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The Tarot Witches #1
Caged Wolf
The biker gangs passing through Lobo Norte don’t scare Ofelia anymore. All those men are the same: scarred, homeless, and broken…just like Ofelia. They’ve become a blur of forgettable faces watching her strip. She takes off her clothes, takes their money, and wipes them from her memory instantly.
But Trouble is different. A biker with a wolf tattoo and tortured eyes, he sees beyond Ofelia’s tough disguise to a more fragile woman within. She’s drawn to him like she’s never been drawn to a man before—at least, not since she survived hideous torture at the hands of her ex-boyfriend that left her scarred physically and emotionally. She can’t forget Trouble. And she definitely can’t push him away.
There’s magic between them that neither understands. But maybe if Ofelia and Trouble can find the truth, they can release each other from the chains that bind them to Lobo Norte, to the Fang Brothers biker gang, and to the dark secrets in their pasts…
But Trouble is different. A biker with a wolf tattoo and tortured eyes, he sees beyond Ofelia’s tough disguise to a more fragile woman within. She’s drawn to him like she’s never been drawn to a man before—at least, not since she survived hideous torture at the hands of her ex-boyfriend that left her scarred physically and emotionally. She can’t forget Trouble. And she definitely can’t push him away.
There’s magic between them that neither understands. But maybe if Ofelia and Trouble can find the truth, they can release each other from the chains that bind them to Lobo Norte, to the Fang Brothers biker gang, and to the dark secrets in their pasts…
198 pages, Paperback
First published April 16, 2014
434 people are currently reading
1758 people want to read
About the author
S.M. Reine
114 books2,007 followersHi everyone! My name is Sara, and I write urban fantasy and paranormal novels as SM Reine. I collect swords, cat hair, and typewriters (which I do use for writing!). It's a good day when those three things have nothing to do with each other.
If you would like to know the instant my next book is available, you should enlist in my Army of Evil! We have a wicked cool secret handshake, but you'll have to sign up to learn it. ;) Check it out -- http://smarturl.it/armyofevil
If you would like to know the instant my next book is available, you should enlist in my Army of Evil! We have a wicked cool secret handshake, but you'll have to sign up to learn it. ;) Check it out -- http://smarturl.it/armyofevil
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 253 reviews
maybe
March 18, 2016Free on Amazon.co.uk at the time of posting
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Caged-Wolf-Ta...
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November 30, 2015
Kindle Unlimited series
Sexual quotient: If you're brave enough to read this on your daily public transport commute then you might want to consider a heavy disguise.
Soundtrack: Walk this world https://youtu.be/vzIE4j3TOlE
And yes, I shall read the next book.
Sexual quotient: If you're brave enough to read this on your daily public transport commute then you might want to consider a heavy disguise.
Soundtrack: Walk this world https://youtu.be/vzIE4j3TOlE
And yes, I shall read the next book.
April 1, 2014
2 stars
This was just all sorts of weird, I love me a good shifter read, and when you mix it with cage fighters and bikers, it almost was too good to be true...and that’s what it was in my case at least. Sadly this wasn’t anything like what my imagination made up, it’s hard to explain, I kept on imagining a depressing desolate town in the middle of nowhere, where the rejects are sent and the perfect place to hide. Lobo Norte was a town to meet all your vices needs; sex, money and drugs.
Ofelia works at the only bar in town; during the day she is behind the bar serving up drinks, while at night she takes her scarred body and strips for the freaks that drive through. Each month they hold cage matches; fight to the death, where there are no rules, just victory. But this fight is different, the Fang Brothers are in town recruiting the best to join them, only the craziest and the strongest are allowed, but because it is so close to the full moon, all things that go bump in night come out to play. Cursed with the Devil Tarot card, Ofelia can’t help but wonder how her life is tied to Trouble, one of the newest members of the Fan Brothers, they are prisoner in their own world. She needs to unlock the meaning behind the card and save herself while trying to save the man who is nothing but Trouble for her little world.
Caged Wolf was kinda hard to get into; it took a while for me to realize there was more than shifters in the book. I found it a bit confusing trying to piece everything together, understanding what the purpose is of everyone in the book. There weren’t a lot of characters but enough to have you scratching your head, up to now I find myself questioning what their purpose was. I did finish the book out of my own curiosity, but it was just an okay read for me. Oh well, on to the next one.
ARC kindly provided by Red Iris Books, in exchange for an honest review.
This was just all sorts of weird, I love me a good shifter read, and when you mix it with cage fighters and bikers, it almost was too good to be true...and that’s what it was in my case at least. Sadly this wasn’t anything like what my imagination made up, it’s hard to explain, I kept on imagining a depressing desolate town in the middle of nowhere, where the rejects are sent and the perfect place to hide. Lobo Norte was a town to meet all your vices needs; sex, money and drugs.
Ofelia works at the only bar in town; during the day she is behind the bar serving up drinks, while at night she takes her scarred body and strips for the freaks that drive through. Each month they hold cage matches; fight to the death, where there are no rules, just victory. But this fight is different, the Fang Brothers are in town recruiting the best to join them, only the craziest and the strongest are allowed, but because it is so close to the full moon, all things that go bump in night come out to play. Cursed with the Devil Tarot card, Ofelia can’t help but wonder how her life is tied to Trouble, one of the newest members of the Fan Brothers, they are prisoner in their own world. She needs to unlock the meaning behind the card and save herself while trying to save the man who is nothing but Trouble for her little world.
Caged Wolf was kinda hard to get into; it took a while for me to realize there was more than shifters in the book. I found it a bit confusing trying to piece everything together, understanding what the purpose is of everyone in the book. There weren’t a lot of characters but enough to have you scratching your head, up to now I find myself questioning what their purpose was. I did finish the book out of my own curiosity, but it was just an okay read for me. Oh well, on to the next one.
ARC kindly provided by Red Iris Books, in exchange for an honest review.
April 3, 2014
Well, through a good portion of this book, I had a lot of moments like this
I had a hard time understanding what was going on with Ofelia. Her background and everything about her was such a mystery that it was hard to really get to know and understand her. She works as a bartender and stripper at the only bar in Lobo Norte. Werewolf shifters/motorcycle gangs come from all over to participate in the cage fighting that goes on here. It allows them an outlet. Ofelia has seen it all so these burly men have no effect on her anymore. That is until Trouble aka Cooper walks in the bar.
There was some sexual tension between these two and he definitely goes all shifter on her claiming her as mine.
Now usually I am a complete sucker for shifter books. Love how possessive the males are. This book just didn't do it for me.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
I had a hard time understanding what was going on with Ofelia. Her background and everything about her was such a mystery that it was hard to really get to know and understand her. She works as a bartender and stripper at the only bar in Lobo Norte. Werewolf shifters/motorcycle gangs come from all over to participate in the cage fighting that goes on here. It allows them an outlet. Ofelia has seen it all so these burly men have no effect on her anymore. That is until Trouble aka Cooper walks in the bar.
There was some sexual tension between these two and he definitely goes all shifter on her claiming her as mine.
Now usually I am a complete sucker for shifter books. Love how possessive the males are. This book just didn't do it for me.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
December 17, 2018
Ofelia is hiding. After her horrendous past she has fled as far as she can and now lives in Lobo Norte, the almost unknown hamlet in Mexico near the US border
There’s not much there - but bikers come for drugs, for the local prostitutes and for the cage. The cage matches are massively popular and the lifeblood of this small town
But when a different gang comes to town, werewolves with their own agenda, the cage matches become much more important and much more dangerous. But despite Gloria’s insistence on keeping her head down, Ofelia is drawn out - both the promise of money and the unnatural attraction she has for one of the bikers. But drawing attention to herself is the last thing a hiding woman should do
As I mentioned in a previous review, I am on a mission when it comes to thisauthor’s world. I will read them, in something resembling a reasonable order.
And when I picked up this book, the first in the Tarot Witches series, I have to say I had some regrets. And part of that is simply because erotically charged Paranormal Romance isn’t my thing per se and I’d likely have skipped past it if I weren’t on the mission.
The sex comes hard and fast in this book (literally and figuratively) in a way that I find more irritating than titillating. Woman sees man and he hasn’t even opened his mouth to speak and already everything is hot and wet and moist and throbbing and pumping and zomg this is the hottest guy there has ever been ever and she can barely think. And this may work for a 14 year old ingénue raised by nuns seeing a man for the very first time. But she’s a sexually experienced, sexually adventurous stripper and former sex worker in her mid to late 20s and it just feels tired.
And it’s not just burning lust, we’re rapidly shoved forwards to Connor (or “Trouble”) being jealous of Ofelia, calling her his, giving her orders, being protective of her, willing to face down his pack for her, being drawn to her on a full moon, risking his life for her. And she, with less highhanded possessive dominance and jealousy, doing the same to him – deciding he’s hers, planning to run away with him, willing to fight a werewolf for him, ignoring his nearly biting her, getting all hot and bothered when he tells her what to do or seems angry when she disobeys.
I have no idea why these two characters like each other, let alone are madly-in-love-willing-to-run-away-together level attached. I don’t even know why by the end of the book, I think they’re literally willing to die for each other and they’re still complete strangers. It makes the whole romance painfully boring because there is no romance there. They find each other hot to the point of not being able to keep away from each other and that’s it. There’s no other connection, nothing, no reason for them to be this attached and no reason for me to care about their relationship one iota – or Trouble for that matter who is just a blank sexy slate with an impossibly big cock (of course).
Ofelia I have a little more time for – and when you clear Trouble OUT of her story, we have something interesting. In fact, her story was even getting really good before he and his unnecessariness pulled her out of things. Her discovering a Tarot card with dire meaning was interesting. Having a paranormal romance or an urban fantasy with a sexually active and charged main character was interesting and fun, complete with her lack of hang ups and, despite being badly scarred, with a strong body image. That last one is pretty unique. She has a tragic past and though it motivates her to hide and drives her to anger and vengeance, it’s integrated into the character as a defining and essential moment rather than an all consuming element of all she is. Her relationship with Gloria, who runs Lobo Norte’s bar, was excellent, all gruff and loving
Aside – I love Gloria, give me a book of Gloria. In fact, no, I want Gloria to just be taken and dropped into any book anywhere just to have her listen to the protagonist’s latest nonsense and have her say “blah blah blah, all I’m hearing is ‘Gloria, I am stupid’”. More Gloria would have helped this book so much because her slap upside the head and scathing tongue has no time for over dramatic romantic nonsense. Every book needs a Gloria.
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There’s not much there - but bikers come for drugs, for the local prostitutes and for the cage. The cage matches are massively popular and the lifeblood of this small town
But when a different gang comes to town, werewolves with their own agenda, the cage matches become much more important and much more dangerous. But despite Gloria’s insistence on keeping her head down, Ofelia is drawn out - both the promise of money and the unnatural attraction she has for one of the bikers. But drawing attention to herself is the last thing a hiding woman should do
As I mentioned in a previous review, I am on a mission when it comes to thisauthor’s world. I will read them, in something resembling a reasonable order.
And when I picked up this book, the first in the Tarot Witches series, I have to say I had some regrets. And part of that is simply because erotically charged Paranormal Romance isn’t my thing per se and I’d likely have skipped past it if I weren’t on the mission.
The sex comes hard and fast in this book (literally and figuratively) in a way that I find more irritating than titillating. Woman sees man and he hasn’t even opened his mouth to speak and already everything is hot and wet and moist and throbbing and pumping and zomg this is the hottest guy there has ever been ever and she can barely think. And this may work for a 14 year old ingénue raised by nuns seeing a man for the very first time. But she’s a sexually experienced, sexually adventurous stripper and former sex worker in her mid to late 20s and it just feels tired.
And it’s not just burning lust, we’re rapidly shoved forwards to Connor (or “Trouble”) being jealous of Ofelia, calling her his, giving her orders, being protective of her, willing to face down his pack for her, being drawn to her on a full moon, risking his life for her. And she, with less highhanded possessive dominance and jealousy, doing the same to him – deciding he’s hers, planning to run away with him, willing to fight a werewolf for him, ignoring his nearly biting her, getting all hot and bothered when he tells her what to do or seems angry when she disobeys.
I have no idea why these two characters like each other, let alone are madly-in-love-willing-to-run-away-together level attached. I don’t even know why by the end of the book, I think they’re literally willing to die for each other and they’re still complete strangers. It makes the whole romance painfully boring because there is no romance there. They find each other hot to the point of not being able to keep away from each other and that’s it. There’s no other connection, nothing, no reason for them to be this attached and no reason for me to care about their relationship one iota – or Trouble for that matter who is just a blank sexy slate with an impossibly big cock (of course).
Ofelia I have a little more time for – and when you clear Trouble OUT of her story, we have something interesting. In fact, her story was even getting really good before he and his unnecessariness pulled her out of things. Her discovering a Tarot card with dire meaning was interesting. Having a paranormal romance or an urban fantasy with a sexually active and charged main character was interesting and fun, complete with her lack of hang ups and, despite being badly scarred, with a strong body image. That last one is pretty unique. She has a tragic past and though it motivates her to hide and drives her to anger and vengeance, it’s integrated into the character as a defining and essential moment rather than an all consuming element of all she is. Her relationship with Gloria, who runs Lobo Norte’s bar, was excellent, all gruff and loving
Aside – I love Gloria, give me a book of Gloria. In fact, no, I want Gloria to just be taken and dropped into any book anywhere just to have her listen to the protagonist’s latest nonsense and have her say “blah blah blah, all I’m hearing is ‘Gloria, I am stupid’”. More Gloria would have helped this book so much because her slap upside the head and scathing tongue has no time for over dramatic romantic nonsense. Every book needs a Gloria.
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May 11, 2014
Though the devil is surely in bondage, freedom always lies within his reach.. if only he will allow himself to take it..
I really enjoyed this book, it is a hot & steamy start to a new PNR series.
Ofelia is a enigma at the start of the book, she is introduced as a bartender/stripper but as the story develops we discover more about her. She is feisty & likeable as a character. I liked her a lot & I loved her chemistry with Trouble. She is still very much a mystery at the end of the book, there is so much left to learn about Ofelia - we are teased into knowing just enough to hook us & leave us needing to read the next books to find out more.
As I said I enjoyed the chemistry between Trouble & Ofelia, the sex scenes were hot. The relationship development was rapid but it didn't put me off. I loved the bike scene (you should read it.. and I need to find myself a man with a motorbike)
The story finishes with a good conclusion but also with the promise for more action, interest and intrigue to follow in the next books. I am looking forward to finding the rest of the deck.
I really enjoyed this book, it is a hot & steamy start to a new PNR series.
Ofelia is a enigma at the start of the book, she is introduced as a bartender/stripper but as the story develops we discover more about her. She is feisty & likeable as a character. I liked her a lot & I loved her chemistry with Trouble. She is still very much a mystery at the end of the book, there is so much left to learn about Ofelia - we are teased into knowing just enough to hook us & leave us needing to read the next books to find out more.
As I said I enjoyed the chemistry between Trouble & Ofelia, the sex scenes were hot. The relationship development was rapid but it didn't put me off. I loved the bike scene (you should read it.. and I need to find myself a man with a motorbike)
The story finishes with a good conclusion but also with the promise for more action, interest and intrigue to follow in the next books. I am looking forward to finding the rest of the deck.
August 12, 2016
It took me way to long to read this one. Or maybe it was just me. I was behind the premise and the blur. But when the truth of the read came to light. I was disappointed.
I WAS CONFUSED. I do not like to feel confused when I read. I want to enjoy what I'm reading. There were things that I had to question and then had to double back to clarify. Not so much a must read.
I WAS CONFUSED. I do not like to feel confused when I read. I want to enjoy what I'm reading. There were things that I had to question and then had to double back to clarify. Not so much a must read.
April 26, 2016
Caged Wolf won't be for everyone. It's dirty, gory and a bit disturbing. Rather a True Blood vibe.
I, for one, found the world Reine has created to be intriguing and look forward to reading more.
I, for one, found the world Reine has created to be intriguing and look forward to reading more.
July 19, 2021
I should have read the warning but I really thought this would be just a quick smutty read. But it's not the kind of smutty I like.
Just not for me
Just not for me
March 26, 2014
Confession time. When I realized Sara Reine had a PNR book on Netgalley, I dropped everything and grabbed it. I was really curious to see what she'd make of it.
I've read and enjoyed her UF series, but I'm not a fan of YA so I skipped most of her Moon one. (I like it, but girls aren't really interesting for me.)
As an author (I believe) she moves pretty well among different characters and types of women. You don't read the same thing or about the same "person/ality" twice in her books. They are never a mold for each other, quite the opposite.
Caged Wolf was both different and similar to what I was expecting. It has a heroine I loved in a PNR setting that was intriguing, albeit a bit vague. (It seems I should have read Witch Hunt before seeing this one...). All characters were interesting for me, but not as deep or three-dimensional as I wished.
It's a gritty story, again a plus. But again unfortunately, I found it short and therefore lacking in some way, in either story or characters. Many things were hinted and never delivered, some are good (the sexual tensions is way better than the porn-fest), some are expected (we never know what she is), some are too much of a meaningless tease (the setting, the bike, the "kink", the magic).
Will I read the next one? I think so, above all if it moves from novelette to full novel, therefore deepening a few points.
Will I tell you to read it? It depends. Are you a fan of unicorn and candy? Then, no.But if you like your books on the end of the gray scale of the world, I'd say give it a try. It's not her best, IMHO, but it's still a nice read.
As a final note, kudos for the sex scene, it takes guts to write it, Ms Reine.
Arc courtesy of publisher via Netgalley
I've read and enjoyed her UF series, but I'm not a fan of YA so I skipped most of her Moon one. (I like it, but girls aren't really interesting for me.)
As an author (I believe) she moves pretty well among different characters and types of women. You don't read the same thing or about the same "person/ality" twice in her books. They are never a mold for each other, quite the opposite.
Caged Wolf was both different and similar to what I was expecting. It has a heroine I loved in a PNR setting that was intriguing, albeit a bit vague. (It seems I should have read Witch Hunt before seeing this one...). All characters were interesting for me, but not as deep or three-dimensional as I wished.
It's a gritty story, again a plus. But again unfortunately, I found it short and therefore lacking in some way, in either story or characters. Many things were hinted and never delivered, some are good (the sexual tensions is way better than the porn-fest), some are expected (we never know what she is), some are too much of a meaningless tease (the setting, the bike, the "kink", the magic).
Will I read the next one? I think so, above all if it moves from novelette to full novel, therefore deepening a few points.
Will I tell you to read it? It depends. Are you a fan of unicorn and candy? Then, no.But if you like your books on the end of the gray scale of the world, I'd say give it a try. It's not her best, IMHO, but it's still a nice read.
As a final note, kudos for the sex scene, it takes guts to write it, Ms Reine.
Arc courtesy of publisher via Netgalley
October 8, 2014
ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
At first glance Caged Wolf looked like a book I would enjoy, and I have to say it did not disappoint. It is a gritty, action packed, paranormal romance with mature themes not suitable for a younger audience.
Lobo Norte is a small town, not on any map, where biker gangs passing through stop for a little entertainment. These bikers don't scare Ofelia. She serves them drinks, entertains them at the local bar, and then sends them on their way. At any sign of trouble, Ofelia has Bo Peep, her trusty shotgun, loaded to take care of the problem. Ofelia is scarred emotionally and physically from the hand life has dealt her. She is looking for a way out, out of Lobo Norte and away from her past. In walks Trouble, a biker with a wolf tattoo and eyes that see right through Ofelia's tough façade. Will Trouble be Ofelia's ticket out of Lobo Norte?
I like the way S.M. Reine weaves a story. There is a fluidity to it that makes it easy to read. She creates complex characters that you are eager to learn more about. I will admit it has a more mature theme than I usually read, but that did not detract from it. I look forward to Ofelia's next adventure.
At first glance Caged Wolf looked like a book I would enjoy, and I have to say it did not disappoint. It is a gritty, action packed, paranormal romance with mature themes not suitable for a younger audience.
Lobo Norte is a small town, not on any map, where biker gangs passing through stop for a little entertainment. These bikers don't scare Ofelia. She serves them drinks, entertains them at the local bar, and then sends them on their way. At any sign of trouble, Ofelia has Bo Peep, her trusty shotgun, loaded to take care of the problem. Ofelia is scarred emotionally and physically from the hand life has dealt her. She is looking for a way out, out of Lobo Norte and away from her past. In walks Trouble, a biker with a wolf tattoo and eyes that see right through Ofelia's tough façade. Will Trouble be Ofelia's ticket out of Lobo Norte?
I like the way S.M. Reine weaves a story. There is a fluidity to it that makes it easy to read. She creates complex characters that you are eager to learn more about. I will admit it has a more mature theme than I usually read, but that did not detract from it. I look forward to Ofelia's next adventure.
March 30, 2014
ENJOYABLE
Set in the small town of Lobo Norte a place where anyone with any sense would steer clear of lives Ofelia she tends bar and strips. Apart from the bar and a motel there's not much else. Biker gangs are just about the only visitors. When a group of bikers arrive in town it's obvious that they're dangerous and different, not totally human. Cooper a member of the fangs catches Ofelia's eye.
This is a first read for me by this author, her style is earthy and very descriptive. It was easy to visualise the town and the characters whom I would loosely describe as colourful and dangerous to know. The story is told entirely from Ofelia's POV, I quite liked her she was damaged but goodhearted. Cooper didn't say too much he tended stand around shirtless looking menacing. But the connection and sexual tension between him and Ofelia was tangible. The build up to the sex scene was hotter than the sex. Although having said that I've not read a scene quite like this one before. Overall I enjoyed this, though I do usually prefer my romances to be more romantic. There were some loose ends that were left at the end of this so I assume those will be answered in the books to follow.
ARC courtesy of NetGalley
Set in the small town of Lobo Norte a place where anyone with any sense would steer clear of lives Ofelia she tends bar and strips. Apart from the bar and a motel there's not much else. Biker gangs are just about the only visitors. When a group of bikers arrive in town it's obvious that they're dangerous and different, not totally human. Cooper a member of the fangs catches Ofelia's eye.
This is a first read for me by this author, her style is earthy and very descriptive. It was easy to visualise the town and the characters whom I would loosely describe as colourful and dangerous to know. The story is told entirely from Ofelia's POV, I quite liked her she was damaged but goodhearted. Cooper didn't say too much he tended stand around shirtless looking menacing. But the connection and sexual tension between him and Ofelia was tangible. The build up to the sex scene was hotter than the sex. Although having said that I've not read a scene quite like this one before. Overall I enjoyed this, though I do usually prefer my romances to be more romantic. There were some loose ends that were left at the end of this so I assume those will be answered in the books to follow.
ARC courtesy of NetGalley
July 16, 2014
"I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads."
This book combines bikers, werewolves and witches in a completely wild and wicked way. The opening scenario is not a good one for our leading lady Ofelia, but clearly she has huge reserves of mental strength, and is clearly intelligent and intuitive. So when Trouble, aka Cooper walks in the door, she knows things have changed. The heat between them is palpable, especially in the barn ... (read and see what I mean) As we watch it unfold, it is difficult not to get sucked in to their closeness, and watch the horrors around them. I love how everything is peeled away slowly, giving us more and more detail as we go along. Very well plotted, and leaving us wanting more, so much more!
Looking forward to book 2
This book combines bikers, werewolves and witches in a completely wild and wicked way. The opening scenario is not a good one for our leading lady Ofelia, but clearly she has huge reserves of mental strength, and is clearly intelligent and intuitive. So when Trouble, aka Cooper walks in the door, she knows things have changed. The heat between them is palpable, especially in the barn ... (read and see what I mean) As we watch it unfold, it is difficult not to get sucked in to their closeness, and watch the horrors around them. I love how everything is peeled away slowly, giving us more and more detail as we go along. Very well plotted, and leaving us wanting more, so much more!
Looking forward to book 2
August 7, 2016
4.5 Stars!
Want to read
February 9, 2023🎁 FREE on Amazon today (6/21/2019)! 🎁
August 20, 2018
I feel like I need a shower now.....
Parts of the book were quite interesting though I'm still unclear on whether it's a universally acknowledged fact that werewolves and the likes exist or if that is just insider knowledge.
Ofelia was a complicated character with skewed morals and principles that made it hard for me to connect with her. Things that were acceptable to her before, or whenever it suited her, were suddenly used as a plot device in making the reader dislike the 'villains'. It was all just a little too jumbled for my taste.
Aaaand then there is the rest of it. No denying that some people like pain, but this was just not up my alley. Not to mention the sex scene towards the end. That had me cringe, a lot.
Parts of the book were quite interesting though I'm still unclear on whether it's a universally acknowledged fact that werewolves and the likes exist or if that is just insider knowledge.
Ofelia was a complicated character with skewed morals and principles that made it hard for me to connect with her. Things that were acceptable to her before, or whenever it suited her, were suddenly used as a plot device in making the reader dislike the 'villains'. It was all just a little too jumbled for my taste.
Aaaand then there is the rest of it. No denying that some people like pain, but this was just not up my alley. Not to mention the sex scene towards the end. That had me cringe, a lot.
October 2, 2020
Strong advisory regarding violence and sex outside the boundaries of a traditional steamy romance. The story line includes a dusty, forgotten town near the border, a stripper named Ofelia, a biker named Trouble, drugs, werewolves, witches, fight club-style violence, and the occult. I am not shocked by much but some of the passages in this book raised my eyebrows up to my hairline. Ofelia doesn't see a way out of the dark, brutal life she's living, but her connection with Trouble gives her hope. If you liked the True Blood TV series (I did), this book series might appeal to you.
July 22, 2019
I usually enjoy shifter stories but this one is a bit too dark for me!
October 21, 2019
An interesting twist on things
An interesting read that had a lot of violence but was worth my time.
Going to have to check out the next one now.
An interesting read that had a lot of violence but was worth my time.
Going to have to check out the next one now.
May 1, 2014
Fans of urban fantasy will be familiar with this authors name and no doubt keen to snap up this the first in a new parsnormal series. Based loosely around a tarot pack theme this particular book introduces Ofelia who works as a stripper and bar tender in Lobo Notre . She's been hiding out there and dealing with all sorts of deadbeats when a new gang of bikers ride into town. Calling themselves the Fangs these hard men normally wouldn't interest Ofelia but there's just something about the one whose road name is Trouble that gets her undivided attention . These men are not just randomly riding through town though but are there to enter the cage fights and they intend to win! There's a lot going on in this quite short book. First you have the biker vibe but the author cleverly mixes it with a werewolf story that raises it up above the norm. Ofelia is a bit of a conundrum if honest as she clearly has the ability to tap into magic but is left as a bit of a mystery. Ofelia has been both physically and mentally scarred by her past but refuses to just bow down and I really had huge admiration for this feisty character . As for Trouble well we learn even less about his past but what we do glean is more about the type of man he wants to be. He's obviously capable of being an alpha but he's still a young wolf and is only just beginning to tap into his powers. It's clear that together Ofelia and Trouble could well be a force to be reckoned with.
Although this is a tale aimed at adults it's not one that's bogged down with constant sex. It's a tense story that deals with passion and violence and indeed as Ofelia strips for money the very nature of this book points to the base nature humans possess. Do not make the mistake of thinking this book condemns what Ofelia does though as this reader thought it celebrated a woman's ability to choose, well done Ms Reine! Ofelia is a strong woman making her way through life and prepared to take risks but she's also a loyal and compassionate character. As I stated this is quite a short read so unfortunately we don't get a lot of world building but it certainly will wet your appetite for more. There is a resolution of sorts and it's not an awful cliffhanger but the door is left open for more to come within this world the author has created. I'm really looking forward to the next book but hope it might be slightly longer. An interesting beginning and I for one will never look at a motorcycle the same way again!
Four and a half from me
Although this is a tale aimed at adults it's not one that's bogged down with constant sex. It's a tense story that deals with passion and violence and indeed as Ofelia strips for money the very nature of this book points to the base nature humans possess. Do not make the mistake of thinking this book condemns what Ofelia does though as this reader thought it celebrated a woman's ability to choose, well done Ms Reine! Ofelia is a strong woman making her way through life and prepared to take risks but she's also a loyal and compassionate character. As I stated this is quite a short read so unfortunately we don't get a lot of world building but it certainly will wet your appetite for more. There is a resolution of sorts and it's not an awful cliffhanger but the door is left open for more to come within this world the author has created. I'm really looking forward to the next book but hope it might be slightly longer. An interesting beginning and I for one will never look at a motorcycle the same way again!
Four and a half from me
June 2, 2014
Review Courtesy of April Hollingworth
This is the first book in this fantastic new series, and I must say I can’t wait to read the next book and find out what happens next.
Opening Scene:
FOLKS DIDN’T COME to Lobo Norte because they wanted to.
The Review:
Ofelia moved to Lobo Norte to escape her past. Dealing with motorcycle gangs that pass through is nothing unusual. Then she meets Trouble. He’s sexy and gorgeous and also a werewolf, and for some inexplicable reason she’s drawn to him. The only thing she’s grateful for is that he’s obviously feeling the same way too. But danger lurks in unexpected places, creeping into Lobo Norte at a frightening pace, and the answer lies in a tarot card that mysteriously came to her. As Trouble and Ofelia become closer it’s obvious the answers to their future lie in solving the meaning of the tarot, card before it’s too late.
Notable Scene:
He dipped his head. I couldn’t breathe.
For the first time, Trouble touched me, and it was only a graze of his nose along the juncture where neck met shoulder. Goosebumps erupted over my upper arms.
Trouble inhaled deeply, dipping his nose behind my earlobe, teasing that sensitive, scarred flesh with his breath. And then he groaned. It was a deep, longing, animal sound, so much better than I had imagined he would make when I sucked him past the brink of sanity. When – not if.
My thighs clenched together. Any waning resolve I might have had to let him into my home vanished. I reached up to grab his shoulders. But before I could touch him, he stepped back.
Trouble shook his head as he backed away, wiped the back of his hand over his upper lip, almost stumbled on a rock. I wasn’t imagining the hunger in his eyes. I couldn’t be. He wanted me as much as I wanted him, in every way possible, anywhere and at any time. Yet that hunger was tempered by something else-something that verged on fear.
FTC Advisory: Red Iris Books provided me with a copy of Caged Wolf by SM Reine. Published through Red Iris Books. Kindle Edition. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
This is the first book in this fantastic new series, and I must say I can’t wait to read the next book and find out what happens next.
Opening Scene:
FOLKS DIDN’T COME to Lobo Norte because they wanted to.
The Review:
Ofelia moved to Lobo Norte to escape her past. Dealing with motorcycle gangs that pass through is nothing unusual. Then she meets Trouble. He’s sexy and gorgeous and also a werewolf, and for some inexplicable reason she’s drawn to him. The only thing she’s grateful for is that he’s obviously feeling the same way too. But danger lurks in unexpected places, creeping into Lobo Norte at a frightening pace, and the answer lies in a tarot card that mysteriously came to her. As Trouble and Ofelia become closer it’s obvious the answers to their future lie in solving the meaning of the tarot, card before it’s too late.
Notable Scene:
He dipped his head. I couldn’t breathe.
For the first time, Trouble touched me, and it was only a graze of his nose along the juncture where neck met shoulder. Goosebumps erupted over my upper arms.
Trouble inhaled deeply, dipping his nose behind my earlobe, teasing that sensitive, scarred flesh with his breath. And then he groaned. It was a deep, longing, animal sound, so much better than I had imagined he would make when I sucked him past the brink of sanity. When – not if.
My thighs clenched together. Any waning resolve I might have had to let him into my home vanished. I reached up to grab his shoulders. But before I could touch him, he stepped back.
Trouble shook his head as he backed away, wiped the back of his hand over his upper lip, almost stumbled on a rock. I wasn’t imagining the hunger in his eyes. I couldn’t be. He wanted me as much as I wanted him, in every way possible, anywhere and at any time. Yet that hunger was tempered by something else-something that verged on fear.
FTC Advisory: Red Iris Books provided me with a copy of Caged Wolf by SM Reine. Published through Red Iris Books. Kindle Edition. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
August 22, 2016
First off I will start me review by saying, if you want all your questions answered in one book: This is not for you.
This is the start of a series, its told first person, so if the character doesn't know you aren't going to know, and Ophelia is confused.
Ophelia is a stripper/bartender in Lobo Norte, with a past and a whole passel of scars and trouble. She lived through hell, so when she receives a Tarot card of the devil she doesn't think much of it. At the same time she meets a new biker gang, the Fangs. Their newest member Trouble draws her attention and keeps it.
Watching their relationship start as the supernatural keeps piling into town was unique, and they are scorching together. However they are both bound to decisions and their pasts. Their decisions will decide if they break their chains to the devil or perish in the flames...(I should be a synopsis writer!)
Hers what I liked, It was extremely unique. I liked the confusion and trying to figure out what was happening...I like being surprised, and while I think knowing Ophelia's past earlier would have made the book easier to follow I'm ok with it. It was told from her perspective and she was trying to figure out what was happening in her town. Gloria was a surprise for me, her depth of character was refreshing, and added to the mystery of the tarot cards.
The weird... The sex scene when Trouble was shifting kind of bordered on odd for me... Little too much hair for me lol...
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I will be continuing this series and I hope to read more about Trouble and Ophelia. I hope they remain as dynamic as they have been.
This is the start of a series, its told first person, so if the character doesn't know you aren't going to know, and Ophelia is confused.
Ophelia is a stripper/bartender in Lobo Norte, with a past and a whole passel of scars and trouble. She lived through hell, so when she receives a Tarot card of the devil she doesn't think much of it. At the same time she meets a new biker gang, the Fangs. Their newest member Trouble draws her attention and keeps it.
Watching their relationship start as the supernatural keeps piling into town was unique, and they are scorching together. However they are both bound to decisions and their pasts. Their decisions will decide if they break their chains to the devil or perish in the flames...(I should be a synopsis writer!)
Hers what I liked, It was extremely unique. I liked the confusion and trying to figure out what was happening...I like being surprised, and while I think knowing Ophelia's past earlier would have made the book easier to follow I'm ok with it. It was told from her perspective and she was trying to figure out what was happening in her town. Gloria was a surprise for me, her depth of character was refreshing, and added to the mystery of the tarot cards.
The weird... The sex scene when Trouble was shifting kind of bordered on odd for me... Little too much hair for me lol...
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I will be continuing this series and I hope to read more about Trouble and Ophelia. I hope they remain as dynamic as they have been.
June 29, 2020
This book... It was weird.
So the setting is Lobo Norte and our protagonist is a scarred stripper. So far so good. When the bikers show up there's that insta love I've come to hate, but, at least they don't consummate immediately and they protect each other first. Props there, but seriously, they don't even know their full names by the end of the book.
Aside from the main story,
To finish, I just have to admire the authors ability to put me in the story. Her descriptions of the smells, the sweat, even the bikes oil were on point for the most part and I got transported to Lobo Norte and that bar. That doesn't mean I found the filthyness sexy, but I was there, and I liked the immersion.
So the setting is Lobo Norte and our protagonist is a scarred stripper. So far so good. When the bikers show up there's that insta love I've come to hate, but, at least they don't consummate immediately and they protect each other first. Props there, but seriously, they don't even know their full names by the end of the book.
Aside from the main story,
To finish, I just have to admire the authors ability to put me in the story. Her descriptions of the smells, the sweat, even the bikes oil were on point for the most part and I got transported to Lobo Norte and that bar. That doesn't mean I found the filthyness sexy, but I was there, and I liked the immersion.
May 28, 2014
2 stars
Caged Wolf can be an enjoyable read and worth to read PNR if only I'm not scratching my head when read this. It's like Ms Reine kinda jump on werewolves-are-sexy-and-even-sexier-when-they-are-also biker. Yeah, like the biker trend that so happening right now. But it's not that what make me rate this book less than okay.
Caged Wolf is my second read by S.M.Reine and I know her trademark. First POV and fast paced also full action story. The problem is the world building is too confusing. I'm not realize that the heroine Ofelia is a witch until some chapter and Lobo Norte, the nowhere land she reside is full of supernatural creature. It's like Ms Reine want us to jump into her world without some explanation.
Then, the hero is too..cliche. Just said "mine" to Ofelia do not make you alpha, dude. Also Ofelia always switch between Trouble and Cooper (Trouble's real name) when she refers to him. Better to just call him Cooper, imho.
So much violence that make me winced. Surprisely the sexual tension was well-written also if you don't mind with a mild bestiality (aka sex between Ofelia and Cooper when he was in his werewolf form), then you will enjoy it. Nice touch to add the tarot into the story.
If only this book is longer, I think the world building can be explored more and Ms Reine can develop chemistry between Ofelia and Cooper (I still prefer Cooper than Trouble, tho)
e-ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher for honest review
Caged Wolf can be an enjoyable read and worth to read PNR if only I'm not scratching my head when read this. It's like Ms Reine kinda jump on werewolves-are-sexy-and-even-sexier-when-they-are-also biker. Yeah, like the biker trend that so happening right now. But it's not that what make me rate this book less than okay.
Caged Wolf is my second read by S.M.Reine and I know her trademark. First POV and fast paced also full action story. The problem is the world building is too confusing. I'm not realize that the heroine Ofelia is a witch until some chapter and Lobo Norte, the nowhere land she reside is full of supernatural creature. It's like Ms Reine want us to jump into her world without some explanation.
Then, the hero is too..cliche. Just said "mine" to Ofelia do not make you alpha, dude. Also Ofelia always switch between Trouble and Cooper (Trouble's real name) when she refers to him. Better to just call him Cooper, imho.
So much violence that make me winced. Surprisely the sexual tension was well-written also if you don't mind with a mild bestiality (aka sex between Ofelia and Cooper when he was in his werewolf form), then you will enjoy it. Nice touch to add the tarot into the story.
If only this book is longer, I think the world building can be explored more and Ms Reine can develop chemistry between Ofelia and Cooper (I still prefer Cooper than Trouble, tho)
e-ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher for honest review
December 23, 2015
This book had potential and there were parts of it I really liked but it was also a bit disjointed and the world was confusing. I'm not sure if everyone knows about werewolves in this world or not and I'm still not sure about the small town of Lobo Norte that this book takes place in. I also wanted more character development especially for Trouble who we learn very little about.
I also had a bit of a hard time with the heroine Ofelia. She is a stripper/bartender running from her past. She was also a prostitute/drug addict who let her boyfriend pimp her out until he went to far and sent her to a gang. It was hard to tell where Ofelia's line was - she didn't mind using and being used for sex and actually complained that the owner of the local whore house wouldn't let her work there but then later we are supposed to be appalled that the Alpha wants to use her for sex with his werewolves. I suppose it's a matter of whether she has a choice or not but it wasn't clear.
Still there were things I liked about the book. The characters were interesting and the story kept me engaged. There were a couple of hot sex scenes and one that made me cringe a little when Ofelia had sex with Trouble in his werewolf form. It was a fast paced book that kept me wondering where it was going. I'm actually still not sure where it is going and trying to decide if I will pick up the next book or not.
I also had a bit of a hard time with the heroine Ofelia. She is a stripper/bartender running from her past. She was also a prostitute/drug addict who let her boyfriend pimp her out until he went to far and sent her to a gang. It was hard to tell where Ofelia's line was - she didn't mind using and being used for sex and actually complained that the owner of the local whore house wouldn't let her work there but then later we are supposed to be appalled that the Alpha wants to use her for sex with his werewolves. I suppose it's a matter of whether she has a choice or not but it wasn't clear.
Still there were things I liked about the book. The characters were interesting and the story kept me engaged. There were a couple of hot sex scenes and one that made me cringe a little when Ofelia had sex with Trouble in his werewolf form. It was a fast paced book that kept me wondering where it was going. I'm actually still not sure where it is going and trying to decide if I will pick up the next book or not.
July 13, 2014
Caged Wolf
Wow! Was my first thoughts when starting to listen to Caged Wolf. This is my first book by SM Reine and I had no expectations beyond it is a paranormal romance with werewolves. It was dark and disturbing in parts, but very real. I was completely drawn into Ofelia’s life and could picture the surrounds and the rich characters.
SM Reine doesn’t spoon feed the reader at each step of the story, but leaves a lot untold, which I actually really appreciated. It made me hungry for more and to keep listening to find out more about Ofelia, how Trouble became a werewolf, and what had happened to Ofelia to have damaged her so much. It was a refreshing take on a story.
There is danger, suspense, tarot cards, magic and a mystery as to what Ofelia is if she’s not human.
I will be looking out for the next in the series: Forbidden Witches, The Tarot Witch, book 2 and suggest if you like Caged Wolf you will love more of SM Reine.
The narration was done by Pyper Down and was clear and easy to listen to with the changes in character more of a pitch than an accent. Having the story requiring me to concentrate to keep up it was easy listening to Pypers’ voice in her American accent an easy listen.
Wow! Was my first thoughts when starting to listen to Caged Wolf. This is my first book by SM Reine and I had no expectations beyond it is a paranormal romance with werewolves. It was dark and disturbing in parts, but very real. I was completely drawn into Ofelia’s life and could picture the surrounds and the rich characters.
SM Reine doesn’t spoon feed the reader at each step of the story, but leaves a lot untold, which I actually really appreciated. It made me hungry for more and to keep listening to find out more about Ofelia, how Trouble became a werewolf, and what had happened to Ofelia to have damaged her so much. It was a refreshing take on a story.
There is danger, suspense, tarot cards, magic and a mystery as to what Ofelia is if she’s not human.
I will be looking out for the next in the series: Forbidden Witches, The Tarot Witch, book 2 and suggest if you like Caged Wolf you will love more of SM Reine.
The narration was done by Pyper Down and was clear and easy to listen to with the changes in character more of a pitch than an accent. Having the story requiring me to concentrate to keep up it was easy listening to Pypers’ voice in her American accent an easy listen.
May 14, 2014
This book at first had me kinda pausing...the twist this book has, the setting & all sorta reminds me of the movie "From Dusk Till Dawn" ..only its Werewolves instead of Vampires...the town & all being enchanted ect..I think it was the stripper, biker bar, whore house ect ect...Not exactly .. now don't get me wrong I do NOT think the author copied anything at all, the setting & all just reminds me of how rough it is & it is what I kinda pictured in my mind AT TIMES... I think she did a great job setting this book up for a new series...the characters were good ones..even the dirt bag ones lol...she revealed just enough about them to make ya ache for more... waiting for the next book to be released this fall should be fun LOL.((Not a Patient person))..If your expecting some lofty romance, then this is not for you...if you like action & intrigue with a love story tossed in..then this books for you...the Hero was soooooooo HOT!!! the heroine was fantastic...I LOVED Ofelia & Grace was such a bitchy ole thing, but I liked her...half the time I didn't know whether I wanted to shoot the shit with her or kick her A$$!! lol..with all the action in this book & the heroine not being a snot nosed puss is what made the book for me...cant wait for book 2!!!!!
August 27, 2016
~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads Review Team~
This book was hard for me to get into. Plus I was confused half the time. The whole world building was just a cluster to me and I didn’t understand it all. I will have to say when I was trying to imagine stuff in my head I could see a few scenes from the movie “From Dusk Till Dawn” in my head and now even writing this I can’t get the song from that movie out of my head. I guess my thoughts going into the book were so different that I just don’t even know how to put my thoughts down and I am just confused after reading it.
Characters: I liked how rough Ofelia was but Trouble aka Cooper I would have preferred to be less silent.
Sex: yes, some could be disturbing since Trouble is in his wolf form at the time
Religious: no
Would I recommend to others: sure
More than one book in the series: I believe so
Genre: Shifter
Would I read more by this author: yes
~Wicked Reads Review Team~
This book was hard for me to get into. Plus I was confused half the time. The whole world building was just a cluster to me and I didn’t understand it all. I will have to say when I was trying to imagine stuff in my head I could see a few scenes from the movie “From Dusk Till Dawn” in my head and now even writing this I can’t get the song from that movie out of my head. I guess my thoughts going into the book were so different that I just don’t even know how to put my thoughts down and I am just confused after reading it.
Characters: I liked how rough Ofelia was but Trouble aka Cooper I would have preferred to be less silent.
Sex: yes, some could be disturbing since Trouble is in his wolf form at the time
Religious: no
Would I recommend to others: sure
More than one book in the series: I believe so
Genre: Shifter
Would I read more by this author: yes
~Wicked Reads Review Team~
August 7, 2014
Nice cover!! I like when the cover goes with the story. Now, I had a couple of issues with this read. Ofelia and Cooper have an attraction unlike no other. Ofelia has an attraction and Cooper says your mine and it is done with a kiss. Not believable in my opinion. They do not mate right away and she has some very special powers. She does not even know Cooper well enough. Not even for maybe a day!! I think there should have been some background on werewolves and how they mate and what is needed and what happens after they are together. That sooo would have definitely helped. I know the alpha was a scary male and an ass to boot!! Well, other than those issues it was a good read. Kept thinking about what is she exactly. Not a succubus lol..but what!!??? Well, I would have given this read 5 stars if not for the rushing and some confusion regarding the heat and attraction between the two main characters and the rules that are there for these wolves. Would like to know how and why things are the way they are.
I received this ARC from the author via Net Galley for my honest review. Thanks, Net Galley!!
I received this ARC from the author via Net Galley for my honest review. Thanks, Net Galley!!
October 11, 2016
Free for Kindle + A flash of those sexy abs = who could resist? And it was an erotica with werewolves. The sexiest paranormal creatures. (Sorry dragons, that's just the way things are.)
I was excited to read Caged Wolf and expected sexy, intense love story. I got that but it was packed with characters and situations that were too dark for my taste. It's like bdsm contemporary western.
- Heroine had scar tissue on neck and shoulders and it was pointed out often. (I don't mind scarred heroines, but in the end it got annoying. 'Yeah, I remember, she has scars...')
- Big focus was on bdsm elements of the story: feeling dominated, tying up, ...
In the end Caged Wolf was not for me and I gave up @ 40%. But if you don't mind dark and gritty erotica, there is pretty intriguing mystery going on (it even got me reading for long).
I was excited to read Caged Wolf and expected sexy, intense love story. I got that but it was packed with characters and situations that were too dark for my taste. It's like bdsm contemporary western.
- Heroine had scar tissue on neck and shoulders and it was pointed out often. (I don't mind scarred heroines, but in the end it got annoying. 'Yeah, I remember, she has scars...')
- Big focus was on bdsm elements of the story: feeling dominated, tying up, ...
In the end Caged Wolf was not for me and I gave up @ 40%. But if you don't mind dark and gritty erotica, there is pretty intriguing mystery going on (it even got me reading for long).
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