Secret of the Wolf (Warriors of the Rift, #2) by Cynthia Garner

Jul 06, 2012 Mel rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: e-book, demons, pnr, sci-fi, werewolves, vampires

While I didn't like Secret of the Wolf as much as Kiss of the Vampire, the first book in the Warriors of the Rift series, it was still really good. Though the case the book focuses on was a bit predictable and I had it figured out early on, it didn't lessen the book's appeal for me. Dante and Tori are both very likeable characters and even though there were a couple of times I wanted to smack them upside the head for making stupid choices, I still enjoyed watching their story unfold.

The concept...more

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Sep 08, 2012 Cindy rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Werewolf liaison Tori Joseph has been alone for over a hundred years. When her brother and cousin show up in her life she is just glad to have family in her life again. But the timing could be so much better...a rogue wolf has been biting a turning unwilling humans. This infraction carries an immediate death sentence. Now the hunt is on. Representing the humans during this hunt is sexy Dante MacMillan a no nonsense detective with family issues of his own. When these two come together sexual tens...more

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Aug 17, 2012 Dangerous Romance Book Reviews rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Book blurb: As a werewolf liaison to the Council of Preternaturals, Tori Joseph is used to straddling the world between humans and immortals. She plays by the rules and always delivers justice, no matter the cost. But after a string of increasingly brutal attacks results in humans turning into werewolves, Tori doesn’t reveal her horrifying suspicion: Someone very close to her might be responsible.

Investigating the paranormal violence, no-nonsense detective Dante MacMillan believes Tori is hidin...more Book blurb: As a werewolf liaison to the Council of Preternaturals, Tori Joseph is used to straddling the world between humans and immortals. She plays by the rules and always delivers justice, no matter the cost. But after a string of increasingly brutal attacks results in humans turning into werewolves, Tori doesn’t reveal her horrifying suspicion: Someone very close to her might be responsible.

Investigating the paranormal violence, no-nonsense detective Dante MacMillan believes Tori is hiding something. His search for the truth draws him into greater danger as he gets closer to the dark realm of the immortals—and to the sexy werewolf who stirs his primal lust. Now with evil closing in around them, Dante must convince Tori to trust him... before her deadly secret destroys them both.

This book took me total surprise and I loved reading every single page. The story Cynthia Garner has created is wonderful and I can’t wait to get my fingers into the first book in this series; Kiss of the Vampire, not to mention the e-novella that comes before Secret of the Wolf, which tells the story behind Tori and her brother (Randal's) punishment, to be sent to Earth.

Tori and her brother are souls that got transported from another dimension as a punishment for a crime their cousin did. When they got on to Earth they got separated in the nineteenth century. Tori hasn’t been able to locate her brother since, and she feels terribly alone. Tori’s a werewolf and she needs – and wants, her family around her. So when her brother suddenly appears on her doorsteps, she’s thrilled at first her brother finally found her, that she has some family again after all these years.

But slowly she becomes more concerned about and for him. He says he wants them to get understand and get closer to eachother, but he keeps pushing her away, staying out late, avoiding Tori and snapping at her when she asks about him, where he’s been and what he’s been doing when he’s out on his own.

Being the werewolf liaison means that when something goes wrong and a werewolf is involved, Tori get a call. So when people start to get attacked by a werewolf and turned against their will, Tori gets involved. The only up-side with the case? She gets to spend time with the yummy detective Dante, whom has stirred her interest for some time.

Dante is interested in Tori, but he has so much on his plate with his job, his horses and his sister Lily, who just got out of treatment for breastcancer. He feels like he doesn’t have the time to squeeze anything else in. Even if he would love nothing more than to squeeze Tori a little in all the right places. ;-)

In Secret of the wolf we get POV’s from both Tori and Dante. We can see how joyous Tori feels when Randal (her brother) shows up and how this turns into frustration when she time after time runs into the wall that surrounds him. We can follow not only Tori’s but also Dante’s reaction towards each other, and it’s so much fun to read. Their argument internally when they face new problems, Tori’s denial when it comes to her brother (and all the trouble that brings along), Dante’s fury, angst and frustration when it comes to his sister (Lily), Tori and her brother, Randal.

I really enjoyed reading this book, it was amazing. The way the characters develope through the book, the joy, the fear and confusion they feel and the ending… ooohh, the ending. It still brings both tears in my eyes and a smile on my face.

If you haven’t read Secret of the Wolf, I recommend it. I really enjoyed reading this book and only had few problems with jumping into the series. I will definitely be buying the first book, Kiss of the Vampire and the e-prequel to Secret of the Wolf; Into the rift.
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Jul 18, 2012 Heidi Gonzalez rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This is apparently the second book int his series but I don't think it really mattered. I didn't feel lost or like I was missing anything by reading this one first.

Apparently Werewolves, vampires and demons have crossed into our world from their planets and now inhabit the bodies of humans. This is an interesting twist and one I wish would be explored more because it seems that humans are worried that when the rift opens back up they may find themselves inhabited by one of these immortal creatur...more

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Jun 20, 2012 NL Gassert rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I have to admit I didn’t read Cynthia Garner’s first book in this new paranormal series, but that didn’t lessen my enjoyment of her second book in the series, SECRET OF THE WOLF. In fact, enjoyment is a woeful understatement. I loved this book. Garner (a pen name for Sherrill Quinn) has earned a definite spot on my to-read and pre-order lists.

In SECRET OF THE WOLF, events set in motion in book one have consequences for sexy werewolf Tori and human detective Dante. Their professional relationshi...more I have to admit I didn’t read Cynthia Garner’s first book in this new paranormal series, but that didn’t lessen my enjoyment of her second book in the series, SECRET OF THE WOLF. In fact, enjoyment is a woeful understatement. I loved this book. Garner (a pen name for Sherrill Quinn) has earned a definite spot on my to-read and pre-order lists.

In SECRET OF THE WOLF, events set in motion in book one have consequences for sexy werewolf Tori and human detective Dante. Their professional relationship, which already includes a healthy dose of attraction, grows as the two work to solve the puzzle left to them by the vampire and half-demon in book one.

While they do their best not to be obvious, neither Tori nor Dante hide their attraction to each other. Dante, ever the gentleman, struggles with his need to commit fully. Thinking he’s too busy to enter into a relationship, he’s honest with Tori about his reluctance to date her. Tori, thoroughly modern in her approach to men, sees nothing wrong with a bit of fun on the side, but she can’t hide her longing for a deeper connection for long.

You have to give Dante credit for knowing full well that Tori is much better equipped to protect herself than he ever could, yet he still walks her to her car to see her safe. His very healthy male ego isn’t the least bit put off by the fact that he’s the prey and she’s the predator. I enjoyed this relationship dynamic immensely; it’s not often the guy relinquishes the top spot as gentlemanly as Dante.

Their romantic relationship sizzles as paranormal violence threatens to tear them apart. The identity of the bad guy isn’t much of a mystery for long. It’s Tori’s understandable reluctance to confirm what her instincts tell her that drive the conflict here.

Even though Tori and Dante solve the puzzle left to them in SECRET OF THE WOLF, what they uncover only sparks further questions. Garner’s next offering in this series will see demon Finn and fairy princess Keira try to get one step ahead of the bad guys out to dominate mankind (and I’m pre-ordering).
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Aug 02, 2012 Angela rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: urban fantasy, series, romance, werewolves

Recommended to Angela by: netgalley

Shelves: ebook

I was a little apprehensive about this book when I stared it because while I liked the first book in the series, Kiss of the Vampire, I was confused about the rift plot. I was hoping this book would explain the concept a little more, it did....and didn't. I like the characters that are in the series and find myself really wanting to know more about them. I'm still not sure how the soul picks it's form (werewolf, vampire, demon, elf ect. ect.).

Dante and Tori are a great couple. There was a real f...more

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Aug 01, 2012 Cocktails and Books rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: publisher-provided, netgalley, 2012-reading-challenges, blog-tour

I love this take on preternatural existence. Supernaturals are actually beings from another dimension sent to Earth as punishment.

A rogue werewolf is on the lose, attacking humans in what appears to be an attempt to change them. But soon the rogue's activity escalates to murder and Werewolf Liaison Tori Joseph has to wonder if the strange behavior of her newly found brother is connected. But not wanting to lose the only family she has, she hides her suspicions from the Council and her human par...more I love this take on preternatural existence. Supernaturals are actually beings from another dimension sent to Earth as punishment.

A rogue werewolf is on the lose, attacking humans in what appears to be an attempt to change them. But soon the rogue's activity escalates to murder and Werewolf Liaison Tori Joseph has to wonder if the strange behavior of her newly found brother is connected. But not wanting to lose the only family she has, she hides her suspicions from the Council and her human partner, Detective Dante MacMillian.

I loved Dante in Kiss of the Vampire. He was a man who would do anything for those that he loved, even if one of those people turned furry once a month. While he fought his attraction to Tori, one because he was a werewolf, but mostly because he didn't think he could give her the time and attention he deserved, he wore his heart on his sleeve as he tried to do the right thing. He was one of those tough on the outside but soft and squishy on the inside men that make you all gooey. Once he got out of his own way, he proved he was the type of man that stood by his woman...no matter what.

Tori was a great character as well. She'd spent the past 150 years without her brother, while knowing he was sent through the Rift at the same time she was. Having family was important to Tori, but she didn't look at family as anything other than blood relation. She had her friends, but to her that wasn't the same. When her brother Rand found her, she was excited to finally have what she'd craved. But their relationship wasn't what she though it would be. It wasn't until Dante and his sister Lily that she understood that family wasn't so much about blood, but about those that had your back and stood by your side.

Besides the romance between Tori and Dante, we have the on-going story about someone (or someones) determined to create their own Rift and send, what appears to be, massive preternatural beings to Earth. The villain from Kiss of the Vampire, Natchook, who (come to find out) is Tori's cousin Stefan, has managed to get his hands on the device Tori and Dante were trying to crack. Now that it's back in the wrong hangs, one can only wonder just what exactly is going to happen next.

If you like your vampire, werewolf, fey, etc stories with a twist, this is definitely a series you need to pick up.
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Sep 11, 2012 Kelly Moran rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: my-reviews

Tori Joseph is the werewolf liaison to the Counsel of Preternaturals, and used to living among humans. But when a string of brutal attacks on humans hits close to home, she's finding her loyalties torn. Human Dante MacMillian knows Tori is hiding something, but they've worked together well for so long, he ignores his suspicions. With evil closing in, he needs her to trust him, or they'll both lose everything.

This was a very interesting premise with immortals and humans coexisting, but humans re...more

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Jul 08, 2012 Stephanie Collins rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Interesting premise and a nice quick read.

Tori is the main female lead and a werewolf... but unlike the traditional sense of a werewolf she is actually a rift traveller who has been sent here as a form of banishment for a crime a relative did back in her home dimension. She is a strong female lead and has her own issues with family - she wants them to be this happy loving entity but her reality is a brother who is aloof at best and a cousin who isn't who she wants him to be. She has to go thru a...more

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Jun 28, 2012 Ami rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: urban-fantasy-paranormal-futuristic

Gah, I'm so disappointed :(.

I hate it when a good first book in a series is ruined by the sequel. I enjoyed the first book, Kiss of the Vampire. I waited for this one to be released because Dante charmed me so much. Unfortunately, this book is filled with a number of character's stupidity, that makes me want to bang my head and kick their ass.

Let's see ...

First, Dante and Tori have chemistry and they flirt. But Dante doesn't want to pursue the relationship because he has a sick sister (she is...more Gah, I'm so disappointed :(.

I hate it when a good first book in a series is ruined by the sequel. I enjoyed the first book, Kiss of the Vampire. I waited for this one to be released because Dante charmed me so much. Unfortunately, this book is filled with a number of character's stupidity, that makes me want to bang my head and kick their ass.

Let's see ...

First, Dante and Tori have chemistry and they flirt. But Dante doesn't want to pursue the relationship because he has a sick sister (she is recovering from cancer) AND because Tori is a pret, thus the possibility of her being in danger is big. He worries that he might lose her one day (just he might lose his sister to cancer). WTF? Is that how he sees Tori? Weak and easily be killed? I like the men in my paranormal romance / urban fantasy to have more determination than that! At least Tobias's reason when he broke it off with Nix (in book 1) made more sense. This one is just so off-putting *pout*.

Second, my God Tori, you are so naive, and it costs human their f*cking lives!! The idea that Tori wants to protect her brother because she think family should come first, when even readers can see the clues (view spoiler), as glaringly obvious, is just STUPID!!! (view spoiler) Aaaargh, Tori's stupidity just pissing me off!!

Third, she also naively thinks that "because" Stefan is her "family" that he deserves a second chance. When it is CLEAR that Stefan's presence on Earth is not because he is punished but because he ESCAPES from punishment. (view spoiler) doesn't help Tori's case to make me feel any sympathy towards her action.

Then of course, the ending ... it's just so BLAH. (view spoiler). Stupid, stupid, stupid!! Then again, maybe stupid people deserve each other *sarcasm*

Sorry, but I am NOT jumping into book #3 anytime soon. *grumble and pout*(less)

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Jun 20, 2012 Jennifer rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: contemporary, earcs, ebook, paranormal, shifters, urban-fantasy

SECRET OF THE WOLF is the second in a series, and I vaguely had that figured out before I read it. Even knowing that there was more to the story than was revealed in this volume, I had that nagging feeling that things had happened that I should know about. Some books bring the reader back to speed well, and some don't. This wasn't the best at it, but it's a shifter book, so I persevered. There are a lot of sexy werewolves and vampires and fae, with an interesting origin story, so I was happy to...more

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Jul 14, 2012 Viviana Izzo rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

For this and other book reviews, please visit Reading Between the Wines Book Club

Let me begin by saying this is the second book in the series (the first is “Kiss of the Vampire”) and I did not read the first book. I do not believe this works as a “stand alone” book. However, the author does a great job in providing the reader with a recap of the story at the beginning and even throughout the book to further provide details, so I never felt “lost” about the main story plot. Talk about a unique, n...more For this and other book reviews, please visit Reading Between the Wines Book Club

Let me begin by saying this is the second book in the series (the first is “Kiss of the Vampire”) and I did not read the first book. I do not believe this works as a “stand alone” book. However, the author does a great job in providing the reader with a recap of the story at the beginning and even throughout the book to further provide details, so I never felt “lost” about the main story plot. Talk about a unique, new twist to the origins of vampires, werewolves and other paranormal creatures! Beings from a different world, cast out, sent to Earth where in order to survive they must possess a human’s body. Some of the traditional aspects of these paranormal creatures still remain: both Vamps and Wares can “transform” humans into their species as legends already state (bites).

The genre is Paranormal Romance; however there wasn’t much “paranormal” or “romance” throughout the story. Yes, the paranormal aspect comes into play at the beginning and in the end, as well as some of the characters, but it reads more like a mystery (whodunit?) for most of the book. Then there’s the lack of “romance”. I found Dante extremely charming and yes, I would have a crush on the guy if I knew him! The chemistry between Dante and Tori is there. They both flirt with each other (longing stares, a brush of his fingers here, her teasing him with caresses there) but as with any romance, there has to be obstacles for them, right? Here’s where I had the most issues with this book; the obstacles were, well, lame. I caught myself constantly yelling at Dante “Really? Come on!!! You’re going to use your sister as an excuse?” or “Oh now you’re saying it won’t work because she’s Pret. SERIOUSLY?” Side note, my hubby did give me a few glances of “WTF”, but then again, he’s one to talk as he’s literally LOL as he’s reading J.R. Ward’s Black Dagger Brotherhood Series (currently on book 6 “Lover Enshrined”). Back to Dante and Tori: So he fights their attraction and commits to being strictly friends. Yeah, the man breaks his own rule all the time. Usually, there’s an event (an attack, having the other person leave, near death experience, etc.), something that makes the hero (or sometimes the heroine) realize that the excuses no longer outweigh the reality of what is right in front of them, the possibility of being happy and loving someone and having them love you in return. Unfortunately, there is no such event in this book. He just changes his mind and when he does, Tori doesn’t question it at all. I would have at least asked “so what made you change your mind. You were so adamant before….” Then again, if he’s really as “hot” as everyone says he is, I may not have asked him immediately, but definitely later on, afterwards, I would have asked. So now that you’ve been waiting this entire time for them to finally get together, especially after Dante teases Tori (and us, the readers) by telling her “When I have you stretched out under me, I’m gonna take my time.” Shivers right? Imagine my disappointment when they do get together and well, it didn’t live up to the expectation (or what he said!)

Earlier I stated that this read more like a mystery than a romance. We don’t have to work too hard to figure out ‘whodunit’. Family relationships cloud Tori’s judgment and though she is originally portrayed a strong female, her actions and reactions all lead in the opposite direction. Gosh, I hate when that happens!!

And I’m not even going to get started on Tori’s brother. He’s like 100 years old going on 13. Can we say “issues”!!!

Could I have liked this book more if I had read the first book? Maybe, but I would still have had issues with it reading more like a mystery than romance, Tori’s family relationship dynamic and that its slow at the beginning and middle and then rushed at the end.

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Aug 13, 2012 Karen rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Tori the werewolf cop. Dante the human cop. The rift device from the first book.
Tori with her brother she hasn’t seen in over one hundred years.
Dante with his sister who is recovering from cancer and divorce.
Both have strong family loyalty. This is the wedge in their relationship. Which is a big reason that I’ve dropped book 2 a star. I don’t relate with the characters’ way of thinking at all. Having to take care of one’s sister is no reason to deny yourself a chance at love. And having a scumb...more

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Jun 27, 2012 Lizzy Lessard rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: reviewed, paranormal

This is the second book in the Warriors of the Rift series and though the author does a great job slipping in details from the first book into this one, I wouldn’t recommend reading Secret of the Wolf before the first book, Kiss of a Vampire. So much of the book is spent on telling the back-story, that the majority of the first half of the book is simply boring. It seems like everything either happens off screen or in the past. It becomes obvious very on in the book that there are two distinct p...more This is the second book in the Warriors of the Rift series and though the author does a great job slipping in details from the first book into this one, I wouldn’t recommend reading Secret of the Wolf before the first book, Kiss of a Vampire. So much of the book is spent on telling the back-story, that the majority of the first half of the book is simply boring. It seems like everything either happens off screen or in the past. It becomes obvious very on in the book that there are two distinct plot lines - one is figuring out which werewolf is attacking humans; the other is deals with the rift device. I like that the series has a definite goal: Close the rift that was opened in the first book and let in all these supernatural beings that are using humans as hosts.

Tori is a werewolf who has been living on Earth in a human host for 150 years. Although she has been on Earth longer than most, there are many other supernaturals that are more powerful. She’s a werewolf liaison in Scottsdale, Arizona (and yes, the setting is 100% authentic…I wish I lived in that part of Phoenix with the clubs and fancy restaurants. Too rich for my wallet.) but is clearly anti-authority. Its only a matter of time before she has to decide between doing her job and retaining loyalty to her friends and family.

Dante is a human detective who works with Tori on the case to solve the murders involving a crazed werewolf. Tori and Dante, have amazing chemistry both on duty and off, yet Dante spends quite a bit of the book making excuses as to why they shouldn’t engage in a romantic relationship. Its frustrating to Tori but a refreshing chance from the traditional love-at-first sight relationships in most books of this genre.

Secret of the Wolf began with an amazing shifting scene in the Sonora desert of Arizona, but besides mentions of werewolves, vampires, and faes there is little paranormal on screen until the last couple of chapters. It felt like more of a detective mystery than a paranormal novel. I like more of an active fantasy role in the books I read.

Overall, I had to let this story sit in my mind for a couple days before I could make up my mind if I liked it or not. As a stand alone novel, it fails. If you want to read this book, check out the first book in the series prior to trying this one out. Fall in love with the characters and the world Cynthia Garner crafted. Only then read this book. As a second book in a series, it works. It advances the master plot quite well. I will check out the next book in the series when it comes out, despite the shortcomings of this one.

**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.(less)

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Jan 22, 2013 Kris rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: para

4 STARS Human victims are being attacked by werewolves and being turned which is against the law. Council liaison, Tori teams up with human detective Dante to investigate the attack in their sector. Soon Tori finds herself keeping a secret not only from Dante but the council. If she tells the truth or keeps the secret - either will lose her someone she loves.

A great follow up to Garner's first novel in the Warrior of the Rift series. Tori is a strong female character who is matched with a man wh...more

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Jun 28, 2012 Delia rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Cythnia Garner has done it again. This is the second book in her Warriors of the rift series and I have to say I couldn't tear myself away from it! Picking up shortly after the first book, Secret of the Wolf, follows two secondary characters from the first book as they continue on their investigation of the rift machine.
We find Tori, a werewolf, forced to work with Dante, a human cop, in order to figure out the strange rift machine. Along the way they learn to trust each other, even as the peop...more

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Oct 25, 2012 Kendell Jordan rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Check out all my reviews at Kenn's Reviews

Cynthia Garner’s ‘Secret of the Wolf’ is an Urban Fantasy leaning heavily towards Romance and Crime. This is the second book in the Warriors of the Rift series, what will definitely turn out to be a Must Read Series. The basis of the Fantasy is that Vampires, Demons, Werewolves and other mystical creatures are actually beings from a different dimension.

These beings were sent to our dimension as a punishment for crimes committed in their own. Most are usi...more Check out all my reviews at Kenn's Reviews

Cynthia Garner’s ‘Secret of the Wolf’ is an Urban Fantasy leaning heavily towards Romance and Crime. This is the second book in the Warriors of the Rift series, what will definitely turn out to be a Must Read Series. The basis of the Fantasy is that Vampires, Demons, Werewolves and other mystical creatures are actually beings from a different dimension.

These beings were sent to our dimension as a punishment for crimes committed in their own. Most are using it as a second chance to live their life legally. The beings, referred to on Earth as ‘preternaturals’, have made their existence public knowledge and live freely among Humans. They have their own legal system, complete with laws, trials, punishments and enforcement officers.

Victoria ‘Tori’ Joseph is one of these enforcement officers. After being on Earth since 1866, she’s finally found the brother that she’s been separated from for over 130 years, the only family she has here on Earth. She is a werewolf liaison for the Council of Preternaturals, and as such is tasked with handling and investigating any illegal incidents involving Werewolves in her section of Phoenix. Tori is also required to work closely with Officer Dante of the Phoenix Police Department. The heat is obvious right from the start with these two as they investigate the scene of a bar brawl between a Vampire and a Werewolf.

As the story progresses we learn that there is a comet passing Earth in a few months, and when it comes it is dragging behind it a large rift between dimensions which will result in a giant influx of preternaturals into Earth’s population. These beings will take a human at will, merging with its consciousness. Tori has in her possession a device used to communicate across the rift, but she needs to figure out why it is here on Earth and what its being used for.

Tori’s relationship with Dante heats up as they are forced to work together to solve the riddle of the rift device. In the midst of these investigations, Dante and Tori’s co-workers have to deal with a rouge Werewolf who has moved from ‘turning’ humans to using them for a late night snack. When Tori hears details that leads her to believe her brother may be involved with the rogue Werewolf, she keeps the info to herself wanting to do her own investigation before turning him in. But it may be too late.

Tori has to try to balance her relationship with Dante, while investigating the rift device and trying to find a rogue Werewolf that has started killing in her sector (and may be her brother).
This is a book that is well worth the read and will have you on the edge of yours seat. Cynthia’s next book in the series, ‘Heart of the Demon’ can’t come soon enough for this reader. I, for one, have found this book mind-blowing with its realistic plot points and references. Superbly written and exceptionally well thought-out and researched.
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Sep 12, 2012 KOMET rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: fiction-werewolves-lobas

I took a break from most of the heavy reading I've done this year (i.e. of history, past wars, and memoirs and (auto)biographies) to read this book. By turns, a paranormal romance and a tale of horror and mystery, we are introduced to a world not unlike our own. Except that humans and "preternaturals" (beings from another dimension who entered Earth through periodic rifts or cosmic tears in the fabric of space and emerge as immortal shapeshifters, demons, and vampires with extraordinary powers)...more

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Sep 09, 2012 Pam rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: contemporary, m-f-romance, paranormal, shape-shifter, urban-fantasy, vampire, police-fbi, own

First--Be aware Secret of the Wolf starts off shortly after where Kiss of the Vampire left off. In my opinion that means you need to read the books in order to understand the world and relationships Ms. Garner has created.

I really like the concept for this series. Yes, its filled with many of the usual paranormal's you'd expect but the idea they come from another dimension makes it totally fresh and new. It's mixed with romance and crimes, turning it into a unique urban fantasy I only anticipat...more First--Be aware Secret of the Wolf starts off shortly after where Kiss of the Vampire left off. In my opinion that means you need to read the books in order to understand the world and relationships Ms. Garner has created.

I really like the concept for this series. Yes, its filled with many of the usual paranormal's you'd expect but the idea they come from another dimension makes it totally fresh and new. It's mixed with romance and crimes, turning it into a unique urban fantasy I only anticipate getting better. What's exciting is that there's still bits of information about their world coming to light as this second book progresses and there's still much to learn about the world they left behind. And that's just the tip of the iceberg. Ms. Garner has concocted a complicated ongoing plot line that the law enforcement characters are following from one book to the next. Needless to say there are lots of dangling threads as they search for answers and I eagerly wait for the next release, Heart of the Demon.

Now back to Dante and Tori. These two are great characters. They make a wonderful couple--strong, determined, capable, stubborn and a good compliment to the other. Ms. Garner did a good job developing the personalities of both, delving deeply into their family ties. Tori's relationship with her brother is tense and uneasy, whereas Dante's with his sister's is tender and loving. The relationship between Dante and Tori is nothing but professional initially but you can feel the tension--nicely done Ms. Garner. When they finally give in to their emotions, the simmering desire turns physical.

I've rambled on long enough. It's safe to say I enjoyed the book. It's well written, has a fast plot, smooth pace and vivid description. I like both Tori and Dante, the story has plenty of twist and turns, and the new secondary characters are important and interesting. I usually complain when there are dangling thread but not with an ongoing story line. Yes I've got questions but I'm certain at least some will be answered in the next book.(less)

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Apr 21, 2013 Kati rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: paranormal, 2012-reads, arc, books-i-own, 2012-reviews, 4-stars, books-with-reviews

**Original review posted at Romancing Rakes For The Love of Romance**

I have been eagerly waiting for Dante and Tori's story after I was ensnared by Kiss of the Vampire. And their story goes something like this:

Dante MacMillanand Tori Joseph(one a smoking hot human detective, the other a sultry werewolf) work side by side trying to figure out what is going on with the preternaturals (vamps, weres, fey and the like) that are turning up dead. Meanwhile, they're not only dealing with the murders but...more

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Jun 19, 2012 Sarah rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: books-i-own-kindle, netgalley, read-in-2012, for-review-read

Please note that Secret of the Wolf is the second book in the Warriors of the Rift series and this review will contain spoilers for the first book Kiss of the Vampire. If you're new to the series I would suggest not reading any further but it is definitely worth checking out reviews for the first book.

Every 73 years a Rift opens between dimensions that allows incorporeal beings to come to earth. These beings must take over the body of a human host or they are unable to survive, the body they tak...more Please note that Secret of the Wolf is the second book in the Warriors of the Rift series and this review will contain spoilers for the first book Kiss of the Vampire. If you're new to the series I would suggest not reading any further but it is definitely worth checking out reviews for the first book.

Every 73 years a Rift opens between dimensions that allows incorporeal beings to come to earth. These beings must take over the body of a human host or they are unable to survive, the body they take over then becomes an immortal - either a vampire, shapeshifter or a demon. Traditionally the beings that were sent through the rift were other world criminals who were banished from their own dimension as punishment for their crimes but it seems like that is changing. Tori is a werewolf who works as the liaison for the Council of Preternaturals and she is currently investigating the device that Tobias managed to take from his enemy Natchook in the previous book. She must work alongside human police detective Dante to try and discover what the device is for. But work on the device comes second to investigating a spate of werewolf attacks - just why is the werewolf changing seemingly random people and can they find a way to stop them?

I enjoyed the second instalment to the Warriors of the Rift series but I have to admit that it didn't quite live up to my expectations. I had hoped to find out more about the ongoing story with Natchook (I still think that is one of the worst evil bad guy names I've ever come across!) but it didn't really feel like that plot thread moved much further forward. We learn a little more about his motivations but not enough to satisfy me. This series seems to straddle the line between urban fantasy and paranormal romance but it doesn't quite manage to tick all of the boxes for me in either category. There isn't quite enough action and intrigue for an urban fantasy series and the romance is a bit too slow and straightforward for a paranormal romance.

While I liked both Tori and Dante I wanted a bit more conflict between them. It was very clear from the beginning that they both had the hots for each other. The only thing stopping them being together was that Dante was afraid to fall in love with her and then lose her. He also didn't feel that he had enough time to devote to a relationship in between caring for his recovering sister and building his career. These just seemed like pretty poor excuses to me - especially considering the chemistry between them. I prefer my heroes to be a bit more of the go and get her type rather than too scared to attempt to claim their woman.

With regards to things that happened with Tori's brother Rand and Dante's sister Lily I felt that it was too easy to figure out what was going on. None of the reveals surprised me as I'd guessed quite early on how things would turn out for each of the main characters. It's a bit disappointing because I do think this series has a lot of potential but neither of the first two books have managed to live up to that. I do have hopes that when the author finally hits their stride with these books then there could be a massive improvement. Will I read the next book? At the moment I'm not too sure. I do want to know what happens next in the ongoing story line but characters Finn and Keira who are the focus of the next book aren't really ones that I'm particularly curious about. Don't let me put you off giving the series a try though - I've seen a lot of very positive reviews for Kiss of the Vampire and I think anyone who loved the first book will enjoy this one just as much.(less)

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Dec 03, 2012 Jenni Ebba rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I really liked this one better than the first. This series is about a league of beings who have come through a rift in space to inhabit humans. These aliens were sent through for many reasons from criminal activity to being related to a criminal. The beings come to form the various preternatural branches; demons, vampires, werewolves, and fairies. Romance and fantasy combine in this series to create a devastating combination.
Victoria Joseph is one such being- she's a werewolf. She had the misfor...more

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Jul 04, 2012 Nicole rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: paranormal-romance, read-in-2012, review

Review originally posted here: http://thebookpushers.com/2012/06/29/...

I love the concept of the Warriors of the Rift series, and when I found book two would be all about the wolves, I was even more excited. I do love me some werewolves!

Tori is a werewolf liaison, and loves her job dealing with both other wolves and humans. Although she is happy with her life, she also longs for a family of her own, so when her brother shows up after being apart for over a hundred years, she is so excited to hav...more Review originally posted here: http://thebookpushers.com/2012/06/29/...

I love the concept of the Warriors of the Rift series, and when I found book two would be all about the wolves, I was even more excited. I do love me some werewolves!

Tori is a werewolf liaison, and loves her job dealing with both other wolves and humans. Although she is happy with her life, she also longs for a family of her own, so when her brother shows up after being apart for over a hundred years, she is so excited to have a second chance at a relationship with him. Along the way, she also starts to actively pursue things with the sexy human detective Dante.

Dante isn’t looking to be in a relationship. He wants to focus on his job and taking care of his sister. But the case of the rogue wolf turning humans has him and Tori working closely together, and the attraction between the two of them is something that Dante can’t keep putting off. But when the rogue wolf goes after someone Dante holds dear, will Tori’s desire to keep her family close be the reason they can’t make their relationship work?

One of the things I love about this series is how original it is. Who would have thought that having creatures come through some kind of cosmic rift would create the supernatural creatures we know and love today? I adore the concept and think that Garner does an incredible job keeping that aspect of the story fresh and new and exciting.

After reading the first book I was so glad to see an author who didn’t create a bunch of additional drama that kept the hero and heroine from being together. I loved the romance in that book and was hoping for much of the same in this one. Unfortunately, I felt as if the romance was the weakest aspect of this book. Both Tori and Dante danced around each other for much of the first part of the book, and once they started having an actual relationship – a commitment – I just felt as if things moved very quickly from the “lust” to “love” territory. Then, when Tori’s secret is revealed and Dante’s sister is attacked, I just felt as if there was a lot of extra emotional drama on Tori and Dante’s behalf that didn’t need to be there.

I’m very anxious to see how the series wraps up. The on-going story with Natchook didn’t really seem to go anywhere, and I am awaiting to see what is going on with the rift device that Tori and Dante had then lost. I can’t wait to see the final showdown and who is involved and how it becomes resolved. I really wish that aspect of the storyline had progressed a bit more, or that we had been given a little bit more insight into how all that is going to resolve.

All in all I was a bit disappointed in the second installment of the Warriors of the Rift series. I really enjoyed the first story, and look forward to continuing with the series, but the romance really dragged this story out for me. The plot itself seemed to stall in some parts and accelerate too quickly in others. While I enjoyed both Tori and Dante as individuals, I had a hard time really believing in the romance.
I give Secret of the Wolf a C(less)

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Jul 10, 2012 Paranormal Haven rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: reviewed-read-by-stephanie

3.5 stars

Tori Joseph is a werewolf liaison to the Council of Preternaturals. She loves her job and working with a man who makes her wolf want to roll over and beg. Human Detective Dante MacMillan won't deny the growing attraction between him and Tori but personal troubles and the fact she's immortal has him hesitant to act. Turning to their case, Tori and Dante are working to find who is responsible for werewolf attacks against humans. When Tori has a troubling suspicion as to who is behind it a...more 3.5 stars

Tori Joseph is a werewolf liaison to the Council of Preternaturals. She loves her job and working with a man who makes her wolf want to roll over and beg. Human Detective Dante MacMillan won't deny the growing attraction between him and Tori but personal troubles and the fact she's immortal has him hesitant to act. Turning to their case, Tori and Dante are working to find who is responsible for werewolf attacks against humans. When Tori has a troubling suspicion as to who is behind it all, not only is her job in jeopardy but Dante is put in danger.

Every 73 years, a rift between the supernatural world and earth opens and creatures cross over to take a human host. Tori has been on earth for over 150 years. Her travels have brought her to Arizona where she now acts as a liaison for the Council of Preternaturals. I was drawn to Tori pretty quickly. As a werewolf in law enforcement, I was worried she'd have the need to prove how strong she is but that never was an issue. She knows she's good at what she does and I never got the feeling she had the need to prove her worth to others. Tori does want to have family around and when a couple relatives show up, she makes questionable decisions but I found neither to be a reason for animosity towards her character.

Like Tori, I was worried Dante felt like he needed to show he could hold his own because he works with shifters, vampires and demons. Again, this wasn't the case. Dante is a down to earth man who loves his sister and likes catching the bad guys. He's the type of guy you could take home to meet the parents while still having a naughty side that keeps things interesting. The big thing that bothered me about him was that I felt that he strung Tori along in the beginning. He'd flirt with her one minute and back off the next because it wouldn't be a good idea to get involved with an immortal. It's obvious she has feelings for him and I got annoyed with how long he played hot and cold with her.

I think because of Dante not knowing how to handle is feelings towards Tori, they didn't do much for me as a couple. Their sexy times were hot but because I wasn't sure if or when Dante would emotionally pull away; I didn't want to get upset along with Tori so I never fully invested into their relationship.

In the first book in the series, Dante is one of three who discovered a device that allows communication with the other dimension and will have some kind of effect during the upcoming rift opening. In Secret of the Wolf, Dante and Tori are trying to figure out exactly what it does and how it works while keeping it out of the wrong hands. I was happy to see this story continued. The mastermind behind the device is also back and he has an interesting connection to Tori I didn't expect and thought was nice twist. This doesn't really blend into what's happening with Dante and Tori's case involving the werewolf who is attacking and turning humans but I still thought they worked really well side by side.

Secret of the Wolf was an improvement over Kiss of the Vampire. I still wasn't keen on the romance and I wasn't 100% happy with the hero, but I did find that the heroine had more depth and it was an all-around more satisfying read. I'm still waiting for more information about what the world on the other side of the rift is like but I was given some clues from Tori to tide me over for now. For me, it was obvious who is behind the human attacks but I still enjoyed watching the investigation unfold. Overall, this was a quick read with a good mystery, a memorable heroine and a hero that will charm you into forgiving his faults.
- Stephanie (less)

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Jul 18, 2012 Naomi rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: kindle, netgalleybooks

I requested Secret Of The Wolf from Netgalley for review.

Victoria Joseph (Tori) is a 176 year old werewolf who has the hots for human detective Dante Macmillan (who feels the same about Tori) but although they flirt constantly he will never allow himself to get too close for fear of losing her. They end up spending a lot of time together to try and figure out about the device that was taken from the enemy & they get closer & closer & develop real feelings between them. Add in to the...more

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Aug 09, 2012 Carmel (Rabid Reads) rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: werewolves

Reviewed by: Rabid Reads

The first book in this series was a little too Sci Fi-ish for my tastes but this installment does a much better job of staying on the paranormal side of the fence. Secret of the Wolf focuses on telling a good story rather than on explaining the intricacies of Garner's Warriors of the Rift universe. That being said, if you skip the first novel and dive right into this one you might end up feeling a little lost. Even though I didn't particularly enjoy Kiss of the Vampire, i...more Reviewed by: Rabid Reads

The first book in this series was a little too Sci Fi-ish for my tastes but this installment does a much better job of staying on the paranormal side of the fence. Secret of the Wolf focuses on telling a good story rather than on explaining the intricacies of Garner's Warriors of the Rift universe. That being said, if you skip the first novel and dive right into this one you might end up feeling a little lost. Even though I didn't particularly enjoy Kiss of the Vampire, it's a necessary step in order to be able to fully grasp the details of Cynthia's world.

One of the things that I liked the most about this book is that the female protagonist is the one doing the chasing. In most Paranormal Romances it's the guy who's actively trying to get into the girl's pants but in this case it's the opposite which I found quite refreshing. Tori doesn't pull any punches either in her quest to score Dante. She plays dirty and I love that about her. MacMillan also manages to resist her charm for a lot longer than I expected which only added to the appeal of their romance. I hate it when characters give it up too easily!

I was a little disappointed by the lack of werewolf elements in this book. There are a number of tidbits scattered throughout the pages but not nearly enough to satisfy my furry standards. Mind you, I did enjoy Tori's occasional cravings for raw meat and how she felt the need to hide that side of her nature from her human counterparts. Secret of the Wolf's plot is more investigative in nature than preternatural which was surprising. So far the books in this series have been at complete opposite ends of the spectrum. Here's hoping that they meet somewhere in the middle for the third installment.

The paranormal elements aside, I did enjoy the overall plot of this novel. It was fun following Garner's well laid out trail of breadcrumbs and the side-story is equally as intriguing. Admittedly, the culprit is rather obvious but the story unfolds in such a way that the characters' inability to see what's right in front of their noses actually makes sense. The chemistry between Tori and Dante is hot and watching their relationship ignite was pure joy. Unfortunately, there aren't as many romp scenes as I would have liked but this lack in no way takes away from the story.

Secret of the Wolf puts a new spin on the origins of preternaturals and breaks away from the stereotypical structure of most Paranormal Romance relationships. I enjoyed this book and will be adding Heart of the Demon to my 2013 wishlist.

(less)

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Jul 08, 2012 All Things Urban Fantasy rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: june-2012-hotp, reviewed-by-kristina

Courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy

SECRET OF THE WOLF is the second book the Warriors of the Rift series which introduced an interesting concept to paranormal romance with werewolves, vampires, fey, and demons being beings who came over from a parallel dimension. In a way that makes them even more fantastical than they already are and puts a fun spin on creatures we are very familiar with. I kept wanting to actually go to this other dimension since it was described as very interesting though da...more

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Aug 18, 2012 Mary (BookHounds) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, from-publisher-author

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

I don't think I read the first book in the series, but it didn't seem to matter since I was quickly caught up in this story about vampires, demons and werewolves from another planet that now inhabit the human world. The story is part paranormal thriller about vicious murders allegedly by these demons, werewolves and vampires that are being investigated by detective Dante MacMillan and turns into a romance when he seeks out Tori, who is literally out of this world. This is a gr...more

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Jun 23, 2012 Carlyn rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Tori is a werewolf and Dante is human but they are brought together when they have to investigate a rogue werewolf who is turning people into werewolf's without the council's permission. The sparks fly between them but with Dante's sister sick and Tori's brother reappearing in her life, their road to happiness is full of up's and down's.
This story was full of suspence, romance and mystery. I will definately be reading more in this series!

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Jul 06, 2012 Darcy rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2012, e-book, net-galley-books, pnr, shifters, vampires

I really liked that Tori was attracted to Dante from the start and pretty much didn't have an issue letting him know. It was funny to see Dante keep trying to think of excuses. At first I wondered if it was because she was a pret, but that was the least of his issues, it was more that he didn't really want any type of relationship. I was surprised that Tori kept trying after getting one brush off after another, I wouldn't have kept going.

I did like when finally, Dante, let things happen. However...more

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Secret of the Wolf (Warriors of the Rift #2)

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