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MIA Case Files #1
Wolfsbane
Werewolves are coming through an open portal and one of them wants Adam Farelli... Agent Lachlan Carmichael has a job to do. A portal is open in Rothburg, and this time the Umbrae passing through it are creating werewolves. He needs to close the portal, even if it means losing two-thirds of the people possessed by the Umbrae. So what if Adam Farelli, the town's screw-up, is the sexiest man he's ever seen? Carmichael's been content to live with 'don't ask don't tell' for most of his life. A gorgeous, shiftless layabout isn't going to convince him to step out of the closet. But when Carmichael needs Adam's help to close the portal, he's unable to resist the temptation Adam represents. But his lies and lack of trust put Adam in danger when one of the werewolves, obsessed with Adam, kidnaps him. Even if Carmichael can save the man he's grown to love, he's going to have to convince Adam to forgive him. Publisher's This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find Male/male sexual practices.
262 pages, Paperback
First published March 9, 2010
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
June 1, 2011
i liked it but the ending wasn't really great and the giant douche (AKA Carmichael) never really redeemed his douchebaggeryness
June 2, 2011
3.5 stars
I did like Adam and Carmichael even if I wanted to smack Carmichael 90% of the time. Carmichael was just a douche bag from the start. Although, I can kind of relate to why since it was just a knee-jerk reaction to get grouchy and pissy when something didn't go his way or caught him by surprise. It still pissed me off a little bit. Adam was... I can't think of a word but with all the shit he went through and what he did for his parents made me really like him.
I have to say I did like this book but it dragged a bit in some places to where I was struggling to get through a chapter or two and on top of that, I was confused during the times it didn't drag. I got confused during the paranormal explanations and was left with some questions that weren't clarified enough for my liking. (HC does a good job of stating the questions I still have in her review). Then there was the sex. It was hot, especially the first scene , but they felt like they were extremely long to me and for someone who doesn't like to read a lot of sex in her stories, I was getting annoyed to say the least.
Overall, I enjoyed it even if I was a little peeved in some places. I'll read the next in the series hoping it answers the questions I have... I'm also hoping Oliver is gay because I want to know more about him ^_^
I did like Adam and Carmichael even if I wanted to smack Carmichael 90% of the time. Carmichael was just a douche bag from the start. Although, I can kind of relate to why since it was just a knee-jerk reaction to get grouchy and pissy when something didn't go his way or caught him by surprise. It still pissed me off a little bit. Adam was... I can't think of a word but with all the shit he went through and what he did for his parents made me really like him.
I have to say I did like this book but it dragged a bit in some places to where I was struggling to get through a chapter or two and on top of that, I was confused during the times it didn't drag. I got confused during the paranormal explanations and was left with some questions that weren't clarified enough for my liking. (HC does a good job of stating the questions I still have in her review). Then there was the sex. It was hot, especially the first scene , but they felt like they were extremely long to me and for someone who doesn't like to read a lot of sex in her stories, I was getting annoyed to say the least.
Overall, I enjoyed it even if I was a little peeved in some places. I'll read the next in the series hoping it answers the questions I have... I'm also hoping Oliver is gay because I want to know more about him ^_^
July 28, 2011
3.5 Stars, but I'm feeling happy so gonna round up to 4 Stars.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a quick easy read with quite a few smexy scenes.
I really liked Adam, but I quickly got tired of how Carmichael kept reiterating how little he respected Adam. He was prejudiced and judgmental of Adam when he didn't even bother to take the time to really get to know him other than how compatible they were in bed. At least Adam was out and proud and not ashamed of himself and still hiding in the closet.
I was really confused at the beginning of this story. I didn't read the blurb so I wasn't sure what to expect. It seemed like I was playing catch up for the first few pages.
The biggest weakness for me was the paranormal aspect. I feel like the "world" could have been better developed. The whole time I was asking myself: "What is the Umbrae, exactly? I think I should have at least been informed before Adam! Anyway, I'm still pretty much confused about the Umbrae.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a quick easy read with quite a few smexy scenes.
I really liked Adam, but I quickly got tired of how Carmichael kept reiterating how little he respected Adam. He was prejudiced and judgmental of Adam when he didn't even bother to take the time to really get to know him other than how compatible they were in bed. At least Adam was out and proud and not ashamed of himself and still hiding in the closet.
I was really confused at the beginning of this story. I didn't read the blurb so I wasn't sure what to expect. It seemed like I was playing catch up for the first few pages.
The biggest weakness for me was the paranormal aspect. I feel like the "world" could have been better developed. The whole time I was asking myself: "What is the Umbrae, exactly? I think I should have at least been informed before Adam! Anyway, I'm still pretty much confused about the Umbrae.
December 23, 2012
Three strikes and she's out. I've read three books by KC Burn and they've all gone from a great start to a frustrating middle that lasts way too long before a resolution at the end. The misunderstandings and miscommunications and coincidences pile up past my waist (and I'm pretty tall!). They could be great, but they're too annoying. You're killing me, here.
Read
June 9, 2010I came across this book last week on Tam’s blog and I deliberately jumps over her thoughts on the book – because as soon a I saw the cover I knew I wanted to read this book.
Rothburg is the latest stop on Agent Lachlan Carmichael and his partners journey in their hunt to close up portals that are opening in various locations. Rothburg just happens to be the town where all the information from the MIA leads them to and it is nothing like they expected.
From the candy cane feel of the place to the white picket fences both men knew something was clearly off about this scenic little town. As agents they do what they do best - stand out like sore thumbs and because of this they know that it is only with the help of a local that they will be able to get any sort of decent information to use in their search. They solicit the help of Adam, a local who just happens to be the guy that Agent Lachlan Carmichael almost ran over and has an immediate attraction towards.
Adam is not loved or even liked by the residents of Rothburg and at every turn they make him aware of this fact, This does not stop Adam from doing what he has to do however. He has come home to be with his parents and help them as best as he can and he is willing to make any sacrifice for this.
Adam is just as attracted to Carmichael as he is to him, and before long they are making magical music. Magical because Adam is the first person that Carmichael has ever felt comfortable with and attracted to enough to drop his guard around and be with.
While their nights are filled with steamy scenes and low moans, someone is watching Adam and Carmichael inner portal radar is going crazy.
Everything comes to a head when the agents put two and two together and realise that the portals creature of choice on this turn is werewolf and one is obsessed with Adam.
When Adam gets kidnapped all of Carmichael’s protective instinct comes alive and he knows that if he does not find him soon – he would be losing the best things to have ever happen to him..
What Worked for me
This is the first in the MIA Case Files series and the author got me right away with the town setting. Rothburg is a town that is too pretty and two perfect and just seems to be the perfect foil for all kinda evil and I was eager to see what unfolded.
I liked the characters, I thought they were a nice mix and complimented each other well. Carmichael and his partner had a sort of push and pull working relationship which worked for them, they knew how far to go with each other, sometimes just a look says it all. This perfect sync extended itself to the relationship between Adam and Carmichael as well, and while they had their combustible moments – Adam’s assertive sometimes peppy personality was a good fit for Carmichael less than optimistic military attitude to a whole lot of things.
I loved the fact that the main protag Carmichael was a hero in training so to speak. He was learning his trade and as such it was refreshing to see his uncertainty and insecurities come to the forefront at the most crucial of times. He was not the man in charge, but I could see that he would be a force once he got some experience under his belt.
With the romanticising of the wolf shifter a live and well in most paranormal books – it was nice to read a book where the werewolves were the evil that had to be eradicated. ,
While some of this books had a fair amount of predictables, like the hook up of Adam and Carmichael, as well as the blurb does give a pretty decent amount of the book away - I really liked that the author put her own spin on this tale – it’s intriguing, quite suspenseful and enough was left unsaid to make me want to know more about the MIA agency. I am looking forward to wherever the portal take the men next.
I liked the sex scenes, no shy wallflower were these guys – they were at it as much as they could get away with and as they were as creative as their limbs could manage.
What didn’t work for me
As a first in a series I expected more info on the MIA (the agency) itself, while I knew the men worked for this secret agency and what the agency’s core mission was - I knew nothing else. The end game came in bits and pieces and will work well for some readers however I like the wordy build up and the info dump, so that bothered me a little. I am hoping to get more info on the agency in future books.
There were two prevalent storyline running through this book, the romance between Adam and Carmichael and the search for the portal. While there was nothing major to indicate the lose ends would not be ties up by the end of the book I thought the author packed too much info into the last few pages of the book.
I thought it a bit weird that neither Adam nor anyone in town mentioned the sick parents, although everyone kept giving these cryptic comments about Adam. (Tam’s review) – I agree
Carmichael’s partner Oliver was support cast material despite the fact that he was Carmichael superior, and he was written as support cast. I knew nothing about him and this is another area that I hope will be address in future books.
Bottom Line
From the moment I read the blurb on this book I knew I wanted to read it. Adam and Carmichael are likable heroes with too much going on in their lives - but, are open to the idea of good sex - and that’s how it begins. Add in an odd little town and a haunted woods and I hooked.
The pace of WOLFSBANE is quite fast and I read it in one go, this was aided by the fact that the cast moved around a bit and the scenes were short and sharp in there content.
Despite the little niggles that I had with the overall book this was a good read. There is the attention to details that I liked and the author does leave enough room to grow in future with books.
Rothburg is the latest stop on Agent Lachlan Carmichael and his partners journey in their hunt to close up portals that are opening in various locations. Rothburg just happens to be the town where all the information from the MIA leads them to and it is nothing like they expected.
From the candy cane feel of the place to the white picket fences both men knew something was clearly off about this scenic little town. As agents they do what they do best - stand out like sore thumbs and because of this they know that it is only with the help of a local that they will be able to get any sort of decent information to use in their search. They solicit the help of Adam, a local who just happens to be the guy that Agent Lachlan Carmichael almost ran over and has an immediate attraction towards.
Adam is not loved or even liked by the residents of Rothburg and at every turn they make him aware of this fact, This does not stop Adam from doing what he has to do however. He has come home to be with his parents and help them as best as he can and he is willing to make any sacrifice for this.
Adam is just as attracted to Carmichael as he is to him, and before long they are making magical music. Magical because Adam is the first person that Carmichael has ever felt comfortable with and attracted to enough to drop his guard around and be with.
While their nights are filled with steamy scenes and low moans, someone is watching Adam and Carmichael inner portal radar is going crazy.
Everything comes to a head when the agents put two and two together and realise that the portals creature of choice on this turn is werewolf and one is obsessed with Adam.
When Adam gets kidnapped all of Carmichael’s protective instinct comes alive and he knows that if he does not find him soon – he would be losing the best things to have ever happen to him..
What Worked for me
This is the first in the MIA Case Files series and the author got me right away with the town setting. Rothburg is a town that is too pretty and two perfect and just seems to be the perfect foil for all kinda evil and I was eager to see what unfolded.
I liked the characters, I thought they were a nice mix and complimented each other well. Carmichael and his partner had a sort of push and pull working relationship which worked for them, they knew how far to go with each other, sometimes just a look says it all. This perfect sync extended itself to the relationship between Adam and Carmichael as well, and while they had their combustible moments – Adam’s assertive sometimes peppy personality was a good fit for Carmichael less than optimistic military attitude to a whole lot of things.
I loved the fact that the main protag Carmichael was a hero in training so to speak. He was learning his trade and as such it was refreshing to see his uncertainty and insecurities come to the forefront at the most crucial of times. He was not the man in charge, but I could see that he would be a force once he got some experience under his belt.
With the romanticising of the wolf shifter a live and well in most paranormal books – it was nice to read a book where the werewolves were the evil that had to be eradicated. ,
While some of this books had a fair amount of predictables, like the hook up of Adam and Carmichael, as well as the blurb does give a pretty decent amount of the book away - I really liked that the author put her own spin on this tale – it’s intriguing, quite suspenseful and enough was left unsaid to make me want to know more about the MIA agency. I am looking forward to wherever the portal take the men next.
I liked the sex scenes, no shy wallflower were these guys – they were at it as much as they could get away with and as they were as creative as their limbs could manage.
What didn’t work for me
As a first in a series I expected more info on the MIA (the agency) itself, while I knew the men worked for this secret agency and what the agency’s core mission was - I knew nothing else. The end game came in bits and pieces and will work well for some readers however I like the wordy build up and the info dump, so that bothered me a little. I am hoping to get more info on the agency in future books.
There were two prevalent storyline running through this book, the romance between Adam and Carmichael and the search for the portal. While there was nothing major to indicate the lose ends would not be ties up by the end of the book I thought the author packed too much info into the last few pages of the book.
I thought it a bit weird that neither Adam nor anyone in town mentioned the sick parents, although everyone kept giving these cryptic comments about Adam. (Tam’s review) – I agree
Carmichael’s partner Oliver was support cast material despite the fact that he was Carmichael superior, and he was written as support cast. I knew nothing about him and this is another area that I hope will be address in future books.
Bottom Line
From the moment I read the blurb on this book I knew I wanted to read it. Adam and Carmichael are likable heroes with too much going on in their lives - but, are open to the idea of good sex - and that’s how it begins. Add in an odd little town and a haunted woods and I hooked.
The pace of WOLFSBANE is quite fast and I read it in one go, this was aided by the fact that the cast moved around a bit and the scenes were short and sharp in there content.
Despite the little niggles that I had with the overall book this was a good read. There is the attention to details that I liked and the author does leave enough room to grow in future with books.
October 14, 2012
2.5 Stars
Agents Lachlan Carmichael and Oliver Cardoso of the super secret Metaphysical Investigative Agency (MIA) arrive in the small town of Rothburg to investigate ... something. "What are they investigating" you ask? Good question! I dunno and neither do they it seems. But they enlist the help of loveable and generous Adam Farelli, the bane of the town's existence because he is out and proud. The attraction between Carmichael and Adam is instant and intense. I found Carmichael and Adam really engaging and I enjoyed reading about their developing romance. Adam is smart,sweet, and caring; Carmichael is endearing in his own way despite being an ignorant ass at times.
So what about the paranormal stuff? Well, let me tell you what I know. There's this portal in Rothburg where the Umbrae are passing through and creating werewolves. "Really," you say? "What are Umbrae?" I dunno. Okay, what is a portal? I dunno. How do the Umbrae create werewolves? No clue. Well, what are the Umbrae creating werewolves for? I have no idea. Who are the MIA? I couldn't tell ya. What are Carmichael and Cardoso supposed to do? Destroy the portal with sonic charges! What are sonic charges? *shrugs* Do Carmichael and Cardoso have special powers? *blank stare* How do they detect a portal? I don't effing know!!!
And therein lies the problem with this book IMHO. The back story is so underdeveloped it's frustrating. When I really like the MCs - as I did here - I am able to overlook a book's shortcomings. But I think I reached my limit with Wolfsbane. The lack of information regarding the MIA, Umbrae, portals, etc. left the story lacking and incomplete. It felt as though the author had this really cool idea but wrote the book before thinking it through.
I'll continue with the series although I'm a little wary. I hope for the best but, honestly, my expectations aren't very high.
Agents Lachlan Carmichael and Oliver Cardoso of the super secret Metaphysical Investigative Agency (MIA) arrive in the small town of Rothburg to investigate ... something. "What are they investigating" you ask? Good question! I dunno and neither do they it seems. But they enlist the help of loveable and generous Adam Farelli, the bane of the town's existence because he is out and proud. The attraction between Carmichael and Adam is instant and intense. I found Carmichael and Adam really engaging and I enjoyed reading about their developing romance. Adam is smart,sweet, and caring; Carmichael is endearing in his own way despite being an ignorant ass at times.
So what about the paranormal stuff? Well, let me tell you what I know. There's this portal in Rothburg where the Umbrae are passing through and creating werewolves. "Really," you say? "What are Umbrae?" I dunno. Okay, what is a portal? I dunno. How do the Umbrae create werewolves? No clue. Well, what are the Umbrae creating werewolves for? I have no idea. Who are the MIA? I couldn't tell ya. What are Carmichael and Cardoso supposed to do? Destroy the portal with sonic charges! What are sonic charges? *shrugs* Do Carmichael and Cardoso have special powers? *blank stare* How do they detect a portal? I don't effing know!!!
And therein lies the problem with this book IMHO. The back story is so underdeveloped it's frustrating. When I really like the MCs - as I did here - I am able to overlook a book's shortcomings. But I think I reached my limit with Wolfsbane. The lack of information regarding the MIA, Umbrae, portals, etc. left the story lacking and incomplete. It felt as though the author had this really cool idea but wrote the book before thinking it through.
I'll continue with the series although I'm a little wary. I hope for the best but, honestly, my expectations aren't very high.
October 23, 2010
When I start reading for the first few pages, I have no idea I will love this book SO MUCH. I mean, the idea of Umbrae and what the agents (Carmichael and Oliver) of Metaphysical Investigative Agency (MIA) are supposed to do are not really clear. But then, Adam Farelli appears, and OMG, he's so endearing, and I love him from the very beginning. The attraction that he and Carmichael share is intense. I love what Adam's inner thoughts about Carmichael ... and their sex is pretty hot.
Of course, throughout the book, I kind of wanting to kick Carmichael ass when he hurts Adam's feeling with his prejudice (You don't know anything you arrogant ass -- that's pretty much my reaction *lol*). BUT, Carmichael does a VERY GOOD JOB when he's groveling for Adam's forgiveness in the end, I LOVE THAT SCENE SO MUCH!!!
My only wish is for KC Burn to explain more about the agency and the myth of Umbrae, and the portal, and how the possess people.
Now, I can't wait to read the sequel!!! Though it's no longer about Adam and Carmichael
Of course, throughout the book, I kind of wanting to kick Carmichael ass when he hurts Adam's feeling with his prejudice (You don't know anything you arrogant ass -- that's pretty much my reaction *lol*). BUT, Carmichael does a VERY GOOD JOB when he's groveling for Adam's forgiveness in the end, I LOVE THAT SCENE SO MUCH!!!
My only wish is for KC Burn to explain more about the agency and the myth of Umbrae, and the portal, and how the possess people.
Now, I can't wait to read the sequel!!! Though it's no longer about Adam and Carmichael
January 30, 2011
Very good paranormal m/m romance about a closeted agent who works in a secret government agency that investigates dangerous paranormal activities. While he and his partner are trying to figure out what's going on in the small town of Rothburg, he meets and becomes fascinated by a gorgeous young man working at a coffee shop.
October 3, 2015
This was a decent suspense/thriller romance, if a bit predictable. I really like the different way they explain shifters (and vampires, etc.). It's not positive, though, so beware. I do look forward to reading more.
The thriller aspect was quite good, the story unusual. The sex was good. I liked the characters even though they weren't particularly original.
A few nitpicks:
The men were in a constant state of arousal around each other to the point that I felt it was all lust. I had trouble buying the deeper emotions until the end.
One guy licks a guy's six-pack abs and it's described as, "Letting his tongue trace each 'pack,'..." It's a pack of six. Not six packs.
Near the climax when one guy is terrified the other is in major trouble, admitting to himself that he really cares about the guy, maybe love, we get:
Yes, touching and romantic. For this reason I'm rounding down from 3.5 stars to 3.
The thriller aspect was quite good, the story unusual. The sex was good. I liked the characters even though they weren't particularly original.
A few nitpicks:
The men were in a constant state of arousal around each other to the point that I felt it was all lust. I had trouble buying the deeper emotions until the end.
One guy licks a guy's six-pack abs and it's described as, "Letting his tongue trace each 'pack,'..." It's a pack of six. Not six packs.
Near the climax when one guy is terrified the other is in major trouble, admitting to himself that he really cares about the guy, maybe love, we get:
"He'd never been so stupid about a piece of ass before."
Yes, touching and romantic. For this reason I'm rounding down from 3.5 stars to 3.
August 5, 2016
I tried to read this, to fulfill the shifter category for Bingo, but I just couldn't keep reading. I was too annoyed by the OTT lust, that penis-as-divining-rod, where their dicks get hard at the merest sight/thought of each other. Also, lots of unrealistic dick-twitching.
I know there are those who think *any* dick-twitching is unrealistic, but I've seen it happen. More than once. The thing is, it's usually when an already-very-excited penis gets more stimulated. Or, possibly, caused by the beginnings of an erection. But I don't think it's something that happens every single freakin' time a guy sees or thinks of the one we know will be his One True Love.
I know there are those who think *any* dick-twitching is unrealistic, but I've seen it happen. More than once. The thing is, it's usually when an already-very-excited penis gets more stimulated. Or, possibly, caused by the beginnings of an erection. But I don't think it's something that happens every single freakin' time a guy sees or thinks of the one we know will be his One True Love.
November 7, 2010
Cute little story with a unique twist on the paranormal. Carmichael is a bit of a judgmental prick throughout, and although it is explained later, it annoyed me as it was happening. Adam was great. I'm looking forward to reading more in this series.
January 20, 2021
I enjoyed this supernatural, open portals, werewolves and smexy romance. Carmichael, a closeted 28yo pain in the backside, is recruited right out of the army. One year later he is in Rothburg looking for a suspicious portal and stumbles over gorgeous Adam. This really complicates Carmichaels life and his fumbling bumbling miscommunication nearly gets Adam hurt when the werewolves kidnap Adam. The book ends on a sexy hfn.
March 12, 2010
Oh man. Ok. A thrilling story. The action was slow in coming but when it hit the forefront it was worth the wait. I'm not sure if I would have asked for more and there was just enough to appease the appetite to what I felt like reading.
One thing I will point out in the reading of this story was another came to mind that was The Bay City Paranormal series. Don't shoot the messenger, but it was the whole port hole plot that triggered it for me and that's the only similarity between them. Otherwise for those who enjoy the paranormal with the hot dudes and the hot sex it's overall a great story.
One thing I will point out in the reading of this story was another came to mind that was The Bay City Paranormal series. Don't shoot the messenger, but it was the whole port hole plot that triggered it for me and that's the only similarity between them. Otherwise for those who enjoy the paranormal with the hot dudes and the hot sex it's overall a great story.
July 29, 2019
Really liked this one, probably because of the MCs. One ex-military police officer, and one kindhearted, intelligent underdog. A recipe for my fav kind of love story. Boy meets boy, boy alienates boy after having hot, monkey sex, boy gets boy back and we all live happily ever after. Throw in some fairly significant paranormal activity and a sturdy auxiliary character or two, and I'm in. Big sigh......
September 3, 2016
Lost interest in the protagonists and the story. Not horrible, just didn't appeal to me so I moved on.
September 27, 2020
Great book
(warning some spoilers)
This is a great book, there is a lot of action, romance, and some mystery. I loved Adam, he was working toward a PhD in archeology when both his parents' alzheimers and declining health forces him to return to his hometown to care for them, a place where most people feel the worst about him since he 'came out'. Adam is funny, caring and loyal to a fault.
Carmichael was great too, exmilitary, who had to leave the service because of a shrapnel injury, he is now a member of a super secret government organization called MIA. He has a rough past but has done his best to rise above an alcoholic, abusive grandfather, and an alcoholic and druggie underage mother, and succeeds. The main point against him is he hears what the townspeople think of Adam and allows it to using his own attraction to the man. Thankfully he redeems himself.
The action in the ending is great! and I loved the overall plot. Though I wish the author had explained more of what the umbrae were earlier in the book. The sex scenes are good, though the timing of one is a little unrealistic. I loved the character development. Adam and Charmichael were complex and we'll written.
Overall a really great read and I look forward to what the author brings in the next book!
(warning some spoilers)
This is a great book, there is a lot of action, romance, and some mystery. I loved Adam, he was working toward a PhD in archeology when both his parents' alzheimers and declining health forces him to return to his hometown to care for them, a place where most people feel the worst about him since he 'came out'. Adam is funny, caring and loyal to a fault.
Carmichael was great too, exmilitary, who had to leave the service because of a shrapnel injury, he is now a member of a super secret government organization called MIA. He has a rough past but has done his best to rise above an alcoholic, abusive grandfather, and an alcoholic and druggie underage mother, and succeeds. The main point against him is he hears what the townspeople think of Adam and allows it to using his own attraction to the man. Thankfully he redeems himself.
The action in the ending is great! and I loved the overall plot. Though I wish the author had explained more of what the umbrae were earlier in the book. The sex scenes are good, though the timing of one is a little unrealistic. I loved the character development. Adam and Charmichael were complex and we'll written.
Overall a really great read and I look forward to what the author brings in the next book!
May 7, 2018
Not bad.
The PNR development was a bit lacking. My interest is piqued, I just need that little push more.
I usually love the PNR secret agencies, but again, needed some more to really hook me.
Not a deal breaker, but would have bumped the book from okay to gimme gimme gimme.
The characters on the other hand were pretty solid. Carmichael's a bit of an ass, I wouldn't say he's an a-hole though. Adam was a little to good to be true.
I liked it, just didn't love it.
The PNR development was a bit lacking. My interest is piqued, I just need that little push more.
I usually love the PNR secret agencies, but again, needed some more to really hook me.
Not a deal breaker, but would have bumped the book from okay to gimme gimme gimme.
The characters on the other hand were pretty solid. Carmichael's a bit of an ass, I wouldn't say he's an a-hole though. Adam was a little to good to be true.
I liked it, just didn't love it.
May 23, 2022
This has the feel of an early book by an author finding their style. Some moments rely rather heavily on stereotypes. The misunderstanding between Adam and Carmichael is a good example of this. However, the book does have plenty of mystery, tension, and steamy scenes, and it was entertaining enough to start on the second book in the series right away.
June 1, 2010
Lachlan and his partner work for a secret government agency that goes around finding portals to other dimensions and closing them. Lachlan is ex-military and has some kind of extra-sensory perception that helps him find these portals. They are in a small town investigating when he almost runs over a guy on a skateboard. He's instantly attracted but in all his 28 years he's never been willing to risk his career to be with someone. Adam is a Ph.D. student who had to drop out when his parents both got advanced Alzheimer's. He now works at the coffee shop to pay for around the clock nursing. Lachlan's partner recruits Adam to help them despite Lachlan's freaking out. Eventually he can't resist and he and Adam get together, with Lachlan admitting he's a virgin. When Adam suggests a longer term relationship Lachlan says no because he doesn't know about Adam's reasons for not having a "real" job and figures he's just a slacker. Oh yeah, and seems werewolves are what the open portal has set free, one of whom has an obsession with Adam and is determined to change him. I did enjoy this but I thought it a bit weird that neither Adam nor anyone in town mentioned the sick parents, although everyone kept giving these cryptic comments about Adam. I did like Adam a lot, he was coping with ailing parents and having to give up school and live in a town where everyone shunned him (more or less). Lachlan was your typical uptight military who was totally thrown by being attracted so strongly to Adam but when he let his guard down was enjoyable. I was a bit confused at first by what they were looking for or what kind of "danger" these portals posed but that sort of comes to you as they go and they have to reveal more to Adam as he gets more involved. Since it says this is case 1 I'm curious to see what case 2 will be and if it sticks with Lachlan and Adam or if Lachlan's partner will be the focus of the next or how it will work. I enjoyed reading this one and stayed up way too late doing so (see exhausted point above).
October 8, 2013
I did have a review written up for this, but I either must have refreshed or something. It disappeared on me :( So this one will be short and sweet.
Carmichael, way to judge, Bastard! I hated you for hurting Adam so much, for NO reason! Because you didn't ask questions. But, man oh man, can you grovel.
Adam, I like ya hun, but you really have to learn how to not be so nice all the time. It's okay to get angry that people think the worst of you for no reason at all. Small towns :(
As far as the MIA, umm...where was Oliver? Seriously, he always left Carmichael alone, . They are supposed to be partners, but it looked to me like it was mostly a one man show.
Also, we learn next to nothing about how the MIA work. How are 2 HUMANS supposed to find the portals? What are the Umbrae? Why are they turning people into werewolves? Oh and really...
Overall, it was good and I will read the 2nd. Hopefully we learn more about the MIA.
Carmichael, way to judge, Bastard! I hated you for hurting Adam so much, for NO reason! Because you didn't ask questions. But, man oh man, can you grovel.
Adam, I like ya hun, but you really have to learn how to not be so nice all the time. It's okay to get angry that people think the worst of you for no reason at all. Small towns :(
As far as the MIA, umm...where was Oliver? Seriously, he always left Carmichael alone, . They are supposed to be partners, but it looked to me like it was mostly a one man show.
Also, we learn next to nothing about how the MIA work. How are 2 HUMANS supposed to find the portals? What are the Umbrae? Why are they turning people into werewolves? Oh and really...
Overall, it was good and I will read the 2nd. Hopefully we learn more about the MIA.
September 28, 2014
This is one of those situations when I honestly can't say whether I liked the book or not. I know I did not like the pacing and the lack of sense of place in the first half of the book. The second-half definitely moved better. It actually made me feel more involved and I began to like the three MCs. Okay I got it now, it really felt like a bad X-Files episode or a good SyFy channel episode of Warehouse 13 and Haven. If the two sequels were about Adam and Carmichael I might read them but alas they are about two different sets of characters.
If this series gets better somebody tell me and I'll check it out.
If this series gets better somebody tell me and I'll check it out.
January 6, 2017
I quite enjoyed this paranoraml- type tale, despite it not being a favourite genre for me. I think perhaps that is because the story was about hunting out the paranormal and there were onlythe odd paranormal scene.
I actually liked Carmichael, he was an ass at times and very grumpy, but as a character he did have a certain something! Being Manx, I did enjoy the Manx room references and can only imagine the horror of that and the Mallard Room!
Adam did have his depths but I found him a bit too bouncy at times, though I enjoyed their interactions and the hike in the woods.
There were a few set ups for the alpha but I think more background on the options would have given me more vested interest in who it actually was, rather than just 'oh, it was him'. I also felt that the towns general dislike for Adam wasn't fully explored/explained.
However, did enjoy it and was kept in the story all the way. 3.5*
I actually liked Carmichael, he was an ass at times and very grumpy, but as a character he did have a certain something! Being Manx, I did enjoy the Manx room references and can only imagine the horror of that and the Mallard Room!
Adam did have his depths but I found him a bit too bouncy at times, though I enjoyed their interactions and the hike in the woods.
There were a few set ups for the alpha but I think more background on the options would have given me more vested interest in who it actually was, rather than just 'oh, it was him'. I also felt that the towns general dislike for Adam wasn't fully explored/explained.
However, did enjoy it and was kept in the story all the way. 3.5*
September 2, 2014
I enjoyed reading this first installment of the MIA Case Files. Great characters and interesting story line. I couldn't help feeling there could be more though. I understood both MC's motivations behind their actions and never came across a reaction that seemed out of character. However, one real problem for me, was the stereotypical lack of communication. It is a stereotype and in my opinion used much too often by authors in any romance genre whether m/m or f/m.
There was some action but the resolution to the problem of the portal was handled to quickly in my opinion. I feel like there is a whole segment missing. Carmichael realizing why he was picked for MIA was handled as an afterthought and there was no description of the portal itself, how he located it to set the charges, or how he felt about suddenly realizing he did have this extra ability.
However, it was a fun and sexy read and I will continue with the series.
There was some action but the resolution to the problem of the portal was handled to quickly in my opinion. I feel like there is a whole segment missing. Carmichael realizing why he was picked for MIA was handled as an afterthought and there was no description of the portal itself, how he located it to set the charges, or how he felt about suddenly realizing he did have this extra ability.
However, it was a fun and sexy read and I will continue with the series.
December 29, 2014
I have read a few other books by K.C. Burn and I enjoyed them, I also love Paranormal books so I was looking forward to this. It was a little disappointed as the paranormal element was almost an afterthought and it would have been better if there had been more of an explanation of the MIA, Umbrae and portals earlier in the book.
I am not a huge fan of instalove, I like to see a relationship develop more naturally. I did like Carmichael and Adam, although I thought Adam was a little fast to forgive Carmichael. The second half of the book worked better for me than the first but the ending did feel a bit rushed. I think this book would have been a bit better had been longer and some of the details more filled in.
Overall it was still a decent read and I have already started the next in the series.
I am not a huge fan of instalove, I like to see a relationship develop more naturally. I did like Carmichael and Adam, although I thought Adam was a little fast to forgive Carmichael. The second half of the book worked better for me than the first but the ending did feel a bit rushed. I think this book would have been a bit better had been longer and some of the details more filled in.
Overall it was still a decent read and I have already started the next in the series.
January 28, 2012
Wolfsbane, book one in the MIA Case Files series, by Ms. K. C. Burn, was an okay read. As long as you don't expect too much and if you overlook the lackluster world building, you'll be fine. The two MCs are likable and play well together, but I would have liked for them to have had a little more common sense than they'd shown. The sex scenes were good, albeit a bit forced, but there was chemistry between them.
I liked the book enough to read the second book in the series, Blood Relations. I give Wolfsbane three stars.
March 20, 2010
4.5 stars ~ This was a great story and I'm now a fan of K.C. Burn's writing. I love the way that her characters interact and while there wasn't a lot of action, I found that the burgeoning relationship between the two men was not only hot, but touching as well. Adam was a wonderful man... and, while I felt like kicking Carmichael a time or two, I liked him as well.
I'm also wondering if there are going to be more books in the MIA: Case Files series. I'd like to know more about the Umbrae; the paranormal elements were very much a backdrop, but one that I found intriguing.
I'm also wondering if there are going to be more books in the MIA: Case Files series. I'd like to know more about the Umbrae; the paranormal elements were very much a backdrop, but one that I found intriguing.
January 11, 2016
I'm about halfway through and after reading the other reviews here, I'm not sure I'll get around to finishing. Not even because if the supernatural aspect, but because these two grown men apparently spring boners every five seconds. I get it, they're attracted to each other. They can like each other without getting hard over every word their love interest says.
I'm also really not fond of jealousy, especially when the characters barely know each other, so Carmichael's growliness at everyone Adam interacted with only annoyed me.
I'm also really not fond of jealousy, especially when the characters barely know each other, so Carmichael's growliness at everyone Adam interacted with only annoyed me.
June 16, 2011
To be honest, I wasn't sure I was going to like this. The blurb left me a little disinterested, but once I started, the story really pulled me in. It's rather different. I mean, the plot is not highly unusual, but the writing and the approach itself was rather refreshing, at least for me.
I enjoyed the characters and would have been amused to see how Adam would cope with Lachlan's job once he moved in.
I enjoyed the characters and would have been amused to see how Adam would cope with Lachlan's job once he moved in.
September 18, 2011
I read this twice in quick succession as I wasn't sure I hadn't missed a major point in the story the first time round.
I liked the concept of MIA and the portals etc, but felt that this part of the book was really just filler for Carmichael and Adam's story. The end of the story I felt was a bit rushed into a HEA.
I liked the concept of MIA and the portals etc, but felt that this part of the book was really just filler for Carmichael and Adam's story. The end of the story I felt was a bit rushed into a HEA.
June 10, 2014
I like this one more than I thought I would even though we did indeed have a giant douchebag named Carmichael. Adam though...I just loved, loved, loved him! The mystery was fun but didn't take over the entire romance part of the book. Just the right balance for me. And Carmichael could have begged and groveled a bit more. :D
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