His jealousy of the Alpha and belief that he should lead make him a danger to both the Alpha and the MFC.
But this heroine is much more than even she ever knew and her life is about to change forever.
This is a story for those who enjoy simple, uncomplicated romances with a slow burn. 4 stars
December 22, 2023
An Alpha Finds His Luna
I have listened to several of the books in this author's midlife shifter romance stories, and I enjoyed this one very much. The heroine had quite the surprise, which I won't reveal here, but it certainly sets her life on a trajectory she could not have foreseen. While I don't read much shifter romance, there certainly is something appealing about the concept of fated mates. I think it adds to the strong pull between the couple in shifter romance, even if one (or both) resists! I loved this alpha and his pack—his mom is awesome!—as well as the magical, supernatural spin this story had. I loved, particularly, the little scene with the goddess near the end. As this features a couple in their 40s, I love how the heroine's young adult son was incorporated into their story—the mother/son moment when they realized who they were was sweet and heart-touching and very believable for a mother and son who are close—and ultimately into the pack. This is a steamy story, but the intimate scenes are written with an appreciation for the characters and are not in any way crude, like far too many intimate scenes in contemporary romances are. An enjoyable listen and highly recommended if you enjoy shifter romances, particularly with a midlife couple.
I received a promo code for this audiobook, but that did not affect my review.
I have listened to several of the books in this author's midlife shifter romance stories, and I enjoyed this one very much. The heroine had quite the surprise, which I won't reveal here, but it certainly sets her life on a trajectory she could not have foreseen. While I don't read much shifter romance, there certainly is something appealing about the concept of fated mates. I think it adds to the strong pull between the couple in shifter romance, even if one (or both) resists! I loved this alpha and his pack—his mom is awesome!—as well as the magical, supernatural spin this story had. I loved, particularly, the little scene with the goddess near the end. As this features a couple in their 40s, I love how the heroine's young adult son was incorporated into their story—the mother/son moment when they realized who they were was sweet and heart-touching and very believable for a mother and son who are close—and ultimately into the pack. This is a steamy story, but the intimate scenes are written with an appreciation for the characters and are not in any way crude, like far too many intimate scenes in contemporary romances are. An enjoyable listen and highly recommended if you enjoy shifter romances, particularly with a midlife couple.
I received a promo code for this audiobook, but that did not affect my review.
February 1, 2025
Short but pleasant
I enjoyed it somewhat as a quickie shifter romance though it wasn't perfect.
First the mmc is drawn to her but as an Alpha he doesn't recognize her as her mate, there's some human hate happening he keeps her around but seems weak as an Alpha that he doesn't know she's his. He gives into his lust but then seems to pull away and only wants her when she shifts
Eh not feeling that too much
Her shifting at 48 isn't explained as it happens oops. He's an unmatched alpha who I'd going to want kids she's periomenopausal so since she's a wolf does she now have a longer life hence breeding age?
The bad wolves happen before they know they're fated mates so there's no real climax after.
I felt like I wanted more drama...especially when he said the bad wolves were gone but she said she's not sure. I waited for them to come back.
The epilogue was ho him a big ritual of them accepting her as his Luna
Honestly I would've liked to see her and him actually fall in love, maybe him seeing her blossom as his Luna as she feared she didn't know how to be the Luna to them all.
It was ok for a quick pallet cleanser but not one I'll remember. Could have been worked on a bit more.
Spice 2/5
I enjoyed it somewhat as a quickie shifter romance though it wasn't perfect.
First the mmc is drawn to her but as an Alpha he doesn't recognize her as her mate, there's some human hate happening he keeps her around but seems weak as an Alpha that he doesn't know she's his. He gives into his lust but then seems to pull away and only wants her when she shifts
Eh not feeling that too much
Her shifting at 48 isn't explained as it happens oops. He's an unmatched alpha who I'd going to want kids she's periomenopausal so since she's a wolf does she now have a longer life hence breeding age?
The bad wolves happen before they know they're fated mates so there's no real climax after.
I felt like I wanted more drama...especially when he said the bad wolves were gone but she said she's not sure. I waited for them to come back.
The epilogue was ho him a big ritual of them accepting her as his Luna
Honestly I would've liked to see her and him actually fall in love, maybe him seeing her blossom as his Luna as she feared she didn't know how to be the Luna to them all.
It was ok for a quick pallet cleanser but not one I'll remember. Could have been worked on a bit more.
Spice 2/5
June 3, 2025
A Good Different
While the fated mates genre is well represented, it is not always well written. This one is. It has well developed, interesting characters, and some very unexpected twists in the layered plot. This book is a good kind of different from the usual fated mates storyline. The Alpha's family includes witches and their magic which changes the pack interactions in positive ways. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know these people. Plus, having a son who has given me good advice, I could definitely relate to the mother-son dynamic. (Oh, and yes, my daughter has good advice for me too!) The friendship part of having adult "children" is awesome, and we see some of that here.
Content: There are at least two moderately detailed love scenes. I much appreciate the author being upfront about this content. I was prepared to skim past a few pages and not caught by surprise. Also to Writer Meg's credit, these scenes are a very minor part of the book.
Rating: While the writing and editing is five star, I am taking one star off to express my preference for story pages over intimate love scenes.
Happy reading!
While the fated mates genre is well represented, it is not always well written. This one is. It has well developed, interesting characters, and some very unexpected twists in the layered plot. This book is a good kind of different from the usual fated mates storyline. The Alpha's family includes witches and their magic which changes the pack interactions in positive ways. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know these people. Plus, having a son who has given me good advice, I could definitely relate to the mother-son dynamic. (Oh, and yes, my daughter has good advice for me too!) The friendship part of having adult "children" is awesome, and we see some of that here.
Content: There are at least two moderately detailed love scenes. I much appreciate the author being upfront about this content. I was prepared to skim past a few pages and not caught by surprise. Also to Writer Meg's credit, these scenes are a very minor part of the book.
Rating: While the writing and editing is five star, I am taking one star off to express my preference for story pages over intimate love scenes.
Happy reading!
January 3, 2023
Finally Fulfilling Her Destiny -
Lori was bewildered when she accidentally saw a group of men transform into wolves, but what she didn’t know at the time was that it was the start of a monumental journey towards her destined life. Rex felt a connection between himself and Lori the moment he laid eyes on her, but he knew he had to let her go, as she wasn’t a Shifter.
However, fate brought them back together, as their lives were linked and he was destined to guide her on her journey to discover who she was and what she was meant to be. Unfortunately, their path to happiness wasn’t smooth, as not everyone was happy with her being in their lives. Luckily, the revelation of her secret would ensure Lori and Rex got their happily ever after.
There was a lot going on in the story to keep me entertained as I read the book and I can say without a shadow of doubt, that it didn’t fail my expectations. I am really looking forward to reading more books from this talented author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lori was bewildered when she accidentally saw a group of men transform into wolves, but what she didn’t know at the time was that it was the start of a monumental journey towards her destined life. Rex felt a connection between himself and Lori the moment he laid eyes on her, but he knew he had to let her go, as she wasn’t a Shifter.
However, fate brought them back together, as their lives were linked and he was destined to guide her on her journey to discover who she was and what she was meant to be. Unfortunately, their path to happiness wasn’t smooth, as not everyone was happy with her being in their lives. Luckily, the revelation of her secret would ensure Lori and Rex got their happily ever after.
There was a lot going on in the story to keep me entertained as I read the book and I can say without a shadow of doubt, that it didn’t fail my expectations. I am really looking forward to reading more books from this talented author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 12, 2023
HEA
Standalone, interconnected characters
*over 18 readers only*
Shifter romance, over age 40 characters
3rd person narration
Trigger warnings
Cheating (on not by)
Magic healing
Shifter
Reincarnation
Lori (48, mfc)
Rex (Alpha)
Dawn (Alpha's sister)
Dave (3rd in command, rude)
Lori uprooted her life when her cheating husband ran off with another woman. While out jogging in her new town, she gets sidetracked following a bird. Not exactly the safest thing to do, especially when it leads her to seeing a man turn into a wolf. Of course, she runs, but then trips and blacks out. Rex has his sister heal her, but erase her memory of what she saw. His wolf is restless with her around, and he isn't sure why. Their next meeting is her trying to find a job and him actually hiring her. Dave has serious issues with her being human while she remains ignorant of the fact that they are shifters. His issues start passing through the pack. He being around is affecting his business and his pack. Things are about to get weird.
Standalone, interconnected characters
*over 18 readers only*
Shifter romance, over age 40 characters
3rd person narration
Trigger warnings
Cheating (on not by)
Magic healing
Shifter
Reincarnation
Lori (48, mfc)
Rex (Alpha)
Dawn (Alpha's sister)
Dave (3rd in command, rude)
Lori uprooted her life when her cheating husband ran off with another woman. While out jogging in her new town, she gets sidetracked following a bird. Not exactly the safest thing to do, especially when it leads her to seeing a man turn into a wolf. Of course, she runs, but then trips and blacks out. Rex has his sister heal her, but erase her memory of what she saw. His wolf is restless with her around, and he isn't sure why. Their next meeting is her trying to find a job and him actually hiring her. Dave has serious issues with her being human while she remains ignorant of the fact that they are shifters. His issues start passing through the pack. He being around is affecting his business and his pack. Things are about to get weird.
June 15, 2023
FORBIDDEN MIDLIFE MATE by Meg Ripley is a standalone in Shifter Nation: Marked Over Forty. This couple are older in the Wolf Shifter World, then the usual couple. Lori Jenson is newly divorced, as her husband had run off with the hostess of their saloon. At 48-years-old she up and left Montana for a new start. Lori was now facing perimenopause and wanted to be closer to her college-age son. So, she picked Oregon and the small town of Eugene. She had no way of knowing that her life was about to change drastically. She decided to start jogging, but she hadn't done so in a longtime. Lori ran harder & farther then she even realized. But unknowingly she'd entered the private property of the wolf shifters territory. When she actually saw a man turn into a wolf, she tried to run away as fast as she could. They were close behind when she fell and hurt her head. When she came to, it was to look into the blue eyes and handsome face of a man named Rex. Only he was much more than that. He was the Alpha of the Glenwood pack.
January 2, 2023
Divorce is difficult and often means starting over with hopes of finding yourself. Lori moves to Eugene following her divorce to be closer to her son who is attendig college there. Her struggles and successes throughout the story added to my overall liking of the book.
Rex is the Alpha of the local wolf pack and was introduced in a previous Ripley book when he went to Carlton to take care of a rogue wolf. I liked him in that book and appreciated him even more in this one.
Prejudice of wolves against humans is another theme that runs through this book and Rex not only had his hands full dealing with his pack, but he also had to figure out his own feelings.
There was a twist in the story that propelled it towards a HEA, bringing Lori, Rex, Lori's son and the pack together. I do wish there had been more tolerance for humans before the finale but perhaps that will be built on in the next book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Rex is the Alpha of the local wolf pack and was introduced in a previous Ripley book when he went to Carlton to take care of a rogue wolf. I liked him in that book and appreciated him even more in this one.
Prejudice of wolves against humans is another theme that runs through this book and Rex not only had his hands full dealing with his pack, but he also had to figure out his own feelings.
There was a twist in the story that propelled it towards a HEA, bringing Lori, Rex, Lori's son and the pack together. I do wish there had been more tolerance for humans before the finale but perhaps that will be built on in the next book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 8, 2023
This is book 1 of the Marked Over Forty series. This is a cute midlife romance story. We find Lori and mid 40s divorcee, who relocated where her son attends college. She sees shifters shifting and unfortunately is found out. She eventually has a to find a job and ends up with the bar that is owned by Rex, the Alpha of the pack. There is a connection between them and is not understood. Drama ensues due to her being a human in a shifter bar. Lori has been dealing with health issues. Will they follow the pull they feel for each other? What does her health issues mean, and does it affect the mate bond?
This is not your typical shifter romance story. At times it has me confused and frustrated because Rex does not understand the mate bond (at least that is what I gather). The author did keep me interested and engaged. Out of the whole story the last few chapters I loved.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is not your typical shifter romance story. At times it has me confused and frustrated because Rex does not understand the mate bond (at least that is what I gather). The author did keep me interested and engaged. Out of the whole story the last few chapters I loved.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 21, 2023
Lori is starting over after her divorce and has moved to Eugene for that chance. She is out for a job when a bird catches her eye. She follows the bird and sees people shift from human for to animal forms. Stunned she fells and ends up hurt. Rex is the Alpha and Lori is brought to him because of what she saw. His sister creates something to make her forget what she saw. Rex takes Lori back home but when she shows up at the bar looking for a job he caves and gives her one. The pack isn't happy about her being there and some make it known. However, something happens that shocks everyone. Will something be happening between her and Rex? What is going on with Lori?
This is an amazing story that will draw you in from the first chapter on. This is a well written and very entertaining story. Its a book that any book lover would enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is an amazing story that will draw you in from the first chapter on. This is a well written and very entertaining story. Its a book that any book lover would enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 7, 2023
"Her stomach jumped into her chest, did a high-five with her heart, and dropped back down again."
Lori is starting over. She's moved states, found a place to live... a job would sure make life better.
Rex is his pack's Alpha, and while he knows he earned the position, that doesn't mean his pack doesn't push back from time to time, or that certain members seem to have different opinions on certain topics. Thankfully, until now, theirs has been a peaceful pack.
This done in one kindle unlimited quick read tackles the challenge of introducing some more modern concepts into a traditional pack. Add to that a divorced human who is getting an up close and personal view of just how different a marriage to the wrong man can be from a mate bond with your soulmate, and this is an interesting story of unintended integration and culture clash.
Lori is starting over. She's moved states, found a place to live... a job would sure make life better.
Rex is his pack's Alpha, and while he knows he earned the position, that doesn't mean his pack doesn't push back from time to time, or that certain members seem to have different opinions on certain topics. Thankfully, until now, theirs has been a peaceful pack.
This done in one kindle unlimited quick read tackles the challenge of introducing some more modern concepts into a traditional pack. Add to that a divorced human who is getting an up close and personal view of just how different a marriage to the wrong man can be from a mate bond with your soulmate, and this is an interesting story of unintended integration and culture clash.
December 18, 2023
Slow burn shifter romance.
Lori has lost everything with her divorce and selling of the saloon she had owned with her ex-husband. She moved to Eugene to start over and be close to her son Connor in college. And accident on the trails leads her to Rex and secrets about herself she never dreamed could be possible.
Rex is busy running the Glenwood pack when a human is brought into his office. His wolf can’t seem to get enough of her, and he knows that this just won’t due. Fate keeps throwing them together and he give in to his desire. Some of the pack has other ideas.
This is a sweet slow burn romance between Lori and Rex. They have both lived some life and had given up on finding a HEA at this point in her life. There are twists in this story and surprises throughout. Great read for any time.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lori has lost everything with her divorce and selling of the saloon she had owned with her ex-husband. She moved to Eugene to start over and be close to her son Connor in college. And accident on the trails leads her to Rex and secrets about herself she never dreamed could be possible.
Rex is busy running the Glenwood pack when a human is brought into his office. His wolf can’t seem to get enough of her, and he knows that this just won’t due. Fate keeps throwing them together and he give in to his desire. Some of the pack has other ideas.
This is a sweet slow burn romance between Lori and Rex. They have both lived some life and had given up on finding a HEA at this point in her life. There are twists in this story and surprises throughout. Great read for any time.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 1, 2023
Lori and her husband had a saloon together until he took off with the hostess, she sold everything and moved to Eugene to be close to her son in college. Her doctor told her start moving more will help with her hot flashes when jogging she saw something she wasn’t supposed to see so some of her memories were erased. Went looking for a job Rex hired her at his bar causing problems with the pack one night they were attacked outside of the bar. She saw the men turn into wolves but what she did was a surprise for everyone including her but her son. She didn’t know if she was ready for what Rex asked of her until her son talked to her. Good book!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 2, 2023
I have read all the books in this series so far and have enjoyed every single one of them. As the precedent stories were mostly about bears, we’re now visiting a wolf pack. I was confused at first because a character was acting like a jerk, while he was a dear sweetheart in his own story. Turns out it was another person. Lori just turned her life around and her newfound home is less than welcoming. She will meet Rex, who’s quite grumpy. They will face deep challenges, but everything will be fine. I love Meg’s stories: I only wish they were more elaborate. Sometimes, I feel like things could be taken further. A nice light read!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 3, 2023
Good!
Lori Jensen is 48, recently divorced, and trying to make a new life for herself in a new town. She moves to be near her son who just started college. She starts a new fitness regime as part of her new life. Unfortunately she stumbles across a group of people in the woods that suddenly become wolves! She turns tail and runs, falling and knocking herself out.
Rex is the Alpha of his pack and is shocked when some of his pack show up with an unconscious human. Some members want to kill her but Rex opts for having her memories of the event erased and takes her home thinking that is the end of the problem.
But life has other plans for these two! A great book with lots of emotions and action!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lori Jensen is 48, recently divorced, and trying to make a new life for herself in a new town. She moves to be near her son who just started college. She starts a new fitness regime as part of her new life. Unfortunately she stumbles across a group of people in the woods that suddenly become wolves! She turns tail and runs, falling and knocking herself out.
Rex is the Alpha of his pack and is shocked when some of his pack show up with an unconscious human. Some members want to kill her but Rex opts for having her memories of the event erased and takes her home thinking that is the end of the problem.
But life has other plans for these two! A great book with lots of emotions and action!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 3, 2023
Lori recently divorced from her cheating husband, moves to Eugene to be near her son who is attending school there. She accidentally observes some people who turn into wolves, whilst running away she falls and bumps her head.
Rex, alpha of the local pack, gets his sister to erase Lori’s memory of the incident. He knows ahe is human but his wolf is trying to tell him something about her. When she turns up at his Saloon looking for work, he decided to keep her close to ensure her memory has been altered, but some of his pack is not happy about it and threaten her.
A story with a forbidden romance encounter, shifters, witches, fighting and a sexy alpha, all make this a great read and one I definitely would recommend.
I voluntarily received and reviewed an ARC copy of the book.
Rex, alpha of the local pack, gets his sister to erase Lori’s memory of the incident. He knows ahe is human but his wolf is trying to tell him something about her. When she turns up at his Saloon looking for work, he decided to keep her close to ensure her memory has been altered, but some of his pack is not happy about it and threaten her.
A story with a forbidden romance encounter, shifters, witches, fighting and a sexy alpha, all make this a great read and one I definitely would recommend.
I voluntarily received and reviewed an ARC copy of the book.
January 7, 2023
Lori moves to Eugene to be closer to her son and encounters Rex.
After her husband run off with a hostess from the saloon they owned Lori Jensen leaves Chinook, Montana and moves to Eugene to be closer to her collage age son Connor.She has been having few health problem and her doctor has adviced more exercise so she decides to go for a run in the park. She follows a raven up hill and finds herself looking down at a group of men.As she watches a wolf appears and moves into the middle of the men then they all change into wolves. She runs and can hear them following then she trips and blacks out. When she comes to she sees is being talked to by sexy older man named Rex.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
After her husband run off with a hostess from the saloon they owned Lori Jensen leaves Chinook, Montana and moves to Eugene to be closer to her collage age son Connor.She has been having few health problem and her doctor has adviced more exercise so she decides to go for a run in the park. She follows a raven up hill and finds herself looking down at a group of men.As she watches a wolf appears and moves into the middle of the men then they all change into wolves. She runs and can hear them following then she trips and blacks out. When she comes to she sees is being talked to by sexy older man named Rex.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 9, 2023
I don’t what it is about this story I liked most but it could be that the main character is a divorced over age 40 mom, the maturity of the story or it could be that love and romance can happen at any age in life or all the above? The fact that we read Lori Jenson’s life and her determination to start new and fresh but close to her college bound son hits me hard. I feel I can relate to her and I enjoyed her will to survive and fight for that chance. Toss in a good looking supernatural shifter male and it becomes an amazing love story about second chances. And he becomes her boss makes it scandalous. I have always seem to enjoy this author and have never disappointed in her stories.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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