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L'Ange #1
Old Loyalty, New Love
When jackal shifter Quade Danas was banished from his pack for being gay, he spent years in the military escaping his father's prejudice before returning to civilian life as a bodyguard for Roman Howell, the teenage son of a very rich man. After Roman is in an accident that leaves him physically scarred and emotionally distant, Quade is the only one who can get through to him. As Roman becomes a man, he realizes what he wants—his bodyguard by his side and in his bed. Unfortunately, Quade can’t seem to see past the kid Roman once was to the man he has become, certain Roman’s feelings are merely misplaced gratitude. But Roman knows a lot more than Quade realizes, and he’s used to persevering, no matter how many impediments life throws his way. He wants the chance to prove to Quade that he’s strong enough for a jackal alpha to call mate.
Despite the decades Quade has been away, and the heartache of his father’s rejection, his inborn loyalty to the pack remains, and his abrupt departure left the jackal shifters without an alpha heir. As a psychopath shifter staking claim as alpha draws Quade back home, and Quade feels compelled to heed the call, he may be forced to make a choice he never anticipated. But doing so means he must leave Roman behind… unless somehow they find a way to make loyalty and love work together.
Despite the decades Quade has been away, and the heartache of his father’s rejection, his inborn loyalty to the pack remains, and his abrupt departure left the jackal shifters without an alpha heir. As a psychopath shifter staking claim as alpha draws Quade back home, and Quade feels compelled to heed the call, he may be forced to make a choice he never anticipated. But doing so means he must leave Roman behind… unless somehow they find a way to make loyalty and love work together.
246 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 12, 2013
212 people are currently reading
1406 people want to read
About the author
Mary Calmes
125 books5,015 followersMary Calmes believes in romance, happily ever afters, and the faith it takes for her characters to get there. She bleeds coffee, thinks chocolate should be its own food group, and currently lives in Kentucky with a six-pound furry ninja that protects her from baby birds, spiders and the neighbor’s dogs. To stay up to date on her ponderings and pandemonium (as well as the adventures of the ninja) follow her on Twitter @MaryCalmes, connect with her on Facebook, and subscribe to her Mary’s Mob newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 397 reviews
September 20, 2014
oh, hey.
remember that time mary calmes set a 17yo boy on fire so that his bodyguard would be the only one in the world who could love him despite his melted face?
OMG SO ROMANTIC.
remember that time mary calmes set a 17yo boy on fire so that his bodyguard would be the only one in the world who could love him despite his melted face?
OMG SO ROMANTIC.
December 25, 2015
4.5 Stars--Mary Calmes slung her book crack shifter style with this one.
To which I say:
I know what I wanted when I came to this party.
I wanted possessive claiming.
I wanted "mine".
I wanted a little cray-cray that seemed to surround the main characters but somehow fucking worked for them.
And I got it.
Crackish Fiend is Happy.
I got a lot of "Yeah" and "What" dialogue too. :/ That could count toward the Con pile but the motherfucking Pros outweigh that con in this one for me.
Yes, the Calmesian formula struck again and it was smelling like pie. Not any kind of pie mind you, oh no, this book extols the miracles of cherry pie.
Sweet Cheesus, save me from pies. I'm eating a slice of apple crumb as I write this review as a way to toast Quade and Roman and their jackal alpha fucking. ;P
Roman Howell is super rich, lives in a chateau aka castle-mansion in Maine. He has been burned significantly on his face and body during a bus accident while a teenager. Now at 27, his face is permanently scarred. Instead of letting his disfigurement control his life, Roman lives life with the help of his longtime bodyguard Quade. Quade is over six feet tall, Greek, older and a walking wet dream. Plus, he's a alpha jackal shifter. Roman and stubborn Quade have been circling around falling for each other for too many year, Roman finally makes his move and offers something the alpha can't resist: love.
Points to the author for choosing a unique shifter, a jackal and the sprinkling of Egyptian mythology. That was different. I like the jackal society she created.
While I would've loved some more action especially against the villain, I mean there was blatant build up for some primo ass kicking, Calmes doesn't have time for that because there are pies to eaten, coats to be worn, food to be cooked, touching to be done, kisses to be given and alpha fawning that needs constant attention.
(No time for the drinking game with this one, I'd need a new liver if I played with this book)
At first, I thought Roman was the Jory of the book. But it was a shared effort between Roman and Quade. EVERYBODY wanted Quade once he left Maine (the tops-only-but-would-bottom-for-Quade-only rent boy not included *purses lips*) Quade didn't really have to flex his shifter muscles around because he exuded so my alphaness people couldn't fucking handle themselves around him including Roman who kept rubbing on him and grinding. And I wondered WTF is with everyone and their fucking hands?
But you know what?
All of it. The crazy shifter duel that was over in two blinks because there was more important business to get to. The important business being Christmastime and if there is anything I know MC loves, it's Christmas. The Santa jizz was abundant.
And I found myself not giving a flying shit. As long as Quade kept biting Roman and filling his hole with alpha cock, claiming his mate over and over again, I didn't care. Somehow all of the talking about mundane shit, shifter shit, longing shit, returning back to your roots shit, friends to lovers shit, pie motherfucking baking shit...it fucking worked. Praise be Calmes!
Because I'm reading #2 with bells on. They might even possibly jingle.
probably-not
March 10, 2014My Mary Calmes Addiction, or Why Jory Likes Pie
Mary Calmes's books are apple pies. They're all apple pies. Sometimes they have allspice in the apple mix, sometimes sultanas, sometimes they have a crispy crumble top instead of pastry. Sometimes they're tarte tatin. If apple pie doesn't do it for you - if you try one of her apple pies and think, "Bleurgh, apple," then a different apple pie is probably still not going to be your thing.
But sometimes you just love the warm homey feeling apple pie gives you, even if you don't, objectively, like apple filling all that much. And the pastry is a bit thick. Or, even, occasionally, lumpy and still raw in patches.
I read A Matter of Time first. It was (then) five books. At the end of book one I was not enjoying the pie. It was oversweet and cloying. But it was a two-in-one book, and I had to finish, for the sake of completeness. And by the end of book two I was addicted to apple pie. After Matter of Time I read Again, and I was pissed off. "This is another apple pie!" I cried. I'd been expecting carrot cake, or at the very least blueberry pie.
But one night I re-read Again, and I suddenly got it. There's no point being annoyed at apple pie. You appreciate it was what it is, not what you want it to be. All at once, because, in truth, Mary Calmes makes her apple pies with spoonfuls of both love and crack, I just embraced the sugary squishiness. It's very hard to explain or justify.
If you are not yet addicted to apple pies, I can't in honesty recommend them. There is not one single book I can point at and say, "This one. This one is actually a good book."
I love Again because it's a wish fulfillment fantasy about being dumped but you're really still loved after all. I love Mine because it's a wish fulfillment fantasy about being completely dysfunctional but someone loving you and saving you and looking after you despite this. I love What Can Be because it's a wish fulfillment fantasy about leaving someone who loves you so much they refuse to be left. Running away, and knowing they will always chase.
I think Mary Calmes knows all my secrets: that I am more flaw than substance and deeply unlovable, and so she writes these utterly unbelievable books that work as emotional fracking: filling in the cracks and bringing remnants of trust and hope and joy up to the surface so I can savor the biochemical sips. When I am dying in my last days and they are cold and dry and without emotion I'll know it's because Mary Calmes used her apple pie voodoo to wring those final drops out of my cynical brain forty years earlier. Worth it.
Mary Calmes's books are apple pies. They're all apple pies. Sometimes they have allspice in the apple mix, sometimes sultanas, sometimes they have a crispy crumble top instead of pastry. Sometimes they're tarte tatin. If apple pie doesn't do it for you - if you try one of her apple pies and think, "Bleurgh, apple," then a different apple pie is probably still not going to be your thing.
But sometimes you just love the warm homey feeling apple pie gives you, even if you don't, objectively, like apple filling all that much. And the pastry is a bit thick. Or, even, occasionally, lumpy and still raw in patches.
I read A Matter of Time first. It was (then) five books. At the end of book one I was not enjoying the pie. It was oversweet and cloying. But it was a two-in-one book, and I had to finish, for the sake of completeness. And by the end of book two I was addicted to apple pie. After Matter of Time I read Again, and I was pissed off. "This is another apple pie!" I cried. I'd been expecting carrot cake, or at the very least blueberry pie.
But one night I re-read Again, and I suddenly got it. There's no point being annoyed at apple pie. You appreciate it was what it is, not what you want it to be. All at once, because, in truth, Mary Calmes makes her apple pies with spoonfuls of both love and crack, I just embraced the sugary squishiness. It's very hard to explain or justify.
If you are not yet addicted to apple pies, I can't in honesty recommend them. There is not one single book I can point at and say, "This one. This one is actually a good book."
I love Again because it's a wish fulfillment fantasy about being dumped but you're really still loved after all. I love Mine because it's a wish fulfillment fantasy about being completely dysfunctional but someone loving you and saving you and looking after you despite this. I love What Can Be because it's a wish fulfillment fantasy about leaving someone who loves you so much they refuse to be left. Running away, and knowing they will always chase.
I think Mary Calmes knows all my secrets: that I am more flaw than substance and deeply unlovable, and so she writes these utterly unbelievable books that work as emotional fracking: filling in the cracks and bringing remnants of trust and hope and joy up to the surface so I can savor the biochemical sips. When I am dying in my last days and they are cold and dry and without emotion I'll know it's because Mary Calmes used her apple pie voodoo to wring those final drops out of my cynical brain forty years earlier. Worth it.
July 17, 2018
~SAME SHIT, DIFFERENT BOOK~
The Story: 2 Pants Off
I read this book a few years ago and I didn’t hate it, gave it a 3 ⭐️s. I’m sure I’m being very generous with my new rating because something must have happened and I really kind of hate this.
The story is irritating, Quade is irritating even more so than Roman. Like how you gon have this poor boy disfigured badly and include the narrative that everyone else is like “ewww” except for one man who can see beyond his scars. That shit is hella played!!
Not to mention the story is jumbled with no clear plot point but, to show Quade’s relevance at being awesome and looking skin deep. Then the nonchalant dialogue really fucking pissed me off. I freaking get it, you guys are so cool and can never get riled but for me it came off like a airhead. Pay the fuck attention and stop being like a leaf in the wind 💨 (actual depiction of their thought process).
Gist of the matter, Quade the alpha he also the best cus he a special alpha. He found love in a hopeless place and now they all live happily ever after.
The Narration: 1.75 Pants Off
What the heck was this?! Before I begin my rant let me say I like Tristan James voice it’s nice and soothing, but I did not like Tristan James narration of this.
First, every damn character sounded the same. There wasn’t even trying or any form of imagination on this. Just someone reading the book out loud and making me realize how much of a hot mess this story is. If there was a little showmanship I might have enjoyed it more.
Second, everything came off sounding like he was reading in disbelief. Like Tristan couldn’t believe the story he was reading and because he couldn’t sell it, I wasn’t buying it. What a mess!!
Overall, this audio might have been a bad idea. I should have went on thinking the story was ok from my fist read. Having someone read it out loud made me realize that it really pissed me off. Like who in their right mind is gonna sit down with the ex that cheated with the best friend, and then have them say some fuck shit about the man you love and allow them to walk away with all their teeth and limbs. Gawww, I’m so fucking irritated 😤
Another case of SSDB (SAME SHIT, DIFFERENT BOOK)
The Story: 2 Pants Off
I read this book a few years ago and I didn’t hate it, gave it a 3 ⭐️s. I’m sure I’m being very generous with my new rating because something must have happened and I really kind of hate this.
The story is irritating, Quade is irritating even more so than Roman. Like how you gon have this poor boy disfigured badly and include the narrative that everyone else is like “ewww” except for one man who can see beyond his scars. That shit is hella played!!
Not to mention the story is jumbled with no clear plot point but, to show Quade’s relevance at being awesome and looking skin deep. Then the nonchalant dialogue really fucking pissed me off. I freaking get it, you guys are so cool and can never get riled but for me it came off like a airhead. Pay the fuck attention and stop being like a leaf in the wind 💨 (actual depiction of their thought process).
Gist of the matter, Quade the alpha he also the best cus he a special alpha. He found love in a hopeless place and now they all live happily ever after.
The Narration: 1.75 Pants Off
What the heck was this?! Before I begin my rant let me say I like Tristan James voice it’s nice and soothing, but I did not like Tristan James narration of this.
First, every damn character sounded the same. There wasn’t even trying or any form of imagination on this. Just someone reading the book out loud and making me realize how much of a hot mess this story is. If there was a little showmanship I might have enjoyed it more.
Second, everything came off sounding like he was reading in disbelief. Like Tristan couldn’t believe the story he was reading and because he couldn’t sell it, I wasn’t buying it. What a mess!!
Overall, this audio might have been a bad idea. I should have went on thinking the story was ok from my fist read. Having someone read it out loud made me realize that it really pissed me off. Like who in their right mind is gonna sit down with the ex that cheated with the best friend, and then have them say some fuck shit about the man you love and allow them to walk away with all their teeth and limbs. Gawww, I’m so fucking irritated 😤
Another case of SSDB (SAME SHIT, DIFFERENT BOOK)
June 14, 2017
4 Stars!
Well that certainly hit the spot for some yummy shifter goodness!
Props to Calmes, who of course brings her classic brand of over the top possessiveness, with some crazy ridiculousness, that simply works perfectly when it comes to the paranormal setting. Throw in her trademark, irresistible MC, and you’ll be hard pressed to not finish this in one go, as shenanigans ensue.
For me, the blurb hinted at something far more angstier than what I got, and I’m totally fine with that. Quade is a jackal, one of the most powerful of his kind, but instead of being the leader of his pack, he was kicked out prematurely by his father who could not accept his sexuality. Though he misses his shifter life, he’s made his own by being the bodyguard of rich, influential Roman, who basically runs a business empire in small town Maine. Quade loves Roman but feels he must leave the young man soon, believing his feelings inappropriate and thinking his presence is holding Roman back from settling down with the right man. What Quade doesn't fully comprehend is that Roman is ready to be all in with him specifically, a concept Quade just can’t quite grasp. When his pack calls for help, it sets in motion the revealing of secrets both he and Roman have been keeping, making it that much harder for Quade to leave Roman to fulfill his innate duty.
What results is some nicely done pack politics, power plays, and hot smexy claiming, as Quade and Roman negotiate their new lives and responsibilities. No where near confounding as Change of Heart (though that series is amazing in its own right), I enjoyed the setup of this and really look forward to the sequels. It’s been hinted at from various reviews and updates from future books that there’s some intense, violent, possibly heart stopping badassery coming, and I look forward to the ingenious reveals regarding this unique world that is to come. I don’t expect any less from a Calmes shifter book. My mind and body are ready!
Well that certainly hit the spot for some yummy shifter goodness!
Props to Calmes, who of course brings her classic brand of over the top possessiveness, with some crazy ridiculousness, that simply works perfectly when it comes to the paranormal setting. Throw in her trademark, irresistible MC, and you’ll be hard pressed to not finish this in one go, as shenanigans ensue.
For me, the blurb hinted at something far more angstier than what I got, and I’m totally fine with that. Quade is a jackal, one of the most powerful of his kind, but instead of being the leader of his pack, he was kicked out prematurely by his father who could not accept his sexuality. Though he misses his shifter life, he’s made his own by being the bodyguard of rich, influential Roman, who basically runs a business empire in small town Maine. Quade loves Roman but feels he must leave the young man soon, believing his feelings inappropriate and thinking his presence is holding Roman back from settling down with the right man. What Quade doesn't fully comprehend is that Roman is ready to be all in with him specifically, a concept Quade just can’t quite grasp. When his pack calls for help, it sets in motion the revealing of secrets both he and Roman have been keeping, making it that much harder for Quade to leave Roman to fulfill his innate duty.
What results is some nicely done pack politics, power plays, and hot smexy claiming, as Quade and Roman negotiate their new lives and responsibilities. No where near confounding as Change of Heart (though that series is amazing in its own right), I enjoyed the setup of this and really look forward to the sequels. It’s been hinted at from various reviews and updates from future books that there’s some intense, violent, possibly heart stopping badassery coming, and I look forward to the ingenious reveals regarding this unique world that is to come. I don’t expect any less from a Calmes shifter book. My mind and body are ready!
September 3, 2016
I needed something sweet and simple that I'd already read so I wouldn't feel the need to review it. However, I think it's only fair to share that... I really like this book. It's gooey and sticky and makes my heart happy.
The above does not have much to do with this review -- I just love Colin Firth & Jon Stewart. So let's call it my Mary Calmes fistbump of happiness.
April 13, 2021
4.5 Stars
Surprise, surprise, I loved it!
I read a lot of shifter stories and I love the possessive qualities of the romances within such stories. I crave all the epic mate bonds and the mine, mine, mine vibes, and thankfully all of that was present and accounted for in this first story within Calmes’ L'Ange series.
Uniquely, the shifter kind explored here was that of the jackal, tying back to ancient Egypt and the Greek God Anubis. I loved the deviation from the all too popular wolf/werewolf shifter stories that I often read, and although the shifter world-building didn’t get too in depth here, I liked what I did learn and I’m hoping more background information is revealed in the sequels.
What I particularly enjoyed was the fact that the MCs, Quade and Roman, had a long-term established relationship in the form of boss and employee, and also closest friends and confidantes, before the story even began. Even though they’d known each other for eleven years, there was no insta-love between these two; their bond was built and strengthened over time, so when they did admit their long harboured feelings it all felt like a natural progression in their relationship. Then, of course, all the mating and mine, mine, mine happened, AND I LOVED EVERY MINUTE OF IT!!
This still had that wacky, almost ridiculous, quality that so many of Calmes’ books have, but I wasn’t as astounded by it here – it was either tamer than the dramatics and silliness of some of the books I have previously read by Calmes, OR I’m becoming completely immune to her brand of madness. Either way, I found this story completely addictive and I eagerly look forward to seeing what comes next for Quade, Roman and their newly established pack.
Surprise, surprise, I loved it!
I read a lot of shifter stories and I love the possessive qualities of the romances within such stories. I crave all the epic mate bonds and the mine, mine, mine vibes, and thankfully all of that was present and accounted for in this first story within Calmes’ L'Ange series.
Uniquely, the shifter kind explored here was that of the jackal, tying back to ancient Egypt and the Greek God Anubis. I loved the deviation from the all too popular wolf/werewolf shifter stories that I often read, and although the shifter world-building didn’t get too in depth here, I liked what I did learn and I’m hoping more background information is revealed in the sequels.
What I particularly enjoyed was the fact that the MCs, Quade and Roman, had a long-term established relationship in the form of boss and employee, and also closest friends and confidantes, before the story even began. Even though they’d known each other for eleven years, there was no insta-love between these two; their bond was built and strengthened over time, so when they did admit their long harboured feelings it all felt like a natural progression in their relationship. Then, of course, all the mating and mine, mine, mine happened, AND I LOVED EVERY MINUTE OF IT!!
This still had that wacky, almost ridiculous, quality that so many of Calmes’ books have, but I wasn’t as astounded by it here – it was either tamer than the dramatics and silliness of some of the books I have previously read by Calmes, OR I’m becoming completely immune to her brand of madness. Either way, I found this story completely addictive and I eagerly look forward to seeing what comes next for Quade, Roman and their newly established pack.
September 26, 2014
Written January 6, 2014
3 1/2 Stars - A witty, romantic and really entertaining shifter story... although I lacked that extra
It was time for a completely new shifter romance by the well-established author Mary Calmes and, as always, I had high expectations.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
First of all, "Old Loyalty, New Love" is really a very enjoyable PNR romance and it's nicely written. ...But I have still some ambivalence and mixed feelings about this book. I really don't know right now, if I like it quite a lot or just like "okay but not more", ie as "just approved".
On the one hand, is this story actually really, really good, with a lovely, witty dialogue and plenty of fun banters. It is also very sensual, romantic and wonderfully yearning and hot.
On the other hand, it feels like I started reading into the midst of a long time ago already started book. I kind of missed a lot of initial pages which didn't exist. You become as "embroiled" in the middle of a dialogue, and in the beginning of the book it felt very confusing and it took quite some time before I began to feel with, and for, the characters.
The plot in "Old Loyalty, New Love" is about the jackal shifter Quade Danas. He has when the story begins been an ever-present bodyguard to a younger very wealthy man in eleven years. Quade is not only a bodyguard, but also friend and support to Roman Howell, the young beautiful inheritor, who when he was only seventeen, was severely burned on the upper body and in his face at a traffic accident. Just a few years later, as a 22 year old, he also sadly became an orphan and inherited a huge property and great wealth.
Quade and Roman talk about everything and nothing, and below the surface is also a rapidly growing attraction. A single topic, however, is completely forbidden and secret, the fact that Quade is a jackal shifter and a "seer". Something that is so cozy is that they are also quite physical and touch each other all the time, without in any way sexually, ...but the emotions and the heat is rising. ~ Then one day everything changes.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
There is also a nineteen years age difference which I just think makes the whole love story so much more interesting and even more cute and romantic. What is cozier in a good romance than long, and in some ways also faithful, very wistful longing for the very best love. ...and this story becomes very yummy in the end.
For once, in a gay romance, is this story only told in the voice of one character's POV (Quade's), which sometimes is a pity in books. But overall I learned yet, in the end, to know them both very well. Moreover, both these men, and quite a few other lovely characters, are both interesting to meet and exciting to hear. ...for there is a lot of "talking", and I always love that in the romances I read. Thoughts and feelings are not described again and again. They are spoken instead, and they are pronounced with both words and actions by the characters. Nicely done and just this providing a glimmering star from me.
This romance is also about making up with the old, forget and forgive and move on. Sometimes you need to reevaluate old assumptions and decisions, and take a chance on something new ... that can make everything so much better for many.
There is of course a lovely and grand HEA (...as in all romances) but I sense a sequel about Quade and Roman and all their friends, and the two characters and maybe new lovebirds , in such cases we will get to know more about. ~ I'm really looking forward to a second book - this was a well written and good beginning of a new exciting and romantic M/M PNR series about lovely guys who love guys.
To sum up; sweet, very romantic about two very sexy guys - and a okay and nice read. I'm pleased!
I LIKE - certainly enough to enjoy the story
~~~~~~~~~~
A funny picture with two homo jackals:
3 1/2 Stars - A witty, romantic and really entertaining shifter story... although I lacked that extra
It was time for a completely new shifter romance by the well-established author Mary Calmes and, as always, I had high expectations.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
First of all, "Old Loyalty, New Love" is really a very enjoyable PNR romance and it's nicely written. ...But I have still some ambivalence and mixed feelings about this book. I really don't know right now, if I like it quite a lot or just like "okay but not more", ie as "just approved".
On the one hand, is this story actually really, really good, with a lovely, witty dialogue and plenty of fun banters. It is also very sensual, romantic and wonderfully yearning and hot.
On the other hand, it feels like I started reading into the midst of a long time ago already started book. I kind of missed a lot of initial pages which didn't exist. You become as "embroiled" in the middle of a dialogue, and in the beginning of the book it felt very confusing and it took quite some time before I began to feel with, and for, the characters.
The plot in "Old Loyalty, New Love" is about the jackal shifter Quade Danas. He has when the story begins been an ever-present bodyguard to a younger very wealthy man in eleven years. Quade is not only a bodyguard, but also friend and support to Roman Howell, the young beautiful inheritor, who when he was only seventeen, was severely burned on the upper body and in his face at a traffic accident. Just a few years later, as a 22 year old, he also sadly became an orphan and inherited a huge property and great wealth.
‘Seeing him with his hands fisted at his sides, eyes blazing, jaw clenched, face flushed, sent a jolt of fear down my spine.’
Quade and Roman talk about everything and nothing, and below the surface is also a rapidly growing attraction. A single topic, however, is completely forbidden and secret, the fact that Quade is a jackal shifter and a "seer". Something that is so cozy is that they are also quite physical and touch each other all the time, without in any way sexually, ...but the emotions and the heat is rising. ~ Then one day everything changes.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
There is also a nineteen years age difference which I just think makes the whole love story so much more interesting and even more cute and romantic. What is cozier in a good romance than long, and in some ways also faithful, very wistful longing for the very best love. ...and this story becomes very yummy in the end.
“You're so beautiful," I uttered, my voice low and hoarse.
“And you beliving that makes me feel that way,” he confessed. “The way you look at me, like you want me, have to have me, might die without me... you're my miracle.”
For once, in a gay romance, is this story only told in the voice of one character's POV (Quade's), which sometimes is a pity in books. But overall I learned yet, in the end, to know them both very well. Moreover, both these men, and quite a few other lovely characters, are both interesting to meet and exciting to hear. ...for there is a lot of "talking", and I always love that in the romances I read. Thoughts and feelings are not described again and again. They are spoken instead, and they are pronounced with both words and actions by the characters. Nicely done and just this providing a glimmering star from me.
‘He needed me. I belonged to him. What I tought or felt had no consequence, no bearing on anything. Only what he wanted mattered, and what he wanted was me.’
This romance is also about making up with the old, forget and forgive and move on. Sometimes you need to reevaluate old assumptions and decisions, and take a chance on something new ... that can make everything so much better for many.
There is of course a lovely and grand HEA (...as in all romances) but I sense a sequel about Quade and Roman and all their friends, and the two characters and maybe new lovebirds , in such cases we will get to know more about. ~ I'm really looking forward to a second book - this was a well written and good beginning of a new exciting and romantic M/M PNR series about lovely guys who love guys.
To sum up; sweet, very romantic about two very sexy guys - and a okay and nice read. I'm pleased!
I LIKE - certainly enough to enjoy the story
~~~~~~~~~~
A funny picture with two homo jackals:
January 19, 2016
Kinda a 'Beast and the Beast' story.
Nice sense of setting. Not that I know jack about Maine, but it sure did seem pretty. Plus, Roman living in the fairy tale castle on the hill sorta made it even prettier. Okay, so yeah, I guess I just flew with the fantasy world of Quade and Roman in this one.
Quade is hot, experienced and a lot more than he seems. I liked the little extra twist from a wolf shifter to jackal; it added a little pizzaz and fun background. I liked him, a lot. Understood honor and duty.
Roman, the beautiful heir tragically scarred. He was lovely, and determined. Once he knew what he wanted and knew he could have it. He chased. Nice. Unfortunately, he really didn't add much to the story except for some shopping and arm candy for Quade.
The whole drama with Quade definitely took this a slightly different direction than I was expecting. In fact, it added two whole other stories which seemed a bit odd, but I just kept rolling. Anyway, this wasn't amazing; it was a sweet and entertaining moment.
Favorite quote:
~~A copy was provided to me for a No Glitter Blown review~~
~~~Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews~~~
Nice sense of setting. Not that I know jack about Maine, but it sure did seem pretty. Plus, Roman living in the fairy tale castle on the hill sorta made it even prettier. Okay, so yeah, I guess I just flew with the fantasy world of Quade and Roman in this one.
Quade is hot, experienced and a lot more than he seems. I liked the little extra twist from a wolf shifter to jackal; it added a little pizzaz and fun background. I liked him, a lot. Understood honor and duty.
Roman, the beautiful heir tragically scarred. He was lovely, and determined. Once he knew what he wanted and knew he could have it. He chased. Nice. Unfortunately, he really didn't add much to the story except for some shopping and arm candy for Quade.
The whole drama with Quade definitely took this a slightly different direction than I was expecting. In fact, it added two whole other stories which seemed a bit odd, but I just kept rolling. Anyway, this wasn't amazing; it was a sweet and entertaining moment.
Favorite quote:
"No shifter will ever think I chose you out of anything beyond simple want. Do you understand that?”
~~A copy was provided to me for a No Glitter Blown review~~
~~~Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews~~~
October 23, 2015
Now this is how I like my Mary Calmes books. Possessive shifters, fluffy romance, hot sex.
Quade is a jackal shifter and kicked out of his pack for being gay (I don’t care how unoriginal this is, I like it).
He has been the bodyguard of Roman for the past 11 years. Roman is 27, but was in a terrible car crash when he was 18. He has severe burn wounds all over his body. Quade is the only one that sees the beauty beneath the scars.
The two of them are close and Quade has been in love with Roman for a while. But he thinks he is no good for Roman so he plans to leave the estate. But Roman won’t let that happen. He tells Quade he is in love with him too and that they belong together.
Quade struggles for a bit, but Roman is very persistent, so he has no choice but to follow his heart.
Of course there is also the issue of Quade’s old pack and their abusive alpha, which Quade has to challenge to help the rest of the pack.
Nice, fluffy shifter story. Very Mary Calmes.
Quade is a jackal shifter and kicked out of his pack for being gay (I don’t care how unoriginal this is, I like it).
He has been the bodyguard of Roman for the past 11 years. Roman is 27, but was in a terrible car crash when he was 18. He has severe burn wounds all over his body. Quade is the only one that sees the beauty beneath the scars.
The two of them are close and Quade has been in love with Roman for a while. But he thinks he is no good for Roman so he plans to leave the estate. But Roman won’t let that happen. He tells Quade he is in love with him too and that they belong together.
Quade struggles for a bit, but Roman is very persistent, so he has no choice but to follow his heart.
Of course there is also the issue of Quade’s old pack and their abusive alpha, which Quade has to challenge to help the rest of the pack.
Nice, fluffy shifter story. Very Mary Calmes.
December 17, 2016
Re-read 12/16/16. Loved it just as much, if not more, than the last time I read it.
****************************
Did I love it? Duh! It's Mary Freakin' Calmes!
Nuff said.
May 23, 2015
When I first started this book- up to almost the half way point- I thought I was in trouble.
I'm sure I was looking a little like this
I was having a hard time with the narrative. I just wasn't connecting with the characters and some things were a bit ott for me. But then-
All the ott sugary sweet love and possessiveness really won me over. I'm a total sucker for all the "Mate" talk. I can't help myself.
If you're in the mood for a sweet, smexy shifter story then look no further. 3.5 Stars. :)
I'm sure I was looking a little like this
I was having a hard time with the narrative. I just wasn't connecting with the characters and some things were a bit ott for me. But then-
All the ott sugary sweet love and possessiveness really won me over. I'm a total sucker for all the "Mate" talk. I can't help myself.
If you're in the mood for a sweet, smexy shifter story then look no further. 3.5 Stars. :)
April 24, 2017
Eh. That's the word I thought about when I finish this book. I was a bit uncomfortable with the age of Quade Danas; 46 years old is only three years younger than my dad. With Roman Howell being 27 years old, there was 19 years between them. I didn't mind that, not really, but being so close to my dad's age... just no. As far as the story went, it was interesting. Really it was. The book has potential, and I like how Mary Calmes gets that animalistic side of the characters forth. It's kinda awesome. But there's still something missing that I need, but can't figure out. I think it was something to do with the characters... Who know? Overall, I don't regret reading it, but the book is not something I would think to mention to someone.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Paranormal Romance (M/M)
Series: - Series, Book One
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Quade Danas.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Probably.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Unsure.
Will I read this again in the future? - No.
Rating - 2 stars
His smile was luminous. “I will say, though, in whatever form you take, wolf or man, you’re absolutely breathtaking.” Jesus. “And both will belong to me.”
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Paranormal Romance (M/M)
Series: - Series, Book One
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Quade Danas.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Probably.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Unsure.
Will I read this again in the future? - No.
Rating - 2 stars
December 17, 2013
4.5 stars
A cinderfella shifter story. The basic plot is a common shifter story: a gay alpha-born shifter who was thrown by his family is now called back by his former pack because the current one is abusive and the pack's situation is declining. Combined that with a very rich but disfigured mate, plus Mary Calmes' usual style of writing (rapid tug of war in words between two characters), we get an interesting first book of a new shifter series.
What I like
-Mary Calmes managed to write her signature 'everyone loves him' and traditional family roles with a twist. Her characters usually consist of a physically dominant one (Logan, Rand, etc) and a strong, smart, but submissive one (Jin, Jory, Stefan, etc). Most of the time, her books take the point of view of the 'submissive' one. Here, it's from the physically dominant one.
-A not-so-beautiful MC, whose face is disfigured from accident
-Not-so-young MCs: one is 46 yo, the other is 27 yo
-View on monogamous and polygamous relationship
My concern is this has a repetitious feeling of 'Change of Heart' series. Although I can see that unlike that series, this one will have interspecies relationships(what with lion, jackal, and stag...), so hopefully not too bogged down with power struggles and politics.
A cinderfella shifter story. The basic plot is a common shifter story: a gay alpha-born shifter who was thrown by his family is now called back by his former pack because the current one is abusive and the pack's situation is declining. Combined that with a very rich but disfigured mate, plus Mary Calmes' usual style of writing (rapid tug of war in words between two characters), we get an interesting first book of a new shifter series.
What I like
-Mary Calmes managed to write her signature 'everyone loves him' and traditional family roles with a twist. Her characters usually consist of a physically dominant one (Logan, Rand, etc) and a strong, smart, but submissive one (Jin, Jory, Stefan, etc). Most of the time, her books take the point of view of the 'submissive' one. Here, it's from the physically dominant one.
-A not-so-beautiful MC, whose face is disfigured from accident
-Not-so-young MCs: one is 46 yo, the other is 27 yo
-View on monogamous and polygamous relationship
My concern is this has a repetitious feeling of 'Change of Heart' series. Although I can see that unlike that series, this one will have interspecies relationships(what with lion, jackal, and stag...), so hopefully not too bogged down with power struggles and politics.
September 14, 2014
I don't read shifter stories very often, but this one was very good.
I loved Roman's confidence, in spite of his scarred appearance, and the fact that he wouldn't let Quade get away with a single thing.
"You're the alpha? That's nice. Now, go do this for me and be quiet." I loved it. : )
Their relationship was really fun and playful, without it really seeming like either was domanant over the other. Quade would be strong when needed, then it was Roman's turn.
The entire book really worked for me and made me smile. A lot.
I loved Roman's confidence, in spite of his scarred appearance, and the fact that he wouldn't let Quade get away with a single thing.
"You're the alpha? That's nice. Now, go do this for me and be quiet." I loved it. : )
Their relationship was really fun and playful, without it really seeming like either was domanant over the other. Quade would be strong when needed, then it was Roman's turn.
The entire book really worked for me and made me smile. A lot.
January 31, 2014
I love shifter stories and I love M/M books, put the two together and I am anticipating a wonderful read. This book by Mary Calmes did not disappoint, I thoroughly enjoyed this story and the two MC’s captured my heart.
Quade Danas is a Jackal shifter, who was banished from his pack by his father the alpha when he came out that he was gay. After serving in the military Quade is now a bodyguard to 16 yr old Roman Howell.
Six months after being Roman’s bodyguard the young man is in a horrific bus accident that leaves a great deal of his body, including his face, disfigured. Then at age 21 Roman’s parents die, leaving him alone. Quade feels very protective of Roman and wants to see him happy and settled, he has fought his attraction to Roman for years, convincing himself it’s just his protective instinct, having managed to keep his true self hidden he feels he must leave before Roman finds out.
What I liked best about Quade was his loyalty to Roman. Despite Roman’s often rude behavior to others Quade could see past this. He would never let him get away with it though, constantly calling him up on his bad behavior.
Roman for me initially was hard to like, despite my heartbreak for him. He was aloof and moody, but it was apparent from the start how much he leaned and depended on Quade. When circumstances force Quade to go back to his old pack to challenge their alpha he is forced to make a decision on his life and Roman's.
This story honestly took me a little while to get into, the build up in the beginning was hard to enjoy. I found my mind drifting, not able to stay focused on it. At about 22% though, the story picked up and I was glued to my seat. As the passion and relationship builds between Quade and Roman I found myself smiling and happy. At this point for me it was impossible to put down, I was up till late in the evening to reach the end.
This story had passion, suspense, humor and action. Some of the sex scenes between Roman and Quade were absolutely swoon worthy and I needed a fan to keep me from overheating! The combination of passion and chemistry, want and needing were just the right mix to send my romantic heart a flutter.
Overall a winner of a story and I will be waiting and hoping for more of this series.
Quade Danas is a Jackal shifter, who was banished from his pack by his father the alpha when he came out that he was gay. After serving in the military Quade is now a bodyguard to 16 yr old Roman Howell.
Six months after being Roman’s bodyguard the young man is in a horrific bus accident that leaves a great deal of his body, including his face, disfigured. Then at age 21 Roman’s parents die, leaving him alone. Quade feels very protective of Roman and wants to see him happy and settled, he has fought his attraction to Roman for years, convincing himself it’s just his protective instinct, having managed to keep his true self hidden he feels he must leave before Roman finds out.
What I liked best about Quade was his loyalty to Roman. Despite Roman’s often rude behavior to others Quade could see past this. He would never let him get away with it though, constantly calling him up on his bad behavior.
Roman for me initially was hard to like, despite my heartbreak for him. He was aloof and moody, but it was apparent from the start how much he leaned and depended on Quade. When circumstances force Quade to go back to his old pack to challenge their alpha he is forced to make a decision on his life and Roman's.
This story honestly took me a little while to get into, the build up in the beginning was hard to enjoy. I found my mind drifting, not able to stay focused on it. At about 22% though, the story picked up and I was glued to my seat. As the passion and relationship builds between Quade and Roman I found myself smiling and happy. At this point for me it was impossible to put down, I was up till late in the evening to reach the end.
This story had passion, suspense, humor and action. Some of the sex scenes between Roman and Quade were absolutely swoon worthy and I needed a fan to keep me from overheating! The combination of passion and chemistry, want and needing were just the right mix to send my romantic heart a flutter.
Overall a winner of a story and I will be waiting and hoping for more of this series.
May 8, 2014
"Adorableness! Review shortly."
That is what I wrote five months ago on December 18, 2013. Whoops! I tend to do that quite often, mark a book "read" and promise to review it soon, especially if I give the book 3 or 4 stars and doesn't "wow" me. From what I remember from this one, the first half was underwhelming but I enjoyed the second half.
Sorry, but that's all I have for you! I hope you enjoy it if you end up reading it!
January 6, 2014
Addictively readable and entertaining like all of Calmes' books. Also like all of her books, contains a long sequence in which characters shower love and admiration on one of the MCs--at the same time delivering heartfelt apologies for all the ways they wronged him. I am trying to overcome my inner cynic and just enjoy these scenes as feel-good hug-fests. Have not yet succeeded.
However, honesty compels me to confess that the moment I finished this, I purchased another of her books, Frog which I'm half way through--this one features adorable children climbing all over the hunky-cowboy hero. He even rescues a little boy from a tree--sooooo cute.
However, honesty compels me to confess that the moment I finished this, I purchased another of her books, Frog which I'm half way through--this one features adorable children climbing all over the hunky-cowboy hero. He even rescues a little boy from a tree--sooooo cute.
September 1, 2016
Classic Mary Calmes.
I don't read too much Calmes. It's usually just not my taste. This one was rather enjoyable though.
The writing is very good, as always. Total prima donna bitchy, whiny MC, as always.
Seems like a long book for not a ton of stuff happening.
Quade was pretty enjoyable. Roman needed a punch in his melty wax face.
Classic Calmes dialogue that makes me snort.
I don't read too much Calmes. It's usually just not my taste. This one was rather enjoyable though.
The writing is very good, as always. Total prima donna bitchy, whiny MC, as always.
Seems like a long book for not a ton of stuff happening.
Quade was pretty enjoyable. Roman needed a punch in his melty wax face.
Classic Calmes dialogue that makes me snort.
I kissed his cheek hard and then tipped his head sideways with my nose and suckled his neck, nibbling and licking.*Snort* Yeah, okay.
“Oh God, stop, I won’t be able to stand.”
“Why not?”
“You make my knees weak.”
January 26, 2017
Roman Howell owns a magnificent estate called L'Anges. It was left to him when his parents passed away. He's wealthy, a smart business man, and philanthropist. However, a tragic accident when he was in high school, has marred his perfect life.
Quade Danas is Roman's bodyguard. He has been for eleven years, and for eleven years has hidden a secret that could get him banished from Roman's life.
I enjoyed this very much. I like shifter stories, and this is one of the better ones. On to number two.
Quade Danas is Roman's bodyguard. He has been for eleven years, and for eleven years has hidden a secret that could get him banished from Roman's life.
I enjoyed this very much. I like shifter stories, and this is one of the better ones. On to number two.
December 23, 2016
I am not sure why Roman had to be set on fire. Mary Calmes already set him up with such a tragic family history, you think "WTF? Give the kid a break." Right? NO - Off With His Face!
But what is the purpose of this ...exercise? Kids in college couldn't care less about his scars. Everyone in the state of Maine (and beyond) still wants Roman. His injured face does not pose any difficulties to him, once he stopped the surgeries. He himself sometimes uses it for 'shocking' purposes or excuses when he doesn't want to talk to people.
i dunno, i dunno.... will keep reading. maybe it will make sense somewhere down the road.
UPDATE
I get it now. The pack accepts you. YOU. Not what you look like. The appearances don't matter. You're not damaged unless you can't hunt or contribute in any other way.
So, what if we have an ex-marine (for example), big and strong in no way physically damaged, except for a severe PTSD? Let's put another character through hell, so we can learn the ways of the pack when someone looks perfect but can't contribute, shall we? We'll have a manual on jackal shifters in no time by dragging people through pain and suffering.
Don't get me wrong, I love most of Mary's books, it's just this one seems to me unusually cruel. She has this meaninglessly mean (a sad 'ha-ha') streak that pops up every once in a while in her fiction. As much as I loved the first two Change of Heart books, #3 & #4 got 2 stars from me for that same reason. Jin, a cute lovable boy, was turned into something hateful, fearful and highly unpleasant. No wonder he didn't want to get mated in book one, he knew. Look where it got him.
That said, I do read books where the characters are damaged physically or emotionally or both, that doesn't bother me. But I am uber cautious now when it comes to reading Mary Calmes. Sad days :(
PS Forgot to mention: it ticks me off that the tragedy (actually many tragedies) that befalls Roman serves a singular purpose - to support one and one character only, Quade, who did not have live through the horror of it personally or even deal with it much. At least not the way Mary Calmes describes it. We only have a couple of tiny little peeks of how boys dealt with it. Almost a brush off :/
But what is the purpose of this ...exercise? Kids in college couldn't care less about his scars. Everyone in the state of Maine (and beyond) still wants Roman. His injured face does not pose any difficulties to him, once he stopped the surgeries. He himself sometimes uses it for 'shocking' purposes or excuses when he doesn't want to talk to people.
i dunno, i dunno.... will keep reading. maybe it will make sense somewhere down the road.
UPDATE
I get it now. The pack accepts you. YOU. Not what you look like. The appearances don't matter. You're not damaged unless you can't hunt or contribute in any other way.
So, what if we have an ex-marine (for example), big and strong in no way physically damaged, except for a severe PTSD? Let's put another character through hell, so we can learn the ways of the pack when someone looks perfect but can't contribute, shall we? We'll have a manual on jackal shifters in no time by dragging people through pain and suffering.
Don't get me wrong, I love most of Mary's books, it's just this one seems to me unusually cruel. She has this meaninglessly mean (a sad 'ha-ha') streak that pops up every once in a while in her fiction. As much as I loved the first two Change of Heart books, #3 & #4 got 2 stars from me for that same reason. Jin, a cute lovable boy, was turned into something hateful, fearful and highly unpleasant. No wonder he didn't want to get mated in book one, he knew. Look where it got him.
That said, I do read books where the characters are damaged physically or emotionally or both, that doesn't bother me. But I am uber cautious now when it comes to reading Mary Calmes. Sad days :(
PS Forgot to mention: it ticks me off that the tragedy (actually many tragedies) that befalls Roman serves a singular purpose - to support one and one character only, Quade, who did not have live through the horror of it personally or even deal with it much. At least not the way Mary Calmes describes it. We only have a couple of tiny little peeks of how boys dealt with it. Almost a brush off :/
April 14, 2021
⭐4 "I can't believe it took me this long to read a Mary Calmes shifter book" stars⭐
And just in case anyone didn't already know what type of book this was, past the midway point this was very much a case of...
Which I was not mad at ALL about lol.
Plus the whole "we've worked together for a decade and have been secretly pining for the other for almost as long" angle REALLY worked for me. Sometimes when a story features a would-be couple who has known each other for such extensive time before the story starts, the end result can lack depth and give me the impression that the author has "cheated" their readers out of most of the set up for the romance...
It was definitely not the case here, though. At least for me, Roman's attraction was believable and Quade's protectiveness turned love felt like a natural progression of a decade-long build-up. And their chemistry too! God, I was here for every second of it. Besides the "feral" moments peppered into the steam being, pardon my french, just *chef's kiss*. Add to that the possessiveness we all expect from shifter romances and the entertaining "old bickering couple" vibe these two had at times and I was a goner lol.
I did, however, detract a star based solely on how dissatisfied I was in the way some plot points were handled (mainly Quade's cheating ex and his homophobic father). I just wanted to punch those two in the face whenever they showed up and felt like they should've gotten some type of comeuppance beyond the suggestion of karma being delivered. But that's just me and my need for a good verbal smackdown (or a physical one, because c'mon! those two deserved it).
Will definitely continue with the series! And I can't wait for the inevitable relationship angst book two
will have, considering how Linus and Arman's situation is looking so far.
*********
L'Ange series by Mary Calmes
Old Loyalty, New Love — 4 ⭐
Fighting Instict — TBR.
Chosen Pride — TBR.
Winter's Knight (3.5 novella) — TBR.
And just in case anyone didn't already know what type of book this was, past the midway point this was very much a case of...
Which I was not mad at ALL about lol.
Plus the whole "we've worked together for a decade and have been secretly pining for the other for almost as long" angle REALLY worked for me. Sometimes when a story features a would-be couple who has known each other for such extensive time before the story starts, the end result can lack depth and give me the impression that the author has "cheated" their readers out of most of the set up for the romance...
It was definitely not the case here, though. At least for me, Roman's attraction was believable and Quade's protectiveness turned love felt like a natural progression of a decade-long build-up. And their chemistry too! God, I was here for every second of it. Besides the "feral" moments peppered into the steam being, pardon my french, just *chef's kiss*. Add to that the possessiveness we all expect from shifter romances and the entertaining "old bickering couple" vibe these two had at times and I was a goner lol.
I did, however, detract a star based solely on how dissatisfied I was in the way some plot points were handled (mainly Quade's cheating ex and his homophobic father). I just wanted to punch those two in the face whenever they showed up and felt like they should've gotten some type of comeuppance beyond the suggestion of karma being delivered. But that's just me and my need for a good verbal smackdown (or a physical one, because c'mon! those two deserved it).
Will definitely continue with the series! And I can't wait for the inevitable relationship angst book two
will have, considering how Linus and Arman's situation is looking so far.
*********
L'Ange series by Mary Calmes
Old Loyalty, New Love — 4 ⭐
Fighting Instict — TBR.
Chosen Pride — TBR.
Winter's Knight (3.5 novella) — TBR.
January 5, 2015
Love it. Love it. Love it.
I am a sucker for good dialogue and characters that really get each other, and both abound here. Roman and Quade are like an old married couple right from the start, and their obvious attachment and affection keep you hooked while you wait for Quade to figure it out. Can't wait to read the next one.
I am a sucker for good dialogue and characters that really get each other, and both abound here. Roman and Quade are like an old married couple right from the start, and their obvious attachment and affection keep you hooked while you wait for Quade to figure it out. Can't wait to read the next one.
December 4, 2019
2.5 stars for the story and the narrator. Neither really worked for me 🤷♀️
July 9, 2019
DNF as expected. I just couldn't. The story, the drama, the possessiveness was just too much. I am really going to have to weed thru the MC books on my TBR and remove anything shifter related. It's too much. I can see the attraction to this story and probably would have loved it if I wasn't already burned out from MC.
2 dnf stars.
2 dnf stars.
May 11, 2021
I read this twice to make sure it really is a 3 star read, but maybe it should be 2 stars.
In this novel we have not one Mary Calmes' Patented Protagonist, but two. Both the MC and his love interest are kind, successful, and loudly adored by everyone. The interchangeability is made worse by the narrator using the same voice for both. The novel starts at the day both lovers start dating, which feels like instalove of the highest order.
Second shortcoming of the narration is ignoring every nuance in expression the author made by writing words like shouting, whispering, cursing, and so on. He just glossed over it.
In this novel we have not one Mary Calmes' Patented Protagonist, but two. Both the MC and his love interest are kind, successful, and loudly adored by everyone. The interchangeability is made worse by the narrator using the same voice for both. The novel starts at the day both lovers start dating, which feels like instalove of the highest order.
Second shortcoming of the narration is ignoring every nuance in expression the author made by writing words like shouting, whispering, cursing, and so on. He just glossed over it.
January 15, 2021
Every Mary Calmes book I read reminds me there are people who were born to create in the world. Shifters are a popular topic in paranormal novels, but the shifter world of L'Ange is wholly unique to Mary Calmes and her style. I loved the fact she chose jackals to be the first shifters introduced into her world since they're unique, regal, and rich with history. I also loved the surprise potential shifters at the end of Old Loyalty, New Love; I can't think of anything better than finding a wonderful new world and having it come to a completion with promise of more to come.
Roman was my favorite character throughout. I loved his intensity, his self-assurance, and his comfort with taking control. I also loved he was able to maintain his own confidence even as he relinquished all control of himself to his alpha, Quade. So often with submissive partners in M/M romance, I feel as if the author gives in to the urge to make them effeminate as well whereas Roman was never anything except a man. He was a very wonderful, strong man whose outsides served to mask the beautiful person he was on the inside.
Quade was a fierce champion from the very beginning. I knew I'd love him when I saw how he treated Roman when faced with a threat of any kind -physical, emotional, financial- without taking anything from Roman in the process. He didn't have to prove his dominance to know he was the alpha of their partnership. He did have to learn how to accept love which tempered his ferociousness. A strong man is one thing while a strong man who can open himself to vulnerability, to love, to the possibility of belonging to someone else as much as owning that person? That's real strength to me.
If I could give this book more than 5 stars, I would. I hope anyone interested in a new shifter romance gives this one a chance. It's a magical world at L'Ange and I'd move there in a heartbeat even if I do associate Maine with evil clowns and rabid dogs.
Roman was my favorite character throughout. I loved his intensity, his self-assurance, and his comfort with taking control. I also loved he was able to maintain his own confidence even as he relinquished all control of himself to his alpha, Quade. So often with submissive partners in M/M romance, I feel as if the author gives in to the urge to make them effeminate as well whereas Roman was never anything except a man. He was a very wonderful, strong man whose outsides served to mask the beautiful person he was on the inside.
Quade was a fierce champion from the very beginning. I knew I'd love him when I saw how he treated Roman when faced with a threat of any kind -physical, emotional, financial- without taking anything from Roman in the process. He didn't have to prove his dominance to know he was the alpha of their partnership. He did have to learn how to accept love which tempered his ferociousness. A strong man is one thing while a strong man who can open himself to vulnerability, to love, to the possibility of belonging to someone else as much as owning that person? That's real strength to me.
If I could give this book more than 5 stars, I would. I hope anyone interested in a new shifter romance gives this one a chance. It's a magical world at L'Ange and I'd move there in a heartbeat even if I do associate Maine with evil clowns and rabid dogs.
December 19, 2013
I love shifter stories.
I love Mary Calmes' stories.
And so I knew I was going to love this and I did, very much.
The story had a Christmas feel to it as well. So really just perfect for me. And I knew it would be. I don't even have to read the blurb for a MC book. I just press buy.
BUT there is always room for improvement. I need more. I need Adam de Soto's story. I want to know what and who he is.
I like that. A story which is fulfilling and complete but leaves you hungry for more.
Perfect!!
I love Mary Calmes' stories.
And so I knew I was going to love this and I did, very much.
The story had a Christmas feel to it as well. So really just perfect for me. And I knew it would be. I don't even have to read the blurb for a MC book. I just press buy.
BUT there is always room for improvement. I need more. I need Adam de Soto's story. I want to know what and who he is.
I like that. A story which is fulfilling and complete but leaves you hungry for more.
Perfect!!
March 5, 2018
~ 3.5 stars ~
I really liked Roman and Quade together and their relationship was all that I expected from a Mary Calmes book - growly, sexy possessiveness and alpha-males.
Roman's confidence despite his scarred appearance was a joy and I loved that he went after the man he wanted and wasn't discouraged by Quade's hesitancy.
The first half of the book felt kinda all over the place because there were so many things happening in just a few hours that my head started spinning. The second half was better organized but still felt rushed because all the conflicts were resolved pretty quickly or without much explanation.
Now to the part that I actually hated about this story:
If I never hear the name Novan again, it will be too soon. It's been a very long time since I despised a character - and a secondary character at that - as much as I did Novan but damn! This guy and his arrogant, selfish, self-centered attitude really pushed all my buttons - and not in a good way. I actually felt sorry for his current boyfriend and I hope he dumps him as soon as possible. The fact that one particular exasperating scene with him occurred near the end of the book, left me kind of upset and angry when the book was over. Not how I want to feel when I finish a Mary Calmes book so that's why I started on the second book in the series right away.
Tristan James saved this book from getting a lower rating. He nailed the narration and I loved listening to him.
I really liked Roman and Quade together and their relationship was all that I expected from a Mary Calmes book - growly, sexy possessiveness and alpha-males.
Roman's confidence despite his scarred appearance was a joy and I loved that he went after the man he wanted and wasn't discouraged by Quade's hesitancy.
The first half of the book felt kinda all over the place because there were so many things happening in just a few hours that my head started spinning. The second half was better organized but still felt rushed because all the conflicts were resolved pretty quickly or without much explanation.
Now to the part that I actually hated about this story:
If I never hear the name Novan again, it will be too soon. It's been a very long time since I despised a character - and a secondary character at that - as much as I did Novan but damn! This guy and his arrogant, selfish, self-centered attitude really pushed all my buttons - and not in a good way. I actually felt sorry for his current boyfriend and I hope he dumps him as soon as possible. The fact that one particular exasperating scene with him occurred near the end of the book, left me kind of upset and angry when the book was over. Not how I want to feel when I finish a Mary Calmes book so that's why I started on the second book in the series right away.
Tristan James saved this book from getting a lower rating. He nailed the narration and I loved listening to him.
September 3, 2019
Old Loyalty, New Love by Mary Calmes
Paranormal romance. 1st in a series. M-M.
Alpha pack dynamics. Ethics and goodness overcomes the criminal. Possessive shifters. Hot sex. Sublime mated romance.
Excerpt:
“I’ll call you later.”
“Yes. Please.”
“You’re being stupid.”
“Because you were purposely baiting me instead of simply giving me the words you know I needed to hear.”
“Words are cheap. Actions mean more.”
“Words secured by action are best.”
“What the h does that mean?”
“You say, ‘Roman I won’t sleep with anyone’ and then don’t. That’s best.”
He was exhausting. “You know I only want to sleep with you,” I blurted out.
His sigh was both annoying and sweet at the same time. “Now, you see? Was that so hard?”
I could actually visualize my hands around his throat, squeezing.
“You’re thinking about throttling me, aren’t you?”
He really did know me very well.”
Excerpt from Old Loyalties, New Love by Mary Calmes
Paranormal romance. 1st in a series. M-M.
Alpha pack dynamics. Ethics and goodness overcomes the criminal. Possessive shifters. Hot sex. Sublime mated romance.
Excerpt:
“I’ll call you later.”
“Yes. Please.”
“You’re being stupid.”
“Because you were purposely baiting me instead of simply giving me the words you know I needed to hear.”
“Words are cheap. Actions mean more.”
“Words secured by action are best.”
“What the h does that mean?”
“You say, ‘Roman I won’t sleep with anyone’ and then don’t. That’s best.”
He was exhausting. “You know I only want to sleep with you,” I blurted out.
His sigh was both annoying and sweet at the same time. “Now, you see? Was that so hard?”
I could actually visualize my hands around his throat, squeezing.
“You’re thinking about throttling me, aren’t you?”
He really did know me very well.”
Excerpt from Old Loyalties, New Love by Mary Calmes
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