Changeling Dream

Changeling #2

by Dani Harper

In times of stress Jillian Descharme has always found calm in her dream of a great white wolf with haunting blue eyes. But she is startled when the visions return and this time seem so real. Late at night he comes to her, speaks to her, touches her. It's almost as if he's alive...

Thirty years ago James Macleod lost his wife and unborn child to a killer bent on destroying the Changelings. Though he longed for death, his animal instinct fought for survival and James has been a wolf ever since. Yet now a woman has reawakened the man in him, taming wild instincts but arousing still wilder needs. With his ancient enemy hunting the legendary white wolf, James must fight for new life, new hope, new love.

Genres: Paranormal, Paranormal Romance, Romance, Shapeshifters, Fantasy, Urban Fantasy, Werewolves

368 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2007

About the author

LEGEND. LORE. LOVE. MAGIC.
These are the hallmarks of Dani Harper’s award-winning tales of faeries, shapeshifters, ghosts, and more, for a mature audience.

A former newspaper editor, Dani’s passion for all things supernatural led her to a second career writing fiction. There isn't anything she likes better than exploring myths and legends from many cultures, which serve to inspire her sizzling and suspenseful stories.

A longtime resident of the Canadian north and southeastern Alaska, she now lives in rural Washington with her retired mountain-man husband. Together they do battle with runaway garden gnomes, rampant fruit trees, and a roving herd of predatory chickens.

Dani Harper is the author of Storm Crossed, Storm Warned, Storm Bound, Storm Warrior (the Grim Series), as well as First Bite (Dark Wolf), for Montlake Romance. She is also the author of a Yuletide ghost story, The Holiday Spirit (Haunted Holiday Series), plus a popular shapeshifter series, which includes Changeling Moon, Changeling Dream, and Changeling Dawn.

For more, visit her website at http://www.daniharper.com.

See all Dani Harper's books on Amazon at http://amazon.com/author/daniharper

Reviews

[Ronda · Rating 5 out of 5]

...Oh God, I thought the first book was good, this was much much better!!!

I loved that the book continued from the first one but this one being about the huge white wolf, James, the brother of Connor.

James had a sad story, a heartbreaking background and yet during this, his wolf connected with Jillian. Needless to say, Changeling Dream is all about how James and Jillian come together and how the family work for this too.

I love the way Dani Harper smoothly writes her books, how they just flow from chapter to chapter... I can't wait to get stuck into book 3!!!!

[Laurie Garrison · Rating 3 out of 5]

Changeling Dream was a good read. I did like the storyline and the way the hero and heroine meets. I just wished they would have worked tighter instead of apart for the biggest part of the book. I liked Jillian’s character and the way she loved animals. She does get very dramatic on James when he would try to help out. I felt the romance was not priority in the story, so this is why my rating is lower. You get the same as in the first book, good sexual tension and a couple of sex scenes.

Jillian had something bad happen to her earlier on in life, after that she found comfort in having visions of a white wolf. When she gets a phone call for her to come to work in Canada she never in her wildest dreams believe she would come face to face with that wolf.

James lost a wife and kid, now he just lives as a wolf and has for a very long time. When he come back into town he smells something interesting to his wolf side, he has to find out and in that he embarks on a journey where he just might find himself again. If you liked the first book in this series this one shouldn’t disappoint you.

[Misty Blankenship · Rating 5 out of 5]

man and I thought the first one was good......This one was even BETTER!!!!!!! Emotions were flyin, tears about to break out and frying pans in hand to smack someone with....These books kinda remind me of Dark-Hunters/BDB/Argeneau so far but not quiet as dark as the DH and BDB!!
Dani you are doing an awesome job with this series Keep it up!!!!!!

[Moonlight Gleam · Rating 5 out of 5]

After the murder of his wife and unborn child, James Macleod isolates himself from everyone he knows, and has been living as a wolf ever since. Thirty years later, James is drawn back to his home town for reasons unknown to him at first, something that may give him a reason to become human again…

Jillian Descharme has been hired by Connor Macleod as he is in desperate need of another vet around the office. She accepts the position and moves across the country to a small town in Northern Canada. The town’s residents befriend her shortly after her arrival, creating many new friends. Although Jillian seems to be enjoying the experience, there is a secret she has not revealed to anyone. Emotionally, Jillian is broken, she was attacked when she was just a young girl and not by one, but by several men. Jillian recalls seeing a white wolf with blue eyes appeared that night just after the attack, the wolf had saved her life. When the morning arrived and someone found her, the wolf was nowhere to be found.

Over the years Jillian would see the wolf in her dreams whenever she began to stress, hearing him tell her that he’s there with her, calming her instantly. Jillian hopes that she encounters the wolf again someday, to confirm her sanity, to feed her obsession, and just to see it again one last time…

Changeling Dream is book two in the Changeling series, following Changeling Moon. Just when you think the series cannot get any better, Changeling Dream proves the theory wrong. Readers will be overwhelmed with emotion by these two broken characters, especially once they encounter one another. Dani Harper illustrates each of their vulnerabilities by detailing background stories of the characters, and revealing their connection to one another. Jillian and James together heal their wounds and overcome their fears. Changeling Dream takes a slightly more serious tone, addressing strong subject matter such as rape and depression.

My favorite element in Changeling Dream is how secondary characters in Changeling Moon came forward, playing important roles in Changeling Dream. I also enjoyed that more supernatural abilities as well as new characters are presented in this novel. The story focuses on James, Connor’s older brother who lost his way when everything that mattered to him was taken away many years ago. Jillian and James are connected, finally being able to heal when they meet again.

Dani Harper should be commended for her wonderful imagination with this captivating series, having one story flow smoothly to the next. I can definitely say that I am looking forward to the next installment of this series, Changeling Dawn, releasing January 2012. I recommend this novel to those who enjoy Paranormal Romance and shapeshifter tales.


5/5 – Must read! Highly Recommended!

[Heather Book Savvy Babe · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review is also published on my blog http://booksavvybabe.blogspot.com

With a clan of strikingly attractive werewolves, a touch of magic, and deeply emotional characters, Changeling Dream is a really good read. As Changeling Dream is book 2, I was familiar with the Changelings (werewolves) and their pack, so it was a bit easier to get into the main story line. This book focused on James Macleod, the older brother of Connor, and a werewolf who had lost everything that mattered to him. James had been shot twice, and his mate and unborn child murdered, causing James to live as a wolf for over 30 years. However, when new veterinarian Jillian moves to town, James is ready to try to live as a human again.
I was much more emotionally involved in Changeling Dream, I really felt for James and his tragic past. I easily understood why James would want to live as a wolf and not have to deal with tough emotions and circumstances, and I found that I was fully drawn into this story. I could understand where Jillian had issues, but sometimes I felt that she was overly mean to James. I did like Jillian though, and I really like how all the characters are so easy to relate to. I was very happy to meet Birkie, she was mentioned in the first book (Changeling Moon), but was a strong character in Changeling Dream.
What I like the most about this series, is Dani Harper’s ability to take the supernatural (werewolves, psychics, etc…) and make them so easy to understand. Sometimes, the supernatural worlds can get over complicated, but not in the Changeling series. This series is pretty solidly a shifter series, but there are humans with that something more. Birkie, for instance, has some magical ability, and it is very intriguing.
The emotional pull of Changeling Dream was beautiful, and I enjoyed it a little bit more than the first book. I would say that each book can easily stand on it’s own. If you read Changeling Dream before Changeling Moon, I don’t think you would be confused or lost. The Changeling series is a wonderful werewolf series, fans of paranormal romance will easily enjoy Changeling Moon and Changeling Dream. I do love the characters and the Macleod clan, and I will be looking forward to the next book in the series.

[Fictional Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness it was a literary treat to read Changeling Dream, a werewolf romance, by Dani Harper. Dani Harper has been added to my favorite authors list!

The characters, Jillian and James, had both been through terrible ordeals that made each of them struggle with who they were and how they would later respond to one another. This is the first paranormal book I’ve read where learning to love one another was more important than getting revenge. However, the bad guys who had done each main character wrong were dealt with in sweet revenge and not in a blood bath style which was quite refreshing.

While this is the second book in the Changeling series this book could stand alone. I haven’t even read the first book but I plan to after reading Changeling Dream.

I HIGHGLY recommend reading Changeling Dream if you're looking for a paranormal that focuses on love and not blood.

I give this book 5 out of 5 red crows! I wish I could give it 6 out 5. (crows are part of my blog's rating system.)

[Romancing the Book · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewed by Zita
Book provided by publisher for review

Book 2 of Dani Harper’s Changeling series really holds its own. With the same excellent writing and realistic, snappy dialogue, Harper engages you and draws you into the world of the Macleod pack and life in the Canadian north. Jillian and James come together and the sparks fly right from the start. Jillian is a survivor with a true horror in her past. She's pushed herself beyond that, but the psyche is not easily healed. James has baggage like you wouldn’t believe, but he also has strong family ties and a solid base that allows him to reenter the human world. In the end, Harper manages to tie all the loose ends together and give Jillian and James the ending you definitely find yourself rooting for.

Well done, Dani Harper! I can only hope that more stories about the Macleod pack are brewing in that talented brain.

[Cindyg · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Connor and Zoey's story but I loved James and Jillian's even more. Their story moved me, I actually had tears in my eyes several times. And that doesn't happen very often. But when it does, it's a sure sign of fantastic, moving story.
My heart broke when Jillian thought she might lose James, her raw emotions jumped right off the pages and slapped me.
I was very pleased that there was some interaction with the rest of the Macleod clan and Birkie, she's awesome and wise and a great friend to all she holds dear in her heart and Jillian found her way in right from the start.
This was an emotional journey for both characters, and they took me right along with them.
The love, the passion, and the emotion are so well done.
This is a wonderful series, I'm so glad there is a book three...
I highly recommend this book...the series...

[Bridget · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am in love with this series! I could not put Changeling Dream by Dani Harper down. This book truly tugs on your emotions with tear-jerking, heartwarming, fearful and uplifting moments. Jillian is the type of character that will be in your mind for a long time to come. She's strong and you can't help but cheer her on.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Changeling Dream

Dani Harper

Paperback: 368 pages

Publisher: Kensington Brava; Original edition (June 28, 2011)

Kindle Edition: 597 KB
Publisher: Kensington Books; Original edition (July 1, 2011)
Kindle Ed. Sold by: Amazon Digital Services

Provided by author through publicist. No remuneration exchanged. All opinions
expressed are my own unless otherwised noted.
Age level: Adult

Some cliché in the romance tropes, but interesting and exciting.
Well written intimacy.

In times of stress Jillian Descharme has always found calm in her dream of a great white wolf with haunting blue eyes.But she is startled when the visions return and this time seem so real. Late atnight he comes to her, speaks to her, touches her. It's almost as if he's
alive...

Thirty years ago James Macleod lost his wife and unborn child to a killer bent
on destroying the Changelings. Though he longed for death, his animal instinct
fought for survival and James has been a wolf ever since. Yet now a woman has
reawakened the man in him, taming wild instincts but arousing still wilder
needs. With his ancient enemy hunting the legendary white wolf, James
must fight for new life, new hope, new love. (Amazon.com)


Wolves in Kolmarden. Daniel Mott from Stockholm, Sweden
Dani hits her stride in the second book of what promises to be a long-running series about
Changelings in Western Canada. You know all the Highlanders that other series have? I think they have all moved to Dani’s story, which may be why Connor MacLeod, the veterinarian Changeling in
the first book shares his name with the character in The Highlander series.

Werewolves in this series are called Changelings. One character, Zoey, Connor’s wife, can become almost any animal. Changelings are born or bitten and live a very long time. Dunvegan, the town in or around which much of the family Macleod live, is loaded to the gills with
werewolves.

When Jillian arrives she finds a mostly friendly town and surrounding farms. She and MacLeod
do a lot of large animal work on site and back at the very well appointed clinic.

The details of the story, go back thirty years to James' first wife who was murdered by a less than sane man who nearly killed James as well. But the wolf in him gave him protection. Jillian was almost killed as well; a large white wolf scared off her attackers. Her counselor doesn’t believe the wolf was really there but thinks Jillian’s mind created him as a protector.


However, she had been in love with wolves since and became a veterinarian to eventually rehab
wild animals. In fact she sacrifices a lot to become a vet—it is her true vocation.

The story is about two people who have come through the worst life can offer and survived. Jillian
is surviving a little better than James is since he hasn’t gone into human form in 30 years. In the romance world, even the paranormal sub-genre, you know the two characters will get together, come apart, until finally they are able to work through a variety of issues. The otherness of the
Changelings also comes into play—it is more than a backdrop for the romance.

We come to know both characters well. Jillian’s character is one with whom most women could sympathize. Instead of a Knight in Shining Armor, her prince is a White Wolf. It takes a while for her to realize that. Jillian is smart, sensitive, when she is upset she distracts herself by doing something. Now, in Dunvegan she has friends so she hangs out with them.

It takes James longer, but his wolf knows before he does that Jillian will play an important part in his life. He doesn’t even know why he is drawn to her and then why he is propelled out of his wolf form after so long. I felt badly for him about his loss, but did not find him as sympathetic as Jillian. I wanted to hit him, shake him into not being an ass who thinks he's protecting someone by not being with them. He wasn’t there in time to save his wife, but one would think that being a changeling would give him some wisdom, like Birkie, the resident witchy character and vet clinic receptionist.

The crux of the story is that James has to learn that he can love Jillian without taking away from how he felt for his late wife, and that you cannot blame yourself for theinsane actions of another person.

Dani’s werewolves are hot; more so than Jacob and friends from Twilight. When Dani’s changelings aren’t in wolf form they are Men.

I like the equality Dani gives the females of all species in this series. One gender isn’t always the savior or the leader

It takes Jillian a while to believe the whole wolf thing. In some books people get a paranormal shocker and they are instantly accepting. But Dani’s characters want to see proof, and then they want a little more proof.

I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to Changeling Dawn due out in January. The writing is quite sophisticated with nothing amateurish about it. The dialogue is great, not just expletives. Men relate to each other with more intelligence and emotion than is often the case in novels. The women also sound real. And, the dialogue between James and Jillian has some really nice episodes. I highly recommend Changeling Dream.

[Karielle · Rating 2 out of 5]

Set in Dunvegan, the same cozy town in Southern Ontario where the first book in the series, Changeling Moon, took place, Changeling Dream is James Macleod's story. After 30 years of being trapped in wolfen form, Connor's estranged brother rises to humanity when a vaguely familiar new face, Jillian Descharme, comes to town. James has never met Jillian before but recognizes her somehow—he knows her from the soul—but comes to realize the person he really doesn't recognize is himself—neither as wolf, nor man.

The storyline with the mysterious connection between Jillian and James is compelling but everything else was a disappointment for me. I didn't totally love the first book, but wanted to give this second book a try because the "lost brother" story intrigued me; however, I didn't enjoy it at all. Typically with series, I am particularly fond of later installments because of the recurring characters, but even with the reprise of Zoe and the Macleods, I felt pretty much nothing.

The main characters, for one, I had a huge problem with. James's guilt over a family tragedy 30 years ago has given him an overactive sense of responsibility, which is why he overcompensates by desperately trying to keep Dr. Descharme out of danger. This would be a great alpha male quality, but it was written so simply and choppily that it actually makes him rather stalkerish... showing up in her bedroom in the middle of the night, visiting her at work every day, coming to her rescue at every possible moment. Yeesh. And then there's Jillian, who just may win the "Least likable romance heroine" award. Described as feisty and independent, this girl's maddeningly sensitive, and an irritatingly raging feminist. She only comes off as cold, pigheaded, and can just never cooperate, so the fact that she ends up "falling" for James is not only uncharacteristic, but also unbelievable. Even though she has her own demons, I felt no sympathy for her whatsoever, and found most of her points of argument very trivial and illogical. 80% of the book is her talking to herself (she talks to herself more than she talks to other characters... what the f*ck?) and apprehending over a stagnant relationship. It isn't just the attitude I found distasteful, it was everything.

And then we need to talk about the so-called romance itself. All it is is terribly angsty, with no formidable foundation or realistic expectation... and yet Jillian and James are absolutely soul mates. She doesn't even like the guy one minute, then is yearning for his touch and affection the next. Finger. Down. Throat. Now.

I literally had to keep asking myself why I was bothering to finish this book. I found it painfully boring, annoying, and although not completely unreadable, something I mostly skimmed—particularly for the last half (aka the part where everything happens).

Pros
Captivating premise about dreams and guardian wolves

Cons
James is suffocating and dislikable // Jillian is inflexible and dislikable // Unrealistic, tiring "relationship" // Messy, inconclusive story // Terrible climax

Love

James was very much like the river. Calm and steady on the surface, but somehow [Jillian had] been drawn in and captured by the deep current beneath. Would she escape? And did she really want to?

Verdict
The lycanthropic and mystical aspects of Changeling Dream were enough to hold my attention, but I definitely had to grit my teeth through this one. James's story was nice to read, but the exasperating rising action, a messy, premature climax, and ridiculous insta-romance between him and Jillian had me rolling my eyes.

Rating: 3 out of 10 hearts (2 stars): Not a fan; I don't recommend this book.

Source
Complimentary copy provided by FSB Media in exchange for an honest and unbiased review (thank you, Leyane!).

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh James! Such a lost and tortured soul! Running from the past, head-on into a future he has never imagined! After losing his wife (and almost himself) to murder, James has forsaken his human self to run with the wolves. For decades, he has confined himself to a world of intellectual simplicity and a total lack of human emotion. So deeply immersed in the wild, it’s uncertain whether those of his family will ever see James in his human skin again.

Fresh out of college, all alone, broke and desperately seeking the future she’s been dreaming about, Jillian Deshcarme figures she’s got nothing to lose when she agrees to move half way across the country to Northern Alberta. Little did Jillian know, she’s just set out on the adventure of a lifetime; headed on a straight path into the unexpected and about to learn so much more about herself, and the world around her, than she has ever imagined possible. Though broken and still on the mend from a tragic event, Jillian’s soul is not yet shattered. A sheer determination to move beyond her misfortune leaves her with an extraordinary strength of will and character that many could only dream of achieving. Oh, she still has the scars, both physical and emotional, but Jillian also has a selflessness, compassion, and intense work ethic that makes her the perfect fit to help those who need it at Dunvegan’s Veterinary Clinic. Even the stray that so unexpectedly turns up…

Readers will adore the people of Dunvegan and root for James and Jillian at every turn. In my recent review of Changeling Moon (found here), I commented on Harper’s writing abilities and with this second installment in the Changeling Series, Dani does not disappoint. Once again, readers will encounter a realistic and endearing cast of characters from within a super exciting reading adventure that will leave you fully satisfied.

While Changeling Dream differs in that the romance between the protagonists is not the center piece but rather a significant contribution, the romantic encounters are just as hot and exciting and the emotions will still set your heart to fluttering, just the same. To further explain, while Changeling Moon was mostly focused on the development of a relationship between Zoey and Connor, I feel the centerpiece of Changeling Dream was James’ difficult and emotional journey and his developing relationship with Jillian, a significant and powerful contribution to the whole.

Harper’s talent will keep readers intrigued, excited and content while her passion for the paranormal and an impressively vivid imagination will keep readers coming back for more. It’s time to make some space and clear the dust because I guarantee many will find the Changeling Series worthy of the highly coveted real estate on the “keeper” shelf!

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Changeling Dream, Dr. Jillian Descharme is a vet who dreams of working with wild animals ~ like the white wolf who'd saved her when she was a teenager. When she gets a call offering her a dream job in Northern Canada ~ and some of it with wild animals ~ she's floored, and skeptical. It's gotta be too good to be true. But when she arrives at the North Star Animal Clinic, it's really that great ~ a dream job. And while she's out walking the paths close by, she see a white wolf...HER white wolf? And then there's James Macleod.

James Macleod has spent the last 30 years as the white wolf ~ after his wife and unborn child were murdered, and he was wounded, he submerged himself into his wolf so wholly he'd almost lost the man...until the wolf couldn't stay away from Jillian. The wolf kept taking him to her..........it wanted her ~ and James, the man, wanted her, enough to return to being human again and claim her.........

I LOVED this book ~ it's actually book 2 in the series, but that didn't bother me a bit, as the story is totally stand alone and a wonderful story! I loved reading about Jillian's struggle with her doubts, with her self awareness...made the story so much more real for me, and James was just a great hero ~ while he's suffered so much pain and loss, he looked at Jillian and saw what such a young woman had overcome to become the strong, powerful woman she was and it made him stronger ~ and I love a hero who is strong enough to learn from the heroine. Dani Harper has built a great community of Changelings here, and believe me, I'm off to get book 1 ~ the focus seems more like a family than a pack, but I loved the feel that they were all there for each other in times of need, and all did whatever it took when one was hurting.
I hope to see more of the characters from this town get stories!!

http://mimmismusings.blogspot.com/

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love it when an author has a series that flows from one book to the next, but still moves forward with the story while introducing new characters. Dani Harper does just that in Changeling Dream.

In so many paranormal Romance novels the two main characters have no history together yet within the first few chapters they are slapped together and having sex for no reason. This is not the case in Changeling Dream. Jillian and James (main characters and love interest) separately have a past that only the other can heal, and even though James doesn’t remember it he has saved Jillian once before. Don’t get me wrong they have their HOT moments and when it happens you are so ready for it…

Something I truly enjoyed was that the author didn’t make one character stronger than the other, even though James is a changeling he needs Jillian just as much as she needs him. Another character that really stuck out was Birkie. Birkie is James’ brothers receptionist and long time family friend. She works with Jillian and soon becomes her best friend. Birkie provided a lot of laugh out loud moments. I loved her character.

My only problem with Changeling Dream was that I wanted more in the villain department. It felt very lacking there. Other than that I loved this one. Though this is the second book in the series, Changeling Dream could easily stand on its own.

Happy Reading,
Rebecca
www.bendingthespine.blogspot.com

[Rie · Rating 5 out of 5]

To view more of my reviews go to Mission to Read

I loved the first one in this series, but this has surpassed that one. I love Jillian. She’s gone through so much and she is still standing strong with the help of her white wolf that has rescued her in more ways than one.

Let me go over a couple of issues I had with the book. They are minor, but they bugged me some. James’ (justifiable) selfishness has truly hurt his family and I’m not sure he had really fixed this hurt by the end of the book. The other issue was that Jillian didn’t find out her white wolf and James until the very end and couldn’t figure it out on her own. She’s so super smart in other ways so I thought she would figure it out. This may be a fact of her being told the wolf was made up to help her cope, but it annoyed me.

Otherwise this book was beyond amazing. The characterization makes them seem like friends and the plot is never dull.

Zoey from the first book barely appears, but Connor has POV parts which brings us continuance of the first book. Also there are themes started in the first book that are followed through fully in this book.

The plot was intense from the very first page. Every facet that I want to talk about is spoilery because this book is so well threaded. Meaning everything has a point and everything is important to the overall story. This is an extremely tight story.

This is my favorite adult series at the moment.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

As you might have read, I enjoyed Changeling Moon quite a bit. I think I enjoyed Changeling Dream even more. I think I connected to the characters more and the emotional bits were spread throughout the book. It starts off with both James and Jillian having a horrible experience. James had the option to flee the world by completely surrendering himself to the wolf. Jillian, not having that option, decided to face her demons and come out with a new life for herself. Both still damaged, but yet found solace and healing with each other. Yes, that is the main theme in a nutshell, but this simple story with great characters really adds up to a good PNR.

Oh those Macleod men. *swoon* Can I find this small town in rural Canada? Anyone want to come with me? ;D Even the secondary characters (although having a much smaller role in this book) are wonderful. Love Birkie, the powerful "aunt" who is the only non-changeling that holds an important role within the pack. And although I was hoping for a Culley story (he's the smart-ass in the pack), the next book is Changeling Dawn which is the single sister's tale. Curious as to how that one will play out. Can I has it now? ;D

I give this book 4 1/2 stars. You don't have to read them in order (although I did... ha!). There is a logical timeline of events within each book, but you wouldn't struggle at all if you picked up this book first. These books are stand-alones. Again, I heartily recommend this to PNR shifter fans.

[Cana Elene (http://placeofreeds.blogspot.com) · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, this is the 2nd book I won from Bending the Spine (http://bendingthespine.blogspot.com/), and I must say that I LOVED this book! I've always had a facination with wolves, and Dani Harper does a wonderful job making me love wolves even more.
This book picks up several years after the first book. James lost his family 30 years ago, but still hasn't healed from the loss. He has stayed in wolf form for 30 years, and when he finally changes back, he has a hard time adjust (but then again who wouldn't?). Jillian is a vet who moves to town, but has for years seen the wolf-James after he rescued her from her rapist/attackers. As they work through the troubles of loving each other and the attempted murders of both Jillian and the changelings, you are taken for the ride of your life.
For me, this book is about healing, and does a good job of showing that from James point of view. Jillian is still healing, but is closer to the point of being healed, giving a wonderful spectrum of that there can be hope and healing after tragedy. There was the one predictable moment, but then Ms. Harper gives it a twist, and you have no clue where it is going with it.
I can honestly say that I had a lot of laughing moments, which were wonderful, and a few yelling-at-the-characters-because-they-are-being-stupid moments.

Highly recommend, definitely worth a re-read.

[Francesca the Fierce (Under the Covers Book Blog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review was posted at Under The Covers

The Macleod family thought they had lost a brother after a werewolf hater human had killed his wife and injured him. After that, James never came back to his human form. The wolf took over and it’s been decades since the human has been in control.

But when Connor decides that he needs help at his clinic and hires Jillian as a veterinary, James, human and wolf, are smitten.

Turns out, this is not the first time James ran into Jillian. He saved her life years ago from an attack and that white wolf has been an important part of Jillian’s memories ever since.

The slow change in James was so sweet. He can’t seem to stay away from Jillian even when he comes across as strange. These two definitely have some sparks flying from the beginning. And with those mesmerizing blue eyes, he had me swooning too.

Turns out there are still people that hate werewolves in town, and a blast from the past might come haunt James again. But he won’t be alone now and Jillian won’t give up so easily.

Cute, sweet and sexy paranormal with a touch of suspense. Can’t wait for Changeling Dawn!

[Jacqueline J · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well written story of a wolf shifter who lived as a wolf for 30 years after his wife was murdered. I liked it. It felt pretty different from most shifter stories out there. There wasn't a lot of posturing and badassness. There wasn't any fighting vampires or fae creatures which aspect I liked. The thing that kept it from getting more stars is that the hero and the heroine did not spend much time together. There was a lot of him staying away from her for her own good. Also the heroine eventually finds out from others that he is a werewolf instead of from the hero. As I've said many times before grand revelations that affect the relationship between the hero and the heroine should always be reveal between the hero and the heroine. It's just stronger story telling thaty way with greater emotional impact. I think that the story overall had great potential for more emotion but the characters were not together enough. That being said I did enjoy it and will probably read all the others in the series.

And another thing. What is up with the girl on the cover? I keep looking and her anatomy doesn't seem to make any sense at all. Does she have breasts? What is that lighted streak below her neck?

[Hbeebti · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really like this book . James was such a sad character. He lost his wife and unborn child . James turned into his wolf and stayed that way for many many years. Being a wolf meant not dealing with the pain. James was so quite and reserved, then tender and sweet. It was kinda funny reading about how he was trying to be human again and trying to dress or eat.

Jillian had her own issues to deal with. I have to say that I get why she has an attitude and gets angry. Its like her armor. But she was irritating me something fierce after awhile. Yeah James was like I want you, I don't want you. But she was so bitchy at times. Girl you are lucky he didn't just give up and say the hell with it. lol But they worked out their issues and it was a really sweet book. Nothing over intense at all.

Cant wait to read Kenzie's book.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh wow! i loved this book,just as good if not better than the first one! more serious and sad than the first b/c of James and Jillian's pasts. but they way their story finally comes together is great! you cant help but smile and tear up at the love they share for each other. great read! on to the next one!

[Janel · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved loved this book!!! love conner zoey james and jillian and everyone!!! defintly want to read more!!!

[Penny · Rating 3 out of 5]

I won this book through a giveaway in the author's newsletter.

[Brie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally posted at Romance Around the Corner

The first thing I thought when I finished this books was, now what? Here I am, reading book two in this fantastic new series and I just realized that the next book comes out next year. I probably should have read the book slower to make it last but I couldn’t put it down. I should admit right ahead that I liked Changeling Moon more, but I found this one to be more addictive and the relationship more intense.

Some years ago Jillian Descharme was brutally attacked. That day a white wolf saved her life and ever since the wolf has been her rock. Dreams and memories of the animal helped her go through the recovery process, through therapy, through school, and through every single major event in her life. Now she’s been dreaming almost every night about him and she knows something major is about to change. Just then she gets a phone call from Connor Macleod offering her a job at his veterinary clinic. She decides to accept it because she figures that the dreams must have been some type of sign. What she doesn’t know is that her wolf is actually a werewolf and that she’s about to find him again.


James Macleod lost his wife almost thirty years ago and ever since then he’s been in wolf form. Suddenly he feels compelled to visit and be near Jillian, and even though he doesn’t understand why both wolf and man are so drawn to her, he can’t fight the compulsion. It is obvious that James and Jillian belong together but the road to happiness isn’t easy and in this case they must fight their own internal issues and an old enemy bent on killing.

This is book two in these series about werewolves living in a remote Canadian town. If you have read the first book you know that Dani’s werewolves are a perfect mix between classic and new. Her werewolves can shift at will but the first shift always comes during the full moon. A werewolf in not invincible but if you inject them with silver nitrate he won´t be able to shift anymore. And if a werewolf bites you, you will become one. Dani has managed to reinvent the myth without completely changing it.

I enjoyed reading about Jillian. She is one of my favorite types of heroines, tough and confident but vulnerable as well. What happened to her was terrible but she came through and she wasn’t a victim. She had a deep love for animals and was committed to her job. I always love to see romance heroines that are independent and strong, and Jillian was exactly that.

I’m not so sure about James though. He lost her pregnant wife and almost his life and just ran away. He hid inside his wolf to stop feeling pain but only managed to cause more hurt to his family. I understand that what happened was a tragedy, and I don’t blame him for trying to cope as well as he could, but thirty years was too much. To me his actions were selfish. I think Jillian was stronger than him and that she was able to deal with things much better than he did, even if she also used the wolf as a coping mechanism. Having said that, he was loyal and loving and he just wanted to protect Jillian (and also himself, but I don’t blame him for it). Even though he was exasperating, I was rooting for him the whole time and I was happy to see him find peace and love. And of course, I had a blast seeing him adapt to human life and fighting with his inner wolf.

My favorite thing about these books is that the supernatural aspect is so perfectly incorporated to the story that it’s almost natural. It made me feel like werewolves were real and out and about living their lives among us. This book felt more like a regular romance than a paranormal romance.

There were a couple of things that bothered me though. The first one is that in the first book there’s a lot of emphasis in the mating bond and how the wolf comes out during sex because he needs to brand his mate, but in this book Jillian and James had no problem getting naked and I’m not sure what happened there. The other thing was the “big reveal”, I can’t say much without spoiling it but I was expecting something different, something less rushed and maybe earlier in the book.

I believe this is a book that fans of paranormal romance and contemporary romance would love. The book stands alone well, there are no spoilers for the first book, but like I always say when it comes to series it’s just best to read them in order, besides this is only book two, so there’s not that much catching up to do. This was a great addition to the series and if you haven’t read these books I don’t know what you are waiting for.

[Nancy Narma · Rating 3 out of 5]

“A Magnetic, Sensual Tale of Romance”

Thirty years ago, a deranged mad man shot James and Evelyn Macleod, killing Evelyn and their unborn child and seriously wounding James and leaving him for dead.
James blamed himself for not adequately protecting his family and disappeared for decades.
Years later, Dr. Jillian Descharme, DVM, hadn’t graduated from veterinary college for very long. Despite her diminutive size and pixie-cut blond hair, Jillian could tackle any animal problem, large or small, with ease and uncanny natural ability. She longed to secure a full time veterinary position due to mounting bills, especially her student loans. Jillian had had a feeling a change was coming. She had been visited in her dreams, on several nights, by the huge white wolf with sapphire blue eyes that seemed to penetrate her very soul. Jillian was never afraid—on the contrary, she felt safe and relaxed enough to sleep soundly when he appeared. Out of the blue, Jillian receives a call with the offer of a full time position at a veterinary clinic, but it’s on the opposite side of the country in Dunvegan, Alberta! What a change that would be, indeed! After pondering a bit, Jillian makes a deal for a six-month trial at the North Star Animal Hospital, that happens to be run by none other than the overworked, Dr. Connor Macleod, James’ Brother and his staff, including the very intuitive office manager, Birkie Peterson. Jillian’s natural flair for working with animals amazes and pleases both humans and four-legged clientele alike. On her days off, Jillian, with camera in hand, sets out to explore the magnificent countryside and discovers Elk Point, which has several sets of wolf tracks and is introduced to the white wolf of her dreams! Jillian is unafraid and slightly injured from a tumble in the dusky darkness of the forest path, the white wolf, sensing her pain, curls up beside her, licking her wounds and shielding her from the nighttime with his massive body. Upon waking the following morning, she sadly discovers the wolf is gone. Jillian wonders if it was only a dream brought on by exhaustion and imagination. While heading back down the trail to the animal hospital and her living quarters, she bumps into Douglas Harrison and his dog Buster and excitedly relays the tale of seeing the white wolf. Frowning, while backing away from this wild woman and her explanation of the confrontation, Douglas exits the trail quickly as horrid memories rear their ugly reminders within him. After the strange meeting, Jillian wonders if there is anyone she will be able to regale the story of her beloved white wolf to, and perhaps figure out its relationship to a horrible crime committed against her, so many years ago. She thinks the
White wolf may have helped her heal inside and out.
You will be drawn like a magnet to steel to the unfolding story, as you are introduced to James, Bill and Jessie Watson, Connor’s wife, Zoey and more of the Macleod clan. You will feel as if you know this special couple, so much in love that it hurts at times, and will be waiting, like I am, for a sequel.
One thing is for certain—I will never gaze upon “Lilies of the Valley” the same again!
Nancy L. Narma

[Loves To Dive · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 1/2 stars
James Macleod is a changeling (werewolf) who lost his pregnant wife 30 years ago when unknown assailants broke into their home, shooting and killing her and wounding him. James was not home at the time, and by the time he got there it was too late, a fact that haunts him. In order to deal with the loss, James assumes his wolf form and stays that way for 30 years.

Jillian Descharme is a young, up and coming vet, recruited by Connor Maclead to join his practice in northern Canada, she agrees to a six month trial period and takes off to start a new life. As a young girl, Jillian was attacked, and a great white wolf with blue eyes saved her life. Whenever she is stressed, she dreams of the wolf and he calms her. James is Connor’s brother and has been watching over him all these years, when Jillian arrives at the vet office; James is aware she is there and is immediately pulled to watch over her as well. These two damaged people meet, and together must try to find a way to mend their broken souls.

James is such a broken man that you can’t help to give your heart to him. He is, of course, a fine looking man – Jillian refers to him as a Viking. Jillian has her share of issues but is a strong woman none the less; she has been able to overcome her past and doesn’t take any crap from anyone. Both of these characters are written well and you cheer for them from the beginning. Old friends from Changeling Moon reappear, some in cameo roles and some as pivotal roles in the plot. Along the way, the mystery of who killed James’ wife and why unfolds, giving you just enough information to keep you on your toes.

I enjoyed Changeling Moon, but enjoyed this book much more. James’ vulnerability seeps right into the pages and you just want to reach through and hold him. He wouldn’t let you, of course, but you will try. Jillian is such a brave young woman and is fiercely loyal when it comes to her feelings about her white wolf. I ran the gambit of emotions while reading this book, there was the same humor the author brought to the previous book, but underlying that was a deep sense of sadness for Jillian and James. I have to admit there was one point when I got choked up.

I’m hoping this is not the end of the Maclead family; I need to find out about the rest of the siblings. You don’t have to read the first book to read this one, there are references to the characters, but this can definitely stand on it’s on. I recommend this book to anyone who likes big stoic Vikings, smart strong women and a little bit of magic.

Reviewed for the Paranormal Romance Guild as a member of the review team

[Toni · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Changeling Dream” is book two, following fast on the heels of book one “Changeling Moon”. “Changeling Dream” is set in northern Alberta, Canada, in Dunvegan. The area has been home of a Changeling pack for many decades. This series centers on the Macleod’s.

Jillian Descharme has a painful past. With a little help from a savior, she is able to move past the pain and move on. She is now a veterinarian, and truly enjoys her job. With a new life and changes ahead of her, this strong woman takes on many new and exciting challenges. Though there is one she can do without, one that takes on the form of a Viking warrior.

James Macleod knows sorrow and pain. For thirty years, he has run fast and far from it. Back then he lost everything he loved, his wife and unborn child. He may know sorrow and pain, but in all those years he has never dealt with it. James is reluctant to heal, but it is time. His wolf is ready to move on and with a lot of help, he will.

Jillian’s past comes back in a surprising way. Years before, after an attack, she is saved by a beautiful white wolf. Well over a decade later, the wolf is back…but how? James is a Changeling, but for the last thirty years he has been living his life completely as a wolf. He is drawn back home and to a blonde beauty. He just can’t seem to understand why.

“Changeling Dreams” is a book of healing. The injury is very old and it takes most of the book to fix it. The story is slow and steady, but in a good way. The healing is believable. There is no wonder drug or epic mind shattering revelation and WHAM James is all better. The journey you take with James is convincing and subtle. There are no quick fixes and that is what makes the journey so heartwarming.

This storyline is what makes “Changeling Dream” different from your normal fast paced, sex filled paranormal read. Ms. Harper is dealing with feelings and emotions on a different level. She wrote a believable plot and was consistent and meticulous in regards to James’ healing. I enjoyed that I was able to tag along with him. Yes, I wanted the action and the sex, but after reading the whole story I understood that it was not what James and Jillian needed. In the end, I applaud Ms. Harper for staying true to James. I will be waiting patiently for the next installment, “Changeling Dawn” coming out January 2012.

[Ana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Podem ler a opinião completa no Floresta de Livros.

First point for this book: you can read it isolated without feeling the need to know what happened in the previous book (although I'm much too curious about Connor's story).

When starting a new paranormal series, I'm always a bit alert. I don't like insta-romances, most alpha-males make me cringe and if the female characters aren't strong, the book rarely ever conquers me. Luckily for me "Changeling Dream" was a pleasant surprised and I loved every bit of it.
I always liked werewolfs (and changelings) a bit more than vampires (even though I read more books on our fanged dead friends), so I was really curious on how the author would make the story and the world work.
She did it well and she didn't even need to go into many details. Sometimes it’s the little things that count, not a whole chapter on world-building. Even though many questions were left unanswered, they weren’t crucial in the least for this particular story.

What really grabbed me in this book was Jillian. She's a strong, independent woman who knows her value and has self-respect. So much so that she doesn't let others step on her feelings, and James learns that the hard way.
Both her and James were amazingly fleshed out during the story and therefore their behavior and the relationship sounded very natural.

I really only have one bad thing to say about this book: The pregnancy! Really, it seemed so forced. And worst of all was the talk Jillian and James had about it. It seemed unnatural.
As a reader I believe the story would've worked just as well without the pregnancy there. Seriously, it made no difference whether she was pregnant or not, that had no relevance. The only reason I understand why it was there, was as a 'cure' of sorts for James. But was there any need? Not in my opinion.

Well, aside from that I really loved the book and the authors writing kept me reading (even if time was short for reads these last couple of weeks).
I'll be reading the first book soon, and hope to pick up the third one after that.


Lastly, I have to thank the author, Dani Harper, and BookChickCity for the contest that allowed me to read this book.

[Kristiej · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve said a few times when it comes to either werewolves or vampires, I pick the werewolf. That’s one of the reasons I’ve been reading this series. I like the first book, thus I wanted to continue. The hero of this book is James MacLeod, the older brother of the hero of Changeling Moon. As it says in the blurb, James suffered a great tragedy when his young wife and unborn child were murdered and because he couldn’t deal with the horror of it all since he felt responsible, he remained in his wolf form for the next 30 years.


The heroine, Jillian Descharme, a young vet hired by Duncan, the hero of the first book, to help in his practice is the catalyst for James finally taking back his human self. It turns out many years ago that his wolf form rescued Jililan and the wolf side has considered Jillian ‘his’ ever since then. And Jillian has never forgotten the white wolf that rescued and comforted her from a horrendous attack when she was very young.


When the white wolf realizes that Jillian has come to his neck of the woods, he claims Jillian as his even though James does not want to become involved with anyone again. He is astonished when he does come back to his humanity to realize that so much time has gone by.

I liked both these characters. James is kind of unusual as there is an internal battle going on inside him for most of the book as to who was going to get what they wanted, him or his inner wolf. I thought that dynamic was quite unique. And I liked the character of Jillian although I felt at times that she was a bit too much of a ‘super’ woman. I preferred the first book just a tad more, but I liked them both enough to get the third one, Changeling Dawn.

There were a few things that I thought weren’t explained enough though. When James rescued Jillian many years ago, she lived in mid-Ontario and yet she moved thousands of miles to the exact location that James called home. It was never explained how James traveled such a long distance or why when in wolf form and then I thought it was just a tad too coincidental that Jillian would end up in the very small Alberta town that the MacLeod family called home.

But for a werewolf or changeling as they prefer to be called, I thought it not too shabby a book at all.

[♥ I’d Rather Be Reading ♥ · Rating 3 out of 5]

After reading Changeling Moon, I was excited to see where this new world would go and who the next Macleod, James, would find as a mate. James is a heartbroken and very devoted man. But that devotion has cost him a large amount of years after his wife and unborn child passed away in a tragic accident he blamed himself for.

But when Jillian comes along, he finds it very hard to stay away from her. Soon he's coming around her more and more often. But she's a little spitfire and doesn't come around to him quite so easily. His wolf, on the other hand, she is well acquainted with and attached to.

I liked the romance between James and Jillian. However, kind of like the previous book, I felt it was pretty gradual and flowed nicely in the beginning, but then it kind of peaks all of a sudden, and everything between them is a little too serious all at once. I get that their story has to fit into one book, but I wish it was a little more gradual throughout the entire story.

But James was a character I loved. I just felt for him. Despite some mistakes he makes, I couldn't help but understand why he does what he does, and really root for him to pull it all together in the end. Jillian, on the other hand, was not my favorite heroine. I just found her a bit too standoffish and, I guess maybe a little too independent and un-trusting. She's just constantly pushing back, even when it doesn't make sense for her to.

The other thing I would absolutely love to see in future books from this series would be more of a larger, maybe paranormal, villain. Although we do have some conflict in this book, and Changeling Moon, it's sort of the type of conflict you would find in a Contemporary Romantic Suspense novel, than a Paranormal Romance novel. So I'd love for that to evolve into something bigger.

Overall it was a good story and a sweet romance. I loved that Connor got a POV still even though this wasn't his book, and overall I just like that it looks like old characters won't be pushed to the background like a lot of PNR books do sometimes. So that's good. I'm really hoping one of the twin's books are next! :]