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Nocturne Falls #6
The Shifter Romances The Writer
Welcome to Nocturne Falls, the town that celebrates Halloween 365 days a year.
The tourists think it's all a show: the vampires, the werewolves, the witches, the occasional gargoyle flying through the sky. But the supernaturals populating the town know better.
Living in Nocturne Falls means being yourself. Fangs, fur, and all.
For romance writer Roxy St. James, living in Nocturne Falls also means a fresh start. And as soon as her unbearable ex signs the divorce papers, that new beginning will be a reality. Unfortunately, her ex doesn’t seem ready to let her go and the subtle threats he’s been making leave her no choice but to confide in her oh-so-handsome neighbor, who just happens to be a deputy with the sheriff’s department.
But Officer Alex Cruz isn’t just the law. He’s also a panther shifter, a secret he’s sworn to keep (along with the truth about Nocturne Falls) from the very foxy Roxy. Humans aren’t supposed to know the town is filled with supernaturals. Then she starts seeing things she shouldn’t and thinks she’s losing her mind. His attraction—and concern—for her wars with the promise he’s made.
Will his truth be more than she can handle? Or will it cause her to write him out of her life?
The tourists think it's all a show: the vampires, the werewolves, the witches, the occasional gargoyle flying through the sky. But the supernaturals populating the town know better.
Living in Nocturne Falls means being yourself. Fangs, fur, and all.
For romance writer Roxy St. James, living in Nocturne Falls also means a fresh start. And as soon as her unbearable ex signs the divorce papers, that new beginning will be a reality. Unfortunately, her ex doesn’t seem ready to let her go and the subtle threats he’s been making leave her no choice but to confide in her oh-so-handsome neighbor, who just happens to be a deputy with the sheriff’s department.
But Officer Alex Cruz isn’t just the law. He’s also a panther shifter, a secret he’s sworn to keep (along with the truth about Nocturne Falls) from the very foxy Roxy. Humans aren’t supposed to know the town is filled with supernaturals. Then she starts seeing things she shouldn’t and thinks she’s losing her mind. His attraction—and concern—for her wars with the promise he’s made.
Will his truth be more than she can handle? Or will it cause her to write him out of her life?
374 pages, Paperback
First published May 24, 2016
562 people are currently reading
1122 people want to read
About the author
Kristen Painter
186 books3,368 followersKristen Painter likes to balance her obsessions with shoes and cats by making the lives of her characters miserable and surprising her readers with interesting twists. She currently writes award-winning paranormal romance, paranormal women's fiction, and cozy mysteries. The former college English teacher can often be found on twitter @Kristen_Painter, Facebook at www.facebook.com/KristenPainterAuthor where she loves to interact with readers and her blog: http://kristenpainter.com/blog/.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 338 reviews
June 23, 2019
The Shifter Romances The Writer is book six in the Nocturne Falls series by Kristen Painter. This was another fun light-hearted read in the Nocturne Falls series.
Nocturne Falls is a fun town that celebrates Halloween 365 days a year. How cool is that? We are treated to a verity of different supernaturals and each book gives us a new couple to fall in love with.
Roxy St James is a romance writer, divorced and look for a new start. She moves to Nocturne Falls for that new start and to reconnect with an old friend from college, Delany, who we meet in The Vampire's Mail Order Bride. Thou things are not as they seem and she soon starts to see things and wonders if she’s going crazy.
Alex Cruz is an officer of the law and a panther shifter who is sworn to keep the towns secret, yet his new neighbor brings out his protective instincts. He wants to tell her that she’s not going crazy, but humans are not to know about the supernaturals in Nocturne Falls. What will this shifter do?
Both Roxy and Alex where relatable. I real likes Roxy. She’s strong, capable, and determined to get her life back on track and find herself again. I like that we see what a toxic relationship can do and how instead of staying she gets herself out and gains her life back. I also really liked Alex. He’s wonderful, sweet, and protective in a good way. I loved meeting his family and seeing how strong the family ties are to each other.
Their romance is sweet and cute. I had a lot of fun with them and the weird things happening around Roxy. Those weird things added a little mystery to the story.
The Shifter Romances The Writer was a sweet and fun read. Great for an afternoon tea or a nice summer read.
Rated: 4 Stars
Nocturne Falls is a fun town that celebrates Halloween 365 days a year. How cool is that? We are treated to a verity of different supernaturals and each book gives us a new couple to fall in love with.
Roxy St James is a romance writer, divorced and look for a new start. She moves to Nocturne Falls for that new start and to reconnect with an old friend from college, Delany, who we meet in The Vampire's Mail Order Bride. Thou things are not as they seem and she soon starts to see things and wonders if she’s going crazy.
Alex Cruz is an officer of the law and a panther shifter who is sworn to keep the towns secret, yet his new neighbor brings out his protective instincts. He wants to tell her that she’s not going crazy, but humans are not to know about the supernaturals in Nocturne Falls. What will this shifter do?
Both Roxy and Alex where relatable. I real likes Roxy. She’s strong, capable, and determined to get her life back on track and find herself again. I like that we see what a toxic relationship can do and how instead of staying she gets herself out and gains her life back. I also really liked Alex. He’s wonderful, sweet, and protective in a good way. I loved meeting his family and seeing how strong the family ties are to each other.
Their romance is sweet and cute. I had a lot of fun with them and the weird things happening around Roxy. Those weird things added a little mystery to the story.
The Shifter Romances The Writer was a sweet and fun read. Great for an afternoon tea or a nice summer read.
Rated: 4 Stars
November 10, 2021
I love Nocturne Falls! Alex and Roxy have an uphill battle from the start to get their relationship off the ground. He's a shifter and she's a human. And I love that Kristen Painter has decided to go there with her latest couple because even though we're talking humans versus panther-shifters, and it's a little tongue in cheek at times, we could really be having a much more serious conversation about race or religion, or any number of serious reasons couples have to deal with different backgrounds in order to make a relationship work.
Roxy is also being stalked, is worried she's losing her marbles from the stress of her divorce since she can't seem to get her darn ex to sign the divorce papers, and worries about what her stomach looks like in that swimsuit. All in all, just a great book, and I can't wait for Kristen's next book in Nocture Falls!
Roxy is also being stalked, is worried she's losing her marbles from the stress of her divorce since she can't seem to get her darn ex to sign the divorce papers, and worries about what her stomach looks like in that swimsuit. All in all, just a great book, and I can't wait for Kristen's next book in Nocture Falls!
August 24, 2017
Not as good as the others in the series but still decent for a cute, paranormal romance.
Roxy St. James is a romance writer for paranormal books. She’s just getting out of a bad marriage and her college buddy, Delaney Ellingham talks her into moving to Nocturne Falls. She ends up buying a house next to Alex Cruz, a deputy sheriff and panther shifter.
Alex Cruz is a decent character and I really loved his Mom. His brother was a pain in the ass and I totally understand your frustration Alex! Alex is a panther shifter, responsible, caring and really wants to find the right woman.
Roxy starts having stalker situations happen to her and that’s when Alex comes into the picture to protect her and figure out who is leaving all the random, creepy stuff on her doorstep or car. She’s also starting to hallucinate and think she’s seeing fangs, gills and other paranormal things. She’s just writing it off to having some creative imaginations or becoming crazy like her mother. Boy is she going to be surprised!
The part that I wasn’t crazy about in this book was the instalove and thinking they were soulmates in 2 days. This was a bit worse than the other books on that aspect. It was still an overall cute book with fun characters and a decent plot.
Roxy St. James is a romance writer for paranormal books. She’s just getting out of a bad marriage and her college buddy, Delaney Ellingham talks her into moving to Nocturne Falls. She ends up buying a house next to Alex Cruz, a deputy sheriff and panther shifter.
Alex Cruz is a decent character and I really loved his Mom. His brother was a pain in the ass and I totally understand your frustration Alex! Alex is a panther shifter, responsible, caring and really wants to find the right woman.
Roxy starts having stalker situations happen to her and that’s when Alex comes into the picture to protect her and figure out who is leaving all the random, creepy stuff on her doorstep or car. She’s also starting to hallucinate and think she’s seeing fangs, gills and other paranormal things. She’s just writing it off to having some creative imaginations or becoming crazy like her mother. Boy is she going to be surprised!
The part that I wasn’t crazy about in this book was the instalove and thinking they were soulmates in 2 days. This was a bit worse than the other books on that aspect. It was still an overall cute book with fun characters and a decent plot.
February 21, 2017
Let me live in a town that celebrates Halloween 365 days a year. *dreamyeyes*
-------------
Plot
I looove the Nocturne Falls series. I seriously can read about a million of these characters in town because the books are always so entertaining, heartwarming, and cute. I love all the descriptions of the houses and stores in town and the food description – this town literally sounds like a dream. I think the best type of books is one that makes you crave and imagine to live in the same world as the characters.
This book has shown us a paranormal-romance fiction writer realizing that the creatures she has written about may ACTUALLY be real. I think this aspect of the plot has been interesting. Besides the “discovering magic” part of this book, there’s also a more serious undertone in my opinion. There are mentions of toxic relationships (a verbally abusive soon-to-be-ex-husband), mental health, and deaths (deaths that happened in the past). This is very different from the other Nocturne Falls books. On one hand, I adore meaningful messages in books – I respect authors who approach difficult topics and give us a wide range of perspective. Seeing the protagonist, Roxy, attempt to get her new start in life and have her first taste of freedom have been wonderful. It’s intriguing to see how her verbally abusive, controlling husband has affected her negatively. I like that we get to see her gain a bit more confidence in this book.
On the other hand, I have to admit that this is not my favorite in the series – the pacing feels slower – perhaps because of the heavier topics (or perhaps the reason is something else), while one of my favorite things about this series as a whole has always been that it’s fast-paced and fun. This book in particularly is still fun, but the slowness detracts from the enjoyment a bit.
In addition, I have to give props to Kristen Painter for including some diversity in this book. I love her books – her whole Nocturne Falls series – but it was always nagging at the back of my mind that there weren’t any mentions of other ethnic groups. I’m so glad to meet Alex and his family in this book – they’re wonderful, and I truly love the strong family theme too.
One of my absolute favorite aspects about this book is Alex’s relationship with his mom, Carmen! Agh, she’s such a sweetie. She can be rather bossy, sure, but I just love how much she takes charge and the way she takes care of her sons. Her scenes are always sweet and funny.
Characters
– Roxy: My favorite traits about her are: 1) She’s hardworking and 2) She’s determined. An important part of this book is Roxy’s dedication to her job. I love her passion in her job as a writer, and how she talks to her fans and sign their books. It’s adorable how half the town is obsessed with her paranormal romance series. In addition, it’s because of her own strength and determination that led her to the decision to lead her controlling husband. I have to give her respect for choosing and initiating to leave such a toxic relationship. However, she’s not perfect. She also gets insecure (which makes sense considering how years with her unsupportive husband must have lowered her self-esteem), and she doesn’t rely on people too easily. She’s a more secretive person, and likes to tackle things on her own. This can be admirable in a way, but I like that she learns to rely on her friends to help her.
– Alex: He’s a great character. Like Roxy, he is hardworking and work-oriented. I also looove when he helps and protects Roxy. He’s a thoroughly good guy with strong morals. I appreciate him when he helps his brothers – but more so when he stands up to his brother whenever he’s rude about a woman. It takes guts and honor to stand up to your family, so props to him for that.
Final Thoughts
The Nocturne Falls series is always utterly entertaining and fun. I seriously would jump at the chance to live in a town such as this one. This book, in particular has been different from the others – more serious, meaningful topics and more diversity (yay!). It can be slow at times, but I do appreciate seeing different elements in this one. I particularly ADORE meeting Alex’s mom, Carmen, who’s the sweetest and funniest. I’m giving this book 3.5 stars - it’s not my favorite, but it has been fun.
Things that you might want to know (WARNING: Spoilers below)
Is there a happy/satisfying ending?
Love triangle? Cheating? Angst level?
Tears-worthy?
Humor?
What age level would be appropriate?
-------------
Plot
I looove the Nocturne Falls series. I seriously can read about a million of these characters in town because the books are always so entertaining, heartwarming, and cute. I love all the descriptions of the houses and stores in town and the food description – this town literally sounds like a dream. I think the best type of books is one that makes you crave and imagine to live in the same world as the characters.
This book has shown us a paranormal-romance fiction writer realizing that the creatures she has written about may ACTUALLY be real. I think this aspect of the plot has been interesting. Besides the “discovering magic” part of this book, there’s also a more serious undertone in my opinion. There are mentions of toxic relationships (a verbally abusive soon-to-be-ex-husband), mental health, and deaths (deaths that happened in the past). This is very different from the other Nocturne Falls books. On one hand, I adore meaningful messages in books – I respect authors who approach difficult topics and give us a wide range of perspective. Seeing the protagonist, Roxy, attempt to get her new start in life and have her first taste of freedom have been wonderful. It’s intriguing to see how her verbally abusive, controlling husband has affected her negatively. I like that we get to see her gain a bit more confidence in this book.
On the other hand, I have to admit that this is not my favorite in the series – the pacing feels slower – perhaps because of the heavier topics (or perhaps the reason is something else), while one of my favorite things about this series as a whole has always been that it’s fast-paced and fun. This book in particularly is still fun, but the slowness detracts from the enjoyment a bit.
In addition, I have to give props to Kristen Painter for including some diversity in this book. I love her books – her whole Nocturne Falls series – but it was always nagging at the back of my mind that there weren’t any mentions of other ethnic groups. I’m so glad to meet Alex and his family in this book – they’re wonderful, and I truly love the strong family theme too.
One of my absolute favorite aspects about this book is Alex’s relationship with his mom, Carmen! Agh, she’s such a sweetie. She can be rather bossy, sure, but I just love how much she takes charge and the way she takes care of her sons. Her scenes are always sweet and funny.
Characters
– Roxy: My favorite traits about her are: 1) She’s hardworking and 2) She’s determined. An important part of this book is Roxy’s dedication to her job. I love her passion in her job as a writer, and how she talks to her fans and sign their books. It’s adorable how half the town is obsessed with her paranormal romance series. In addition, it’s because of her own strength and determination that led her to the decision to lead her controlling husband. I have to give her respect for choosing and initiating to leave such a toxic relationship. However, she’s not perfect. She also gets insecure (which makes sense considering how years with her unsupportive husband must have lowered her self-esteem), and she doesn’t rely on people too easily. She’s a more secretive person, and likes to tackle things on her own. This can be admirable in a way, but I like that she learns to rely on her friends to help her.
– Alex: He’s a great character. Like Roxy, he is hardworking and work-oriented. I also looove when he helps and protects Roxy. He’s a thoroughly good guy with strong morals. I appreciate him when he helps his brothers – but more so when he stands up to his brother whenever he’s rude about a woman. It takes guts and honor to stand up to your family, so props to him for that.
Final Thoughts
The Nocturne Falls series is always utterly entertaining and fun. I seriously would jump at the chance to live in a town such as this one. This book, in particular has been different from the others – more serious, meaningful topics and more diversity (yay!). It can be slow at times, but I do appreciate seeing different elements in this one. I particularly ADORE meeting Alex’s mom, Carmen, who’s the sweetest and funniest. I’m giving this book 3.5 stars - it’s not my favorite, but it has been fun.
Things that you might want to know (WARNING: Spoilers below)
Is there a happy/satisfying ending?
Love triangle? Cheating? Angst level?
Tears-worthy?
Humor?
What age level would be appropriate?
February 14, 2018
Sixth in the Nocturne Falls series, though only fifth I’ve read in that specific series (though I’m up to 9 expanded universe books read – counting the 4 I’ve read in the Miss Frost series). This one stars a love story between a human and a cat. Actually, several of the books have that – the Frost series, for example, includes the ‘love story’ of Miss Jayne Frost and Spider the cat (who can, later in the series, talk). Then there is Jasper & Willa in ‘The Gargoyle Gets His Girl’; and Pumpkin & Pandora in ‘The Professor Woos the Witch’ (at least I think I recall it being Pumpkin & Pandora). Here in this book it’s Roxy & Alex. Unlike the other books, though, Alex isn’t a domestic kitty, he is a panther (and a shifter; the domestic kitties, including the talking one, are standard issue domestic kitties, not shifters).
Roxy St. James is a paranormal romance writer who is escaping her horrible marriage by moving to Nocturne Falls. Recommended, the small town in Georgia, to her by her friend Delaney James (who also, I recall now, has a cat, though I do not recall that huge Maine Coon’s name). Despite their similar last names, they are not related. Though both are from New York.
Alex Cruz is an officer in Nocturne Falls, and a cat. Or, I mean, a panther. He brings into the story his mother (who visits), and brother (who moves in) Diego. Roxy actually meets Diego first – since, coincidentally Roxy and Alex live next door to each other and Diego is staying at Alex's place; but doesn’t like his macho attitude.
This introduction of the two Cruz brothers to Roxy probably would lead to mentioning the opposite reaction of Roxy to meeting Alex. Except – the two first meet when Alex pulls Roxy over for speeding. And she’s quite disgusted with him for doing so. He, in turn, briefly contemplates whether Roxy might be drunk or have taken some drug like substance – for, instead of crying or the like, she’s quite bold towards him and his stopping her.
The two, Roxy & Alex that is, circle each other, as would be expected, and . . . stuff.
Good enough story – passed the time well. I like that there’s such shifter diversity in this series, what with the werewolves, werebears (seen, not major character), wereravens, and werecats. I’d make a comment about the elves also showing diversity, but none (unless they popped up in the fifth book I’ve yet to read) have appeared in the Nocturne Fall series. Other people with pointy ears, like Vulcans, have (wait, no, I mean Faerie, which is not the same type of thing as an Elf), but no elves. Which is kind of strange, the lack of elves in this series, since there’s a ton of them living in Nocturne Falls in the other series (Miss Frost), and yes, most work for the store that has never appeared in the Nocturne Falls series (the Santa’s Workshop/toystore/whatever it’s called), but not all of them – heck, one of them work as a firefighter, and one of the main characters, the Sherriff, is the brother of the chief fireman (which means nothing, of course, since there’s a ton of police related people in the town, and not all get lines/get seen/etc. – for a small town, their police force is huge - huge (though, admittedly, most are ‘adjuncts’, or whatever you call part-time cops)).
I’ve completely lost whatever it is I’ve written, wanted to write, and would wish to write. So, um, off I go.
Rating: 3.75
February 14 2018
Roxy St. James is a paranormal romance writer who is escaping her horrible marriage by moving to Nocturne Falls. Recommended, the small town in Georgia, to her by her friend Delaney James (who also, I recall now, has a cat, though I do not recall that huge Maine Coon’s name). Despite their similar last names, they are not related. Though both are from New York.
Alex Cruz is an officer in Nocturne Falls, and a cat. Or, I mean, a panther. He brings into the story his mother (who visits), and brother (who moves in) Diego. Roxy actually meets Diego first – since, coincidentally Roxy and Alex live next door to each other and Diego is staying at Alex's place; but doesn’t like his macho attitude.
This introduction of the two Cruz brothers to Roxy probably would lead to mentioning the opposite reaction of Roxy to meeting Alex. Except – the two first meet when Alex pulls Roxy over for speeding. And she’s quite disgusted with him for doing so. He, in turn, briefly contemplates whether Roxy might be drunk or have taken some drug like substance – for, instead of crying or the like, she’s quite bold towards him and his stopping her.
The two, Roxy & Alex that is, circle each other, as would be expected, and . . . stuff.
Good enough story – passed the time well. I like that there’s such shifter diversity in this series, what with the werewolves, werebears (seen, not major character), wereravens, and werecats. I’d make a comment about the elves also showing diversity, but none (unless they popped up in the fifth book I’ve yet to read) have appeared in the Nocturne Fall series. Other people with pointy ears, like Vulcans, have (wait, no, I mean Faerie, which is not the same type of thing as an Elf), but no elves. Which is kind of strange, the lack of elves in this series, since there’s a ton of them living in Nocturne Falls in the other series (Miss Frost), and yes, most work for the store that has never appeared in the Nocturne Falls series (the Santa’s Workshop/toystore/whatever it’s called), but not all of them – heck, one of them work as a firefighter, and one of the main characters, the Sherriff, is the brother of the chief fireman (which means nothing, of course, since there’s a ton of police related people in the town, and not all get lines/get seen/etc. – for a small town, their police force is huge - huge (though, admittedly, most are ‘adjuncts’, or whatever you call part-time cops)).
I’ve completely lost whatever it is I’ve written, wanted to write, and would wish to write. So, um, off I go.
Rating: 3.75
February 14 2018
March 5, 2020
3.5 stars
Another cute audiobook to listen to. The FMC is a writer working from home (so relatable) and she doesn't believe in fate. Fiction is what it is, only fiction. Until her neighbor / panther shifter shows up.
I loved the MMC's mother, she was so cute. Also, I've got to say, fish are nice but come on... cats are so much better and I kind of missed them in this installment. I also appreciated the mental health representation.
Unfortunately, the author used (again) the same trope where the ex-husband of one of the main characters is the villain who doesn't want to sign the divorce papers. I really wish Kristen Painter would find something else to write about because three books in a row have something like this going on... That's just too much! Especially since I'm listening to them back-to-back. At least, it was the only thing I have to criticize.
Another cute audiobook to listen to. The FMC is a writer working from home (so relatable) and she doesn't believe in fate. Fiction is what it is, only fiction. Until her neighbor / panther shifter shows up.
I loved the MMC's mother, she was so cute. Also, I've got to say, fish are nice but come on... cats are so much better and I kind of missed them in this installment. I also appreciated the mental health representation.
Unfortunately, the author used (again) the same trope where the ex-husband of one of the main characters is the villain who doesn't want to sign the divorce papers. I really wish Kristen Painter would find something else to write about because three books in a row have something like this going on... That's just too much! Especially since I'm listening to them back-to-back. At least, it was the only thing I have to criticize.
April 17, 2020
With an amusing touch of third-wall, a PNR author moves to Nocturne Falls and finds out all the supernaturals she has been writing about for years are real... and they are big fans!
April 27, 2017
I really enjoyed this - what a cool town and what neat characters. I'm going to make a point of reading the rest of the series very soon! I'm really glad it was recommended to me!
November 4, 2017
Audiobook review
Cute story, relatable characters. A very good book for the series. I enjoyed this one!
Cute story, relatable characters. A very good book for the series. I enjoyed this one!
January 25, 2020
Listened to this through Audible Escape. I'll give this a 3.5. We met Roxy in the short The Vampire's Valentine Surprise, and I was wondering if that was the author's way of inserting herself into this universe. I wonder how much is autobiographical. Either way, it's a pretty fun story.
May 18, 2016
An entertaining addition to a solid series!
I think this was my favorite in the series... Though I might have said that before and possibly will say that again after reading the next book.
First and foremost I loved reading about hotty mchotness Mr. Cruz. I was actually hoping that Painter would write a book about him, when we first met him in the previous books of the series. So kudos for the fact that he got an entire book (insert happy dance)
AND I was not disappointed!
He is just like I was hoping and more!!
But if you haven't read any of the books in the series? My advice is to actually go and read the other books first, even if this could work as a stand alone. In fact, with each of the previous books I would have told you just go ahead and read them as pleases you. The Shifter Romances The Writer however works best when you actually have read the previous Nocturne Fall book, in my opinion.
It has all the great things the series offered. Wonderful world building, sweet romance, humour, great dialogue and good character building.
TSRTW is definitely character driven. And unlike many of it's predecessors quite a few previous MCs feature in it. I absolutely loved that part. I loved how Painter managed to make it feel like I am visiting old friends. I adore how the girls all interact with each other, and how some characters seem quite different yet the same when seen from a different POV. (as example Birdie)
I adore Alex- not just for the fact that he makes uniforms look good- but I liked his sensitive and protective sides.
I loved the chemistry between him and Roxy and I love their banter.
Roxy is a strong heroine, that I could relate to and I cared for very quickly. She is intelligent, strong even if she is overcoming a difficult past and really sensible. It sounds odd to put it out there, but there are so many books these days where the heroine is somehow ditzy or where she behaves uber-melodramatic. It's actually refreshing to have a heroine that not only doesn't do either but also is making good choices and is reasonable! I could see myself being friends with Roxy.
Oh I need to mention that I've been wondering how much of this has autobiographical aspects in it.
I kept wondering if that is how Painter does things.
My only little reservation is the soul mate bit. I don't believe in that. So when that came up...I just cringed- but then again, we all know that is just how I feel about it. Don't let it put you off. It's seriously minor.
The mystery was pleasant, kept me guessing and entertained- oh and in case you wondering: I did get it right, saw the clues immediately and knew what probably would be coming down the line.
Another favorite part was the humour. Again, I clearly like Painters humour, but The Shifter Romances The Writer made me actually giggle at times.
So very entertaining, fun and easy read. Just the right thing for a summery day read.
I think this was my favorite in the series... Though I might have said that before and possibly will say that again after reading the next book.
First and foremost I loved reading about hotty mchotness Mr. Cruz. I was actually hoping that Painter would write a book about him, when we first met him in the previous books of the series. So kudos for the fact that he got an entire book (insert happy dance)
AND I was not disappointed!
He is just like I was hoping and more!!
But if you haven't read any of the books in the series? My advice is to actually go and read the other books first, even if this could work as a stand alone. In fact, with each of the previous books I would have told you just go ahead and read them as pleases you. The Shifter Romances The Writer however works best when you actually have read the previous Nocturne Fall book, in my opinion.
It has all the great things the series offered. Wonderful world building, sweet romance, humour, great dialogue and good character building.
TSRTW is definitely character driven. And unlike many of it's predecessors quite a few previous MCs feature in it. I absolutely loved that part. I loved how Painter managed to make it feel like I am visiting old friends. I adore how the girls all interact with each other, and how some characters seem quite different yet the same when seen from a different POV. (as example Birdie)
I adore Alex- not just for the fact that he makes uniforms look good- but I liked his sensitive and protective sides.
I loved the chemistry between him and Roxy and I love their banter.
Roxy is a strong heroine, that I could relate to and I cared for very quickly. She is intelligent, strong even if she is overcoming a difficult past and really sensible. It sounds odd to put it out there, but there are so many books these days where the heroine is somehow ditzy or where she behaves uber-melodramatic. It's actually refreshing to have a heroine that not only doesn't do either but also is making good choices and is reasonable! I could see myself being friends with Roxy.
Oh I need to mention that I've been wondering how much of this has autobiographical aspects in it.
I kept wondering if that is how Painter does things.
My only little reservation is the soul mate bit. I don't believe in that. So when that came up...I just cringed- but then again, we all know that is just how I feel about it. Don't let it put you off. It's seriously minor.
The mystery was pleasant, kept me guessing and entertained- oh and in case you wondering: I did get it right, saw the clues immediately and knew what probably would be coming down the line.
Another favorite part was the humour. Again, I clearly like Painters humour, but The Shifter Romances The Writer made me actually giggle at times.
So very entertaining, fun and easy read. Just the right thing for a summery day read.
April 10, 2021
I really love this series. I love the whole town of Nocturne Falls and wish it was a real place that I could visit. The Shifter Romances the Writer is book 6 in the series. I loved most of this book but was kind of disappointed by the ending and the thing that Roxy did. It was pretty cheesy and I didn't find it worthy of the characters or the story that was built up. It was still good, but I just wanted more for this book. I loved the main characters in The Shifter Romances the Writer, especially Alex. The narration was good. It has been the same narrator for this whole series so far. He does a great job with voices. I'm looking forward to continuing the series.
April 12, 2018
I finally got myself back to Nocturne Falls! One of my favorite places to visit as Kristen Painter has created a world where supernatural types can all live out in the open, the upside is that all the visiting humans think it’s just pretend! But the residents always know better! In The Shifter Romances the Writer, we see one Roxy St. James moving into her new house located in Nocturne Falls! The catch? Roxy is human and a writer of paranormal romance books to boot!
Humans living in Nocturne Falls isn’t out of the ordinary per se, but it just means that for the time being, Roxy will have to drink plenty of the magically touched spring water that keeps all humans thinking everything is town is pretend. She is in the middle of a rather nasty divorce, one where she’s still trying to get her ex to sign the papers that will set her free. Starting out her first day in town by getting a ticket from one of the sheriff’s deputies wasn’t her idea of a warm welcome though.
Alex Cruz is a shifter, he takes on a panther form and the last thing he expected was to be charmed by the newest resident in town, Roxy. Giving her a speeding ticket didn’t exactly endear him to her, but when they learn that they are in fact neighbors, it’s best to let bygones be bygones! There’s definitely an attraction happening between these two, but Alex has always had his sights set on marrying a shifter like himself, but as the days move on, he’s starting to rethink that idea.
To add a little trouble to the mix, as this is more than just a love story, Roxy learns that she’s got a stalker. She thinks it’s her ex, as he was a very controlling and hurtful type that left a lot of emotional scars on Roxy. The notes she’s finding are unsettling her, and making her get even more behind on her book. She turns to her sexy new neighbor for a little help since he is a police officer!
Since it’s been a long while since I last read a book from this series, I was excited to pay a quick visit while in between reads! I would seriously live in this town if it were a real place! I swear it was meant for me, and likely other readers like me! Paranormal reads have been my favorite ever since I picked up my first vampire novel all those years ago! I’ve never looked back since!
Perhaps my one complaint was that the mystery involving the stalker wasn’t as consuming as I had expected it to be. Roxy had a lot of downtime moments that were filled with things not related to the stalker issues. It was still an incredibly fun read, don’t get me wrong. I loved seeing Roxy working on her book, it’s even kind of got my own muse knocking at my head again as I’ve let my own WIP sitting in dust for far too long. Anywho, Roxy was definitely a character I could relate to. There were several instances where I felt like her reactions to this and that ringed true for a lot of people. She was a very lovable heroine!
I guess my other issue is more of a “me” thing and not understanding fully what rules are applied to the other non-vampire paranormals. When you read as many paranormal books as I do, a lot of “rules” don’t apply for everyone. I guess I just haven’t been in this world particular for a while, so I can’t remember the rules of shifters here and how things work for them. I realize I am being a little vague but I don’t want to mention my problem exactly as it’s sort of spoilery, but given the series to date, not so much when you think about it! Lol! Alas, I shall keep to my hedging. It’s a minor thing and since everyone was happy at the end, I guess what I thought was true, wasn’t. So mystery solved! Lol!
The Shifter Romances the Writer was definitely yet another winner in the Nocturne Falls series! I love this world soooo much! This is a series all paranormal readers ought to give a try! It’s so fun! It’s quirky, cute, and the romance is always so sweet! You can really pick up the series whenever you want to as the books tend to have new heroes and heroines each time, though the characters do all interact with one another. The only thing you will be spoiled for is the aftermath of the previous happy endings. For if you read the descriptions about the book, you pretty much know who ends up with who! This is always going to be one of my favorite series, so I highly recommend giving it a try! You’ll never want to leave Nocturne Falls if you do!
Overall Rating 5/5 stars
Humans living in Nocturne Falls isn’t out of the ordinary per se, but it just means that for the time being, Roxy will have to drink plenty of the magically touched spring water that keeps all humans thinking everything is town is pretend. She is in the middle of a rather nasty divorce, one where she’s still trying to get her ex to sign the papers that will set her free. Starting out her first day in town by getting a ticket from one of the sheriff’s deputies wasn’t her idea of a warm welcome though.
Alex Cruz is a shifter, he takes on a panther form and the last thing he expected was to be charmed by the newest resident in town, Roxy. Giving her a speeding ticket didn’t exactly endear him to her, but when they learn that they are in fact neighbors, it’s best to let bygones be bygones! There’s definitely an attraction happening between these two, but Alex has always had his sights set on marrying a shifter like himself, but as the days move on, he’s starting to rethink that idea.
To add a little trouble to the mix, as this is more than just a love story, Roxy learns that she’s got a stalker. She thinks it’s her ex, as he was a very controlling and hurtful type that left a lot of emotional scars on Roxy. The notes she’s finding are unsettling her, and making her get even more behind on her book. She turns to her sexy new neighbor for a little help since he is a police officer!
Since it’s been a long while since I last read a book from this series, I was excited to pay a quick visit while in between reads! I would seriously live in this town if it were a real place! I swear it was meant for me, and likely other readers like me! Paranormal reads have been my favorite ever since I picked up my first vampire novel all those years ago! I’ve never looked back since!
Perhaps my one complaint was that the mystery involving the stalker wasn’t as consuming as I had expected it to be. Roxy had a lot of downtime moments that were filled with things not related to the stalker issues. It was still an incredibly fun read, don’t get me wrong. I loved seeing Roxy working on her book, it’s even kind of got my own muse knocking at my head again as I’ve let my own WIP sitting in dust for far too long. Anywho, Roxy was definitely a character I could relate to. There were several instances where I felt like her reactions to this and that ringed true for a lot of people. She was a very lovable heroine!
I guess my other issue is more of a “me” thing and not understanding fully what rules are applied to the other non-vampire paranormals. When you read as many paranormal books as I do, a lot of “rules” don’t apply for everyone. I guess I just haven’t been in this world particular for a while, so I can’t remember the rules of shifters here and how things work for them. I realize I am being a little vague but I don’t want to mention my problem exactly as it’s sort of spoilery, but given the series to date, not so much when you think about it! Lol! Alas, I shall keep to my hedging. It’s a minor thing and since everyone was happy at the end, I guess what I thought was true, wasn’t. So mystery solved! Lol!
The Shifter Romances the Writer was definitely yet another winner in the Nocturne Falls series! I love this world soooo much! This is a series all paranormal readers ought to give a try! It’s so fun! It’s quirky, cute, and the romance is always so sweet! You can really pick up the series whenever you want to as the books tend to have new heroes and heroines each time, though the characters do all interact with one another. The only thing you will be spoiled for is the aftermath of the previous happy endings. For if you read the descriptions about the book, you pretty much know who ends up with who! This is always going to be one of my favorite series, so I highly recommend giving it a try! You’ll never want to leave Nocturne Falls if you do!
Overall Rating 5/5 stars
May 15, 2022
Hmmm. While this one was a bit of a miss for me, I still enjoyed it. There were parts I really liked and parts that kind of annoyed me. I adored Alex and thought he was amazing. Roxy on the other hand was a little harder to relate to. I think she overreacted just a little bit at one point and I may or may not have been rolling my eyes just a bit. But in the end, it all worked out.
Content: PG, mild language, mild innuendo, kisses.
Content: PG, mild language, mild innuendo, kisses.
May 30, 2025
Esperaba más
Se salva por la suegra
Se salva por la suegra
July 25, 2021
We get a break from the usual formula with this romance—or at least, the climatic fight scene doesn't feel particularly climatic. But I genuinely enjoyed this one for the first half. The poor life decisions and total lack of consequences in the second half just kept my eyes rolling.
Also, I think I might be a little hooked on Nocturne Falls at this point.
Also, I think I might be a little hooked on Nocturne Falls at this point.
February 23, 2017
This one did plunge into the 'oh no he lied to me -- never speak to me again' vein but got its footing fairly quickly after that.
March 8, 2017
The Shifter Romances the Writer is a story about a woman trying to start over after a messy divorce. She happens to move in next door to police officer and panther shifter, Alex, and pretty soon sparks are flying between them. Add in a stalker and you have a fantastic story. Light, fun and full of our favourite couples from past stories, this was another fantastic addition to this series.
May 18, 2016
Kristen Painter does it again. I seriously cannot get enough of these Nocturne Falls books. Most people that know me would recognize that when the word "Shifter" appears in the title I would usually avoid it like the plague but this is one series I will make an exception for (Kerrelyn Sparks series being the other one) and I am SO glad I read it.
As with all the Nocturne Falls stories this focuses on new characters and one of them is a romance writer! I love that there are obviously so many little inside nods to things in this installment whilst still giving you the full Nocturne Falls experience. I am always a fan of seeing the returning characters so having Delaney as the best friend gave lots of opportunities for those to pop up. Loved the nod to the spin off series (Hellllloooooo Greyson - I saw you in there) ... and a NEW Cajun vampire. Hmmmmmmm YES PLEASE!!!
Anyway existing fans will LOVE this and new fans could probably jump right in with this story as they are all complete in their own rights (no cliffhangers) but as book 1 is currently free - if you haven't started go back and enjoy the ride..
An Easy 5 stars from me. Now how can I get directions to this place?? V""V
As with all the Nocturne Falls stories this focuses on new characters and one of them is a romance writer! I love that there are obviously so many little inside nods to things in this installment whilst still giving you the full Nocturne Falls experience. I am always a fan of seeing the returning characters so having Delaney as the best friend gave lots of opportunities for those to pop up. Loved the nod to the spin off series (Hellllloooooo Greyson - I saw you in there) ... and a NEW Cajun vampire. Hmmmmmmm YES PLEASE!!!
Anyway existing fans will LOVE this and new fans could probably jump right in with this story as they are all complete in their own rights (no cliffhangers) but as book 1 is currently free - if you haven't started go back and enjoy the ride..
An Easy 5 stars from me. Now how can I get directions to this place?? V""V
December 2, 2022
Romance writer Roxy St. James has moved to Nocturne Falls, Georgia, at the behest of old college friend Delaney James Ellingham, to make a new start after an ugly divorce. She's attracted to her sexy next door neighbor (panther shifter/police officer Alex Cruz), but she's human and he's not. Humans aren't supposed to know about the supernatural side of Nocturne Falls... so what will happen when Roxy finds out?
Roxy and Alex are an adorable couple. I love her combination of energy and confidence with a little bit of uncertainty. It makes her seem like a real person. While Alex is like one of her paranormal characters come to life, their relationship is good and solid. Plus, Alex's mother is awesome, and there's a great female friendship between Delaney and Roxy. Great book.
Roxy and Alex are an adorable couple. I love her combination of energy and confidence with a little bit of uncertainty. It makes her seem like a real person. While Alex is like one of her paranormal characters come to life, their relationship is good and solid. Plus, Alex's mother is awesome, and there's a great female friendship between Delaney and Roxy. Great book.
February 18, 2022
What a fantastic world! I normally don't like to read books in a series out of order, but after finishing and enjoying book #1, I had to read any other one I could get my hands on, and it happened to be this one. Great characters, fun story, wonderful setting. A nice, cozy paranormal romance.
July 14, 2016
Slow
Love the series but this book is very slow. It took me forever to finish. I stopped twice and read two different books before I picked it back up.
Love the series but this book is very slow. It took me forever to finish. I stopped twice and read two different books before I picked it back up.
August 29, 2016
Continued fun
I am sorry to have this series end. All of the books were wonderfully entertaining and enjoyable to get to read.
I am sorry to have this series end. All of the books were wonderfully entertaining and enjoyable to get to read.
June 8, 2017
A Deputy's Delightful Duty!
Proxy St. James is a supernatural romance writer, who moves to Nocturne Falls to start over at the prompting of her friend Deleney Ellingham. Her first day in town she gets a ticket from Deputy Sheriff Alex Cruz which puts a bit of a damper on things. Add to that, the next morning, she finds out he is her next door neighbor. From that point on nothing goes anywhere near the way she intended when she bought her house. The stress of her divorce, an upcoming book deadline, and the strain of moving into what she believes is her dram home is bad enough. But after seeing a black panther in her neighbors yard, gills on the woman installing her fish tank and Deputy Cruz's eyes glowing she begins to wonder if she's about to finally tip over the edge of sanity. Whether it's all Illusions or Halucinations, Alex Cruz is the one person besides Delaleny she can trust. -Another one I had to read from start to finish -
Proxy St. James is a supernatural romance writer, who moves to Nocturne Falls to start over at the prompting of her friend Deleney Ellingham. Her first day in town she gets a ticket from Deputy Sheriff Alex Cruz which puts a bit of a damper on things. Add to that, the next morning, she finds out he is her next door neighbor. From that point on nothing goes anywhere near the way she intended when she bought her house. The stress of her divorce, an upcoming book deadline, and the strain of moving into what she believes is her dram home is bad enough. But after seeing a black panther in her neighbors yard, gills on the woman installing her fish tank and Deputy Cruz's eyes glowing she begins to wonder if she's about to finally tip over the edge of sanity. Whether it's all Illusions or Halucinations, Alex Cruz is the one person besides Delaleny she can trust. -Another one I had to read from start to finish -
May 27, 2025
4.5-4.75 Definitely one of my favorites in the series so far. I thoroughly enjoy the series and all of the supernatural characters, so I’ll admit to some bias and predisposition to the world of Nocturne Falls. But this one immediately gripped me. I truly adored the two main characters, Roxy and Alex. I appreciated that the majority of the trouble/angst/issues was from outside characters and not between the two MCs.
December 7, 2022
This is my little annual treat before christmas, and even if I didn't really get an emotional punch (or not as much as I hoped) it was sweet and cozy.
Who wouldn't like a panter shifter as a boyfriend? That serie is exactly what I need when I feel a little down.. and the reader J.B. Harrison is the perfect match. The audio version is way better than any reading experiance I could have had.
Who wouldn't like a panter shifter as a boyfriend? That serie is exactly what I need when I feel a little down.. and the reader J.B. Harrison is the perfect match. The audio version is way better than any reading experiance I could have had.
February 4, 2017
These are very much a standard, cutesy romance and will bring you no surprises, however, they are a nice light and easy read and if you follow the series you pretty much recognise the formula and get what you expect. Reliable and solid.
January 10, 2022
If I had to pick my favorite one from this series, I'd be in big trouble! I love them all! This one was super fun :)
August 4, 2018
kristen painter is becoming one of my favorite authors.
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