What do you think?
Rate this book
Halle Shifters #2
Cynful
To save the woman he loves, he must push his gifts to the brink.
Halle Shifters, Book 2
Julian DuCharme, a rare Spirit Bear with legendary healing powers, is finally free from the threat of death, finally free to claim his mate—but she’s not having it. While his Bear screams it’s time to mate, the love of his life wants to date.
Holding his Bear in check while convincing her he’s not out to control her won’t be easy. She’s stubborn and a closeted geek—in other words, perfect for him.
Cynthia “Cyn” Reyes, owner of Living Art Tattoos, thinks Julian is the hottest thing on two legs. That doesn’t mean she’s going to roll over for his masculine charm. She watched her mother flounder when her father passed away, and she’s determined to never lose herself to someone else. Not even a man who would jump the moon for her, if she asked that of him.
When the women of Living Art are targeted by a killer, Julian doesn’t think twice about pouring out his last drop of power
to keep Cyn safe. But it’s Cyn who’ll give up everything—her independence, even her humanity—to keep a terrifying vision
from coming true.
One of his death.
Warning: This novel contains explicit sex, graphic language, a tattooed heroine and the Bear who loves her. Maybe he’ll finally convince her to tattoo him with “Property of Cyn”.
Halle Shifters, Book 2
Julian DuCharme, a rare Spirit Bear with legendary healing powers, is finally free from the threat of death, finally free to claim his mate—but she’s not having it. While his Bear screams it’s time to mate, the love of his life wants to date.
Holding his Bear in check while convincing her he’s not out to control her won’t be easy. She’s stubborn and a closeted geek—in other words, perfect for him.
Cynthia “Cyn” Reyes, owner of Living Art Tattoos, thinks Julian is the hottest thing on two legs. That doesn’t mean she’s going to roll over for his masculine charm. She watched her mother flounder when her father passed away, and she’s determined to never lose herself to someone else. Not even a man who would jump the moon for her, if she asked that of him.
When the women of Living Art are targeted by a killer, Julian doesn’t think twice about pouring out his last drop of power
to keep Cyn safe. But it’s Cyn who’ll give up everything—her independence, even her humanity—to keep a terrifying vision
from coming true.
One of his death.
Warning: This novel contains explicit sex, graphic language, a tattooed heroine and the Bear who loves her. Maybe he’ll finally convince her to tattoo him with “Property of Cyn”.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 19, 2012
88 people are currently reading
1535 people want to read
About the author
Dana Marie Bell
56 books1,935 followersDana Marie Bell wrote her first short story when she was thirteen years old. She attended the High School for Creative and Performing Arts for creative writing, where freedom of expression was the order of the day. When her parents moved out of the city and placed her in a Catholic high school for her senior year she tried desperately to get away, but the nuns held fast, and she graduated with honors despite herself.
Dana has lived primarily in the Northeast (Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware, to be precise), with a brief stint on the US Virgin Island of St. Croix. She lives with her soul-mate and husband Dusty, their two maniacal children, an evil ice-cream stealing cat and a bull terrier that thinks it’s a Pekinese.
You can learn more about Dana at:
http://www.danamariebell.com
http://danamariebell.blogspot.com
Dana has lived primarily in the Northeast (Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware, to be precise), with a brief stint on the US Virgin Island of St. Croix. She lives with her soul-mate and husband Dusty, their two maniacal children, an evil ice-cream stealing cat and a bull terrier that thinks it’s a Pekinese.
You can learn more about Dana at:
http://www.danamariebell.com
http://danamariebell.blogspot.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 176 reviews
June 21, 2012
I have been waiting desperately for this book for a year now, since reading Bear Necessities last May.
I am really sad to say that this book just fell a little flat for me. I'm sure that Bear Necessities was funnier and sexier than this book. Or it might be that in the last year I have read so many more books that my reading tastes have changes... I'm not sure.
I did enjoy reading the book and Julian was absolutely adorable. I loved the way he kept fluttering his eyelashes at everyone (even the guys) to get his own way.
It was great to see Tabby, Alex, Glory and Ryan again. They all had that great chemestry, a group of friends you would love to hang out with. But again I had my problems. Things got a little tough and Alex just runs off, carrying Tabby with him like a defenceless toddler. What the hell? That really annoyed me!
Now I know that Glory had a rough time in this book, getting shot and all. But holy crap did I want to slap her. She was being such a bitch to poor Ryan. He actually hasn't done anything wrong, but want to be with his mate. He shows her nothing but kindess and respect (and a real good laugh) and all he get's in return is what seems to be a snotty teenager, with a stinking attitude! I really disliked her by the end of the book, even though she seemes to work it out with Ryan, I think he should have made her apologise a thousand times before he even considered being with her. But the poor guy was too desperate! :)
I just don't understand what happened. One minute Cyn couldn't possibly be with Julian, then the lines seemed to blur and all of a sudden they were a couple. When the hell did that happen?
The storyline of Tabby's old Alpha (who has just been exiled by his son Micah, because he's a complete jackass) coming for revenge on Tabby, but who then appeared to target Cyn throughout the entire book. It just didn't make sense to me.
Now I know it seems like I disliked this book, but I swear I did enjoy reading it. lol
It was just when the book finished, I just felt a bit deflated and dissapointed, but maybe I had just set my hopes a little too high.
I am really sad to say that this book just fell a little flat for me. I'm sure that Bear Necessities was funnier and sexier than this book. Or it might be that in the last year I have read so many more books that my reading tastes have changes... I'm not sure.
I did enjoy reading the book and Julian was absolutely adorable. I loved the way he kept fluttering his eyelashes at everyone (even the guys) to get his own way.
It was great to see Tabby, Alex, Glory and Ryan again. They all had that great chemestry, a group of friends you would love to hang out with. But again I had my problems. Things got a little tough and Alex just runs off, carrying Tabby with him like a defenceless toddler. What the hell? That really annoyed me!
Now I know that Glory had a rough time in this book, getting shot and all. But holy crap did I want to slap her. She was being such a bitch to poor Ryan. He actually hasn't done anything wrong, but want to be with his mate. He shows her nothing but kindess and respect (and a real good laugh) and all he get's in return is what seems to be a snotty teenager, with a stinking attitude! I really disliked her by the end of the book, even though she seemes to work it out with Ryan, I think he should have made her apologise a thousand times before he even considered being with her. But the poor guy was too desperate! :)
I just don't understand what happened. One minute Cyn couldn't possibly be with Julian, then the lines seemed to blur and all of a sudden they were a couple. When the hell did that happen?
The storyline of Tabby's old Alpha (who has just been exiled by his son Micah, because he's a complete jackass) coming for revenge on Tabby, but who then appeared to target Cyn throughout the entire book. It just didn't make sense to me.
Now I know it seems like I disliked this book, but I swear I did enjoy reading it. lol
It was just when the book finished, I just felt a bit deflated and dissapointed, but maybe I had just set my hopes a little too high.
March 16, 2018
Great, fun, sexy, and action packed. I'm falling in love with this series.
August 26, 2017
Though it might look like it took me a week to read this book, I only actually read it on three days: August 19th, 24th, and 25th, with the bulk (207/259 pages) being read today, August 25th. I really enjoyed it, too, especially once the 25th rolled around and I was able to dedicate the day to reading this story. :-)
This was the story of Cyn and Julian, and though I really enjoyed it, I was rather taken aback by That scene seemed awfully abrupt. But, over and done with so fast (as it was), my annoyance didn't really have time to fully form. And Cyn did have a good reason for her acceptance of the change. Still though. . . :-/
I also enjoyed the mystery as to who the villain was in this story. I don't think this villain had anything to do with the villainy in the first book, but it was fun as it was. (Though I am now hoping that the next book, Glory's story, will finally reveal who is behind the attacks on the "half-breeds.")
I was glad to see Glory finally becoming more accepting of Ryan in the end of this story. Her denials of their mate bond were getting tiresome.
And in the end,
I should mention that though I never really laughed, and no tears were shed, in the reading of this story, I did catch myself smiling at random moments. :-)
And lastly, though I have not felt a mad love for either of the books in this series, I am enjoying it enough that I will continue on to book three. :-)
This was the story of Cyn and Julian, and though I really enjoyed it, I was rather taken aback by That scene seemed awfully abrupt. But, over and done with so fast (as it was), my annoyance didn't really have time to fully form. And Cyn did have a good reason for her acceptance of the change. Still though. . . :-/
I also enjoyed the mystery as to who the villain was in this story. I don't think this villain had anything to do with the villainy in the first book, but it was fun as it was. (Though I am now hoping that the next book, Glory's story, will finally reveal who is behind the attacks on the "half-breeds.")
I was glad to see Glory finally becoming more accepting of Ryan in the end of this story. Her denials of their mate bond were getting tiresome.
And in the end,
I should mention that though I never really laughed, and no tears were shed, in the reading of this story, I did catch myself smiling at random moments. :-)
And lastly, though I have not felt a mad love for either of the books in this series, I am enjoying it enough that I will continue on to book three. :-)
February 20, 2015
Yay, Julian finally. I have been looking forward to this bearshifter's story since reading the previous book, Bear Necessities. I just thought that the 'spirit bear' thing was so cool, the visions, the healing powers and the whole shamanic mystical aura surrounding him.
Even with all that - plus some first class hunkiness going on as well - Julian is going to have to work to get his mate to accept him. Cyn's human and wants to - gasp - date, before she'll let him get past first base much less let him mate her with his bite. But Julian is pretty hard to resist and with danger swirling around Cyn and her best friends, Cyn is going to do everything in her power to protect those she holds dear - and that comes to include Julian.
I really liked Cynful, and since Cyn keeps Julian out of the bedroom for a fair amount of the book, there is actually time to get to know both of the characters - including their geeky sides - before the steamy stuff commences. One of the things that I liked the best in the book is that Cyn gets her own 'spirit quest', and I liked when she is telling Julian about it later as well - the differences in their journeys really fit who they are as characters.
One thing that that fans of the previous Halle series will likely enjoy (but, since I've only read one of the Halle Puma books, was just okay for me) is that all of the past leads get to gather together again for a pizza party. (Fans of the Pumas will like that there is some good news for one of the past starring pairs too.)
So, I gobbled down this episode of 'bears in Halle' in one sitting and am looking forward to poor Ryan getting a shot at his hard to get mate, Glory, and also hoping that there are enough books in this series that a HEA is in the works for the still healing Chloe too (wonder if we'll see a new side of her when she's finally able to shift again.)
Even with all that - plus some first class hunkiness going on as well - Julian is going to have to work to get his mate to accept him. Cyn's human and wants to - gasp - date, before she'll let him get past first base much less let him mate her with his bite. But Julian is pretty hard to resist and with danger swirling around Cyn and her best friends, Cyn is going to do everything in her power to protect those she holds dear - and that comes to include Julian.
I really liked Cynful, and since Cyn keeps Julian out of the bedroom for a fair amount of the book, there is actually time to get to know both of the characters - including their geeky sides - before the steamy stuff commences. One of the things that I liked the best in the book is that Cyn gets her own 'spirit quest', and I liked when she is telling Julian about it later as well - the differences in their journeys really fit who they are as characters.
One thing that that fans of the previous Halle series will likely enjoy (but, since I've only read one of the Halle Puma books, was just okay for me) is that all of the past leads get to gather together again for a pizza party. (Fans of the Pumas will like that there is some good news for one of the past starring pairs too.)
So, I gobbled down this episode of 'bears in Halle' in one sitting and am looking forward to poor Ryan getting a shot at his hard to get mate, Glory, and also hoping that there are enough books in this series that a HEA is in the works for the still healing Chloe too (wonder if we'll see a new side of her when she's finally able to shift again.)
March 12, 2021
3.5 stars
meh.
I wasn't super invested. I love bear-shifters but... well... this one just didn't flip my skirt up. Not really sure I want to continue. I'm over the whole resentment, gotta work for it kind of mating. It reads too much like a second chance romance... and I just don't have the patience right now. Maybe I'll skip Ryan's book and move onto Chloe or maybe the sister, Hannah? those sound interesting? maybe.
meh.
I wasn't super invested. I love bear-shifters but... well... this one just didn't flip my skirt up. Not really sure I want to continue. I'm over the whole resentment, gotta work for it kind of mating. It reads too much like a second chance romance... and I just don't have the patience right now. Maybe I'll skip Ryan's book and move onto Chloe or maybe the sister, Hannah? those sound interesting? maybe.
January 27, 2015
Author: Dana Marie Bell
First published: 2012
Length: 4280 kindle locations
Setting: Halle, Pennsylvania. Contemporary (six weeks after book:Bear Necessities|8478990]).
Sex: explicit, frequent (heading to erotica).
Hero: Spirit Bear shifter and nurse (healer).
Heroine: Owns Tattoo parlour. Human. BFF of Tabby from book:Bear Necessities|8478990].
Includes: Excerpts from Artistic Vision by Dana Marie Bell, Savage Hunter by Shelli Stevens, Wolf Line by Vivian Arend.
What a lot of fun! Reminiscent of Shelly Laurenston and Eve Langlais at their witty best, Cynful took quirky, inked characters, confident with who they are and willing to do their all for their HEA and gave them a solid, creative story to thrive in.
And Bell added references and characters from her other series (Halle Pumas, Poconos Pack) giving the World a whole lot of depth and colour.
Fun, easy. A Good Read.
Halle Shifters:
Book 1 Bear Necessities - Alexander “Bunny” Bunsun (Bear) and Tabitha Garwood (wolf)
Book 2 Cynful - Julian DuCharme (Spirit Bear) and Cynthia “Cyn” Reyes (human)
Book 2.5 Bear With Me (holiday short story)
Book 3 Bear Naked - Ryan Williams (bear) and Glory Walsh (human)
Book 4 Figure of Speech - Chloe Williams (fox) and James Woods (human/wolf)
References:
Author's website: http://www.danamariebell.com/Cynful.html
(ISBN 978-1-61921-159-9)
-CR-
First published: 2012
Length: 4280 kindle locations
Setting: Halle, Pennsylvania. Contemporary (six weeks after book:Bear Necessities|8478990]).
Sex: explicit, frequent (heading to erotica).
Hero: Spirit Bear shifter and nurse (healer).
Heroine: Owns Tattoo parlour. Human. BFF of Tabby from book:Bear Necessities|8478990].
Includes: Excerpts from Artistic Vision by Dana Marie Bell, Savage Hunter by Shelli Stevens, Wolf Line by Vivian Arend.
What a lot of fun! Reminiscent of Shelly Laurenston and Eve Langlais at their witty best, Cynful took quirky, inked characters, confident with who they are and willing to do their all for their HEA and gave them a solid, creative story to thrive in.
And Bell added references and characters from her other series (Halle Pumas, Poconos Pack) giving the World a whole lot of depth and colour.
Fun, easy. A Good Read.
Halle Shifters:
Book 1 Bear Necessities - Alexander “Bunny” Bunsun (Bear) and Tabitha Garwood (wolf)
Book 2 Cynful - Julian DuCharme (Spirit Bear) and Cynthia “Cyn” Reyes (human)
Book 2.5 Bear With Me (holiday short story)
Book 3 Bear Naked - Ryan Williams (bear) and Glory Walsh (human)
Book 4 Figure of Speech - Chloe Williams (fox) and James Woods (human/wolf)
References:
Author's website: http://www.danamariebell.com/Cynful.html
(ISBN 978-1-61921-159-9)
-CR-
January 22, 2013
Action! Adventure! WereBears!!!! Werewolves!! and Pumas! OH MY!!!
Description:
o save the woman he loves, he must push his gifts to the brink.
Halle Shifters, Book 2
Julian DuCharme, a rare Spirit Bear with legendary healing powers, is finally free from the threat of death, finally free to claim his mate—but she’s not having it. While his Bear screams it’s time to mate, the love of his life wants to date.
Holding his Bear in check while convincing her he’s not out to control her won’t be easy. She’s stubborn and a closeted geek—in other words, perfect for him.
Cynthia “Cyn” Reyes, owner of Living Art Tattoos, thinks Julian is the hottest thing on two legs. That doesn’t mean she’s going to roll over for his masculine charm. She watched her mother flounder when her father passed away, and she’s determined to never lose herself to someone else. Not even a man who would jump the moon for her, if she asked that of him.
When the women of Living Art are targeted by a killer, Julian doesn’t think twice about pouring out his last drop of power
to keep Cyn safe. But it’s Cyn who’ll give up everything—her independence, even her humanity—to keep a terrifying vision
from coming true.
One of his death.
Warning: This novel contains explicit sex, graphic language, a tattooed heroine and the Bear who loves her. Maybe he’ll finally convince her to tattoo him with “Property of Cyn”
My Thoughts:
Each book I read in the Halle Puma then Halle Shifters sagas I fall a little more in love with all the characters. The fact that DMB works them all back into the stories even if it is just a short visit it is fabulous to see them. In this full length novel we are able to get more indepth with both the characters and the story. I love all the small nuances that have been weaved into the characters we have met in past books. How this characters interact with our new characters also help us learn more about the new characters as we come across them in story lines. This plot gives me everything I look for in a book suspense, mystery, laughs, danger all written with characters I have become emotionally attached to and in a "world" where it all makes sense. I think this is my favorite DMB book and I really hope to see more of her Halle books soon!
If you are looking for a quirky, witty, funny, fast paced romp this book will surely give it to you. I give it a sold 4.5 stars and much love. I hope you join me in the discovery of a wonderful series.
Description:
o save the woman he loves, he must push his gifts to the brink.
Halle Shifters, Book 2
Julian DuCharme, a rare Spirit Bear with legendary healing powers, is finally free from the threat of death, finally free to claim his mate—but she’s not having it. While his Bear screams it’s time to mate, the love of his life wants to date.
Holding his Bear in check while convincing her he’s not out to control her won’t be easy. She’s stubborn and a closeted geek—in other words, perfect for him.
Cynthia “Cyn” Reyes, owner of Living Art Tattoos, thinks Julian is the hottest thing on two legs. That doesn’t mean she’s going to roll over for his masculine charm. She watched her mother flounder when her father passed away, and she’s determined to never lose herself to someone else. Not even a man who would jump the moon for her, if she asked that of him.
When the women of Living Art are targeted by a killer, Julian doesn’t think twice about pouring out his last drop of power
to keep Cyn safe. But it’s Cyn who’ll give up everything—her independence, even her humanity—to keep a terrifying vision
from coming true.
One of his death.
Warning: This novel contains explicit sex, graphic language, a tattooed heroine and the Bear who loves her. Maybe he’ll finally convince her to tattoo him with “Property of Cyn”
My Thoughts:
Each book I read in the Halle Puma then Halle Shifters sagas I fall a little more in love with all the characters. The fact that DMB works them all back into the stories even if it is just a short visit it is fabulous to see them. In this full length novel we are able to get more indepth with both the characters and the story. I love all the small nuances that have been weaved into the characters we have met in past books. How this characters interact with our new characters also help us learn more about the new characters as we come across them in story lines. This plot gives me everything I look for in a book suspense, mystery, laughs, danger all written with characters I have become emotionally attached to and in a "world" where it all makes sense. I think this is my favorite DMB book and I really hope to see more of her Halle books soon!
If you are looking for a quirky, witty, funny, fast paced romp this book will surely give it to you. I give it a sold 4.5 stars and much love. I hope you join me in the discovery of a wonderful series.
September 10, 2017
My Rating: ★★★★
Book Description:
To save the woman he loves, he must push his gifts to the brink.
Halle Shifters, Book 2
Julian DuCharme, a rare Spirit Bear with legendary healing powers, is finally free from the threat of death, finally free to claim his mate—but she’s not having it. While his Bear screams it’s time to mate, the love of his life wants to date.
Holding his Bear in check while convincing her he’s not out to control her won’t be easy. She’s stubborn and a closeted geek—in other words, perfect for him.
Cynthia “Cyn” Reyes, owner of Living Art Tattoos, thinks Julian is the hottest thing on two legs. That doesn’t mean she’s going to roll over for his masculine charm. She watched her mother flounder when her father passed away, and she’s determined to never lose herself to someone else. Not even a man who would jump the moon for her, if she asked that of him.
When the women of Living Art are targeted by a killer, Julian doesn’t think twice about pouring out his last drop of power
to keep Cyn safe. But it’s Cyn who’ll give up everything—her independence, even her humanity—to keep a terrifying vision from coming true.
My Thoughts:
I love Dana Marie Bell. She is quirky, witty, and funny and I follow most of her series because of that. The story of Julian and Cyn continues the Halle Shifters series which is a spinoff of the Halle Pumas series. We see more of Cyn's feisty but caring nature and Julian's steely determination to win his mate. Their pairing was frought with several challenges but the couple met them head on. I like how Bell integrates other characters stories into the primary story without losing focus on the primary one. I am interested in seeing how Chloe and the mysterious prophesy will play out in future books in the series. I loved it.
Reading Time: 4.5 hours
Book Description:
To save the woman he loves, he must push his gifts to the brink.
Halle Shifters, Book 2
Julian DuCharme, a rare Spirit Bear with legendary healing powers, is finally free from the threat of death, finally free to claim his mate—but she’s not having it. While his Bear screams it’s time to mate, the love of his life wants to date.
Holding his Bear in check while convincing her he’s not out to control her won’t be easy. She’s stubborn and a closeted geek—in other words, perfect for him.
Cynthia “Cyn” Reyes, owner of Living Art Tattoos, thinks Julian is the hottest thing on two legs. That doesn’t mean she’s going to roll over for his masculine charm. She watched her mother flounder when her father passed away, and she’s determined to never lose herself to someone else. Not even a man who would jump the moon for her, if she asked that of him.
When the women of Living Art are targeted by a killer, Julian doesn’t think twice about pouring out his last drop of power
to keep Cyn safe. But it’s Cyn who’ll give up everything—her independence, even her humanity—to keep a terrifying vision from coming true.
My Thoughts:
I love Dana Marie Bell. She is quirky, witty, and funny and I follow most of her series because of that. The story of Julian and Cyn continues the Halle Shifters series which is a spinoff of the Halle Pumas series. We see more of Cyn's feisty but caring nature and Julian's steely determination to win his mate. Their pairing was frought with several challenges but the couple met them head on. I like how Bell integrates other characters stories into the primary story without losing focus on the primary one. I am interested in seeing how Chloe and the mysterious prophesy will play out in future books in the series. I loved it.
Reading Time: 4.5 hours
December 20, 2014
I actually like Cyn better in this book than I did in Bear Necessities, but man was Glory annoying. And Emma. Emma was fine in Wallflower, but she's been kind of horrible ever since. That "the female of the species is deadlier than the male, except not really, look how cute she is, but seriously she will cut you". That. A little goes a long way.
I enjoyed it, but it was crowded with cameos from all kinds of previous books, and the plot seemed a little... unfinished?
I enjoyed it, but it was crowded with cameos from all kinds of previous books, and the plot seemed a little... unfinished?
March 15, 2015
I really enjoyed this read. Cyn is one of my favorite characters in the Halle community and I knew I would love her book. Cyn and Julian make a great couple because he is all laid back healer type while she is the fierce protector. I also love how close knit all the friends and family are.
December 6, 2024
Were-bears, wolves and Pumas are so badass! Cyn and Julian are hot together but Cyn definitely tougher than they all think. Then you have the crazy Boyd hunting. Some people deserve what they get.
September 3, 2012
Originally posted at: http://whippedcream2.blogspot.com/201...
Cynthia ‘Cyn’ Reyes hopes life settles down now that her friend has finally mated. And she knows that Julian DuCharme is more than likely just what he says, her mate and a rare Spirit Bear shifter. But sometimes, a girl just wants to be courted and wooed, not taken for granted. When folks just keep trying to kill her and destroy her Tattoo shop, she will do whatever it takes to protect those she cares for. Julian DuCharme, for all his strength and powers, is determined to give Cyn what she wants: a proper courtship with all the trimmings. At least that’s the plan, until Cyn and the others become targets. Then Julian is determined to claim his mate so she will be stronger and more able to survive if things get worse. The one question is, when Julian does finally turn Cyn, what will she be? Can Julian court Cyn to her satisfaction? Together, can they catch the ones targeting them?
Cynful is Dana Marie Bell’s second Halle Shifter book, and a fantastic follow up to Bear Necessities. I like that she's kept everyone from the first book together, and expands this world a bit more. She has also brought in some old friends, from the Halle Puma series, and I loved seeing them again as well. All of Ms. Bell’s characters are well defined, strong and charismatic. This world is one I love, and hope to visit often, filled with so many intriguing folks.
Cynthia ‘Cyn’ Reyes is a strong and independent woman. She's attracted to Julian, but hates the idea that her life depends on some fated mate. She wants to date and be courted, and I loved some of the things she put Julian through on their dates. She knows at some point he'll need to claim her and mate her, but she's determined to have it be on her terms, not Fate’s. She's smart enough to realize, when the attacks escalate, she needs the strength being Julian’s mate will provide. She'll be turned, but on her terms, when she's good and ready.
Julian DuCharme is hot, sexy and one of the rarest of shifters, a Spirit Bear. He has the power to heal, and he uses it in his role as a nurse at the local clinic. He knew Cyn was his mate the first time he saw her, and his frustration at the wait is driving him crazy. But he's willing to do things Cyn’s way, at least until the danger comes their way again. I love Julian’s determination, and his willingness to follow Cyn’s lead in this courtship. He won me over with his gentle nature when he works with the patients, and his fierce loyalty to friends and loved ones.
This is a fast paced and action packed story, with romance, danger and mystery around every corner. The secondary characters here are as strong as Julian and Cyn, and the addition of some of the Halle Pumas adds to the familiarity and fun. Of course, this has lots of Dana Marie Bell’s scorching hot sex, and the big surprise of what Cyn becomes is fantastic (and I’m not giving spoilers here on that). There's a happy ever after here, but it's hard won, and not without peril. This is for those who like humor with their romance, and a side of danger to spice it up.
Cynthia ‘Cyn’ Reyes hopes life settles down now that her friend has finally mated. And she knows that Julian DuCharme is more than likely just what he says, her mate and a rare Spirit Bear shifter. But sometimes, a girl just wants to be courted and wooed, not taken for granted. When folks just keep trying to kill her and destroy her Tattoo shop, she will do whatever it takes to protect those she cares for. Julian DuCharme, for all his strength and powers, is determined to give Cyn what she wants: a proper courtship with all the trimmings. At least that’s the plan, until Cyn and the others become targets. Then Julian is determined to claim his mate so she will be stronger and more able to survive if things get worse. The one question is, when Julian does finally turn Cyn, what will she be? Can Julian court Cyn to her satisfaction? Together, can they catch the ones targeting them?
Cynful is Dana Marie Bell’s second Halle Shifter book, and a fantastic follow up to Bear Necessities. I like that she's kept everyone from the first book together, and expands this world a bit more. She has also brought in some old friends, from the Halle Puma series, and I loved seeing them again as well. All of Ms. Bell’s characters are well defined, strong and charismatic. This world is one I love, and hope to visit often, filled with so many intriguing folks.
Cynthia ‘Cyn’ Reyes is a strong and independent woman. She's attracted to Julian, but hates the idea that her life depends on some fated mate. She wants to date and be courted, and I loved some of the things she put Julian through on their dates. She knows at some point he'll need to claim her and mate her, but she's determined to have it be on her terms, not Fate’s. She's smart enough to realize, when the attacks escalate, she needs the strength being Julian’s mate will provide. She'll be turned, but on her terms, when she's good and ready.
Julian DuCharme is hot, sexy and one of the rarest of shifters, a Spirit Bear. He has the power to heal, and he uses it in his role as a nurse at the local clinic. He knew Cyn was his mate the first time he saw her, and his frustration at the wait is driving him crazy. But he's willing to do things Cyn’s way, at least until the danger comes their way again. I love Julian’s determination, and his willingness to follow Cyn’s lead in this courtship. He won me over with his gentle nature when he works with the patients, and his fierce loyalty to friends and loved ones.
This is a fast paced and action packed story, with romance, danger and mystery around every corner. The secondary characters here are as strong as Julian and Cyn, and the addition of some of the Halle Pumas adds to the familiarity and fun. Of course, this has lots of Dana Marie Bell’s scorching hot sex, and the big surprise of what Cyn becomes is fantastic (and I’m not giving spoilers here on that). There's a happy ever after here, but it's hard won, and not without peril. This is for those who like humor with their romance, and a side of danger to spice it up.
June 16, 2012
Gennie's review posted on Guilty Pleasures
4.5 Stars
Cynful by Dana Marie Bell is the second book of the Halle Shifters series, which is a spinoff series of the Halle Pumas. This is a good next installment in the series, but you probably will want to review all the previous books, including the Halle Puma books, before you read this book because ALL the characters from Halle are in play in this installment.
Cynthia “Cyn” Reyes is the fully human, quirky (and closet geek) tattoo artist of Halle’s Living Art. Cyn considers the women who work at Living Art to be family and will do whatever it takes to keep them safe. We met Cyn in the first book along with Cyn’s mate, Spirit Bear shifter, Julian. Cyn is afraid of becoming too attached to man and resists the idea that Julian is her mate. Even though she thinks his sexy as hell, she just doesn’t want to end up like her mom. So Cyn decides to make Julian court her.
Julian is a gentle soul whose gift is healing others. He may be gentle, but he is also very sure of what he wants and will fight to get it, even if Cyn fights him every step of the way. Unfortunately for Cyn and Julian, they don’t have the luxury of time and space to work out their issues because there is a mad man on the loose hunting all the women of Living Art.
I really enjoyed the interplay between the two main characters and their friends/family. I liked getting to see glimpses of characters I hadn’t heard about in a while, mainly the leadership of the Halle Puma pack. One drawback to having closely interwoven characters is that if you don’t read the stories back to back to back, it’s easy to get lost in trying to remember the details of who’s who. But there were enough clues given by Ms. Bell for me to remember fairly quickly where everyone belonged.
If you like paranormal books with lots of humor, sizzle, and geeky references than this books for you!
4.5 Stars
Cynful by Dana Marie Bell is the second book of the Halle Shifters series, which is a spinoff series of the Halle Pumas. This is a good next installment in the series, but you probably will want to review all the previous books, including the Halle Puma books, before you read this book because ALL the characters from Halle are in play in this installment.
Cynthia “Cyn” Reyes is the fully human, quirky (and closet geek) tattoo artist of Halle’s Living Art. Cyn considers the women who work at Living Art to be family and will do whatever it takes to keep them safe. We met Cyn in the first book along with Cyn’s mate, Spirit Bear shifter, Julian. Cyn is afraid of becoming too attached to man and resists the idea that Julian is her mate. Even though she thinks his sexy as hell, she just doesn’t want to end up like her mom. So Cyn decides to make Julian court her.
Julian is a gentle soul whose gift is healing others. He may be gentle, but he is also very sure of what he wants and will fight to get it, even if Cyn fights him every step of the way. Unfortunately for Cyn and Julian, they don’t have the luxury of time and space to work out their issues because there is a mad man on the loose hunting all the women of Living Art.
I really enjoyed the interplay between the two main characters and their friends/family. I liked getting to see glimpses of characters I hadn’t heard about in a while, mainly the leadership of the Halle Puma pack. One drawback to having closely interwoven characters is that if you don’t read the stories back to back to back, it’s easy to get lost in trying to remember the details of who’s who. But there were enough clues given by Ms. Bell for me to remember fairly quickly where everyone belonged.
If you like paranormal books with lots of humor, sizzle, and geeky references than this books for you!
June 14, 2012
4.5
Cynful by Dana Marie Bell is the second book of the Halle Shifters series, which is a spinoff series of the Halle Pumas. This is a good next installment in the series, but you probably will want to review all the previous books, including the Halle Puma books, before you read this book because ALL the characters from Halle are in play in this installment.
Cynthia “Cyn” Reyes is the fully human, quirky (and closet geek) tattoo artist of Halle’s Living Art. Cyn considers the women who work at Living Art to be family and will do whatever it takes to keep them safe. We met Cyn in the first book along with Cyn’s mate, Spirit Bear shifter, Julian. Cyn is afraid of becoming too attached to man and resists the idea that Julian is her mate. Even though she thinks his sexy as hell, she just doesn’t want to end up like her mom. So Cyn decides to make Julian court her.
Julian is a gentle soul whose gift is healing others. He may be gentle, but he is also very sure of what he wants and will fight to get it, even if Cyn fights him every step of the way. Unfortunately for Cyn and Julian, they don’t have the luxury of time and space to work out their issues because there is a mad man on the loose hunting all the women of Living Art.
I really enjoyed the interplay between the two main characters and their friends/family. I liked getting to see glimpses of characters I hadn’t heard about in a while, mainly the leadership of the Halle Puma pack. One drawback to having closely interwoven characters is that if you don’t read the stories back to back to back, it’s easy to get lost in trying to remember the details of who’s who. But there were enough clues given by Ms. Bell for me to remember fairly quickly where everyone belonged.
If you like paranormal books with lots of humor, sizzle, and geeky references than this books for you!
Cynful by Dana Marie Bell is the second book of the Halle Shifters series, which is a spinoff series of the Halle Pumas. This is a good next installment in the series, but you probably will want to review all the previous books, including the Halle Puma books, before you read this book because ALL the characters from Halle are in play in this installment.
Cynthia “Cyn” Reyes is the fully human, quirky (and closet geek) tattoo artist of Halle’s Living Art. Cyn considers the women who work at Living Art to be family and will do whatever it takes to keep them safe. We met Cyn in the first book along with Cyn’s mate, Spirit Bear shifter, Julian. Cyn is afraid of becoming too attached to man and resists the idea that Julian is her mate. Even though she thinks his sexy as hell, she just doesn’t want to end up like her mom. So Cyn decides to make Julian court her.
Julian is a gentle soul whose gift is healing others. He may be gentle, but he is also very sure of what he wants and will fight to get it, even if Cyn fights him every step of the way. Unfortunately for Cyn and Julian, they don’t have the luxury of time and space to work out their issues because there is a mad man on the loose hunting all the women of Living Art.
I really enjoyed the interplay between the two main characters and their friends/family. I liked getting to see glimpses of characters I hadn’t heard about in a while, mainly the leadership of the Halle Puma pack. One drawback to having closely interwoven characters is that if you don’t read the stories back to back to back, it’s easy to get lost in trying to remember the details of who’s who. But there were enough clues given by Ms. Bell for me to remember fairly quickly where everyone belonged.
If you like paranormal books with lots of humor, sizzle, and geeky references than this books for you!
June 24, 2012
This probably would have been five stars except I thought the beginning was much stronger than the end. Julian gets emotionally overcome at one point and starts to cry. So sue me, I find it disconcerting when grown men cry, unless a funeral is involved.
Anyways, this was book 6 on my list of The Ten 2012 Books I Would Exercise Every Day for Two Weeks For. Overall, I have to say it would have been worth exercising for. Julian's attempts to bring Cyn around to his way of thinking were humorous and I loved the bits of geekery thrown in. I giggled delightedly at the girls' masquerade costumes.
All of the previous couples were featured, not just Alex & Tabby, and things got a bit crowded. I definitely wouldn't recommend this as a stand-alone. You need to at least read Bear Necessities. My other quibble is that I would have liked to seen more of Chloe. Also, a prophecy is introduced that begins in Cynful, but it's never completed and I hate waiting to see the meaning of these things.
If I had to hazard a guess, I would suppose that Bell has at least another two books in mind for this world, perhaps three. If you are a paranormal fan, I encourage you to start with The Wallflower. However, I have to admit that, personally, I prefer Bear Necessities as I think the Halle Shifter series is shaping up to be stronger than the Pumas.
Anyways, this was book 6 on my list of The Ten 2012 Books I Would Exercise Every Day for Two Weeks For. Overall, I have to say it would have been worth exercising for. Julian's attempts to bring Cyn around to his way of thinking were humorous and I loved the bits of geekery thrown in. I giggled delightedly at the girls' masquerade costumes.
All of the previous couples were featured, not just Alex & Tabby, and things got a bit crowded. I definitely wouldn't recommend this as a stand-alone. You need to at least read Bear Necessities. My other quibble is that I would have liked to seen more of Chloe. Also, a prophecy is introduced that begins in Cynful, but it's never completed and I hate waiting to see the meaning of these things.
If I had to hazard a guess, I would suppose that Bell has at least another two books in mind for this world, perhaps three. If you are a paranormal fan, I encourage you to start with The Wallflower. However, I have to admit that, personally, I prefer Bear Necessities as I think the Halle Shifter series is shaping up to be stronger than the Pumas.
September 9, 2012
CYNFUL was written with the sexy humor that I have come to expect from Dana Marie Bell, but I was a little let down with this book overall.
I don't like to write spoilers in my reviews, so let's just say that I didn't feel that Julian behaved like I thought his character should have behaved. I know she wanted to portray him as sort of a gentle giant, but a bear with the desire to claim his mate should have been more agressive... I didn't buy it!
✳✳ Reviewed on I ♥ Bookie Nookie Reviews
___________________________________________________
If you like this type of book, you might enjoy one of these groups. Check us out!
Menage Readers
Erotic Enchants
Bookie Nookie's Erotic Lending Group
I don't like to write spoilers in my reviews, so let's just say that I didn't feel that Julian behaved like I thought his character should have behaved. I know she wanted to portray him as sort of a gentle giant, but a bear with the desire to claim his mate should have been more agressive... I didn't buy it!
✳✳ Reviewed on I ♥ Bookie Nookie Reviews
___________________________________________________
If you like this type of book, you might enjoy one of these groups. Check us out!
Menage Readers
Erotic Enchants
Bookie Nookie's Erotic Lending Group
June 27, 2012
I'm stuck between rating this a 3 or 4. Little things just add up to big problems. Like Glory. Its an all out Bitch-a-thon with her. Ryan deserves so much more. Also when did Cyn actually fall for Julian? He loved her from the start while she runs hot and cold. Then the ending is so abrupt. BAM the end. Other than those things I liked being back in Halle. Hopefully Jamie end up with his own HEA along with Chloe and poor lost Heather.
August 6, 2012
3.5 stars. I am sad, I have loved all of these books, but this one not so much. It took forever for me to get into it. The spirit bear stuff was cool. The bad guy seemed to be pulled from no where. I don't know why but the previous book was just way better for me.
I am looking forward to Ryan and Glory's book also Chloe, really want to find out whats going to happen there. So this book was sort of like a bridger for me.
I am looking forward to Ryan and Glory's book also Chloe, really want to find out whats going to happen there. So this book was sort of like a bridger for me.
June 30, 2012
I waited anxiously for this sequel because Bear Necessities was so good. My verdict: extremely disappointing. Cynful was as bad as Bear Necessities was good.The mystery part was okay, however, the antics of the Living Arts ladies got tired (and irritating) pretty early. Silly isn't ALWAYS funny and after a while hard to get is just mean and contrary.
July 15, 2012
LOVED LOVED LOVED cant wait for more!!
April 7, 2014
Another 'split the baby' rating: 4 stars for first 50% and 2 for second 50%. I'll probably post a full review later b/c I've got thoughts and some issues w/ this one.
August 27, 2015
and Tai? and Jaime? and Chloe?
deals
November 30, 201529 November 2015: $4.24 on Kindle
February 4, 2019
Julian DuCharme, a rare Spirit Bear with legendary healing powers, is finally free from the threat of death, finally free to claim his mate—but she’s not having it. While his Bear screams it’s time to mate, the love of his life wants to date.
Holding his Bear in check while convincing her he’s not out to control her won’t be easy. She’s stubborn and a closeted geek—in other words, perfect for him.
Cynthia “Cyn” Reyes, owner of Living Art Tattoos, thinks Julian is the hottest thing on two legs. That doesn’t mean she’s going to roll over for his masculine charm. She watched her mother flounder when her father passed away, and she’s determined to never lose herself to someone else. Not even a man who would jump the moon for her, if she asked that of him.
When the women of Living Art are targeted by a killer, Julian doesn’t think twice about pouring out his last drop of power
to keep Cyn safe. But it’s Cyn who’ll give up everything—her independence, even her humanity—to keep a terrifying vision
from coming true.
One of his death.
Heather's Notes
I got a little tired of Cyn. She was a bit much and I didn't think it always fit. I also was a little sad that Marie died. She was not a big character, but she did have a mate so that was sad. The ending was good and opened up some new plots for the author, I don't see that she has written about the other pack, but it still there if she ever decides too.
Holding his Bear in check while convincing her he’s not out to control her won’t be easy. She’s stubborn and a closeted geek—in other words, perfect for him.
Cynthia “Cyn” Reyes, owner of Living Art Tattoos, thinks Julian is the hottest thing on two legs. That doesn’t mean she’s going to roll over for his masculine charm. She watched her mother flounder when her father passed away, and she’s determined to never lose herself to someone else. Not even a man who would jump the moon for her, if she asked that of him.
When the women of Living Art are targeted by a killer, Julian doesn’t think twice about pouring out his last drop of power
to keep Cyn safe. But it’s Cyn who’ll give up everything—her independence, even her humanity—to keep a terrifying vision
from coming true.
One of his death.
Heather's Notes
I got a little tired of Cyn. She was a bit much and I didn't think it always fit. I also was a little sad that Marie died. She was not a big character, but she did have a mate so that was sad. The ending was good and opened up some new plots for the author, I don't see that she has written about the other pack, but it still there if she ever decides too.
November 1, 2021
Julian DuCharme é um dos raros e lendários ursos espirituais com poderes curativos, mas que paga um preço sempre que usa seus poderes. Ele vai ajudar a Cynthia "Cyn" Reyes, dona da Living Art Tattoos, que foi espancada severamente no primeiro livro da série e esta em coma no hospital.
Obviamente ela é a companheira predestinada dele, mas ela luta contra os sentimentos que ele despertam nela, pois ela não quer passar o que a mãe passou quando perdeu o amor de sua vida.
Eu gostei e não gostei do livro. Vou explicar, gostei da ideia geral da história, gostei muito do Julian, ele é um fofo, arrisca sua vida por ele, gostei que teve um final feliz, gostei de rever o casal do livro anterior a Tammy e o Bunny, além de outros personagens.
O que eu não gostei, da desculpa "meia boca" que a mocinha usava para não aceitar ficar logo de cara com o mocinho, mesmo depois dele ter salvo a vida dela, acabou ficando um pouco chato.
Detestei a atitude da Glory (uma das meninas que trabalham no estúdio) ele foi uma "mala sem alça", "babacona" com o Ryan (ele é primo do Bunny) ela deveria ter pedido desculpas ao rapaz pelo que fez com ele, acho que talvez acontece no próximo livro, que não estou tentada a ler porque é com ela, eu sei, sou dessas que pega implicância com personagem.
Em fim, não foi tão bom quanto o primeiro, mas não me arrependo de ler, vai levar também 3 estrelas.
Obviamente ela é a companheira predestinada dele, mas ela luta contra os sentimentos que ele despertam nela, pois ela não quer passar o que a mãe passou quando perdeu o amor de sua vida.
Eu gostei e não gostei do livro. Vou explicar, gostei da ideia geral da história, gostei muito do Julian, ele é um fofo, arrisca sua vida por ele, gostei que teve um final feliz, gostei de rever o casal do livro anterior a Tammy e o Bunny, além de outros personagens.
O que eu não gostei, da desculpa "meia boca" que a mocinha usava para não aceitar ficar logo de cara com o mocinho, mesmo depois dele ter salvo a vida dela, acabou ficando um pouco chato.
Detestei a atitude da Glory (uma das meninas que trabalham no estúdio) ele foi uma "mala sem alça", "babacona" com o Ryan (ele é primo do Bunny) ela deveria ter pedido desculpas ao rapaz pelo que fez com ele, acho que talvez acontece no próximo livro, que não estou tentada a ler porque é com ela, eu sei, sou dessas que pega implicância com personagem.
Em fim, não foi tão bom quanto o primeiro, mas não me arrependo de ler, vai levar também 3 estrelas.
October 5, 2021
Fuck her gently with a chainsaw. This was bad.
- Cyn
“Mr. Shits-in-the-Woods.”
“Hey! I only do that when I’m fuzzy. And I have high speed Internet in my cave, thank you very much. Why, recently, I installed a dorm fridge right next to my sleeping furs.”
- Cyn and Julian
He poured creamer until the coffee was nearly white, just the way he liked it.
Jamie shook his head. “You want some coffee with that?” “Nah, I’m good.”
- Julian and Jamie
“Who is this?”
The arrogant command in the man’s voice got Cyn’s back up. None of your business, cabrón. “A better question would be who are you?”
“Fine. Who are you?”
Lovely. Another smart-ass.
- Cyn and Tai
- Cyn
“Mr. Shits-in-the-Woods.”
“Hey! I only do that when I’m fuzzy. And I have high speed Internet in my cave, thank you very much. Why, recently, I installed a dorm fridge right next to my sleeping furs.”
- Cyn and Julian
He poured creamer until the coffee was nearly white, just the way he liked it.
Jamie shook his head. “You want some coffee with that?” “Nah, I’m good.”
- Julian and Jamie
“Who is this?”
The arrogant command in the man’s voice got Cyn’s back up. None of your business, cabrón. “A better question would be who are you?”
“Fine. Who are you?”
Lovely. Another smart-ass.
- Cyn and Tai
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2017
Well I have to admit I am not really a fan of these kinds of romances. But this series has really hooked me. The plot line for the story is pretty good. Also I love the humor in the story. Each character has there special flair. Although I really love Alex. What's not to love, although in this story had to say I loved Cyn and the role she picked up. Plus she is a damn big ass bear, she just had to make things difficult for herself I think though so it was interesting.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 25, 2017
World Building: A
Mythology: A+
Plot-Twists: A
Villains: B+
Girl Power: A
Guy-Hero: A+
Love-Interests: A
For you clean-readers: this book DOES have mature content. You'll need to do some self-editing or scene-skipping to read this one.
This was an excellent continuation to a shifter/true-love-soul-mates series of books. I love that in this universe there are several different varieties of shifters.
Mythology: A+
Plot-Twists: A
Villains: B+
Girl Power: A
Guy-Hero: A+
Love-Interests: A
For you clean-readers: this book DOES have mature content. You'll need to do some self-editing or scene-skipping to read this one.
This was an excellent continuation to a shifter/true-love-soul-mates series of books. I love that in this universe there are several different varieties of shifters.
January 27, 2018
Glad I picked back up with this series. The Lilian was legitimately a surprise which was nice especially since the characters had real conversations about possible suspects. I felt like sometimes major things were pushed through a bit quickly. So pacing was a little off. I enjoyed the romance and the cast of characters.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 176 reviews