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Bayou Heat #21-22
Kayden / Simon
ENEMY TO LOVER
Kayden is obsessed with revenge after his parents disappeared when he was just a cub. Now the gorgeous Hunter has discovered the man responsible for betraying them - Joshua Ford - and it’s time for payback. Beginning with the kidnapping of Joshua’s daughter, Bianca. But last thing he expects is to be confronted with the horrifying realization that Bianca is his mate. Will he put revenge before his chance for eternal happiness?
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
Sexy male model, Simon refuses to give up his exciting life in New York City to return to the slow heat of the Wildlands. For a decade, many pantera have tried to capture the rogue Diplomat and bring him home, but all have failed. Now it’s Tryst’s turn. The hard, brilliant, and gorgeous, Hunter is the ultimate tracker. But can the admitted beast-girl of the Wildlands capture her prey without losing her heart in the process?
Kayden is obsessed with revenge after his parents disappeared when he was just a cub. Now the gorgeous Hunter has discovered the man responsible for betraying them - Joshua Ford - and it’s time for payback. Beginning with the kidnapping of Joshua’s daughter, Bianca. But last thing he expects is to be confronted with the horrifying realization that Bianca is his mate. Will he put revenge before his chance for eternal happiness?
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
Sexy male model, Simon refuses to give up his exciting life in New York City to return to the slow heat of the Wildlands. For a decade, many pantera have tried to capture the rogue Diplomat and bring him home, but all have failed. Now it’s Tryst’s turn. The hard, brilliant, and gorgeous, Hunter is the ultimate tracker. But can the admitted beast-girl of the Wildlands capture her prey without losing her heart in the process?
156 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 9, 2016
64 people are currently reading
733 people want to read
About the author
Alexandra Ivy
139 books5,151 followersI'm not exactly sure when I fell in love with books. Probably on my mother's knee listening to her read Dr. Seuss to me. I do remember that I was barely old enough to cross the street by myself when I discovered the delights of the local library. Could anything be more wonderful than spending summer days surrounded by stacks of Nancy Drew mysteries? Over the years I fell in love with Victoria Holt, Jane Austen, Agatha Christie, and J.R.R. Tolkien just to name a few. I read poetry, essays, biographies, and plays. In fact, I read anything I could get my hands on.
Years later (no, I'm not admitting how many) I'm still an avid reader, and my tastes are still as varied as they were in my youth, which I suppose helps to explain why I enjoy writing regency historicals under the name of Deborah Raleigh, as well as my contemporary paranormals as Alexandra Ivy. For now that is enough to keep me busy, but who knows what the future might hold!
I do have a few other loves in my life besides reading and writing, the most important being my unbelievably patient husband, David, and my two sons, Chance and Alexander. Without their constant support and belief in me, I never could have been able to follow my dreams. They are truly my heroes.
--From authors website--
Years later (no, I'm not admitting how many) I'm still an avid reader, and my tastes are still as varied as they were in my youth, which I suppose helps to explain why I enjoy writing regency historicals under the name of Deborah Raleigh, as well as my contemporary paranormals as Alexandra Ivy. For now that is enough to keep me busy, but who knows what the future might hold!
I do have a few other loves in my life besides reading and writing, the most important being my unbelievably patient husband, David, and my two sons, Chance and Alexander. Without their constant support and belief in me, I never could have been able to follow my dreams. They are truly my heroes.
--From authors website--
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
August 12, 2016
4.5 'Primal Love' Stars
These Pantera just keep getting more and more delicious. Kayden and Simon’s story just proves that…
The Bayou Heat is one of my favorite series, and I’m always counting the days to every new release or news of it. This series is the perfect example of a wonderful and successful writing collaboration, because Alexandra Ivy and Laura Wright really make it work! These enticing short stories about every member, and his mate, got me completely hooked, and the connecting sub-plot between all the books, just entices us even more!
I loved both couples, for various reasons, and would have given a even higher rating if not for the sudden ending on both stories. I know that’s typical of the 1001 Dark Nights series, and this series itself, but I wanted even more!!! But I’m sure we’ll get some more peeks into these couples’ lives in the upcoming books of the series. I already want the next! One thing is always guaranteed: off-the-charts charts chemistry and some scorching sex scenes, and these two stories had that in spades!!!
KAYDEN – 4.75 Stars
Kayden was set out to revenge the death of his parents. What he didn’t expect was to find in their killer’s house, his destined mate.
Bianca has been locked down from the outside world all her life, so when she was captured by a delicious man who made her feel SO many different and new things, she didn’t have much of a chance to resist. They were, after all, meant to be together.
Kayden was absolutely the perfect Hero! Even when his motives and revenge were so present and justified, and he didn’t even know her, or who she was, he always treated Bianca like some precious for him.
“My princess.”
She flashed him a chiding smile. “Why do you keep calling me that?”
He captured her fingers that had been exploring his face, pressing them to his lips.
“That’s how I think of you,” he murmured. “An exquisite, rare beauty who has been hidden away. Just waiting for me to rescue her.”
“My very own Prince Charming?”
“More like the Big Bad Wolf.” His smile was wicked. “Or in this case, the big bad kitty.”
And soon enough she overtook the attention, and her happiness, their happiness became his main goal.
“Why did you change your mind?”
He leaned toward her, his eyes darkening as his cat prowled close to the surface.
He didn’t hesitate. “Because your happiness is more important than my revenge.”
Bianca was fantastic too, but Kayden… Wow… He’s the kind of character that true romances are made of! He had me constantly sighing and thinking of even with her horrible parental situation, Bianca was one lucky girl!
“I’m a Pantera,” he said on a growl. “Once we choose our mates, there are never any second thoughts. Our love and devotion is unwavering. And eternal.”
SIMON – 4.25 STARS
Simon may present a cocky and confident image as an international model, but when Tryst is sent to bring his back to the Wildlands, their home, she quickly find out that it’s all a facade to protect and cover something that was broken a long time ago.
They both try to fight the scorching chemistry between them, but it was evident from the very beginning that it was a lost battle.
I loved how confident and honest Tryst was. And absolutely kickass!!! She is a completely no-bullshit kind of woman, and when she sees something she wants and believes in, she fights for it with everything she has! And fight she did!
Simon’s gorgeous exterior hides an immeasurable amount of pain and trauma caused by the ones who should have protect him the most, his own parents. Trust is very hard for him to believe in and that someone loves his, even more. So Tryst will have to fight to change his mind, and show him he could be the center of someone’s world and make him a believer. And since she never loses a battle, you can be sure, she most certainly did!
And when he eased back, his nose resting against hers, and whispered the words, “My home” and “My Tryst” against her lips, she finally understood the true meaning of the word “mate.”
It wasn’t about claiming at all. It was about connecting.
Two Hearts.
Two minds.
One soul.
Forever.
ARC kindly provided by the authors via InkSlinger PR in exchange for an honest review
These Pantera just keep getting more and more delicious. Kayden and Simon’s story just proves that…
The Bayou Heat is one of my favorite series, and I’m always counting the days to every new release or news of it. This series is the perfect example of a wonderful and successful writing collaboration, because Alexandra Ivy and Laura Wright really make it work! These enticing short stories about every member, and his mate, got me completely hooked, and the connecting sub-plot between all the books, just entices us even more!
I loved both couples, for various reasons, and would have given a even higher rating if not for the sudden ending on both stories. I know that’s typical of the 1001 Dark Nights series, and this series itself, but I wanted even more!!! But I’m sure we’ll get some more peeks into these couples’ lives in the upcoming books of the series. I already want the next! One thing is always guaranteed: off-the-charts charts chemistry and some scorching sex scenes, and these two stories had that in spades!!!
KAYDEN – 4.75 Stars
Kayden was set out to revenge the death of his parents. What he didn’t expect was to find in their killer’s house, his destined mate.
Bianca has been locked down from the outside world all her life, so when she was captured by a delicious man who made her feel SO many different and new things, she didn’t have much of a chance to resist. They were, after all, meant to be together.
Kayden was absolutely the perfect Hero! Even when his motives and revenge were so present and justified, and he didn’t even know her, or who she was, he always treated Bianca like some precious for him.
“My princess.”
She flashed him a chiding smile. “Why do you keep calling me that?”
He captured her fingers that had been exploring his face, pressing them to his lips.
“That’s how I think of you,” he murmured. “An exquisite, rare beauty who has been hidden away. Just waiting for me to rescue her.”
“My very own Prince Charming?”
“More like the Big Bad Wolf.” His smile was wicked. “Or in this case, the big bad kitty.”
And soon enough she overtook the attention, and her happiness, their happiness became his main goal.
“Why did you change your mind?”
He leaned toward her, his eyes darkening as his cat prowled close to the surface.
He didn’t hesitate. “Because your happiness is more important than my revenge.”
Bianca was fantastic too, but Kayden… Wow… He’s the kind of character that true romances are made of! He had me constantly sighing and thinking of even with her horrible parental situation, Bianca was one lucky girl!
“I’m a Pantera,” he said on a growl. “Once we choose our mates, there are never any second thoughts. Our love and devotion is unwavering. And eternal.”
SIMON – 4.25 STARS
Simon may present a cocky and confident image as an international model, but when Tryst is sent to bring his back to the Wildlands, their home, she quickly find out that it’s all a facade to protect and cover something that was broken a long time ago.
They both try to fight the scorching chemistry between them, but it was evident from the very beginning that it was a lost battle.
I loved how confident and honest Tryst was. And absolutely kickass!!! She is a completely no-bullshit kind of woman, and when she sees something she wants and believes in, she fights for it with everything she has! And fight she did!
Simon’s gorgeous exterior hides an immeasurable amount of pain and trauma caused by the ones who should have protect him the most, his own parents. Trust is very hard for him to believe in and that someone loves his, even more. So Tryst will have to fight to change his mind, and show him he could be the center of someone’s world and make him a believer. And since she never loses a battle, you can be sure, she most certainly did!
And when he eased back, his nose resting against hers, and whispered the words, “My home” and “My Tryst” against her lips, she finally understood the true meaning of the word “mate.”
It wasn’t about claiming at all. It was about connecting.
Two Hearts.
Two minds.
One soul.
Forever.
ARC kindly provided by the authors via InkSlinger PR in exchange for an honest review
August 16, 2016
4 stars
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 9, 2016
ENEMY TO LOVER
Kayden is obsessed with revenge after his parents disappeared when he was just a cub. Now the gorgeous Hunter has discovered the man responsible for betraying them - Joshua Ford - and it’s time for payback. Beginning with the kidnapping of Joshua’s daughter, Bianca. But last thing he expects is to be confronted with the horrifying realization that Bianca is his mate. Will he put revenge before his chance for eternal happiness?
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
Sexy male model, Simon refuses to give up his exciting life in New York City to return to the slow heat of the Wildlands. For a decade, many pantera have tried to capture the rogue Diplomat and bring him home, but all have failed. Now it’s Tryst’s turn. The hard, brilliant, and gorgeous, Hunter is the ultimate tracker. But can the admitted beast-girl of the Wildlands capture her prey without losing her heart in the process?
••••••••
4 stars
REVIEW: KAYDEN/SIMON co-authored by Alexandra Ivy and Laura Wright is the latest installment in their contemporary, adult Bayou Heat paranormal romance series focusing on the Pantera shifters of the Wildlands of Louisiana. KAYDEN/ SIMON is also part of the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights series.
KAYDEN (Enemy to Lover) by Alexandra Ivy follows Kayden as he continues his hunt for the man that destroyed his life. Thinking his parents died years before in a plane crash the Pantera Geek discovers that they were the victims of Joshua Ford-the man who has been experimenting with Pantera DNA for years. When Kayden sets out to kill the man that murdered his parents, he confronts Joshua Ford’s daughter Bianca- a Pantera- and the woman who would one day be his mate.
KAYDEN is a story about betrayal and revenge. One man’s need to avenge the death of his parents, and one woman’s desire to remain close to the man who has stolen her heart. The premise is enjoyable; the characters are animated; and the romance is a quick build to happily ever after.
REVIEW: SIMON (Beauty and the Beast) by Laura Wright focuses on Pantera Hunter Tryst- a shifter who prefers to remain in animal form but a woman whose recent assignment finds her coming face to face with male model and Pantera Suit Simon- a Pantera with a secret that keeps him distanced from the Wildlands of Louisiana, and Tryst’s reluctant mate.
SIMON is a story of fractured family dynamics, discrimination and loss. The premise is heartbreaking; the characters are colorful and charismatic; the romance is passionate and fated.
KAYDEN/SIMON is another entertaining installment in the BAYOU HEAT paranormal series focusing on the puma shifter known as the Pantera. As the species struggles to remain hidden in the Wildlands, there are those whose sole purpose is to destroy that which they do not understand or fear about the unknown.
Copy supplied by the tour promoter
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 9, 2016
ENEMY TO LOVER
Kayden is obsessed with revenge after his parents disappeared when he was just a cub. Now the gorgeous Hunter has discovered the man responsible for betraying them - Joshua Ford - and it’s time for payback. Beginning with the kidnapping of Joshua’s daughter, Bianca. But last thing he expects is to be confronted with the horrifying realization that Bianca is his mate. Will he put revenge before his chance for eternal happiness?
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
Sexy male model, Simon refuses to give up his exciting life in New York City to return to the slow heat of the Wildlands. For a decade, many pantera have tried to capture the rogue Diplomat and bring him home, but all have failed. Now it’s Tryst’s turn. The hard, brilliant, and gorgeous, Hunter is the ultimate tracker. But can the admitted beast-girl of the Wildlands capture her prey without losing her heart in the process?
••••••••
4 stars
REVIEW: KAYDEN/SIMON co-authored by Alexandra Ivy and Laura Wright is the latest installment in their contemporary, adult Bayou Heat paranormal romance series focusing on the Pantera shifters of the Wildlands of Louisiana. KAYDEN/ SIMON is also part of the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights series.
KAYDEN (Enemy to Lover) by Alexandra Ivy follows Kayden as he continues his hunt for the man that destroyed his life. Thinking his parents died years before in a plane crash the Pantera Geek discovers that they were the victims of Joshua Ford-the man who has been experimenting with Pantera DNA for years. When Kayden sets out to kill the man that murdered his parents, he confronts Joshua Ford’s daughter Bianca- a Pantera- and the woman who would one day be his mate.
KAYDEN is a story about betrayal and revenge. One man’s need to avenge the death of his parents, and one woman’s desire to remain close to the man who has stolen her heart. The premise is enjoyable; the characters are animated; and the romance is a quick build to happily ever after.
REVIEW: SIMON (Beauty and the Beast) by Laura Wright focuses on Pantera Hunter Tryst- a shifter who prefers to remain in animal form but a woman whose recent assignment finds her coming face to face with male model and Pantera Suit Simon- a Pantera with a secret that keeps him distanced from the Wildlands of Louisiana, and Tryst’s reluctant mate.
SIMON is a story of fractured family dynamics, discrimination and loss. The premise is heartbreaking; the characters are colorful and charismatic; the romance is passionate and fated.
KAYDEN/SIMON is another entertaining installment in the BAYOU HEAT paranormal series focusing on the puma shifter known as the Pantera. As the species struggles to remain hidden in the Wildlands, there are those whose sole purpose is to destroy that which they do not understand or fear about the unknown.
Copy supplied by the tour promoter
www.thereadingcafe.com
August 15, 2016
Another great addition to the series. The Pantera continue their quest to find the evil mind behind all of the kidnapping and experimenting happening with their kind. This novella is part of a series and you will enjoy is much more if you are caught up with the rest of the books.
I enjoyed both of the stories presented here. We have met most of the major players in the Pantera world, so it was nice to see some side characters we may not be familiar with. Both males are crabby, alphas, bound and determined to be independent and a bit rogue. And both men have their plans waylaid by that ever elusive mate bond.
One of the things I like most about the shifter/paranormal genre, is the whole one true mate premise. There are no games played here. The mates recognize each other. They may try to fight it but things usually progress to hot and steamy very quickly. Kayden and Bianca, Simon and Tryst. The couples are just as s3xy in their feistiness as in their passion.
The bad guys are still after the Pantera. The population is closer to answers but not yet. Lucky for readers, that means we get more Pantera males to grace our e-readers! Looking forward to it!
*ARC received for an honest review.
I enjoyed both of the stories presented here. We have met most of the major players in the Pantera world, so it was nice to see some side characters we may not be familiar with. Both males are crabby, alphas, bound and determined to be independent and a bit rogue. And both men have their plans waylaid by that ever elusive mate bond.
One of the things I like most about the shifter/paranormal genre, is the whole one true mate premise. There are no games played here. The mates recognize each other. They may try to fight it but things usually progress to hot and steamy very quickly. Kayden and Bianca, Simon and Tryst. The couples are just as s3xy in their feistiness as in their passion.
The bad guys are still after the Pantera. The population is closer to answers but not yet. Lucky for readers, that means we get more Pantera males to grace our e-readers! Looking forward to it!
*ARC received for an honest review.
August 14, 2016
Link to full review below! Enjoyable PNR! Its unique, steamy, and utterly enjoyable! This review was originally posted on The Book Disciple
August 16, 2016
The novella Kayden/Simon – part of ‘the 1001 Dark Nights series’ – are the first stories I’ve read by Alexandra Ivy and Laura Wright. Set in the world of ‘the Bayou Heat series’, the separate stories tell the tales of Kayden and Simon; two men who meet their women in a very different way.
Kayden is looking for answers and revenge. Learning the death of his parents wasn’t an accident, he’s determined to find the man responsible and make him pay by taking something precious; his daughter. Bianca has lead a sheltered life, safely tugged away at her father’s house. Due to her illness she never went to school like normal children, always was alone at the house or at medical facilities surrounded by adults. The moment Kayden and Bianca meet in a less then friendly situation, they both feel a pull towards each other.
While spending time together, Kayden and Bianca learn not all is what it seems, lies have been told and are hurt. Especially Bianca has a hard time coming to terms with her past, but with the loving help and support of Kayden she learns to embrace her inner cat.
Simon hasn’t been to the Wildlands in a long time. Due to the messed-up relation he has with his parents, Simon has turned his back on his beast, on shifter society and is on his own. Being a world famous model he has the means to live his life by his own rules; trust no one, relay on no one. Tryst is very much in touch with her inner cat, she practically lives 24/7 as a cat. As a hunter it’s her task to bring back Simon in the fold, and since Tryst is good at her job, it doesn’t take long before she finds Simon. While they have a not so friendly opinion of the other one, both can’t deny the sparks between them.
While Simon hasn’t been in touch with his inner beast for a long, long time, he just knows Tryst is his mate, just like Tryst knows he’s hers. Due to his horrible parents, Simon doesn’t trust easily, something Tryst helps him to overcome. Together they’re hot and explosive.
I really like the stories of Simon, Kayden and their women. But like a lot of short novella’s, the characters and the story-development feels a little flat. Everything falls smoothly and nicely into place, without too much trouble. Personally I think both couples deserve a longer story, to do their personalities and relationships more justice. This being my first reads by these authors, I like their writing style, I’ll definitely pick up their other works.
Although I’ve enjoyed reading Kayden/Simon, it was on the short side and therefore a little predictable. I give these stories 3.5 stars.
www.mariekesbooks.com
Kayden is looking for answers and revenge. Learning the death of his parents wasn’t an accident, he’s determined to find the man responsible and make him pay by taking something precious; his daughter. Bianca has lead a sheltered life, safely tugged away at her father’s house. Due to her illness she never went to school like normal children, always was alone at the house or at medical facilities surrounded by adults. The moment Kayden and Bianca meet in a less then friendly situation, they both feel a pull towards each other.
“We’re taking a trip together.” “What?” She took a hasty step back. “I’m not going anywhere with you.” His smile widened, revealing pearly white teeth. “It wasn’t an invitation.”
While spending time together, Kayden and Bianca learn not all is what it seems, lies have been told and are hurt. Especially Bianca has a hard time coming to terms with her past, but with the loving help and support of Kayden she learns to embrace her inner cat.
“An exquisite, rare beauty who has been hidden away. Just waiting for me to rescue her.” “My very own Prince Charming?” “More like the Big Bad Wolf.” His smile was wicked. “Or in this case, the big bad kitty.”
Simon hasn’t been to the Wildlands in a long time. Due to the messed-up relation he has with his parents, Simon has turned his back on his beast, on shifter society and is on his own. Being a world famous model he has the means to live his life by his own rules; trust no one, relay on no one. Tryst is very much in touch with her inner cat, she practically lives 24/7 as a cat. As a hunter it’s her task to bring back Simon in the fold, and since Tryst is good at her job, it doesn’t take long before she finds Simon. While they have a not so friendly opinion of the other one, both can’t deny the sparks between them.
“Who are you?” he demanded, low and dangerous, his nostrils flaring as he breathed her in. “Your assistant, hot stuff.” Every word dripped with disgust and sarcasm. “Or should I call you, Mr.…I’m sorry, do you even have a last name? Is that a model thing?”
While Simon hasn’t been in touch with his inner beast for a long, long time, he just knows Tryst is his mate, just like Tryst knows he’s hers. Due to his horrible parents, Simon doesn’t trust easily, something Tryst helps him to overcome. Together they’re hot and explosive.
“I see you, Simon. Do you understand me? I see you.” “I know you do,” he said on a rush of breath. Again, her heart squeezed. “Really?” His eyes locked with hers. They were stormy blue, but it was a storm that raged from love.”
I really like the stories of Simon, Kayden and their women. But like a lot of short novella’s, the characters and the story-development feels a little flat. Everything falls smoothly and nicely into place, without too much trouble. Personally I think both couples deserve a longer story, to do their personalities and relationships more justice. This being my first reads by these authors, I like their writing style, I’ll definitely pick up their other works.
Although I’ve enjoyed reading Kayden/Simon, it was on the short side and therefore a little predictable. I give these stories 3.5 stars.
www.mariekesbooks.com
August 18, 2016
I really enjoy both these authors. If you haven't yet tried their Bayou series you don't know what you are missing. I'm really loving these cats!
Kayden & Simon make books #21 & #22. Can you believe it. Where has the time gone since they first started this series? I'm going to do my best to break down the two stories.
Kayden
I felt for him. He was a man with a goal and nothing was going to stop him from doing what he wanted to do, or so he thought. I don't think he counted on Bianca and how she handled him. I love her, she's so funny.
Here she learns that Kayden is after her father and going to use her to get to him and how does she handle it...she helps someone else in need.
That's the kind of person she is. How could you not like her.
Simon
Both Simon and Tryst cracked me up. You will not meet two people who want to deal with each other less. Both work very hard at fighting their need for each other.
By the end of the story you really get to understand Simon and what his childhood was like. It makes his choices in life understandable.
Tryst is such a tunnel vision type of thinker. When the tunnel falls she's really not sure how to handle it. I don't think she's used to things not working out her way the first time. She made me a little mad at the end of their story but I got over it.
The story
Like I said above, I really enjoy this series. I wish I hadn't let myself get behind but I have. Someday I'm hoping to get caught up. Both of the stories are well-written and continue the main story line well. Even with behind a few, I wasn't lost at all.
Usually I have a favorite when I read stories with multiple stories in them, this time I don't. I liked both Kayden and Simon's story equally. Both a well worth reading. These a quick easy to read stories that are perfect when you are looking for something fast to read.
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog:
http://romancingthereaders.blogspot.c...
Romancing the Readers Facebook Page:
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Kayden & Simon make books #21 & #22. Can you believe it. Where has the time gone since they first started this series? I'm going to do my best to break down the two stories.
Kayden
I felt for him. He was a man with a goal and nothing was going to stop him from doing what he wanted to do, or so he thought. I don't think he counted on Bianca and how she handled him. I love her, she's so funny.
Here she learns that Kayden is after her father and going to use her to get to him and how does she handle it...she helps someone else in need.
That's the kind of person she is. How could you not like her.
Simon
Both Simon and Tryst cracked me up. You will not meet two people who want to deal with each other less. Both work very hard at fighting their need for each other.
By the end of the story you really get to understand Simon and what his childhood was like. It makes his choices in life understandable.
Tryst is such a tunnel vision type of thinker. When the tunnel falls she's really not sure how to handle it. I don't think she's used to things not working out her way the first time. She made me a little mad at the end of their story but I got over it.
The story
Like I said above, I really enjoy this series. I wish I hadn't let myself get behind but I have. Someday I'm hoping to get caught up. Both of the stories are well-written and continue the main story line well. Even with behind a few, I wasn't lost at all.
Usually I have a favorite when I read stories with multiple stories in them, this time I don't. I liked both Kayden and Simon's story equally. Both a well worth reading. These a quick easy to read stories that are perfect when you are looking for something fast to read.
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog:
http://romancingthereaders.blogspot.c...
Romancing the Readers Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...
August 9, 2016
Kayden
This one has to be one of the sweetest stories I've read in this series so far. Kayden is hell bent on revenge. When he can't get his hands on the guy who killed his parents, he takes the next best thing, his daughter. Bianca has lead a sheltered and isolated life. Her father says it's for her safety but she never suspected that he may have ulterior motive. Not until she meets Kayden who reveals the truth behind her cancer treatments and unmasks her father in the process
Simon
This story was an unusual one. A Pantera who actually wants to stay away from the Wildlands, who wants nothing to do with them. Unfortunately the leader of the Pantera has other plans and sends his best tracker after him. Tryst, revels in being Pantera, spending more time in her cat rather than her human form. Well, Simon is about to teacher her that she can enjoy life a lot more in human form. But Tryst is going to make him see that being Pantera is what he truly is inside.
Even though both these novellas are really short, the storyline is meaty and the chemistry between both sets of characters is explosive as ever.
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
This one has to be one of the sweetest stories I've read in this series so far. Kayden is hell bent on revenge. When he can't get his hands on the guy who killed his parents, he takes the next best thing, his daughter. Bianca has lead a sheltered and isolated life. Her father says it's for her safety but she never suspected that he may have ulterior motive. Not until she meets Kayden who reveals the truth behind her cancer treatments and unmasks her father in the process
Simon
This story was an unusual one. A Pantera who actually wants to stay away from the Wildlands, who wants nothing to do with them. Unfortunately the leader of the Pantera has other plans and sends his best tracker after him. Tryst, revels in being Pantera, spending more time in her cat rather than her human form. Well, Simon is about to teacher her that she can enjoy life a lot more in human form. But Tryst is going to make him see that being Pantera is what he truly is inside.
Even though both these novellas are really short, the storyline is meaty and the chemistry between both sets of characters is explosive as ever.
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
August 17, 2016
The magnificence of 1001 Dark Nights is back...and this time the stories couldn't be more purrr-fect. Two tales of the wild, sexy, and very hunted Pantera shifters of Bayou Heat fame await. Told by those sirens of seduction, Alexandra Ivy and Laura Wright.
Whether you like your tale more 'shifter prince finds his lost puma-were princess. As it is with Kayden and Bianca.
Or, a gender-flipped version of Beauty And The Beast; featuring Simon and Tryst.
There is no denying that you are in for a passion filled, shifter adventure, written just as much for the head as for the heart.
With both stories mirroring each other so perfectly. It is honestly hard to believe that they weren't both penned by the same person.
There is just enough action, interrelated drama, sex, and kidnapping to hold the interest of even the finickiest reader.
And the love scenes...are roaring HOT!
Even if the insta-love is a bit 'pounce now...ask questions later'.
If you are a person who loves to see justice done, lost loves found, and who likes there 'happily...' a lot more para than normal.
Kayden and Simon is just the read for you to be curling up with.
Whether you like your tale more 'shifter prince finds his lost puma-were princess. As it is with Kayden and Bianca.
Or, a gender-flipped version of Beauty And The Beast; featuring Simon and Tryst.
There is no denying that you are in for a passion filled, shifter adventure, written just as much for the head as for the heart.
With both stories mirroring each other so perfectly. It is honestly hard to believe that they weren't both penned by the same person.
There is just enough action, interrelated drama, sex, and kidnapping to hold the interest of even the finickiest reader.
And the love scenes...are roaring HOT!
Even if the insta-love is a bit 'pounce now...ask questions later'.
If you are a person who loves to see justice done, lost loves found, and who likes there 'happily...' a lot more para than normal.
Kayden and Simon is just the read for you to be curling up with.
August 22, 2016
Kayden
by: Alexandra Ivy
3.75 star(s)
I must say that this was by far my least favorite Bayou Heat shorts by Alexandra Ivy. It just didn't hold my interest like the others she has written did. Now I did like information we were given about Joshua Ford as well as Christopher Benson...who seems to slip through the cracks every time the Pantera get close to catching him.
Then there was Bianca...I am extremely interested in seeing who her parents really were, and I hope she finds out.
Simon
by: Laura Wright
5 star(s)
This story is what I love about this series...I'm not sure if it's just the way Laura Wright weaves her stories together but I love her as an author.
Simon's character was an anomaly within the Pantera world, shamed by his parents but Tryst saw through all of that into the real cat inside of Simon.
Usually with this series the writing of both authors flows well but it didn't in this one and that shocked me. Though I did enjoy this book overall not my favorite.
by: Alexandra Ivy
3.75 star(s)
I must say that this was by far my least favorite Bayou Heat shorts by Alexandra Ivy. It just didn't hold my interest like the others she has written did. Now I did like information we were given about Joshua Ford as well as Christopher Benson...who seems to slip through the cracks every time the Pantera get close to catching him.
Then there was Bianca...I am extremely interested in seeing who her parents really were, and I hope she finds out.
Simon
by: Laura Wright
5 star(s)
This story is what I love about this series...I'm not sure if it's just the way Laura Wright weaves her stories together but I love her as an author.
Simon's character was an anomaly within the Pantera world, shamed by his parents but Tryst saw through all of that into the real cat inside of Simon.
Usually with this series the writing of both authors flows well but it didn't in this one and that shocked me. Though I did enjoy this book overall not my favorite.
December 31, 2019
These novellas were a lot better than the previous ones.
Kayden/Simon gave me both couples that I instantly fell in love with. The only thing I would've changed is how they ended. I just feel like they ended rather suddenly and I wanted a little bit more.
In Kayden, he's out for revenge. Then there's Bianca who has always lived a very sheltered life. For example, she basically lives in a forever locked down situation. Until the day that she was kidnapped/captured. Okay, so they were really cute together - definitely made for one another. Out of the both of them, Kayden was definitely my favorite.
Then there's Simon, who was completely cocky. Him and Tryst definitely had chemistry as well. It seemed like a little push/pull relationship and I wanted to see where it was going to go towards the end. Again, it ended rather suddenly but I did enjoy them.
Each couple fought for each other in one way or another. They were both equally entertaining but Kayden was definitely my favorite out of them all.
Kayden/Simon gave me both couples that I instantly fell in love with. The only thing I would've changed is how they ended. I just feel like they ended rather suddenly and I wanted a little bit more.
In Kayden, he's out for revenge. Then there's Bianca who has always lived a very sheltered life. For example, she basically lives in a forever locked down situation. Until the day that she was kidnapped/captured. Okay, so they were really cute together - definitely made for one another. Out of the both of them, Kayden was definitely my favorite.
Then there's Simon, who was completely cocky. Him and Tryst definitely had chemistry as well. It seemed like a little push/pull relationship and I wanted to see where it was going to go towards the end. Again, it ended rather suddenly but I did enjoy them.
Each couple fought for each other in one way or another. They were both equally entertaining but Kayden was definitely my favorite out of them all.
August 18, 2016
Review & Excerpt Tour: Kayden/Simon: Bayou Heat Novellas by Alexandra Ivy & Laura Wright http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-6aW
Publication Date: August 9, 2016
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Cori
Rated: 4.5 Stars
REVIEW:
I love this series! The Bayou Heat Novellas are short, but contain the whole story. Alexandra Ivy and Laura Wright are two of my favorite authors and together they make a great team. Hot shifters, some danger and sexy romance make these books perfect for paranormal romance lovers looking for some quick reads they can devour. These make great binge reads! I highly recommend the entire series.
*Review copy provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review.
Publication Date: August 9, 2016
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Cori
Rated: 4.5 Stars
REVIEW:
I love this series! The Bayou Heat Novellas are short, but contain the whole story. Alexandra Ivy and Laura Wright are two of my favorite authors and together they make a great team. Hot shifters, some danger and sexy romance make these books perfect for paranormal romance lovers looking for some quick reads they can devour. These make great binge reads! I highly recommend the entire series.
*Review copy provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review.
January 25, 2017
Kayden is the best and brightest (love the geeks) his intentions are to bring the human that killed his parents to their end. He gets so much more than he was looking for.
Simon was an interesting twist to this world. His story makes you realize just how much power we give perception in our day to day lives. Loved everything about this book and look forward to more on the is exciting struggle for survival.
Simon was an interesting twist to this world. His story makes you realize just how much power we give perception in our day to day lives. Loved everything about this book and look forward to more on the is exciting struggle for survival.
August 1, 2018
Huge fan of Alexandra Ivy......and this series is just another obsession I can't get enough of.
Two stories in one book. I will admit I loved one a bit more than the other but both Kayden and Simon have a undeniable appeal to them. Bayou Heat has many strong and alluring puma characters with a story of survival along with love and family.
It's more than just shifters and magic, it's a world that sweeps you away . Where women are adored and community means everything.
I hope the author keeps them coming because it never gets boring.
Two stories in one book. I will admit I loved one a bit more than the other but both Kayden and Simon have a undeniable appeal to them. Bayou Heat has many strong and alluring puma characters with a story of survival along with love and family.
It's more than just shifters and magic, it's a world that sweeps you away . Where women are adored and community means everything.
I hope the author keeps them coming because it never gets boring.
January 27, 2020
First you remove 15 pages at the beginning and 10 at the end used to present the authors, their work, and the series, you're left with around 60 pages for each story.
The first one is way too fast, the heroine follows meekly the hero, doubts everything he tells her for just a few minutes, and jumps in bed (or rather in the shower) with him after a few hours. Everything is churned out in one day at most.
The second is more interesting, it feels like there's more characters' development, and both have strong personalities.
The first one is way too fast, the heroine follows meekly the hero, doubts everything he tells her for just a few minutes, and jumps in bed (or rather in the shower) with him after a few hours. Everything is churned out in one day at most.
The second is more interesting, it feels like there's more characters' development, and both have strong personalities.
May 18, 2025
Kayden plans to revenge the death of his parents but kidnapping the perpetrator’s daughter will not only include surprises but change his life when he realizes she is destined to be his mate.
Simon is a successful model who is more comfortable traveling the world than returning to his roots. Tryst is tasked with bringing him home, but she and Simon may find where they truly belong in each other.
Simon is a successful model who is more comfortable traveling the world than returning to his roots. Tryst is tasked with bringing him home, but she and Simon may find where they truly belong in each other.
May 16, 2017
They Won't Change Their Minds Or...
Kayden is about to get revenge for his parents when something unexpected makes him reassess his thoughts.
Simon is determined not to go back and the Hunter sent to bring him back has a fight on her hands. Each story is entertaining and hot. Enjoy I did.
Kayden is about to get revenge for his parents when something unexpected makes him reassess his thoughts.
Simon is determined not to go back and the Hunter sent to bring him back has a fight on her hands. Each story is entertaining and hot. Enjoy I did.
September 4, 2016
Title: Kayden/Simon
Author: Alexandra Ivy & Laura Wright
Series: 1001 Dark Nights
Publisher: Evil Eye Concepts
Reviewer: Kathleen
Release Date: August 9th, 2016
Genre(s): Paranormal Romance
Page Count:156 pages
Heat Level: 4flames out of 5
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
Blurb:
Review:
KAYDEN--> 4 stars out of 5 stars// 4 flames out of 5 flames: Puma shifters were still reeling from the last attack and trying to gather their ranks together when Kayden decides to avenge his parents' death at the hands of Joshua Ford's experiments. Going ahead with his plans to hurt the man who took everything from him, Kayden takes his daughter as hostage, but the last thing he expected was to find the possibility of his mate in Bianca. Alexandra Ivy took a short story that is part of her Bayou Heat series and made it feel like a full length novel. It was the type of read that had everything I was looking for: action, drama, mystery, the realism mixed in with the paranormal and especially, so much sexual tension that you could swear you could cut it with a knife. Considering that Kayden is part of a series, I was slightly off base at the beginning, not having known the history of Pantera, however, I was easily able to follow the rest of the story as thought it were a standalone. Alexandra Ivy's Kayden was the book that I couldn't put down the moment I started it and made me want to add the Bayou Heat series to my TBR.
Simon --> 4 stars out of 5 stars// 4 flames out of 5 flames : It's rare that I'll pick up a 1001 Dark Nights novel where are two authors with two stories and they are linked to the same series. Simon keeps following the puma shifter pack called Pantera where one of their own has forsaken his animal side after having endured countless years of pain, disappointment and worst by the very people he had always thought he could trust. Pantera has one mindset and that is that they never abandon one of their own - when the tribe find out Simon is turning his back on them, they send out their best tracker, Tryst to bring him back. Little does he know when he meets the puma tracker that she's been through her own hell and spends almost all her time in her animal form, trying to deny her human half. The second part to this 'bundle' was emotional and sexy - so much pain and suffering for two people so young who must now trust and rely on each other for help and to get out of the latest trouble surrounding Pantera. For once, the tracker is a strong and independent woman (which is a rare scene),many the hero needs convincing to go back to what he left behind. The chemistry is absolutely smoking and stunning, the storyline captivating and Laura Wright manages to capture the essence of what Alexandra Ivy began in Kayden and continued it in Simon. Two stories in one book from two different authors and Laura Wright has managed to deliver a see less writing style that made me forget there was more than one writing in the Bayou Heat series. The way she manages to intertwine the sensual, the emotional and the never ending twists that makes Simon the perfect follow up to Kayden, goes to show why she should and is part of the 1001 Dark Night author lineup.
Review Copy of Kayden/Simon provided by the Author, Alexandra Ivy & Laura Wright for an honest Review.
Reviewed by Kathleen from Alpha Book Club
Author: Alexandra Ivy & Laura Wright
Series: 1001 Dark Nights
Publisher: Evil Eye Concepts
Reviewer: Kathleen
Release Date: August 9th, 2016
Genre(s): Paranormal Romance
Page Count:156 pages
Heat Level: 4flames out of 5
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
Blurb:
ENEMY TO LOVER
Kayden is obsessed with revenge after his parents disappeared when he was just a cub. Now the gorgeous Hunter has discovered the man responsible for betraying them - Joshua Ford - and it’s time for payback. Beginning with the kidnapping of Joshua’s daughter, Bianca. But last thing he expects is to be confronted with the horrifying realization that Bianca is his mate. Will he put revenge before his chance for eternal happiness?
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
Sexy male model, Simon refuses to give up his exciting life in New York City to return to the slow heat of the Wildlands. For a decade, many pantera have tried to capture the rogue Diplomat and bring him home, but all have failed. Now it’s Tryst’s turn. The hard, brilliant, and gorgeous, Hunter is the ultimate tracker. But can the admitted beast-girl of the Wildlands capture her prey without losing her heart in the process?
Review:
KAYDEN--> 4 stars out of 5 stars// 4 flames out of 5 flames: Puma shifters were still reeling from the last attack and trying to gather their ranks together when Kayden decides to avenge his parents' death at the hands of Joshua Ford's experiments. Going ahead with his plans to hurt the man who took everything from him, Kayden takes his daughter as hostage, but the last thing he expected was to find the possibility of his mate in Bianca. Alexandra Ivy took a short story that is part of her Bayou Heat series and made it feel like a full length novel. It was the type of read that had everything I was looking for: action, drama, mystery, the realism mixed in with the paranormal and especially, so much sexual tension that you could swear you could cut it with a knife. Considering that Kayden is part of a series, I was slightly off base at the beginning, not having known the history of Pantera, however, I was easily able to follow the rest of the story as thought it were a standalone. Alexandra Ivy's Kayden was the book that I couldn't put down the moment I started it and made me want to add the Bayou Heat series to my TBR.
Simon --> 4 stars out of 5 stars// 4 flames out of 5 flames : It's rare that I'll pick up a 1001 Dark Nights novel where are two authors with two stories and they are linked to the same series. Simon keeps following the puma shifter pack called Pantera where one of their own has forsaken his animal side after having endured countless years of pain, disappointment and worst by the very people he had always thought he could trust. Pantera has one mindset and that is that they never abandon one of their own - when the tribe find out Simon is turning his back on them, they send out their best tracker, Tryst to bring him back. Little does he know when he meets the puma tracker that she's been through her own hell and spends almost all her time in her animal form, trying to deny her human half. The second part to this 'bundle' was emotional and sexy - so much pain and suffering for two people so young who must now trust and rely on each other for help and to get out of the latest trouble surrounding Pantera. For once, the tracker is a strong and independent woman (which is a rare scene),many the hero needs convincing to go back to what he left behind. The chemistry is absolutely smoking and stunning, the storyline captivating and Laura Wright manages to capture the essence of what Alexandra Ivy began in Kayden and continued it in Simon. Two stories in one book from two different authors and Laura Wright has managed to deliver a see less writing style that made me forget there was more than one writing in the Bayou Heat series. The way she manages to intertwine the sensual, the emotional and the never ending twists that makes Simon the perfect follow up to Kayden, goes to show why she should and is part of the 1001 Dark Night author lineup.
Review Copy of Kayden/Simon provided by the Author, Alexandra Ivy & Laura Wright for an honest Review.
Reviewed by Kathleen from Alpha Book Club
December 28, 2016
really enjoyed both. Simon n Tryst .....yes
really enjoyed both stories. Simon and Tryst .....WOW
Alexander Ivy knows exactly how to create a exciting, sexy love story.
really enjoyed both stories. Simon and Tryst .....WOW
Alexander Ivy knows exactly how to create a exciting, sexy love story.
June 19, 2017
Kayden ~ 4 stars
Simon ~ 3 stars
Simon ~ 3 stars
November 24, 2017
I don’t know... this one didn’t feel the same.
February 12, 2018
Loved the first one, Kayden's story, the second one not as much as the first but both were intertaining.
March 27, 2018
I enjoyed the two stories. I liked Kayden’s better than Simon’s though. I wish Simon’s story would have ended differently.
July 31, 2018
Thank you!
September 12, 2019
For a novella it took me some time to get into. I may just have had to read the ones before it to get into it.. it didn't impress
August 19, 2016
The Pantera are a group of puma shifters who were relegated to little more than myths until they were forced out of hiding after a group of humans began experimenting on their unique blood. These are two stories of the ferocity and dedication of the Pantera.
Kayden
Pantera Geek Kayden has been driven to exact his revenge on the scientist who killed his family, but when he arrives at the lab, it's the man's daughter he encounters. Stunned by his body's immediate reaction to this human female, Kayden decides to kidnap Bianca instead, but he quickly learns that she's not much more than a pawn in her father's game either. Bianca has been...sheltered...her whole life, so she's choosing not to think it's too weird that she's excited about being kidnapped by the hot as hell Pantera. The two are in for an enlightening time in Vegas as secrets get exposed.
Simon
Tryst is a Pantera Hunter most skilled in hunting and capturing, but she's irritated that she's been tasked with shifting into her human form to return rogue Diplomat Simon to their Wildlands home. Simon has been in the human realm working as a model for years, studiously avoiding being captured by the Pantera sent to bring him home. Tryst doesn't expect the lust to attack her so viciously when she meets the man, nor that she'd want to protect him instead of bring him in. What's a girl used to being a cat supposed to do with these unusual feelings?
KAYDEN/SIMON is book 21/22 in the Bayou Heat series, and also a stand-alone addition to the innovative and fun 1001 Dark Nights series featuring sensual and erotic stories by a variety of popular authors inspired by the classic The Arabian Nights tale.
Sometimes it's tough to review a combo book by more than one author, since every writing style is unique, however these two work well together as previous partnerships in this series have shown. I liked both of the stories in this book, both being quickie novellas that were decently erotic and well written. Kayden and Bianca, and Simon and Tryst all had great chemistry, though I think I liked Simon and Tryst's connection a little more (it was close). For someone who doesn't really "do" too many shifter reads, I found that I did still enjoy the intensity and uniqueness in these stories. The shifter aspect, while an obvious recurring theme, didn't overpower the overall love stories. In the end, the novellas were just like any other romance out there…except with some fur and claws and stuff.
Bottom Line: Other than offerings in the 1001 Dark Nights series, I'm not super familiar with the Bayou Heat series, but I'm sure that fans of those books and shifter reads in general will enjoy these stories. - See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
- See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
Kayden
Pantera Geek Kayden has been driven to exact his revenge on the scientist who killed his family, but when he arrives at the lab, it's the man's daughter he encounters. Stunned by his body's immediate reaction to this human female, Kayden decides to kidnap Bianca instead, but he quickly learns that she's not much more than a pawn in her father's game either. Bianca has been...sheltered...her whole life, so she's choosing not to think it's too weird that she's excited about being kidnapped by the hot as hell Pantera. The two are in for an enlightening time in Vegas as secrets get exposed.
Simon
Tryst is a Pantera Hunter most skilled in hunting and capturing, but she's irritated that she's been tasked with shifting into her human form to return rogue Diplomat Simon to their Wildlands home. Simon has been in the human realm working as a model for years, studiously avoiding being captured by the Pantera sent to bring him home. Tryst doesn't expect the lust to attack her so viciously when she meets the man, nor that she'd want to protect him instead of bring him in. What's a girl used to being a cat supposed to do with these unusual feelings?
KAYDEN/SIMON is book 21/22 in the Bayou Heat series, and also a stand-alone addition to the innovative and fun 1001 Dark Nights series featuring sensual and erotic stories by a variety of popular authors inspired by the classic The Arabian Nights tale.
Sometimes it's tough to review a combo book by more than one author, since every writing style is unique, however these two work well together as previous partnerships in this series have shown. I liked both of the stories in this book, both being quickie novellas that were decently erotic and well written. Kayden and Bianca, and Simon and Tryst all had great chemistry, though I think I liked Simon and Tryst's connection a little more (it was close). For someone who doesn't really "do" too many shifter reads, I found that I did still enjoy the intensity and uniqueness in these stories. The shifter aspect, while an obvious recurring theme, didn't overpower the overall love stories. In the end, the novellas were just like any other romance out there…except with some fur and claws and stuff.
Bottom Line: Other than offerings in the 1001 Dark Nights series, I'm not super familiar with the Bayou Heat series, but I'm sure that fans of those books and shifter reads in general will enjoy these stories. - See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
- See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
August 9, 2016
KAYDEN and SIMON, co-authored by Alexandra Ivy and Laura Wright, are novellas 21 and 22 (respectively) in the successful Bayou Heat Series, and are the latest offer from the folks at 1001 Dark Nights.
The Bayou Heat Series is a paranormal shifter romance series set in the Wildlands — somewhere in the bayous of Louisiana. The Pantera, the inhabitants of the Wildlands, are puma shifters. Once thought to be the simply the stuff of legends and myth, discovery of the existence of the Pantera has caused them to be hunted down to near extinction — their DNA is used to create a serum that reverses ageing.
—KAYDEN —
What happens when you discover your mate is the daughter of the man who killed your parents?
Scientist Joshua Ford has been capturing and conduction horrendous experiments with the Pantera for years. Among his victims were the parents of shifter Kayden Segal. Driven and determined to avenge their deaths, Kayden sets out to destroy Ford. When he finally breaches Ford’s home, all he finds is Bianca, Ford’s daughter. Kidnapping her, Kayden soon discovers that Bianca has Pantera blood — and it calls to him. How is it possible that Kayden’s mate is the daughter of this madman?
KAYDEN is a quick and exotic read. New to this reader, it took a few chapters of Pantera lore and behavior to grasp the puma shifter universe. Once in it though, it can be said that the Pantera know how to bring on the heat. How can you not love a story about feline shifters when given this sort of material:
(Bianca, having recently discovered her puma DNA, reacting to Kayden’s sand-papered tongue.)
Kindle Loc. 886 of 2224
— SIMON —
Gorgeous Puma Simon has been denying the Pantera in him for years, and with good reason. Now a hot and successful model, Simon refuses to be trapped in the Wildlands — that place holds nothing but horrible memories for him. But the Pantera want him back, sending the gorgeous female Hunter known as Tryst to return Simon to the mystical bayous of Louisiana. When Tryst encounters Simon, the heat and attraction cannot be denied, but she has an assignment to complete. Heated mating occurs between the two and given that neither Simon or Tryst allow their inner cats to emerge, it’s still wild and exotic and delightfully unrestrained. Simon eventually faces his past and with Tryst as his mate, the Wildlands are again home.
Again, SIMON, like KAYDEN, is a fast and erotic paranormal read. Simon is quite the hot tom cat, and Tryst is an equally sensuous feline. (This reader is very pleased that the mates bite on another as a sign of ownership, as opposed to spraying musk.)
Both KAYDEN and SIMON are hot little reads, and given their premises, they are a fun and enjoyable escape into the paranormal realm of puma shifters.
Four stars.
The Bayou Heat Series is a paranormal shifter romance series set in the Wildlands — somewhere in the bayous of Louisiana. The Pantera, the inhabitants of the Wildlands, are puma shifters. Once thought to be the simply the stuff of legends and myth, discovery of the existence of the Pantera has caused them to be hunted down to near extinction — their DNA is used to create a serum that reverses ageing.
—KAYDEN —
What happens when you discover your mate is the daughter of the man who killed your parents?
Scientist Joshua Ford has been capturing and conduction horrendous experiments with the Pantera for years. Among his victims were the parents of shifter Kayden Segal. Driven and determined to avenge their deaths, Kayden sets out to destroy Ford. When he finally breaches Ford’s home, all he finds is Bianca, Ford’s daughter. Kidnapping her, Kayden soon discovers that Bianca has Pantera blood — and it calls to him. How is it possible that Kayden’s mate is the daughter of this madman?
KAYDEN is a quick and exotic read. New to this reader, it took a few chapters of Pantera lore and behavior to grasp the puma shifter universe. Once in it though, it can be said that the Pantera know how to bring on the heat. How can you not love a story about feline shifters when given this sort of material:
“Clearly her kitty wanted to play.”
(Bianca, having recently discovered her puma DNA, reacting to Kayden’s sand-papered tongue.)
Kindle Loc. 886 of 2224
— SIMON —
Gorgeous Puma Simon has been denying the Pantera in him for years, and with good reason. Now a hot and successful model, Simon refuses to be trapped in the Wildlands — that place holds nothing but horrible memories for him. But the Pantera want him back, sending the gorgeous female Hunter known as Tryst to return Simon to the mystical bayous of Louisiana. When Tryst encounters Simon, the heat and attraction cannot be denied, but she has an assignment to complete. Heated mating occurs between the two and given that neither Simon or Tryst allow their inner cats to emerge, it’s still wild and exotic and delightfully unrestrained. Simon eventually faces his past and with Tryst as his mate, the Wildlands are again home.
Again, SIMON, like KAYDEN, is a fast and erotic paranormal read. Simon is quite the hot tom cat, and Tryst is an equally sensuous feline. (This reader is very pleased that the mates bite on another as a sign of ownership, as opposed to spraying musk.)
Both KAYDEN and SIMON are hot little reads, and given their premises, they are a fun and enjoyable escape into the paranormal realm of puma shifters.
Four stars.
August 13, 2016
Review first published at Ruby's Books
*Disclaimer: I received an eARC of this book from INKSlinger PR and Evil Eye Concepts, Incorporated in exchange for an honest review. This does not influence my opinion or rating of the book in any way.
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. First of all, I've never before read this series (shame on me, I know), so I was a bit afraid that I'd be lost, that maybe I wouldn't understand the way the series works.
I am very happy that that was not the case. Yes, there are chunks of story that I'm missing, but I didn't feel that way while reading this book, I didn't feel like I was lost in an unknown place, which is a fantastic thing, especially for series this long.
The second thing that surprised me was the format. I felt that writing two stories into one book was a very unique idea, and also a very good one. It made the pacing be a little bit more smoother, more relaxed and yet fast paced. And because they're two stories into one, there's no need to drag the story to get to the page count that you need to get to, so the book is basically filled with scenes that need to be there, if that makes sense. Even with the two stories inside, I feel like the authors did a great job at creating the world and for making it as rich as it is.
Speaking of the two stories, I liked them. Kayden is a guy that has suffered a lot, especially since his parents disappeared when he was really young. I liked that even so, he didn't let that anger and that pain rule his judgement. I liked him, and I hope to read more about him in the next books. Bianca is a heroine that I enjoyed reading about. I liked that by the end of the story she finds courage to do certain things that I don't think in the past she would've done them.
Simon's story was my favorite one out of the two. Simon is a hero that hides stuff, and he hides them really well. I loved him, really. He's one of those characters that just need a bear hug, you know? I liked his interaction with Tryst, I liked seeing him trying to keep one step ahead of her. Tryst is a unique character. As the blurb says, she's more her animal than she is human, and I don't think I've ever read about a character like that before. It was interesting, but I would've wanted to read more on that subject. Maybe if the story was longer, we could've explored that side of Tryst more, but even so, I enjoyed reading the way she sees the world.
Like I said, I really enjoyed this book and I'll definitely be checking the other books in this series out. I may have (happily, I might add!) just found yet another paranormal series to fall in love with.
*Disclaimer: I received an eARC of this book from INKSlinger PR and Evil Eye Concepts, Incorporated in exchange for an honest review. This does not influence my opinion or rating of the book in any way.
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. First of all, I've never before read this series (shame on me, I know), so I was a bit afraid that I'd be lost, that maybe I wouldn't understand the way the series works.
I am very happy that that was not the case. Yes, there are chunks of story that I'm missing, but I didn't feel that way while reading this book, I didn't feel like I was lost in an unknown place, which is a fantastic thing, especially for series this long.
The second thing that surprised me was the format. I felt that writing two stories into one book was a very unique idea, and also a very good one. It made the pacing be a little bit more smoother, more relaxed and yet fast paced. And because they're two stories into one, there's no need to drag the story to get to the page count that you need to get to, so the book is basically filled with scenes that need to be there, if that makes sense. Even with the two stories inside, I feel like the authors did a great job at creating the world and for making it as rich as it is.
Speaking of the two stories, I liked them. Kayden is a guy that has suffered a lot, especially since his parents disappeared when he was really young. I liked that even so, he didn't let that anger and that pain rule his judgement. I liked him, and I hope to read more about him in the next books. Bianca is a heroine that I enjoyed reading about. I liked that by the end of the story she finds courage to do certain things that I don't think in the past she would've done them.
Simon's story was my favorite one out of the two. Simon is a hero that hides stuff, and he hides them really well. I loved him, really. He's one of those characters that just need a bear hug, you know? I liked his interaction with Tryst, I liked seeing him trying to keep one step ahead of her. Tryst is a unique character. As the blurb says, she's more her animal than she is human, and I don't think I've ever read about a character like that before. It was interesting, but I would've wanted to read more on that subject. Maybe if the story was longer, we could've explored that side of Tryst more, but even so, I enjoyed reading the way she sees the world.
Like I said, I really enjoyed this book and I'll definitely be checking the other books in this series out. I may have (happily, I might add!) just found yet another paranormal series to fall in love with.
December 27, 2016
"Bayou Heat: Kayden - Simon" by Alexandra Ivy and Laura Wright. Books 21 & 22 in the Bayou Heat novella series.
4 stars - KAYDEN by Alexandra Ivy
I really enjoyed this addition to the Bayous Heat series. Short, quick and to the point.
Kayden has finally found the man responsible for his parents' deaths and he will have his revenge. His plan to kill Joshua Ford doesn't go as planned. Instead, he ends up finding his mate and she happens to be Joshus's daughter!
Bianca has been sheltered her whole life. She's been sick and needs to stay in her father's clinic. When she's kidnapped by a Pantera, a feeling inside her tries to get out. She feels a pull toward Kayden she can't deny.
Fast paced, sexy and exciting. If you haven't read the Bayou Heat series, that's OK. This works easily as a stand alone. I really liked it.
5 stars - SIMON by Laura Wright
I would give this novella 10 stars if I could! LOVED LOVED LOVED this story! I cannot tell you how happy Simon and Tryst make me. I know all the Bayou Heat titles are the male characters' names but Tryst is a Pantera female who could have easily gotten the title of this story. She is that awesome. And Simon's backstory is so heartbreaking when you find out what it is.
Tryst spends the majority of her time in her puma form. She's the best Hunter the Pantera have; she can track anyone. But now, Raphael, the leader of the Pantera, wants her to find Simon, a rogue Pantera, living outside the Wildlands where she has to be in her human form. He won't tell her why he needs Simon back but it doesn't matter. She'll get Simon back anyway she has to. Shoe doesn't fail.
Simon is never going back to the Wildlands. He left a long time ago and never looked back. But now he's been found be a gorgeous Pantera female and she brings out feelings inside him he never thought he had. It's her job to bring him back but he just can't allow that. Not even the beautiful Tryst can make him.
LOVED this story line between Tryst and Simon. Can be enjoyed as a stand alone but information is given furthering the plot of the series as a whole, finding out why the Pantera have gone missing and ending up in Benson Enterprises' clinics. The chemistry between Tryst and Simon is off the charts HOT! An excellent addition to the series.
Can't wait to read more Bayou Heat! Keep them coming!
4 stars - KAYDEN by Alexandra Ivy
I really enjoyed this addition to the Bayous Heat series. Short, quick and to the point.
Kayden has finally found the man responsible for his parents' deaths and he will have his revenge. His plan to kill Joshua Ford doesn't go as planned. Instead, he ends up finding his mate and she happens to be Joshus's daughter!
Bianca has been sheltered her whole life. She's been sick and needs to stay in her father's clinic. When she's kidnapped by a Pantera, a feeling inside her tries to get out. She feels a pull toward Kayden she can't deny.
Fast paced, sexy and exciting. If you haven't read the Bayou Heat series, that's OK. This works easily as a stand alone. I really liked it.
5 stars - SIMON by Laura Wright
I would give this novella 10 stars if I could! LOVED LOVED LOVED this story! I cannot tell you how happy Simon and Tryst make me. I know all the Bayou Heat titles are the male characters' names but Tryst is a Pantera female who could have easily gotten the title of this story. She is that awesome. And Simon's backstory is so heartbreaking when you find out what it is.
Tryst spends the majority of her time in her puma form. She's the best Hunter the Pantera have; she can track anyone. But now, Raphael, the leader of the Pantera, wants her to find Simon, a rogue Pantera, living outside the Wildlands where she has to be in her human form. He won't tell her why he needs Simon back but it doesn't matter. She'll get Simon back anyway she has to. Shoe doesn't fail.
Simon is never going back to the Wildlands. He left a long time ago and never looked back. But now he's been found be a gorgeous Pantera female and she brings out feelings inside him he never thought he had. It's her job to bring him back but he just can't allow that. Not even the beautiful Tryst can make him.
LOVED this story line between Tryst and Simon. Can be enjoyed as a stand alone but information is given furthering the plot of the series as a whole, finding out why the Pantera have gone missing and ending up in Benson Enterprises' clinics. The chemistry between Tryst and Simon is off the charts HOT! An excellent addition to the series.
Can't wait to read more Bayou Heat! Keep them coming!
August 26, 2016
I enjoy these short novellas, they do have the insta love and mate thing but I think that just helps the story. Ivy and Wright's couples have a great chemistry with the overall plot/arc moving forward a bit in each book.
Kayden ~ 3 stars
Kayden is looking for the man who kidnapped and murdered his parents, what he isn't looking for is the man's daughter to be his mate. It also doesn't help that he is starting out his relationship with mate by kidnapping her to lure her father. Bianca can't help but feel attracted to her kidnapper and Kayden doesn't know how to handle this new development. He is conflicted between revenge and the feelings Bianca brings in him.
The book kind of focused more of Kayden and less on Bianca. Bianca while a great person didn't question or try to escape which made very little sense in context. Her behaviour I guess affected my enjoyment of the book.
Simon ~ 3.5 Stars
I really liked the couple. Both of them were cocky and confident. Tryst was a very intriguing lead while Simon was a brooding hero. Tryst and Simon couldn't be more different than each other. Tryst is a hunter while Simon is a model in the human world. He's more human than panthera while the exact opposite is true for Tryst. They are both attracted to one another but there are obstacles in the way least of all, that Tryst is out of wildlands to bring Simon back home.
I liked this one slightly more. I however do wish it had been a bit longer and more from Simon's POV towards the end of the book. Also I would have liked a bit of an epilogue because how does a woman who prefer's her animal skin but is mated to a mostly human shifter.
Overall
I enjoy this series because it makes for some light PNR reads while this novella isn't my favourite in the series, it is still quite worth a read.
ARC was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Kayden ~ 3 stars
Kayden is looking for the man who kidnapped and murdered his parents, what he isn't looking for is the man's daughter to be his mate. It also doesn't help that he is starting out his relationship with mate by kidnapping her to lure her father. Bianca can't help but feel attracted to her kidnapper and Kayden doesn't know how to handle this new development. He is conflicted between revenge and the feelings Bianca brings in him.
The book kind of focused more of Kayden and less on Bianca. Bianca while a great person didn't question or try to escape which made very little sense in context. Her behaviour I guess affected my enjoyment of the book.
Simon ~ 3.5 Stars
I really liked the couple. Both of them were cocky and confident. Tryst was a very intriguing lead while Simon was a brooding hero. Tryst and Simon couldn't be more different than each other. Tryst is a hunter while Simon is a model in the human world. He's more human than panthera while the exact opposite is true for Tryst. They are both attracted to one another but there are obstacles in the way least of all, that Tryst is out of wildlands to bring Simon back home.
I liked this one slightly more. I however do wish it had been a bit longer and more from Simon's POV towards the end of the book. Also I would have liked a bit of an epilogue because how does a woman who prefer's her animal skin but is mated to a mostly human shifter.
Overall
I enjoy this series because it makes for some light PNR reads while this novella isn't my favourite in the series, it is still quite worth a read.
ARC was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
August 4, 2016
Did the Bayou ever heat up with Kayden and Simon. It was on FIRE!!
Kayden
Kayden is all about revenge. That is all he has on his mind ever since his parents were kidnapped and killed. After years of searching, he found the killer and he goes after him. However he finds out the killers daughter is his mate. But how can that be? Now he must choose between revenge for his parents or to move on and be with his mate Bianca.
Bianca is the daughter of a renowned scientist. He claims he is finding the cure for childhood cancers. But is he really? Bianca has been "forced" to stay at home with a bodyguard. But of course that does not stop a determined Puma. Bianca has the touch of a healer, but she is not aware of that. She just knows she is special.
Kayden and Bianca are a very hot, sexy, and beautiful mated pair.
Simon
Simon left the Wildlands because of a rough childhood. He had enough, so he went deep underground, or so he thought. He has been able to get away from past Hunter's before, but this time, he is not so lucky.
Simon became a famous model and has been on the run from Raph for the past ten years. On his latest shoot Tryst makes a surprise visit and is there to try and convince Simon to come to the Wildlands to speak to Raph. Of course he does not. So Tryst has to pressure him into it.
Tryst loves being in cat form, and in cat form 99% of the time. However when she is around Simon, she doesn't even crave being in cat form. Simon brings out the more "human" side of her and she enjoys it.
Simon and Tryst heat up the pages, big time! They mate before Tryst can get Simon back to the Wildlands, but that does not stop her from betraying him and getting him there. Simon is beyond pissed, but can he get over the hurt from his mate?
We also see a bit more of Bensen Enterprises and some more players but still he has not been stopped. And we find out who was selling the Pantera to Bensen in the first place. Some things are getting tied up, but there are still tons of unanswered questions. Can't wait for the next installment to get some more of those questions answered!
Kayden
Kayden is all about revenge. That is all he has on his mind ever since his parents were kidnapped and killed. After years of searching, he found the killer and he goes after him. However he finds out the killers daughter is his mate. But how can that be? Now he must choose between revenge for his parents or to move on and be with his mate Bianca.
Bianca is the daughter of a renowned scientist. He claims he is finding the cure for childhood cancers. But is he really? Bianca has been "forced" to stay at home with a bodyguard. But of course that does not stop a determined Puma. Bianca has the touch of a healer, but she is not aware of that. She just knows she is special.
Kayden and Bianca are a very hot, sexy, and beautiful mated pair.
Simon
Simon left the Wildlands because of a rough childhood. He had enough, so he went deep underground, or so he thought. He has been able to get away from past Hunter's before, but this time, he is not so lucky.
Simon became a famous model and has been on the run from Raph for the past ten years. On his latest shoot Tryst makes a surprise visit and is there to try and convince Simon to come to the Wildlands to speak to Raph. Of course he does not. So Tryst has to pressure him into it.
Tryst loves being in cat form, and in cat form 99% of the time. However when she is around Simon, she doesn't even crave being in cat form. Simon brings out the more "human" side of her and she enjoys it.
Simon and Tryst heat up the pages, big time! They mate before Tryst can get Simon back to the Wildlands, but that does not stop her from betraying him and getting him there. Simon is beyond pissed, but can he get over the hurt from his mate?
We also see a bit more of Bensen Enterprises and some more players but still he has not been stopped. And we find out who was selling the Pantera to Bensen in the first place. Some things are getting tied up, but there are still tons of unanswered questions. Can't wait for the next installment to get some more of those questions answered!
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