What do you think?
Rate this book
Moon Shifter #1.5
Lover's Instinct
An exciting novella in Katie Reus's Moon Shifter series of passionate and protective wolf shifters, filled with mystery, suspense and sensual romance.
Lupine shifter Nikan Lawless has it bad for Esperanze Cordona, the sweet and curvy woman who only views him as a friend. But when Nikan is assigned to act as Esperanze's bodyguard during a weekend education conference, he knows it's the perfect opportunity to seduce her off her feet - away from the pack.
To put his plan into motion Nikan cancels one of their hotel rooms, giving them time to get to know one another in a whole different way. But when a man from Esperanze's past shows up in need of help, Nikan must shield her from a group of dangerous rogue shifters, all while trying to prove that they're destined to be mates.
Don't miss the rest of the unforgettable Moon Shifter series! Alpha Instinct, Primal Possession and Mating Instinct are available now!
Lupine shifter Nikan Lawless has it bad for Esperanze Cordona, the sweet and curvy woman who only views him as a friend. But when Nikan is assigned to act as Esperanze's bodyguard during a weekend education conference, he knows it's the perfect opportunity to seduce her off her feet - away from the pack.
To put his plan into motion Nikan cancels one of their hotel rooms, giving them time to get to know one another in a whole different way. But when a man from Esperanze's past shows up in need of help, Nikan must shield her from a group of dangerous rogue shifters, all while trying to prove that they're destined to be mates.
Don't miss the rest of the unforgettable Moon Shifter series! Alpha Instinct, Primal Possession and Mating Instinct are available now!
106 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 7, 2012
115 people are currently reading
1263 people want to read
About the author
Katie Reus
157 books3,220 followersKatie Reus® is the USA Today bestselling author of the Endgame trilogy, the MacArthur Family series and the Deadly Ops series. She fell in love with romance at a young age thanks to books she pilfered from her mom's stash. Years later she loves reading romance almost as much as she loves writing it. However, she didn't always know she wanted to be a writer. After changing majors many times, she finally graduated with a degree in psychology. Not long after that she discovered a new love. Writing. She now spends her days writing paranormal romance and sexy romantic suspense.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 140 reviews
November 17, 2016
4 - "I don't share..." Stars!
Another great read from the Moon Shifter series, also easily read as a standalone, so don’t let the fact that it’s not the first book from the series deter you.
That-said, there is a lot of mention of things that occurred in the first book Alpha Instinct that made me want to immediately start reading it when I had finished Nikan and Esperanze’s novella, to find out the full story.
"For the record, I want to be anywhere you are."
This is a couple that have been circling each other for month’s forced into close proximity with each other as their packs merge, due to the events of the previous book. Nikan has loved Essie since he first saw her. Problem is Essie is wary of getting involved with an Alpha shifter, believing her Beta nature will lead to her being dominated, and not in the way she’s looking for, because of that she has kept Nikan firmly in the friend-zone, much to his frustration.
When he touched her it was almost impossible to think straight, when he stared at her as if she was the only thing that mattered… it created an ache deep inside her.
A quick weekend away for Essie to visit an old friend, gives Nikan the chance he wants in relation to getting her alone and letting her know exactly how he feels, and all bets are off when she finds out they will be sharing a hotel room, but a couple of rogue shifters and an and an abduction put a bit of a dampener on his attempts at seduction, but boy when the chance arises, Nikan isn’t shy in showing Essie’s exactly how he feels about her, and the fur flies.
"The only name I want on your lips is mine. Over and over as you come."
Enjoyable as always, and a great tempter to make you want to read the rest of the books in the series.
Copy generously gifted by the author, and it was a pleasure to provide the above honest review as thanks.
Another great read from the Moon Shifter series, also easily read as a standalone, so don’t let the fact that it’s not the first book from the series deter you.
That-said, there is a lot of mention of things that occurred in the first book Alpha Instinct that made me want to immediately start reading it when I had finished Nikan and Esperanze’s novella, to find out the full story.
"For the record, I want to be anywhere you are."
This is a couple that have been circling each other for month’s forced into close proximity with each other as their packs merge, due to the events of the previous book. Nikan has loved Essie since he first saw her. Problem is Essie is wary of getting involved with an Alpha shifter, believing her Beta nature will lead to her being dominated, and not in the way she’s looking for, because of that she has kept Nikan firmly in the friend-zone, much to his frustration.
When he touched her it was almost impossible to think straight, when he stared at her as if she was the only thing that mattered… it created an ache deep inside her.
A quick weekend away for Essie to visit an old friend, gives Nikan the chance he wants in relation to getting her alone and letting her know exactly how he feels, and all bets are off when she finds out they will be sharing a hotel room, but a couple of rogue shifters and an and an abduction put a bit of a dampener on his attempts at seduction, but boy when the chance arises, Nikan isn’t shy in showing Essie’s exactly how he feels about her, and the fur flies.
"The only name I want on your lips is mine. Over and over as you come."
Enjoyable as always, and a great tempter to make you want to read the rest of the books in the series.
Copy generously gifted by the author, and it was a pleasure to provide the above honest review as thanks.
April 7, 2018
I wanted to give this series one more try since other reviewers said that the first book wasn’t the author’s best showing. Maybe this one wasn’t the best to use the second try on because it was boring. It was sappy with too much telling, not enough showing. I think I couldn’t connect because we don’t see the friendship the MCs has before they mated.
July 14, 2017
Good read
August 27, 2018
A fun paranormal romance featuring shifters with plenty of swoony sweet nothings and sexy times!
Lover’s Instinct by Katie Reus is a light, quick novella and a great addition to her Moon Shifter series. It’s a paranormal urban fantasy romance featuring a hot powerful alpha warrior wolf and a nerdy, curvy beta she-wolf. It’s the story of two lupine shifters: Nikan Lawless and Esperanze “Essie” Cordona.
As the story opens, readers learn that Nikan and Essie are really good friends. However, Nikan wants more as he is in love with Essie, but Essie won’t allow their relationship to move from friends. When he discovers that Essie is set to attend a weekend education conference in Washington, DC, Nikan gets assigned to accompany her as her bodyguard while she is there. But, he has ulterior motives for doing so and, as part of his grand plan, has canceled one of their hotel rooms so they will be forced to stay together in the one room with one bed. Because… while they are away from their pack, he’s determined to seduce her and make her see that they are meant to be more than just friends.
What Nikan hasn’t accounted for was that one of Essie’s former professors would be in serious trouble and enlist Essie’s help. Essie is determined to help her vampire friend and the situation makes for some edge-of-your-seat suspense and action-packed thrills.
Katie’s characters are always likable and easy to relate to and Nikan and Essie are not exceptions. Even though their story is short, the characters are still fully fleshed out. They seemed to be perfect for each other – but will Essie get the courage to allow them to move from friends to lovers? AND will they even survive the serious situation Essie’s vampire friend has involved them in? You must read this tale to find out!
Following please find a few of my favorite quotes from Lover’s Instinct:
“For the record, I want to be anywhere you are," he murmured in her ear, so close he might as well have run his tongue along it.”
---
“I've never claimed to be civil," he said with a soft growl, flashing his canines.”
---
“If I get naked, I'm going to be on you then in you. Let me give you some foreplay, woman," he softly growled.”
I’ve been unintentionally reading this series out-of-order. The romance is fully self-contained within this novel and I can attest that it’s a very enjoyable read as a stand alone.
Katie Reus is one of my very favorite go-to authors. I know when I pick up one of her books, that the story will be well-written, well-plotted, that I will be totally engrossed in the story and that there will be a guaranteed very satisfying HEA. If you enjoy fun paranormal urban fantasy reads featuring wolf shifters with plenty of swoony sweet nothings and sexy times, I’d highly recommend that you check out Lover’s Instinct!
My full review is posted at Reading Between The Wines Book Club. Please check it out there: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
Lover’s Instinct by Katie Reus is a light, quick novella and a great addition to her Moon Shifter series. It’s a paranormal urban fantasy romance featuring a hot powerful alpha warrior wolf and a nerdy, curvy beta she-wolf. It’s the story of two lupine shifters: Nikan Lawless and Esperanze “Essie” Cordona.
As the story opens, readers learn that Nikan and Essie are really good friends. However, Nikan wants more as he is in love with Essie, but Essie won’t allow their relationship to move from friends. When he discovers that Essie is set to attend a weekend education conference in Washington, DC, Nikan gets assigned to accompany her as her bodyguard while she is there. But, he has ulterior motives for doing so and, as part of his grand plan, has canceled one of their hotel rooms so they will be forced to stay together in the one room with one bed. Because… while they are away from their pack, he’s determined to seduce her and make her see that they are meant to be more than just friends.
What Nikan hasn’t accounted for was that one of Essie’s former professors would be in serious trouble and enlist Essie’s help. Essie is determined to help her vampire friend and the situation makes for some edge-of-your-seat suspense and action-packed thrills.
Katie’s characters are always likable and easy to relate to and Nikan and Essie are not exceptions. Even though their story is short, the characters are still fully fleshed out. They seemed to be perfect for each other – but will Essie get the courage to allow them to move from friends to lovers? AND will they even survive the serious situation Essie’s vampire friend has involved them in? You must read this tale to find out!
Following please find a few of my favorite quotes from Lover’s Instinct:
“For the record, I want to be anywhere you are," he murmured in her ear, so close he might as well have run his tongue along it.”
---
“I've never claimed to be civil," he said with a soft growl, flashing his canines.”
---
“If I get naked, I'm going to be on you then in you. Let me give you some foreplay, woman," he softly growled.”
I’ve been unintentionally reading this series out-of-order. The romance is fully self-contained within this novel and I can attest that it’s a very enjoyable read as a stand alone.
Katie Reus is one of my very favorite go-to authors. I know when I pick up one of her books, that the story will be well-written, well-plotted, that I will be totally engrossed in the story and that there will be a guaranteed very satisfying HEA. If you enjoy fun paranormal urban fantasy reads featuring wolf shifters with plenty of swoony sweet nothings and sexy times, I’d highly recommend that you check out Lover’s Instinct!
My full review is posted at Reading Between The Wines Book Club. Please check it out there: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
December 1, 2023
I was in the mood for a shifter romance and decided to take a chance with this book. I have always had a hard time with novellas because everything has to happen so fast. This one wasn't that different from others I have read involving new characters. However, one thing I can say is that it made me want to read the first book and other books in this series! You can read this as a standalone but I would have understood a little more of the dynamics if I had read book one first.
Nikan Lawless is a shifter who knows what he wants. Or rather who- Esperanza Cordona. A beta shifter in his pack who ha captivated him since his Alpha took over their pack. Esperanza has asked her alpha, Connor, for permission to go to a convention in DC. Connor approves with the condition of her needing an escort- enter Nikan. This is the perfect excuse for him to get a little closer and make his intentions clear. His wolf has decided Esperanza is his mate. Does she feel the same way?
Esperanza shows up for her convention in DC only to find that one of the two hotels she booked has been cancelled and so she is forced to share a room with none other than Nikan. Her friend that she has been lusting after the past few weeks. Her friend who stops by with flowers and books and who doesn't fill awkward silences. Her friend who she feels at home around. Could he mean more to her? But he is an alpha in the warrior class. She doesn't think it will work with her being a beta- or will it?
Overall, this was a very easy fun book to read involving shifters and vamps in a modern day setting. I have already purchased book 1 and look forward to hearing Connor's story of how he took over the pack.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Merged review:
I was in the mood for a shifter romance and decided to take a chance with this book. I have always had a hard time with novellas because everything has to happen so fast. This one wasn't that different from others I have read involving new characters. However, one thing I can say is that it made me want to read the first book and other books in this series! You can read this as a standalone but I would have understood a little more of the dynamics if I had read book one first.
Nikan Lawless is a shifter who knows what he wants. Or rather who- Esperanza Cordona. A beta shifter in his pack who ha captivated him since his Alpha took over their pack. Esperanza has asked her alpha, Connor, for permission to go to a convention in DC. Connor approves with the condition of her needing an escort- enter Nikan. This is the perfect excuse for him to get a little closer and make his intentions clear. His wolf has decided Esperanza is his mate. Does she feel the same way?
Esperanza shows up for her convention in DC only to find that one of the two hotels she booked has been cancelled and so she is forced to share a room with none other than Nikan. Her friend that she has been lusting after the past few weeks. Her friend who stops by with flowers and books and who doesn't fill awkward silences. Her friend who she feels at home around. Could he mean more to her? But he is an alpha in the warrior class. She doesn't think it will work with her being a beta- or will it?
Overall, this was a very easy fun book to read involving shifters and vamps in a modern day setting. I have already purchased book 1 and look forward to hearing Connor's story of how he took over the pack.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Nikan Lawless is a shifter who knows what he wants. Or rather who- Esperanza Cordona. A beta shifter in his pack who ha captivated him since his Alpha took over their pack. Esperanza has asked her alpha, Connor, for permission to go to a convention in DC. Connor approves with the condition of her needing an escort- enter Nikan. This is the perfect excuse for him to get a little closer and make his intentions clear. His wolf has decided Esperanza is his mate. Does she feel the same way?
Esperanza shows up for her convention in DC only to find that one of the two hotels she booked has been cancelled and so she is forced to share a room with none other than Nikan. Her friend that she has been lusting after the past few weeks. Her friend who stops by with flowers and books and who doesn't fill awkward silences. Her friend who she feels at home around. Could he mean more to her? But he is an alpha in the warrior class. She doesn't think it will work with her being a beta- or will it?
Overall, this was a very easy fun book to read involving shifters and vamps in a modern day setting. I have already purchased book 1 and look forward to hearing Connor's story of how he took over the pack.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Merged review:
I was in the mood for a shifter romance and decided to take a chance with this book. I have always had a hard time with novellas because everything has to happen so fast. This one wasn't that different from others I have read involving new characters. However, one thing I can say is that it made me want to read the first book and other books in this series! You can read this as a standalone but I would have understood a little more of the dynamics if I had read book one first.
Nikan Lawless is a shifter who knows what he wants. Or rather who- Esperanza Cordona. A beta shifter in his pack who ha captivated him since his Alpha took over their pack. Esperanza has asked her alpha, Connor, for permission to go to a convention in DC. Connor approves with the condition of her needing an escort- enter Nikan. This is the perfect excuse for him to get a little closer and make his intentions clear. His wolf has decided Esperanza is his mate. Does she feel the same way?
Esperanza shows up for her convention in DC only to find that one of the two hotels she booked has been cancelled and so she is forced to share a room with none other than Nikan. Her friend that she has been lusting after the past few weeks. Her friend who stops by with flowers and books and who doesn't fill awkward silences. Her friend who she feels at home around. Could he mean more to her? But he is an alpha in the warrior class. She doesn't think it will work with her being a beta- or will it?
Overall, this was a very easy fun book to read involving shifters and vamps in a modern day setting. I have already purchased book 1 and look forward to hearing Connor's story of how he took over the pack.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
November 29, 2016
Book: Lover's Instinct (A Werewolf Romance)
Author: Katie Reus
Publication Date: 11/15/2016
Reviewed by: Tammy Payne- Book Nook Nuts
My Rating: 5 Stars
REVIEW
Nikan knows exactly what he is doing when his best friend and the woman he want's more than life itself decides she is going to conference out of state he makes sure he is going with her.
Esperanze loves Nikan and has all kinds of womanly thoughts of the tall,dark and handsome alpha male. She also knows he is off limits because she is not a strong enough female for this male or is she?
This is a short but very hot and sexy read. We get a bit of suspense, action and the romance is sizzling. I enjoyed it and it was a free read too !!Katie Reus
Author: Katie Reus
Publication Date: 11/15/2016
Reviewed by: Tammy Payne- Book Nook Nuts
My Rating: 5 Stars
REVIEW
Nikan knows exactly what he is doing when his best friend and the woman he want's more than life itself decides she is going to conference out of state he makes sure he is going with her.
Esperanze loves Nikan and has all kinds of womanly thoughts of the tall,dark and handsome alpha male. She also knows he is off limits because she is not a strong enough female for this male or is she?
This is a short but very hot and sexy read. We get a bit of suspense, action and the romance is sizzling. I enjoyed it and it was a free read too !!Katie Reus
December 11, 2023
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this short story
Esperanze Cordona needs time away from the pack and what better way than seeing her old college professor at a weekend educational conference
Nikan Lawless goes with esperanze as her body guard because of the lock down with all the stuff going on in the town its safer
but nikan has a plan to make this weekend more memorable, but he hadnt planned on vampires at the conference
a fun quick story that is in keeping with other storyline and it was nice to meet these two characters away from the group
Esperanze Cordona needs time away from the pack and what better way than seeing her old college professor at a weekend educational conference
Nikan Lawless goes with esperanze as her body guard because of the lock down with all the stuff going on in the town its safer
but nikan has a plan to make this weekend more memorable, but he hadnt planned on vampires at the conference
a fun quick story that is in keeping with other storyline and it was nice to meet these two characters away from the group
October 26, 2013
I read the first in the series and was impressed, it would seem that I like virtually everything KR writes! I am not usually a lover of novellas as they are so too short but this was a fair size and being able to continue with this series made me happy ☺
November 25, 2023
Lover’s Instinct🐺
Esperanze is a beta of her pack and after she lost her sister and other packmates, she wants some time alone to process this new reality. Nikan, is a warrior wolf who joined the Fontana pack when Connor came back home. He’s been trying to get to know Esperanze in the hopes that they could mate, but she doesn’t appear to realise his feelings for her. A trip away with her is just what the wolf ordered😁
A short and easy read which I enjoyed…I can’t wait to find out what happens between Liam and December😊 I received an advanced copy for this new version via Netgalley and leave my honest review😍
Esperanze is a beta of her pack and after she lost her sister and other packmates, she wants some time alone to process this new reality. Nikan, is a warrior wolf who joined the Fontana pack when Connor came back home. He’s been trying to get to know Esperanze in the hopes that they could mate, but she doesn’t appear to realise his feelings for her. A trip away with her is just what the wolf ordered😁
A short and easy read which I enjoyed…I can’t wait to find out what happens between Liam and December😊 I received an advanced copy for this new version via Netgalley and leave my honest review😍
January 7, 2017
Esperanze is a beta wolf shifter, meaning that she is a submissive wolf in pack hierarchy. She decides to go to a series of lectures hosted by vampires in Washington DC because an old professor is speaking. Esperanze is accompanied by Nikan, a alpha warrior. Nikan has been going after Esperanze for several months, but she thinks he only is interested in friendship when he's actually going along to the lectures with her to convince her to mate with him. Esperanze's parents were an alpha/beta pairing that didn't work out well so she has been putting her feelings for Nikan on the back burner. They meet up with Experanze's old professor, Antoine, and it turns out that he is in trouble.
I liked this book, but probably not enough to reread it. The characters were nice and I liked reading their POVs. The writing and editing were good.
I liked this book, but probably not enough to reread it. The characters were nice and I liked reading their POVs. The writing and editing were good.
October 20, 2022
Relectura.
Subo una estrella: de dos a tres.
Es una novela corta que se puede leer en un par de horas tranquilamente y, que si eres fan de este subgénero o esta escritora, seguro que te gusta. No tengo quejas con la pareja, ni con ninguno de los personajes. Tampoco da mucho tiempo a profundizar en ellos y en la historia. La resolución de la trama puede resultar precipitada, lo cierto es que un poco precipitada es. Hay algún comentario que no me ha gustado pero, por lo general, no tengo quejas con este libro.
La edición que tengo es la del libro físico, de tapas blandas y formato grande. Creo que está impreso por la propia escritora (KR Press, LLC.) este mismo año, 2021. Aunque el libro es del 2012. Me gusta la edición en sí, la portada 😊, el diseño interior y de los capítulos. He encontrado un pequeño fallo de continuidad en la trama y alguna errata, esto último es lo normal. Me ha gustado el tamaño de la letra y el libro es manejable. Aunque me fastidia que es diferente a la mayoría de los libros que tengo de esta saga, no lo cambiaría.
Por cierto, que este libro también tiene su historia porque anduvo perdido en la furgoneta del transportista que tenía que traerlo a mi casa. Dio la casualidad que a las semanas cogió esa furgo un mensajero que me conocía y reconoció mi dirección. Si no, habría sido devuelto a Alemania. Sí, solo pude conseguirlo en Alemania 🤨
Seguiré con la relectura de esta saga.
Subo una estrella: de dos a tres.
Es una novela corta que se puede leer en un par de horas tranquilamente y, que si eres fan de este subgénero o esta escritora, seguro que te gusta. No tengo quejas con la pareja, ni con ninguno de los personajes. Tampoco da mucho tiempo a profundizar en ellos y en la historia. La resolución de la trama puede resultar precipitada, lo cierto es que un poco precipitada es. Hay algún comentario que no me ha gustado pero, por lo general, no tengo quejas con este libro.
La edición que tengo es la del libro físico, de tapas blandas y formato grande. Creo que está impreso por la propia escritora (KR Press, LLC.) este mismo año, 2021. Aunque el libro es del 2012. Me gusta la edición en sí, la portada 😊, el diseño interior y de los capítulos. He encontrado un pequeño fallo de continuidad en la trama y alguna errata, esto último es lo normal. Me ha gustado el tamaño de la letra y el libro es manejable. Aunque me fastidia que es diferente a la mayoría de los libros que tengo de esta saga, no lo cambiaría.
Por cierto, que este libro también tiene su historia porque anduvo perdido en la furgoneta del transportista que tenía que traerlo a mi casa. Dio la casualidad que a las semanas cogió esa furgo un mensajero que me conocía y reconoció mi dirección. Si no, habría sido devuelto a Alemania. Sí, solo pude conseguirlo en Alemania 🤨
Seguiré con la relectura de esta saga.
February 28, 2013
The early stages of Nikan and Essie's courtship reminded me somewhat of an S&M relationship with their alpha / beta roles. The progression of their feelings for each other was believable and impressive for a short novella. The flirt scenes are almost as hot as the sex scenes. The plot ties in nicely with what's going on in the series and the ending is satisfying.
August 15, 2012
Mmmmm, Nikan!! Nothing hotter than a protective Lupine Shifter! Loving this story..
August 4, 2014
A fab little novella and a great addition to the series. Just wish it could have been longer, I would have loved to know more about Nikan
November 30, 2014
I'm ready to move on to the next full length novel in the series. This was a pretty good novella.
December 27, 2023
📚Get ready for a wild ride with Katie Reus's novella, "Lover's Instinct." Nikan Lawless, an alpha lupine shifter, is on a mission to move out of the friend zone with Esperanze Cordona, a sweet and curvy female. Assigned as her bodyguard during a weekend conference, Nikan seizes the opportunity to seduce her away from prying pack eyes. The plot thickens when danger from Esperanze's past surfaces, requiring Nikan to shield her from rogue shifters and convince her they're destined mates. Will their love prevail against the odds?
🌟 Nikan and Esperanze come to life in this friends-to-lovers tale, a delightful progression from the first book where their names weren't fully revealed. Nikan, the warrior wolf, patiently awaits the moment Essie realizes he's more than a friend. A private moment becomes the canvas for Nikan's plan, but before he can stake his claim, they're thrust into vampire trouble. Essie's professor-turned-vampire is blackmailed for his blood to save his human love. The stakes are high, both emotionally and supernaturally.
💖 Essie treasures Nikan's friendship, but when he declares his feelings, her fear of mating with a warrior surfaces, influenced by her parents' past. The adventure unfolds, showcasing Nikan's alpha traits tempered with a willingness to listen and consider Essie's perspective. Despite Nikan's sneaky move of "oh no, there's only one bed," it's a testament to his desire to be closer, allowing Essie to see him beyond the friend and bodyguard roles.
🌌 "Lover's Instinct" beautifully navigates the complexities of love, blending romance with suspense. Katie Reus crafts characters with depth and dynamics that leap off the page. The narrative skillfully weaves friendship, romance, and supernatural elements, creating a captivating story that keeps readers hooked until the very end.
#ParanormalRomance #Shifters #FriendsToLovers #AlphaLove #Novella #KatieReus #BookReview #RomanticSuspense #SupernaturalAdventure #BookishLove #BookwormReads #LoversInstinct
🌟 Nikan and Esperanze come to life in this friends-to-lovers tale, a delightful progression from the first book where their names weren't fully revealed. Nikan, the warrior wolf, patiently awaits the moment Essie realizes he's more than a friend. A private moment becomes the canvas for Nikan's plan, but before he can stake his claim, they're thrust into vampire trouble. Essie's professor-turned-vampire is blackmailed for his blood to save his human love. The stakes are high, both emotionally and supernaturally.
💖 Essie treasures Nikan's friendship, but when he declares his feelings, her fear of mating with a warrior surfaces, influenced by her parents' past. The adventure unfolds, showcasing Nikan's alpha traits tempered with a willingness to listen and consider Essie's perspective. Despite Nikan's sneaky move of "oh no, there's only one bed," it's a testament to his desire to be closer, allowing Essie to see him beyond the friend and bodyguard roles.
🌌 "Lover's Instinct" beautifully navigates the complexities of love, blending romance with suspense. Katie Reus crafts characters with depth and dynamics that leap off the page. The narrative skillfully weaves friendship, romance, and supernatural elements, creating a captivating story that keeps readers hooked until the very end.
#ParanormalRomance #Shifters #FriendsToLovers #AlphaLove #Novella #KatieReus #BookReview #RomanticSuspense #SupernaturalAdventure #BookishLove #BookwormReads #LoversInstinct
November 16, 2023
✨ARC Review✨
📖: Lovers Instinct
🖋️: Katie Reus
⭐️: 4 of 5
🌶️: 2 of 5
💬: “I probably should have told you, but, uh, this conference is being hosted by vampires. But they’re not the only paranormal beings here. There are supposed to be a few fae, other shifters—lupine, ursine, and feline—and I even heard there were a few half-demons attending.”
Tropes, Topics & Themes:
✨Paranormal romance
✨Best friends to lovers
✨Novella
✨Shifters
✨Vampires
✨Mates
Esperanze Cordona is a beta who shares a house with her three sisters. After the recent loss of their youngest sister. She decided it was time to take a trip away for a little bit.
Nikan is an alpha and best friends with Essie but he’s been in love with her a while now. When he finds out about the conference she’s planning on attending. He sets up a plan to pretend to be her bodyguard for the trip.
“For the record, I want to be anywhere you are.”
He cancels his room so they have to share one king-size bed and is determined to make her his mate.
When Essie’s old former professor finds himself in trouble. She and Nikan come to his rescue to help with the situation.
This was a quick and fun read. Can’t wait to read Alpha Instinct next!
Thank you, Katie Reus, Author Collective 20, and Netgalley for this EARC! As always, my review is my opinion and thoughts. This review will be shared on my Instagram @Alexandriavwilliams_ shortly.
📖: Lovers Instinct
🖋️: Katie Reus
⭐️: 4 of 5
🌶️: 2 of 5
💬: “I probably should have told you, but, uh, this conference is being hosted by vampires. But they’re not the only paranormal beings here. There are supposed to be a few fae, other shifters—lupine, ursine, and feline—and I even heard there were a few half-demons attending.”
Tropes, Topics & Themes:
✨Paranormal romance
✨Best friends to lovers
✨Novella
✨Shifters
✨Vampires
✨Mates
Esperanze Cordona is a beta who shares a house with her three sisters. After the recent loss of their youngest sister. She decided it was time to take a trip away for a little bit.
Nikan is an alpha and best friends with Essie but he’s been in love with her a while now. When he finds out about the conference she’s planning on attending. He sets up a plan to pretend to be her bodyguard for the trip.
“For the record, I want to be anywhere you are.”
He cancels his room so they have to share one king-size bed and is determined to make her his mate.
When Essie’s old former professor finds himself in trouble. She and Nikan come to his rescue to help with the situation.
This was a quick and fun read. Can’t wait to read Alpha Instinct next!
Thank you, Katie Reus, Author Collective 20, and Netgalley for this EARC! As always, my review is my opinion and thoughts. This review will be shared on my Instagram @Alexandriavwilliams_ shortly.
November 24, 2018
These two are great friends, and by that I mean he has inserted himself quite nicely in her life. As soon as he met her, he became quickly a permanent fixture in her life. Honestly, it was quite smart and stealthy I might add. I guess that’s why he’s one of the packs warriors.
She’s going to a conference, to listen to a past college professor, turned vampire, speak. And again Nikan, is there and goes with her. There was a girl/shifter there and she had a tough time keeping her hands off him, honestly, it was a little annoying. He didn’t like her or anything, but he also didn’t tell her to quit. Once I can let slide, twice...I don’t think so. But keep in mind, this is before these two are a couple, because he’s waiting to make his move, which he does when he gets a bit jealous. They end up helping her vampire friend, because he had some trouble.
This was a safe read, a tiny bit of ow drama, but really nothing serious. Just story drama and a little suspense. A thoughtful alpha and a sweet female. They do have a few steamy scenes, which I liked. It was the “good things come to those who wait” and it was worth the wait. There was an epilogue, but it was only two days out *pouty face*, so it’s just an hfn. But did like it and really want to read the other books in this series. Definitely a Katie Reus fan for sure.
She’s going to a conference, to listen to a past college professor, turned vampire, speak. And again Nikan, is there and goes with her. There was a girl/shifter there and she had a tough time keeping her hands off him, honestly, it was a little annoying. He didn’t like her or anything, but he also didn’t tell her to quit. Once I can let slide, twice...I don’t think so. But keep in mind, this is before these two are a couple, because he’s waiting to make his move, which he does when he gets a bit jealous. They end up helping her vampire friend, because he had some trouble.
This was a safe read, a tiny bit of ow drama, but really nothing serious. Just story drama and a little suspense. A thoughtful alpha and a sweet female. They do have a few steamy scenes, which I liked. It was the “good things come to those who wait” and it was worth the wait. There was an epilogue, but it was only two days out *pouty face*, so it’s just an hfn. But did like it and really want to read the other books in this series. Definitely a Katie Reus fan for sure.
November 23, 2023
Nikan and Esperanze are characters that aren't really named in the first book but now they're fully fleshed and leaping off the page in friends to lovers, one bed deliciousness!
Nikan, warrior wolf and quietly biding his time until Essie finally realises that he's more than her friend! A chance for time together on their own allows Nikan to hatch his plan. But before he can stake a claim on Essie they are pulled into vampire trouble. Essie's former Professor and relatively new Vampire has been blackmailed to provide his blood in an effort to save his very human love.
Essie loves having Nikan as a friend but when he declares the depth of his feelings, she's a bit gun-shy of mating with a warrior. She saw first-hand how her father dominated her mother and she does not want that for herself. But as the adventure unfolds Essie sees that while Nikan is very much an Alpha, he's always willing to listen to her and weigh up the evidence rather than automatically act on his own plans.
Sure Nikan is a bit sneaky sneaky with the old "oh no there's only one bed" but he never forced Essie to do anything she wasn't on board with - he just wanted a chance to be closer to her to giver her the chance to see him as something other than just her friend and occasional bodyguard.
Nikan, warrior wolf and quietly biding his time until Essie finally realises that he's more than her friend! A chance for time together on their own allows Nikan to hatch his plan. But before he can stake a claim on Essie they are pulled into vampire trouble. Essie's former Professor and relatively new Vampire has been blackmailed to provide his blood in an effort to save his very human love.
Essie loves having Nikan as a friend but when he declares the depth of his feelings, she's a bit gun-shy of mating with a warrior. She saw first-hand how her father dominated her mother and she does not want that for herself. But as the adventure unfolds Essie sees that while Nikan is very much an Alpha, he's always willing to listen to her and weigh up the evidence rather than automatically act on his own plans.
Sure Nikan is a bit sneaky sneaky with the old "oh no there's only one bed" but he never forced Essie to do anything she wasn't on board with - he just wanted a chance to be closer to her to giver her the chance to see him as something other than just her friend and occasional bodyguard.
December 20, 2016
** At the time of posting this review, Lover's Instinct was FREE on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Lovers-Instinc... ***
It’s not often I get to read a story with a Native American hero so of course I jumped at the chance to read this novella. This is the second story in the Moonshifters series but it can be read as a stand alone.
Nikan and Esperaze are friends but he wants more from her. It isn’t until they get to go on a trip that he decides it’s time to convince her to bondmate to him. The thing about his plans is that his convincing included stripping Esperanze of her rights to make her own decisions. She was supposed to be a “Beta” therefore not the confrontational type but there were times that I just thought no matter how well-intentioned he was he was just being an a$$. Fortunately his retrograde manners started to change as she learned to voice her opinions and they learned to communicate.
Romance aside, I liked the plot where Nikan had to put all his emotions aside in order to help someone in need even if it was someone he didn’t care for at all. All in all it was an entertaining read.
It’s not often I get to read a story with a Native American hero so of course I jumped at the chance to read this novella. This is the second story in the Moonshifters series but it can be read as a stand alone.
Nikan and Esperaze are friends but he wants more from her. It isn’t until they get to go on a trip that he decides it’s time to convince her to bondmate to him. The thing about his plans is that his convincing included stripping Esperanze of her rights to make her own decisions. She was supposed to be a “Beta” therefore not the confrontational type but there were times that I just thought no matter how well-intentioned he was he was just being an a$$. Fortunately his retrograde manners started to change as she learned to voice her opinions and they learned to communicate.
Romance aside, I liked the plot where Nikan had to put all his emotions aside in order to help someone in need even if it was someone he didn’t care for at all. All in all it was an entertaining read.
December 2, 2023
Lover's Instinct is the story of Nikan and Esperanze. They have become friends since Nikan's pack joined Esperanze's pack. Nikan knows that Esperanze is his mate, but he has to find a way to convince her. Esperanze is reluctant to admit Nikan is her mate because she is afraid to be mated to an alpha male and warrior. When she finds herself trying to help a friend, she and Nikan discover that they are a perfect match.
I really liked both Nikan and Esperanze. The author opted to allow them to slowly get to know each other but that happened off the page before this story starts. I like that they had a solid base on which to build a solid relationship. Esperanze's fear about mating with an alpha male made good sense. Nikan recognizing that Esperanze has trust issues and his willingness to work with her to develop trust. I even enjoyed his overprotectiveness. The story of Esperanze's friend was a nice addition that added to the story of their relationship.
This can be read as a standalone, but I think you should read this series in order because there are some developments to a bigger story. This is a contemporary paranormal story.
I really liked both Nikan and Esperanze. The author opted to allow them to slowly get to know each other but that happened off the page before this story starts. I like that they had a solid base on which to build a solid relationship. Esperanze's fear about mating with an alpha male made good sense. Nikan recognizing that Esperanze has trust issues and his willingness to work with her to develop trust. I even enjoyed his overprotectiveness. The story of Esperanze's friend was a nice addition that added to the story of their relationship.
This can be read as a standalone, but I think you should read this series in order because there are some developments to a bigger story. This is a contemporary paranormal story.
November 27, 2023
This is a short novella in the Moon Shifter series and while it can be read as a stand alone, I recommend reading the books in order even if it's just because Katie Reus is a master at writing shifter stories.
When Esperanze is set to go to a conference, Nikan makes sure he is assigned as her bodyguard. Ever since joining the sweet beta shifter's pack he's had a thing for her. He knows she's his mate but she keeps him in the friend zone, thinking she will never be good enough for an alpha like Nikan.
Nikan is setting his plan to convince her in motion by cancelling one of their hotel rooms so that she has to stay with him. Things don't exactly work out as planned though when Esperanze's old vampire professor is in trouble and begs for their help.
As said this is a short story but the characters are fleshed out completely, we get some romance, some action and a small hint as to whom the next book will be about.
*I kindly received a free copy of this book by Netgalley. This is my honest review.*
When Esperanze is set to go to a conference, Nikan makes sure he is assigned as her bodyguard. Ever since joining the sweet beta shifter's pack he's had a thing for her. He knows she's his mate but she keeps him in the friend zone, thinking she will never be good enough for an alpha like Nikan.
Nikan is setting his plan to convince her in motion by cancelling one of their hotel rooms so that she has to stay with him. Things don't exactly work out as planned though when Esperanze's old vampire professor is in trouble and begs for their help.
As said this is a short story but the characters are fleshed out completely, we get some romance, some action and a small hint as to whom the next book will be about.
*I kindly received a free copy of this book by Netgalley. This is my honest review.*
November 28, 2016
Esperanze Cordona is on an adventure with Nikan Lawless. She's going to an educational conference where she will visit with her college mentor. Nikan is her bodyguard, but he has his own agenda. He wants to convince her to be his mate. Will he be successful? Essie is attracted to this strong warrior. Her biggest concern is that he's an alpha and she's a beta. She won't be dominated like her mother. I was drawn to this couple by their chemistry and their fiery interaction. The story takes an unexpected twist when they need to help her old professor, Antoine, save his kidnapped girlfriend and himself from some vicious rogues. I enjoyed this action packed novella. Katie Reus knows how to combine passion and drama. The Moon Shifter series is a favorite of mine. It's always enjoyable to read about these shifters.
November 19, 2023
Lover's Instinct (Moon Shifter, #1.5) by Katie Reus
I loving this series - Nikan Lawless has it bad for Esperanze Cordona (Essie) and she is attracted to him, he is an Alpha and because she is a beta and fears they can only be friends. She has lost one of her sisters and he is helping her cope. He is her bodyguard for a weekend conference and plans to make the best use of their time together. When her old friend and professor is in trouble they offer help. There is danger, angst, evil cruel shifters, laughter, tears, romance, steamy stuff all leading to a HEA. I am looking forward to the next book in this series. Primal Possession.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Tear-jerker Happily Ever After Witty Unpredictable Easy-to-read Haunting Entertaining Tragic Great world building Action-packed Page-turner Romantic Scary Steamy Wonderful characters.
I loving this series - Nikan Lawless has it bad for Esperanze Cordona (Essie) and she is attracted to him, he is an Alpha and because she is a beta and fears they can only be friends. She has lost one of her sisters and he is helping her cope. He is her bodyguard for a weekend conference and plans to make the best use of their time together. When her old friend and professor is in trouble they offer help. There is danger, angst, evil cruel shifters, laughter, tears, romance, steamy stuff all leading to a HEA. I am looking forward to the next book in this series. Primal Possession.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Tear-jerker Happily Ever After Witty Unpredictable Easy-to-read Haunting Entertaining Tragic Great world building Action-packed Page-turner Romantic Scary Steamy Wonderful characters.
December 9, 2023
First I would like to thank Author Collective 20 for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is the story of Nikan, Alpha warrior shifter, who is slightly obsessed with Esperanze Cordona, bookish beta shifter. When Esperanze goes out of town for a weekend conference Nikan volunteers to go with her as protection and to convince her of his true feeling for her away from the pack/family. When at the conference Esparanze's vampire friend gets into a bit of trouble which brings Esperanze and thus Nikan into danger and she finally understands Nikan is not "that" kind of alpha and maybe her feelings are reciprocated.
What I Loved:
- Grumpy alpha protector, Nikan is the epitome of this he will keep Esparanze safe no matter the cost and will only lighten up with her
- The mating bond, I just laugh so hard when Nikan's "wolf" can't handle itself around other males and anything/anyone who even thinks or looks at Esparanze
- Conference, Esparanze doesn't tell anyone the conference is hosted by vampires and was open to all paranormal and humans which makes for a fun interaction when Nikan figures it out
- Support, even though they are an alpha and a beta they spend the entire book protecting and supporting each other knowing each is strong enough on their own but wanting to provide support anyway
This was a great novella that really keeps the over all moon shifter storying moving. It was such a great way to highlight a romance that has been slowing building and finally combusts between these to characters. It was also fun to be outside the small town and see how they adapt to those types of surroundings. I love that you get to meet more of the pack both on the Cordona and alpha warrior sides and I really can't wait to read more of this series so I can keep learning more about the people who make up this pack/family. If you are looking for a short romantic suspense novella with a fun couple, paranormal creatures and just a great story please please please check out this book!
This is the story of Nikan, Alpha warrior shifter, who is slightly obsessed with Esperanze Cordona, bookish beta shifter. When Esperanze goes out of town for a weekend conference Nikan volunteers to go with her as protection and to convince her of his true feeling for her away from the pack/family. When at the conference Esparanze's vampire friend gets into a bit of trouble which brings Esperanze and thus Nikan into danger and she finally understands Nikan is not "that" kind of alpha and maybe her feelings are reciprocated.
What I Loved:
- Grumpy alpha protector, Nikan is the epitome of this he will keep Esparanze safe no matter the cost and will only lighten up with her
- The mating bond, I just laugh so hard when Nikan's "wolf" can't handle itself around other males and anything/anyone who even thinks or looks at Esparanze
- Conference, Esparanze doesn't tell anyone the conference is hosted by vampires and was open to all paranormal and humans which makes for a fun interaction when Nikan figures it out
- Support, even though they are an alpha and a beta they spend the entire book protecting and supporting each other knowing each is strong enough on their own but wanting to provide support anyway
This was a great novella that really keeps the over all moon shifter storying moving. It was such a great way to highlight a romance that has been slowing building and finally combusts between these to characters. It was also fun to be outside the small town and see how they adapt to those types of surroundings. I love that you get to meet more of the pack both on the Cordona and alpha warrior sides and I really can't wait to read more of this series so I can keep learning more about the people who make up this pack/family. If you are looking for a short romantic suspense novella with a fun couple, paranormal creatures and just a great story please please please check out this book!
December 18, 2023
Lover's Instinct is a novella in the Moon Shifter series by Katie Reus. This is book #1.5.
Nikan is one of the warriors that came with Conner in the first book. They’re now members of the same pack and he’s looking for his shot at making Esperanze his mate.
I thought this was a cute short read. Both Nikan and Esperanze had crushes on the other, but neither was aware of it. I enjoyed how Nikan wasted no time making his intentions clear not only to Essie, but to any other man who approached her. He was confident and knew what he wanted and wouldn’t accept anything less. Although Essie is a beta, she had no problem standing up to Nikan and sharing her feelings for him as well.
The book is told in dual POVs and ends with a HFN ending. Liam and December’s book is next and the Antiparanormal League is still out there.
Nikan is one of the warriors that came with Conner in the first book. They’re now members of the same pack and he’s looking for his shot at making Esperanze his mate.
I thought this was a cute short read. Both Nikan and Esperanze had crushes on the other, but neither was aware of it. I enjoyed how Nikan wasted no time making his intentions clear not only to Essie, but to any other man who approached her. He was confident and knew what he wanted and wouldn’t accept anything less. Although Essie is a beta, she had no problem standing up to Nikan and sharing her feelings for him as well.
The book is told in dual POVs and ends with a HFN ending. Liam and December’s book is next and the Antiparanormal League is still out there.
December 25, 2016
Esperanze and Nikan are best friends. However, Nikan is ready to move the relationship forward to something more and makes plans to do just that. Esperanze is scheduled to attend a conference in DC over the weekend and finds out that she will be accompanied by Nikan. She also later finds out that they only have one room. Let the adventure begin.
Nikan's plans to get Esperanze alone for the weekend appear to be working until they are asked to help find the kidnapped friend of Esperanze's former professor. Will they be able to find the friend and also find the time to explore their relationship before having to return home?
Another great read.
I received an advanced reader's copy in exchange for an unpaid honest review.
Nikan's plans to get Esperanze alone for the weekend appear to be working until they are asked to help find the kidnapped friend of Esperanze's former professor. Will they be able to find the friend and also find the time to explore their relationship before having to return home?
Another great read.
I received an advanced reader's copy in exchange for an unpaid honest review.
October 27, 2017
Great
Esperanza is a shifter, lives with her sisters on a ranch, and has a crush on Nikan. Nikan is a shifter and warrior and has wanted Essie since their packs joined together. Essie is going to a conference in D.C. and Nikan goes with her. When one of her former professors is beaten up, they get the truth out of him. He’s a vampire and two wolf shifters have kidnapped his human friend in exchange for his blood. They must find her before they decide to kill her.
He finally tells her he wants her for his mate but other things come up before they can talk more. He’ll do anything to make her his forever.
Wolves, vampires, demons, and human. Short but very good. Some sexy scenes. A little, tiny cliffhanger.
Esperanza is a shifter, lives with her sisters on a ranch, and has a crush on Nikan. Nikan is a shifter and warrior and has wanted Essie since their packs joined together. Essie is going to a conference in D.C. and Nikan goes with her. When one of her former professors is beaten up, they get the truth out of him. He’s a vampire and two wolf shifters have kidnapped his human friend in exchange for his blood. They must find her before they decide to kill her.
He finally tells her he wants her for his mate but other things come up before they can talk more. He’ll do anything to make her his forever.
Wolves, vampires, demons, and human. Short but very good. Some sexy scenes. A little, tiny cliffhanger.
October 9, 2021
Wisps of desire have flowed between warrior Nikan Lawless and beta Esperanze Cordona since their packs united. Essie decides she needs a break from the stress and changes of the last few months and goes to a lecture sponsored by her vampire professor. Nikan takes the opportunity to tag along hoping to make Essie look at him as a potential mate.
Essie’s experience with warriors and alphas had been bullying and intimidation until their packs united. She sees Nikan’s behavior as more of the same when he learns she neglected to tell anyone vampires were hosting or other supernaturals would attend and she can’t understand Nikan’s possessive behavior, when she smiles at or touches the professor!
Rating: 4.25stars
Essie’s experience with warriors and alphas had been bullying and intimidation until their packs united. She sees Nikan’s behavior as more of the same when he learns she neglected to tell anyone vampires were hosting or other supernaturals would attend and she can’t understand Nikan’s possessive behavior, when she smiles at or touches the professor!
Rating: 4.25stars
August 6, 2025
You know how sometimes you're just craving a specific kind of read? For me, it was definitely a shifter romance, and "Lover's Instinct" by Katie Reus popped up at just the right moment. It turned out to be a super quick and easy read that I genuinely enjoyed!
Overall, this was just a really fun, breezy book to dive into, with shifters and vamps living in a modern world. It absolutely hit the spot for my shifter romance craving! While you can read it as a standalone, I do think I would've grasped some of the pack dynamics and character relationships a bit more if I'd started with the first book.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for sending me an advanced copy of this new version in exchange for my honest review!
Overall, this was just a really fun, breezy book to dive into, with shifters and vamps living in a modern world. It absolutely hit the spot for my shifter romance craving! While you can read it as a standalone, I do think I would've grasped some of the pack dynamics and character relationships a bit more if I'd started with the first book.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for sending me an advanced copy of this new version in exchange for my honest review!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 140 reviews