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Bewitched and Bewildered #8
My Defender
When a mysterious illness begins to sweep through Noctem Falls affecting the children, Eleanor Kimball is called to the city to see if she can determine what is wrong. As a pediatrician Eleanor loves children and desires many of her own, however, after several dating disasters she has not only sworn off men, but has given up her dream of a family, and the promise of a destined mate.
After discovering Grant in Noctem Falls she is faced with her own insecurities and finds it hard to believe in his love.
Grant Douglas is a man of few words and doesn’t do well surrounded by others. He is scared to death of finding a mate. He believes the harshness of his past, where he struggled to survive, didn’t cultivate a gentle heart. After a series of terrifying nightmares where his mate is at risk, Grant has decided he doesn’t want a mate at all.
When he meets Ellie, he realizes there are some things worth fighting for. Even if it means putting himself out there by becoming the Alpha he was born to be and facing the power he desperately tries to hide.
As Ellie starts to believe in Grant’s love it will take every ounce their combined strength to discover why the shifter children are suddenly falling ill before it’s too late.
After discovering Grant in Noctem Falls she is faced with her own insecurities and finds it hard to believe in his love.
Grant Douglas is a man of few words and doesn’t do well surrounded by others. He is scared to death of finding a mate. He believes the harshness of his past, where he struggled to survive, didn’t cultivate a gentle heart. After a series of terrifying nightmares where his mate is at risk, Grant has decided he doesn’t want a mate at all.
When he meets Ellie, he realizes there are some things worth fighting for. Even if it means putting himself out there by becoming the Alpha he was born to be and facing the power he desperately tries to hide.
As Ellie starts to believe in Grant’s love it will take every ounce their combined strength to discover why the shifter children are suddenly falling ill before it’s too late.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 25, 2017
280 people are currently reading
1227 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 316 reviews
May 30, 2023
4 Big bad wolf Stars
REREAD 5/30/23
I am starting to believe it's just the vampires in this series that I don't connect too. This book was about two shifters. Grant and Ellie and I enjoyed this book more than the last one. I also really loved Grant and Ellie as a couple, so yea Imma thinking it's just the vampires. Because lets be honest most of the vamps in this series are asshats. I am still enjoying the ongoing plot. I was really sad about the little girl dying and to be honest again I really wish that Aiden, Meryn and the that whole gang would just kick the shit out of the vampire royal families and call it a day. I am sick of the vampires being close minded, racists, backstabbing pos and I want Meryn's gang to clean house. Fuck the founding families, I am so sick of their shit and I need for them to get what's coming to them and really soon. Just sayin'!
REREAD 5/30/23
I am starting to believe it's just the vampires in this series that I don't connect too. This book was about two shifters. Grant and Ellie and I enjoyed this book more than the last one. I also really loved Grant and Ellie as a couple, so yea Imma thinking it's just the vampires. Because lets be honest most of the vamps in this series are asshats. I am still enjoying the ongoing plot. I was really sad about the little girl dying and to be honest again I really wish that Aiden, Meryn and the that whole gang would just kick the shit out of the vampire royal families and call it a day. I am sick of the vampires being close minded, racists, backstabbing pos and I want Meryn's gang to clean house. Fuck the founding families, I am so sick of their shit and I need for them to get what's coming to them and really soon. Just sayin'!
February 2, 2026
I took a little break from the series because I found Meryn's character sometimes overshadowing the entire story. It felt like the main characters in each book weren't getting enough attention, which was frustrating. But honestly, I started to miss the whole crew, so here I am, diving back in for more.
Just when Noctem Falls seems to be on the mend with a fragile truce among vampires, shifters, and fae, a strange illness begins to plague the children of the shifter community. This is particularly alarming since, aside from the usual injuries like broken bones or gunshot wounds, paranormals are typically immune to sickness. With healers lacking the expertise to tackle this unprecedented crisis, Prince Magnus realizes he needs to find someone who can uncover the truth behind this mysterious affliction.
Dr. Eleanor Kimball, a pediatrician and elephant shifter, is tired of being pigeonholed because of her appearance. Despite her curves, her medical and research abilities are top-notch, and her latest project promises to revolutionize pediatric care. However, her current employers want to hand her groundbreaking work to someone who fits their corporate mold better. The opportunity to move to Noctem Falls and continue her practice is just what she needs. Meanwhile, Grant Douglas, who feels like a monster after being cast out by his family, is trying to build a new life. But when he starts dreaming about his destined mate, he realizes he must decipher the meaning behind these visions before they come true.
I really enjoy Grant's personality; he's that strong, silent alpha type that just draws you in. Who wouldn't love having someone like him as a mate? His character adds a compelling dynamic to the story that keeps me hooked.
In this edition, the characters and the storyline have seen a big upgrade. The villain is more captivating, as there are just a few hints about the suspects and their reasoning.
This brings an exciting element of mystery that keeps the audience on their toes. Overall, the evolution of both the characters and the plot boosts the experience, making it a more enjoyable read.
Goodness, the mischief Meryn gets into sometimes ……….. Yeah, I know, I said that at the start of my
July 5, 2017
Much better than the previous book, maybe even 3.5 stars good.
Ellie, an elephant shifter and pediatrician is called to Noctem Falls to help with the sudden epidemic of sick shifter kids. It's new territory for everyone as who knew shifters got sick. She arrives with her grandmother and discovers her mate, Grant, a wolf shifter. Inconvenient timing as she has sick kids to cure and I liked that the mate thing was sidelined in favor of her doing her job and helping the kids. I'd have hated if they went all "must claim you now" nonsense.
All the previous characters appear again, but thankfully in a reasonable way and Meryn doesn't take over the book like she did in the previous installment. I enjoyed seeing Kendrick again and the deluded male antics Aidan's unit got up to.
The characters and plot were much better in this and I like that it's not simply concluded, this will take up the next book as well. I think this is a better done villain or evil as they have very little to go on as to suspects and how it was done.
Next book is looking like it'll be Etain's. Where's Keelan's book?
Ellie, an elephant shifter and pediatrician is called to Noctem Falls to help with the sudden epidemic of sick shifter kids. It's new territory for everyone as who knew shifters got sick. She arrives with her grandmother and discovers her mate, Grant, a wolf shifter. Inconvenient timing as she has sick kids to cure and I liked that the mate thing was sidelined in favor of her doing her job and helping the kids. I'd have hated if they went all "must claim you now" nonsense.
All the previous characters appear again, but thankfully in a reasonable way and Meryn doesn't take over the book like she did in the previous installment. I enjoyed seeing Kendrick again and the deluded male antics Aidan's unit got up to.
The characters and plot were much better in this and I like that it's not simply concluded, this will take up the next book as well. I think this is a better done villain or evil as they have very little to go on as to suspects and how it was done.
Next book is looking like it'll be Etain's. Where's Keelan's book?
May 19, 2017
I loved it! One of my favorites of the series! I adore Grant- he is such a sweetheart! He knits! Elly is great too- she is sweet and smart! Their mating is very sweet and I really loved that Grant didn't seem at all like he has been sleeping around like a slut for centuries. It is very off putting to me to read about the H being a manwhore when he knows he has a mate out there. It ruins the love story for me. That is the reason I didn't enjoy Darian and Amelia's book and skipped Declan's book altogether. I hope the next book is as good as this one!
May 8, 2017
4.5 Stars
Argh, can't believe GR decided to glitch my review and I have to rewrite it... Oh well, this book is worth it, so...
I already loved this series, but this story really had the most PERFECT H of the series so far, that completely stole my heart and was the reason for most of the rating. So gruff and tormented, silence and broody, but revealed to be a HUGE softie in the inside. True heart of gold, wounded soul with a hidden and incredibly sweet core, but still every bit of ALPHA! I adored him!
Of course we had the usual humorous, steamy, loving, and suspense moments Alanea hooked us on, I just wish that the subplot was a bit more resolved in this one. So beware, because although the books portray different couples, there's always a back story that connects them all. I just thought this one had a bigger cliffy on that are than the rest, hence the half star decrease. Don't get me wrong tho, the WHOLE series is more than worth it, so just read the all eight books so far. I promise you won't regret it! <3
Argh, can't believe GR decided to glitch my review and I have to rewrite it... Oh well, this book is worth it, so...
I already loved this series, but this story really had the most PERFECT H of the series so far, that completely stole my heart and was the reason for most of the rating. So gruff and tormented, silence and broody, but revealed to be a HUGE softie in the inside. True heart of gold, wounded soul with a hidden and incredibly sweet core, but still every bit of ALPHA! I adored him!
Of course we had the usual humorous, steamy, loving, and suspense moments Alanea hooked us on, I just wish that the subplot was a bit more resolved in this one. So beware, because although the books portray different couples, there's always a back story that connects them all. I just thought this one had a bigger cliffy on that are than the rest, hence the half star decrease. Don't get me wrong tho, the WHOLE series is more than worth it, so just read the all eight books so far. I promise you won't regret it! <3
September 12, 2019
YES! This novel gets the series back on track for this reader!
Grant is the ultimate alpha. Loved his backstory full of trials and over coming those trials. This MC is dominate, intelligent, and has a huge heart. This storyline was perfect for the MC.
Ellie was quite a different FMC for me. I have an issue with odd shifters....she is an elephant shifter and for some reason my little mind just does not except some shifters like elephants, rabbits, ferrets, bats, etc.... *shrugs* Now a positive about Ellie is she exhibited some issues so many struggle with which is being body positive. This aspect of Ellie dealing with and overcoming I did enjoy reading.
Storyline picked back up for me! The last two reads were not what I have come to expect from Alder, but this one got right back up to speed.
Looking forward to book 9!
Happy Reading! DD
Grant is the ultimate alpha. Loved his backstory full of trials and over coming those trials. This MC is dominate, intelligent, and has a huge heart. This storyline was perfect for the MC.
Ellie was quite a different FMC for me. I have an issue with odd shifters....she is an elephant shifter and for some reason my little mind just does not except some shifters like elephants, rabbits, ferrets, bats, etc.... *shrugs* Now a positive about Ellie is she exhibited some issues so many struggle with which is being body positive. This aspect of Ellie dealing with and overcoming I did enjoy reading.
Storyline picked back up for me! The last two reads were not what I have come to expect from Alder, but this one got right back up to speed.
Looking forward to book 9!
Happy Reading! DD
Read
January 18, 2018I am not feeling this one:(.......dnf at 100 pages.
May 21, 2017
I was very disappointed with the plot not being resolved. The whole book seemed like the first half of a whole book in this world.
Read
October 31, 2020E noldu şimdi? Ortada bir sorun, bir olay var. Sebebini de sona doğru öğrendiler ama sonuç? Çözüm? Sanırım sonraki kitaba kaldı her şey. Ah bir de Elizabeth olayı var. Bu kadar sakarlığın bir sebebi olmalı diye yedim bitirdim kendimi. Sonunda bir şeyler fark ettiler. Ama onun çözümü de askıya alındı. Ay bu seri olayı çok değişik. Bir konu varsa karakterin kendi hikayesinde çözün annem. Böyle uzatmalar hiç hoş değil 🙄
Bu kitapta doktor kızımız Ellie ve kurt shifter Grant'ın hikayesini okuyoruz. Noctem Fallsda hiç görülmemiş bir şeyler oluyor. Shifter çocuklar hasta, huysuz ve saldırgan. Paranormal ırklar hiç hastalanmaz 😱 Bu yüzden bu alanda daha yetkin olan çocuk doktoru Ellie'yi çağırırlar. Ve bilin bakalım bu kızçe kimin eşi 😂 Grant'ın ♥️ Grant sessiz, sakin kendi halinde biri. Sonradan öğreniyoruz ki bunun da sebepleri var. En başta okumayı hatta konuşmayı bile çok çok sonra öğrenmesi . Dahil olduğu kurt sürüsünden babası tarafından çocuk yaşta kovulur. Hayatına uzun bir süre gerçek kurtlarla devam eder. Yolu Noctem Fallsa düştüğünde konuşmaması kadar doğal bir şey yok. Hoş bunu anlayan da olmamış ya neyse 😂
Ellie artan hasta sayısıyla başa çıkamayınca devreye Rheia, Anne doğal olarak da eşleri Kendrick ve Connor girer. Ah Kendrick çok fenasın😂 Adamlara eşlerini daha iyi anlasın , eğer ihtiyaç olursa yardım edebilsinler diye sezeryanla doğum videosu izletti. Adamlar pert.😂 Sonra çocuk istemiyorum 😱 Karımı doğruyorlar😱 Hayır olamaz😱
Son iki kitaptır yabaniler yine etkinler ama daha çok kadın karakterlerin geçmişlerindeki kişiler düşman olarak ortaya çıkıyor. Ben hala düşman kim amaç ne çözemedim 🙄 Bu gittikçe sinir bozucu olmaya başladı.
Ellie biraz özgüvensiz. Vücudu konusunda çok fazla yargılanıyor. Bu yüzden de Grant ile bir ilişki içinde olmakla ilgili çekinceleri var. Bir de soylu kesimi var. Şehrimize hastalık getirenleri istemiyoruz diye ayaklanıyorlar. Olaylar olaylar. Biraz komik, saçma, sinir bozucuydu ama yine de okudum işte 😂
Bu kitapta doktor kızımız Ellie ve kurt shifter Grant'ın hikayesini okuyoruz. Noctem Fallsda hiç görülmemiş bir şeyler oluyor. Shifter çocuklar hasta, huysuz ve saldırgan. Paranormal ırklar hiç hastalanmaz 😱 Bu yüzden bu alanda daha yetkin olan çocuk doktoru Ellie'yi çağırırlar. Ve bilin bakalım bu kızçe kimin eşi 😂 Grant'ın ♥️ Grant sessiz, sakin kendi halinde biri. Sonradan öğreniyoruz ki bunun da sebepleri var. En başta okumayı hatta konuşmayı bile çok çok sonra öğrenmesi . Dahil olduğu kurt sürüsünden babası tarafından çocuk yaşta kovulur. Hayatına uzun bir süre gerçek kurtlarla devam eder. Yolu Noctem Fallsa düştüğünde konuşmaması kadar doğal bir şey yok. Hoş bunu anlayan da olmamış ya neyse 😂
Ellie artan hasta sayısıyla başa çıkamayınca devreye Rheia, Anne doğal olarak da eşleri Kendrick ve Connor girer. Ah Kendrick çok fenasın😂 Adamlara eşlerini daha iyi anlasın , eğer ihtiyaç olursa yardım edebilsinler diye sezeryanla doğum videosu izletti. Adamlar pert.😂 Sonra çocuk istemiyorum 😱 Karımı doğruyorlar😱 Hayır olamaz😱
Son iki kitaptır yabaniler yine etkinler ama daha çok kadın karakterlerin geçmişlerindeki kişiler düşman olarak ortaya çıkıyor. Ben hala düşman kim amaç ne çözemedim 🙄 Bu gittikçe sinir bozucu olmaya başladı.
Ellie biraz özgüvensiz. Vücudu konusunda çok fazla yargılanıyor. Bu yüzden de Grant ile bir ilişki içinde olmakla ilgili çekinceleri var. Bir de soylu kesimi var. Şehrimize hastalık getirenleri istemiyoruz diye ayaklanıyorlar. Olaylar olaylar. Biraz komik, saçma, sinir bozucuydu ama yine de okudum işte 😂
December 18, 2024
I need it now. Oh my gods! This book was great and famously written again. I had a feeling if was going to be the director at the hospital as the bad guy and it turned out it was. Meryn is still my favorite within the story and I love the part when Aiden has his men and they were watching something fucking funny as hell. It was touching at the end of the book. I can't wait for the next book to see Etain mate and who she is. Maybe she a human too many paranormal mates within Noctem Falls.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2017
Just when things start looking up for Noctem Falls with the vampires, shifters, and fae agreeing to a truce of sorts, a mysterious vague illness starts affecting the children of the shifter population. Impossible, as with the exception of broken bones, shootings, and blade related injuries, paranormals never get sick. Treatment is limited as the healers don't have the knowledge or skills to deal with this new crisis which is why Prince Magnus needs to recruit someone able to figure out what's really going on.
Dr Eleanor Kimball, pediatrician, is done with being stereotyped. As an elephant shifter she may have a few extra curves but that doesn't mean her medical or research skills are lacking in any way. As a renowned clinical practitioner her latest research has life changing potential for children once completed. The problem is her employers want to turn her research over to someone who better identifies with their corporate image. The offer to relocate and practice at Noctem Falls is just what the doctor ordered.
Grant Douglas knows he's a monster. Why else would his family kick him out. Making a new life in Noctem Falls he's content until he starts to dream about his future mate though it always ends the same. When that same mate arrives, the clock starts ticking for him to solve the meaning behind his nightmares before it becomes a reality.
* * * * *
Everyone has their favorite author. This author happens to be one of my top three. I don't say that lightly because there are a lot of talented authors who bring me endless hours, days, weeks, years of happiness yet I'm at my happiest when I get to grab one of Ms. Alder's.
As I've said in other reviews for this series, each installment builds off previous works so not a good idea to think you can read this as an independent stand alone. The recurring cast of characters make it all but impossible to appreciate the overall story line otherwise. Also, the author throws in periodic Easter eggs that only fans of the series will pick up to appreciate.
This is a contemporary paranormal urban fantasy romance that I feel is the best of series to date. How the author was able to pack SO much into 193 pages (per my kindle tracking) without overloading the story with confusion, disjointed scenes, or incomplete details was awesome. Open jaw moment when I realized I had missed a key plot factoid until it was in my face revealed in a climatic end scene. That doesn't happen very often so pardon me while I pout for a while over that.
Grant & Ellie have baggage issues to work through though with the insta-love premise it's much easier to work through to get to the good stuff. It does help that a diverse secondary cast of characters "help" though with Meryn in the mix trouble follows. The result is a roller coaster of emotions as I would turn from laugh to cry to unease to Sherlock Holmes sleuth back to laugh, cry, unease, repeat, repeat. I've also been enriched with quality Meryn idioms and insider cultural hacks that will impress friends and family. Non spoiler example: Leroy Jenkins.
There is no way I can leave out a vague mention of my ultimate favorite scene of the book. In early series installments, hands down favorite highlight of a story happened when Aiden's crew went shopping. Those who have followed the series know what I'm talking about. There was something magical and down right hilarious when the guys went shopping. With the change of locals, that opportunity is off the table but the author did provide an equally entertaining scene that I'd liken to getting stuffed on Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings. Forever more I'll be laughing when memories of that scene are triggered.
The only real problem I have is that the series isn't moving along fast enough. The secondary cast of characters is pretty long which leaves a lot of opportunity for individual installments BUT it also is aggravating because there are so many I want, need to have their own HEA. There are obvious characters such as Etain, Avery, Merrick, Emeric, Magnus, Ryuu, Keelan, Micha, Sasha, Sebastian, etc but now I'm adding Grayson, Marjoram and Nathaniel. ps. I think Sebastian & Marjoram would be a cute couple, hint hint wink wink. Bottom line here is there are so many characters in the wings that I am really getting frustrated. If only Meryn 2.0 would make an appearance already.
Personally, if someone was to recommend I check out this series I'd fall down in homage because the series is that good. Personally I can't think of a more charismatic central series character than Meryn who draws me in with her ongoing path of destruction wherever she goes nonetheless leaving loyal friends and family who would do anything for her. If this is the sort of writing style and genre that interests you, I'm saying: check it out.
Dr Eleanor Kimball, pediatrician, is done with being stereotyped. As an elephant shifter she may have a few extra curves but that doesn't mean her medical or research skills are lacking in any way. As a renowned clinical practitioner her latest research has life changing potential for children once completed. The problem is her employers want to turn her research over to someone who better identifies with their corporate image. The offer to relocate and practice at Noctem Falls is just what the doctor ordered.
Grant Douglas knows he's a monster. Why else would his family kick him out. Making a new life in Noctem Falls he's content until he starts to dream about his future mate though it always ends the same. When that same mate arrives, the clock starts ticking for him to solve the meaning behind his nightmares before it becomes a reality.
* * * * *
Everyone has their favorite author. This author happens to be one of my top three. I don't say that lightly because there are a lot of talented authors who bring me endless hours, days, weeks, years of happiness yet I'm at my happiest when I get to grab one of Ms. Alder's.
As I've said in other reviews for this series, each installment builds off previous works so not a good idea to think you can read this as an independent stand alone. The recurring cast of characters make it all but impossible to appreciate the overall story line otherwise. Also, the author throws in periodic Easter eggs that only fans of the series will pick up to appreciate.
This is a contemporary paranormal urban fantasy romance that I feel is the best of series to date. How the author was able to pack SO much into 193 pages (per my kindle tracking) without overloading the story with confusion, disjointed scenes, or incomplete details was awesome. Open jaw moment when I realized I had missed a key plot factoid until it was in my face revealed in a climatic end scene. That doesn't happen very often so pardon me while I pout for a while over that.
Grant & Ellie have baggage issues to work through though with the insta-love premise it's much easier to work through to get to the good stuff. It does help that a diverse secondary cast of characters "help" though with Meryn in the mix trouble follows. The result is a roller coaster of emotions as I would turn from laugh to cry to unease to Sherlock Holmes sleuth back to laugh, cry, unease, repeat, repeat. I've also been enriched with quality Meryn idioms and insider cultural hacks that will impress friends and family. Non spoiler example: Leroy Jenkins.
There is no way I can leave out a vague mention of my ultimate favorite scene of the book. In early series installments, hands down favorite highlight of a story happened when Aiden's crew went shopping. Those who have followed the series know what I'm talking about. There was something magical and down right hilarious when the guys went shopping. With the change of locals, that opportunity is off the table but the author did provide an equally entertaining scene that I'd liken to getting stuffed on Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings. Forever more I'll be laughing when memories of that scene are triggered.
The only real problem I have is that the series isn't moving along fast enough. The secondary cast of characters is pretty long which leaves a lot of opportunity for individual installments BUT it also is aggravating because there are so many I want, need to have their own HEA. There are obvious characters such as Etain, Avery, Merrick, Emeric, Magnus, Ryuu, Keelan, Micha, Sasha, Sebastian, etc but now I'm adding Grayson, Marjoram and Nathaniel. ps. I think Sebastian & Marjoram would be a cute couple, hint hint wink wink. Bottom line here is there are so many characters in the wings that I am really getting frustrated. If only Meryn 2.0 would make an appearance already.
Personally, if someone was to recommend I check out this series I'd fall down in homage because the series is that good. Personally I can't think of a more charismatic central series character than Meryn who draws me in with her ongoing path of destruction wherever she goes nonetheless leaving loyal friends and family who would do anything for her. If this is the sort of writing style and genre that interests you, I'm saying: check it out.
May 8, 2021
Sweet love story. Grant and Ellie are so sweet. Plot thickens and is moving too slow. I really enjoyed the story except the feral’s from the past keep showing up with no rhyme or reason. If it wasn’t for the Lyconia crowd, I probably would have moved on. Extra star for the lunch after the video from the female expert. Hilarious!
April 26, 2017
I really like this one, but a couple issues with it had me dropping it back to just "liked".
First, the good stuff. The funny is solidly back. Alder always puts her characters in awkward situations and the comedy just flows from there. Grant was sexy and awesome. Meryn was back to form and delightful, though she does still skew a bit too young.
The problems I had were with plot, pacing and the heroine. I actually liked Ellie and thought she was sweet. I'm sure the name and animal choice were deliberate, but as a curvy gal myself I didn't appreciate it. The point could have easily been made with just the tunnel escort. Seriously, Ellie the curvy girl is an elephant?
The plot arc is never resolved, and that's getting to be a habit for this series. Alder piles on more and more mysteries surrounding the over reaching arc, without resolving or seemingly getting any closer to a solution. More questions are brought up than answered. For example: . So basically all the main plot points in the book, aside from the central romance. And lastly, the inclusion of the bad guy at the end seemed shoehorned to make Ellie have a chance to kick a little ass, but little else.
But, as I've said before, make me laugh and I'll forgive a lot of things. And with this installment, Alder is back to her mastery of humor. Even if it still surrounds a plot hole. (You've been living side-by-side with humans for centuries and you know next to nothing about them? You have a mother and sisters and are surrounded by women but know nothing about the female body except how to make it sing?) I really don't care that it doesn't make sense, because it's damn funny.
First, the good stuff. The funny is solidly back. Alder always puts her characters in awkward situations and the comedy just flows from there. Grant was sexy and awesome. Meryn was back to form and delightful, though she does still skew a bit too young.
The problems I had were with plot, pacing and the heroine. I actually liked Ellie and thought she was sweet. I'm sure the name and animal choice were deliberate, but as a curvy gal myself I didn't appreciate it. The point could have easily been made with just the tunnel escort. Seriously, Ellie the curvy girl is an elephant?
The plot arc is never resolved, and that's getting to be a habit for this series. Alder piles on more and more mysteries surrounding the over reaching arc, without resolving or seemingly getting any closer to a solution. More questions are brought up than answered. For example: . So basically all the main plot points in the book, aside from the central romance. And lastly, the inclusion of the bad guy at the end seemed shoehorned to make Ellie have a chance to kick a little ass, but little else.
But, as I've said before, make me laugh and I'll forgive a lot of things. And with this installment, Alder is back to her mastery of humor. Even if it still surrounds a plot hole. (You've been living side-by-side with humans for centuries and you know next to nothing about them? You have a mother and sisters and are surrounded by women but know nothing about the female body except how to make it sing?) I really don't care that it doesn't make sense, because it's damn funny.
May 22, 2017
Elephant shifter Eleanor Kimball has had enough of her job, she is completely disrespected even when she is on he cutting edge of science. As if a much needed miracle happens, Ellie is asked to go to Noctem Falls where children are falling ill all of the sudden. Ellie had given up finding her mate but it is on first day there that she meets Grant Douglas.
Grant has a past that he keeps closely guarded, he is a quiet man and when he finds out Ellie is his mate he is not sure what to do. Grant wants Ellie but he is used to being alone, can Ellie accept him for who he is?
Another great read in the Bewitched and Bewildered series. Ellie is sweet and so protective of Grant from the beginning. I liked Grant's back story it was a bit of a surprise. Had all the favorites and one great part of the book about childbirth that had me laughing out loud. Can't wait for the next book.
Grant has a past that he keeps closely guarded, he is a quiet man and when he finds out Ellie is his mate he is not sure what to do. Grant wants Ellie but he is used to being alone, can Ellie accept him for who he is?
Another great read in the Bewitched and Bewildered series. Ellie is sweet and so protective of Grant from the beginning. I liked Grant's back story it was a bit of a surprise. Had all the favorites and one great part of the book about childbirth that had me laughing out loud. Can't wait for the next book.
April 24, 2017
By far the best series I have ever read and this book is the best. Laughter, tears, tantrums and an anxious wait for the next one... I received this book at 12.14am and finished at 4am (I'm a fast reader) then went back and reread twice before sleep. I don't want to give anything away but I will say for those familiar with Kendrick and Meryn thier antics just get better and better. With some new visitors to noctem falls and a totally heart wrenchingly beautiful story with two new awesome mates who find one another amid chaos. This is not one to be missed. If you haven't read the series it's a must. I have not had a single person I have recommended it to regret the loss of sleep or the time apent reading. Warning you will want to binge them all in one sitting.
January 30, 2025
Born to protect
Who doesn’t love a strong, silent, alpha male? Grant is one of my favorites in the Eta unit. He is just a quiet force, silently there when you need him. He found the perfect mate in Ellie, who is a phenomenal doctor and born to be a mother. The way they find themselves, each other and their HEA is full of surprises and love. But would we want it any other way? I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
Who doesn’t love a strong, silent, alpha male? Grant is one of my favorites in the Eta unit. He is just a quiet force, silently there when you need him. He found the perfect mate in Ellie, who is a phenomenal doctor and born to be a mother. The way they find themselves, each other and their HEA is full of surprises and love. But would we want it any other way? I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
June 30, 2017
3.5 stars
I had some issues with this book; not much stuff got resolved from the previous books, didn't like that the h was so self-conscious about her weight, the H was at times almost too sweet for my taste, so many characters man-mind boggling LOL, I wish the humor was the same as it was in books from 1-5. Loved the children. I enjoyed it.
I had some issues with this book; not much stuff got resolved from the previous books, didn't like that the h was so self-conscious about her weight, the H was at times almost too sweet for my taste, so many characters man-mind boggling LOL, I wish the humor was the same as it was in books from 1-5. Loved the children. I enjoyed it.
December 7, 2017
I'm sorry I can't gush and fawn over this--- the fact that it took me 2 days to just get it done, is not a good sign. Mostly these are one sitting Gobble fests. Don't get me wrong: previous B&B books have set me up to a higher expectation. Yes, there was a helluva emotional kick in the middle, but the overall plot was not really pushed forward. I get that part of the deal of a series is to get the reader to invest onto the next one, to keep that emotional, "ohmigod what happens next?," vibe but it wasn't quite there for me. Yes, there was the humour, and yeah, in lieu of going to the grocery store, there was the "video scene", all well and good but dammit, there's something not quite right when at various points in the book where the author hints, suggests, infers, slyly winks at a obvious CLUES, that the reader either says, "ok, I'm in for more" or "to heck with this, let me know when the end of the series books come out so I can wrap this up". I'm waiting until she wraps it up. ( heavy sarcasm here) There are bad things afoot, something is evil and yes, it's all connected oooooooooh. Oh! Yeah..... the worlds most boring couple are the focus: he is big bad but a teddy bear and doesn't want the power, she's self conscious but finds a last minute reserve to handle the bad guy. Whatever. Solve the damn problem that was the main part of the book and we can talk. Have the hero with an actual resolution. Sigh, disappointing considering how much more engaging all the other books have been.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 3, 2017
I must say I really loved the whole series till now, but the last 3 books were dissapointing.
The main story doesn't progress, at all there are no new conclusions or discoveries like there were in the first books. The characters are at a standstill, they don't develope. And then came the elephant shifter, that is chubby like her animal. Why isn't Elsibeth small like a rabbit then? I really didn't like the comments about weight. And how the males reactet to the birth video was just awful, I mean they are houndreds of years old and react like teenagers.
On the plus side we see some old characters again and I really liked that, the humor is still there and emotions are owerflowing. That is the only reason i will keep reading this series. But its getting too crowded in my brain with so many names and it is obvious they will have to call many people into the city to get all the mates there.
The main story doesn't progress, at all there are no new conclusions or discoveries like there were in the first books. The characters are at a standstill, they don't develope. And then came the elephant shifter, that is chubby like her animal. Why isn't Elsibeth small like a rabbit then? I really didn't like the comments about weight. And how the males reactet to the birth video was just awful, I mean they are houndreds of years old and react like teenagers.
On the plus side we see some old characters again and I really liked that, the humor is still there and emotions are owerflowing. That is the only reason i will keep reading this series. But its getting too crowded in my brain with so many names and it is obvious they will have to call many people into the city to get all the mates there.
April 25, 2017
Another fantastic book!
This series just keeps getting better! Grant and Ellie are so cute together. Although their are darker parts in this story that broke my heart it had the laugh out loud parts as well. I love how Alanea Alder gives me everything that a book should have. I have recommended this series multiple times and will continue to do so.
This series just keeps getting better! Grant and Ellie are so cute together. Although their are darker parts in this story that broke my heart it had the laugh out loud parts as well. I love how Alanea Alder gives me everything that a book should have. I have recommended this series multiple times and will continue to do so.
April 27, 2017
Alanea Alder hit it out of the ballpark again! I so love this series and this one did not disappoint. This is the story of Ellie and Grant, a mysterious illness, a dash of espionage and a whole lot of Meryn- isms. I even learned a few New geek phrases. I hope this series never ends, or at least lasts a long time.
January 25, 2022
Oh! Genious. It had me laughing out Loud at Meryns shenanigans 😂
She helped deal with the saddest parts of the books. I hope to see more of benji and penny in the future. These kids are delightfully adorable.
She helped deal with the saddest parts of the books. I hope to see more of benji and penny in the future. These kids are delightfully adorable.
June 6, 2017
⚠️ Warning:
Tears will be spilt while reading this book. I recommend continuing, but suggest you grab the tissue box. Thank you for you understanding.
Rating - 4 1/2 ✰
One Word Rec.: Buy
Alder, Alanea; MY DEFENDER [Bewitched & Bewildered, #8]
Ebook; genre: {paranormal romance} ; shelves: |rating: 4* - Great Book, will re-read more than once or twice = when released in theater|
|author: Alanea Alder |
|paranormal, shifters: bear, canine, feline, other|
|paranormal, magic: witches |
|paranormal, vampires|
|paranormal, fae |
|humorous read|
|fan/geek references|
Personally, I don't enjoy giving "SPOILERS" as a rule, so I believe the general synopsis above or on the book flap if it's a hard copy should give you all the information you need. I do include the basics under synopsis though. If you'd like to know my overall thoughts & feelings about the book or author, please check the "Personal Opinion" section. Also, if this is a book in a series, under "Characters," you'll most likely find a fu-bo list. While reading, authors tend to introduce us to numerous characters and I find I wonder if they will get their own book, so I decided to include this in my review. I will try not to include "SPOILERS" if there are any. And now to my review:
General Synopsis:
This is the eighth book in Alanea Alder's [Bewitched and Bewildered] series, focusing on the romance between Dr. Eleanor "Ellie" Kimball, an elephant shifter (and how cool is THAT?! I think this is my first time reading a book with an elephant shifter. Woo-hoo!) and Grant Douglas, a wolf shifter, who has more than one secret! So for that reason alone, you have to read the book. Muh-ha-haha. We meet a few new people, including an adorable little rascal that will steal everyone's heart. And on that note, old friends from Lycaonia pay a visit, so now in Noctem Falls, I have Law . . . and Kendrick . . . together. . . Fangirling has commenced. Returning to Earth might not be possible in the future!
Characters/Fu-bo:
Noctem Falls
Ryuu (I keep hoping he finds a mate)
Magnus
Etain Vi'Aerlin, My Angel (NRY)
Micah Sageson
Neil & Nigel Mourningly
Dimitri Romanov (Theta)
Godard Kipling (Kappa)
Leif Garfield
Travis Hickory
Stefan Bolivar
Cristo Bolivar (member of the Vanguard series)
Law Ashleigh
Rex Lionhearted
Emeric Foret
Gidan Campbell
Idris Li'Mierlen
Vivian Mercy, My Angel?
Grayson Fenrirson (I'm thinking this might be an offshoot series.)
Previous books
Aidan & Meryn, My Commander
Gavriel & Beth, My Protector
Colton & Rheia, My Healer
Darian & Amelia, My Savior
Kendrick & Anne, My Brother's Keeper
Adriel & Eva Mae, My Guardian
Declan & Kari, My Champion
Warrick & Avery, My Champion
Back in Lycoania . . . and still waiting for a possible book in the future
Keelan
Adam
Adair
Ben
Sascha
Lennox (yes, I know he's only "just an adult" in paranormal years, but …)
Jaxon (same as above)
Personal Opinion:
Where to start . . . oh yeah, right here: THIS IS ME. DO NOT JUDGE PLEASE
But before I go into Law & Kendrick overload, I'd like to comment on a few things. . .
At the beginning of my review on here, I posted a warning, and if you took the time to read the actual synopsis of the book provided by goodreads, you will be aware an illness has infected the children of Noctem Falls. I read Fated Healing Kindred of Arkadia 5 previously, so I thought "hey, I won't fall apart this time, because I know what can happen. I'm prepared." Sadly, I was wrong. Since reading this when it first came out, and now again to refresh my memory so I can write this review, again I couldn't stop crying and this time, I knew exactly what was going to happen. *sigh* I can only suggest you grab the tissues.
The sadness is brief, so you won't be overwhelmed by it throughout the book. Plus, how could there be, when Meryn is there? "THIS! IS! SPARTA!". Every time she says that, I laugh. And then I think, maybe I should watch "300" again. *shakes head, while laughing* My favorite quote from Meryn in this book is, "Don't touch dead bodies! Stop kicking tunnel escorts in the balls! Stop being a lesbian on Facebook! Why can't I have any fun?" she demanded. OMG, I cannot understand how people cannot love Meryn, she is so spunky and honestly blunt.
Before I get to Kendrick, can I just again reiterate: this book has an elephant shifter. I have never read about an elephant shifter before. I have read a whole lot of shifter books, but I swear, I believe this is my first. If, fellow readers, you have read other books re: elephant shifters please send me a comment or message if you recommend them. And now . . .
Kendrick! *:ﾟ*｡⋆ฺ(*´◡`) So, back in my review of My Brother's Keeper, I mentioned Kendrick decided to repay the favor from when Aiden & co. took him to the Duck In. This, and only click on the spoiler link if you truly want to know, says it all: ✧ꉂ(σ▰˃̶̀ꇴ˂̶́)σ✧ I couldn't stop laughing. There were even tears. And then, they sat down to lunch. . *wipes away tears*
I have a feeling things are going to get even more interesting in Noctem Falls. There are a number of new threads woven in through the story, which make me so excited as I await to see them explored.
I leave you now with a quote, one I think sums up not only this book, but something I feel every time I pick up a book by Alanea Alder:
"They were chaotic and nuts and rowdy, but within him his wolf settled down and laid his head on his paws. With one eye open, he watched over his family, and for the first time in his life, Grant felt like he had found his way home."
Tears will be spilt while reading this book. I recommend continuing, but suggest you grab the tissue box. Thank you for you understanding.
Rating - 4 1/2 ✰
One Word Rec.: Buy
Alder, Alanea; MY DEFENDER [Bewitched & Bewildered, #8]
Ebook; genre: {paranormal romance} ; shelves: |rating: 4* - Great Book, will re-read more than once or twice = when released in theater|
|author: Alanea Alder |
|paranormal, shifters: bear, canine, feline, other|
|paranormal, magic: witches |
|paranormal, vampires|
|paranormal, fae |
|humorous read|
|fan/geek references|
Personally, I don't enjoy giving "SPOILERS" as a rule, so I believe the general synopsis above or on the book flap if it's a hard copy should give you all the information you need. I do include the basics under synopsis though. If you'd like to know my overall thoughts & feelings about the book or author, please check the "Personal Opinion" section. Also, if this is a book in a series, under "Characters," you'll most likely find a fu-bo list. While reading, authors tend to introduce us to numerous characters and I find I wonder if they will get their own book, so I decided to include this in my review. I will try not to include "SPOILERS" if there are any. And now to my review:
General Synopsis:
This is the eighth book in Alanea Alder's [Bewitched and Bewildered] series, focusing on the romance between Dr. Eleanor "Ellie" Kimball, an elephant shifter (and how cool is THAT?! I think this is my first time reading a book with an elephant shifter. Woo-hoo!) and Grant Douglas, a wolf shifter, who has more than one secret! So for that reason alone, you have to read the book. Muh-ha-haha. We meet a few new people, including an adorable little rascal that will steal everyone's heart. And on that note, old friends from Lycaonia pay a visit, so now in Noctem Falls, I have Law . . . and Kendrick . . . together. . . Fangirling has commenced. Returning to Earth might not be possible in the future!
Characters/Fu-bo:
Noctem Falls
Ryuu (I keep hoping he finds a mate)
Magnus
Etain Vi'Aerlin, My Angel (NRY)
Micah Sageson
Neil & Nigel Mourningly
Dimitri Romanov (Theta)
Godard Kipling (Kappa)
Leif Garfield
Travis Hickory
Stefan Bolivar
Cristo Bolivar (member of the Vanguard series)
Law Ashleigh
Rex Lionhearted
Emeric Foret
Gidan Campbell
Idris Li'Mierlen
Vivian Mercy, My Angel?
Grayson Fenrirson (I'm thinking this might be an offshoot series.)
Previous books
Aidan & Meryn, My Commander
Gavriel & Beth, My Protector
Colton & Rheia, My Healer
Darian & Amelia, My Savior
Kendrick & Anne, My Brother's Keeper
Adriel & Eva Mae, My Guardian
Declan & Kari, My Champion
Warrick & Avery, My Champion
Back in Lycoania . . . and still waiting for a possible book in the future
Keelan
Adam
Adair
Ben
Sascha
Lennox (yes, I know he's only "just an adult" in paranormal years, but …)
Jaxon (same as above)
Personal Opinion:
Where to start . . . oh yeah, right here: THIS IS ME. DO NOT JUDGE PLEASE
But before I go into Law & Kendrick overload, I'd like to comment on a few things. . .
At the beginning of my review on here, I posted a warning, and if you took the time to read the actual synopsis of the book provided by goodreads, you will be aware an illness has infected the children of Noctem Falls. I read Fated Healing Kindred of Arkadia 5 previously, so I thought "hey, I won't fall apart this time, because I know what can happen. I'm prepared." Sadly, I was wrong. Since reading this when it first came out, and now again to refresh my memory so I can write this review, again I couldn't stop crying and this time, I knew exactly what was going to happen. *sigh* I can only suggest you grab the tissues.
The sadness is brief, so you won't be overwhelmed by it throughout the book. Plus, how could there be, when Meryn is there? "THIS! IS! SPARTA!". Every time she says that, I laugh. And then I think, maybe I should watch "300" again. *shakes head, while laughing* My favorite quote from Meryn in this book is, "Don't touch dead bodies! Stop kicking tunnel escorts in the balls! Stop being a lesbian on Facebook! Why can't I have any fun?" she demanded. OMG, I cannot understand how people cannot love Meryn, she is so spunky and honestly blunt.
Before I get to Kendrick, can I just again reiterate: this book has an elephant shifter. I have never read about an elephant shifter before. I have read a whole lot of shifter books, but I swear, I believe this is my first. If, fellow readers, you have read other books re: elephant shifters please send me a comment or message if you recommend them. And now . . .
Kendrick! *:ﾟ*｡⋆ฺ(*´◡`) So, back in my review of My Brother's Keeper, I mentioned Kendrick decided to repay the favor from when Aiden & co. took him to the Duck In. This, and only click on the spoiler link if you truly want to know, says it all: ✧ꉂ(σ▰˃̶̀ꇴ˂̶́)σ✧ I couldn't stop laughing. There were even tears. And then, they sat down to lunch. . *wipes away tears*
I have a feeling things are going to get even more interesting in Noctem Falls. There are a number of new threads woven in through the story, which make me so excited as I await to see them explored.
I leave you now with a quote, one I think sums up not only this book, but something I feel every time I pick up a book by Alanea Alder:
"They were chaotic and nuts and rowdy, but within him his wolf settled down and laid his head on his paws. With one eye open, he watched over his family, and for the first time in his life, Grant felt like he had found his way home."
May 29, 2018
HEARTACHINGLY BEAUTIFUL & YOU BETTER GRAB TWO BOXES OF TISSUES FOR THIS ONE!!!
Title: My Defender
Series: Bewitched & Bewildered
Author: Alanea Alder
Designation: Book Eight of Series, Full-Length, **Can Be Read As Standalone, No Cliffhanger #paranormalromance #fantasy #shifters #vampires #fae #witches #sprites #adultcontent
My Rating: Five Delightfully Entertaining Stars*****
**Each book of the Bewitched and Bewildered series features a different couple finding love along with their very own happy ending and can technically be read as a standalone. However, there are recurring characters and an underlying interconnected conflict that play a major part in all the books, therefore to avoid spoilers, I highly recommend reading the books sequentially.
OMG! I loved, loved, loved My Defender. Alder's books are like crack for us paranormal romance junkies! I can see it now: Room in a church basement, a circle of chairs, surrounded by a group of grim faces, and I stand and say, "Hello, my name is Judy and I'm an Alanea Alder paranormal romance addict!" lol... All joking aside, Alder's books really are addictive. They're like potato chips; you can't stop with just one! This is the eighth book of the series and each story gets better and better! I can hardly wait to dive into the ninth! lol... I love unique paranormal romance, addicted to danger, action, adventure & suspense, completely smitten with sexy, alpha heroes, adore sassy, courageous heroines, and there's nothing I enjoy more than a few mind-bending plot twists along with a generous infusion of laugh-out-loud humor, but when I can get it all in one exceptionally well-crafted and beautifully written book, I'm in absolute heaven! And that's exactly what Alanea Alder delivered - AGAIN - in My Defender, the eighth full-length paranormal romance in her riveting and highly imaginative Bewitched & Bewildered Series. Did I like this book? No, I LOVED it! Was it perfect? No, but it was perfect for me. There were a few little boo-boos missed in the editing process, but nothing that distracted me from the story. Would I recommend it? You bet, and I am but only for adult readers since it does contain explicit language, some violence, and steamy, dreamy sex. Will I read this author again? Absolutely which is probably the best recommendation I can give! As a matter of fact, after completing the first book of this series, I raced back to Amazon and purchased the remaining nine books and signed up for her newsletter, which speaks volumes as to how much I enjoyed this author's work! And finally, was I entertained? Completely! I was glued to my chair, white-knuckling my ereader, my heart fluttering wildly in my chest as the pages flew as quickly as the time!
The series takes a bit of a turn in Book 6 when Unit Commander Aiden McKenzie and his firecracker mate Meryn leave Lycaonia to visit vampire pillar city Noctem Falls, Naturally, they are accompanied by Meryn's squire Sei Ryuu and, of course, Felix the sprite along with former Noctem Falls resident Elizabeth Monroe and her mate Gavriel Ambrosios. Then in Book 8, they are joined by Colton, Rheia, Kendrick, and Anne. Aiden, Meryn, Ryuu, Felix, Beth, Gavriel, Colton, Rheia, Kendrick, and Anne are all recurring characters readers have gotten to know in the previous books of the series and always add so much to each story. We're also introduced to an entire new cast of intriguing characters in Book 6 but the primary couple in this story is enigmatic unit warrior wolf-shifter Grant Douglas and kindhearted elephant-shifter Doctor Eleanor 'Ellie' Kimball, world-renowned pediatrician and medical researcher. I fell in love with the fierce, stoic, man-of-few-words, and always scowling Grant Douglas though he's also a bit of a mystery. But once again, wait until you find out who and what he his! Oh my! Shhh... No spoilers from me. And the sweet, shy, humble and extremely self critical Ellie is the epitome of keen intelligence, generosity, kindness, and heartwarming devotion to children and those she loves, like her lovely grandmother, retired nurse Marjarom Johanson, who accompanies Ellie to Noctem Falls, is an absolute delight. At first glance, Grant and Ellie appear to be total opposites but were so perfect for each other! Ellie was just the woman to see the gentle, generous, kind soul beneath the layers of Grant's stern nature and self-doubt! Both of their stories just broke my heart and one-year-old orphaned toddler Benji was soooo adorable! Sigh... So dreamy! And naturally, Meryn 'the menace', her minions Jaxson and Noah, along with her two newly adopted twin 'baby Keelans' provide loads of laughter and shenanigans galore! And once again, this story ripped my heart out of my chest! I snickered, snorted, sniffled, snuffled, chuckled, and outright ugly cried through the entire story! This one will really tug on your heartstrings! But just a little warning, folks, don't start this book unless you have plenty of time; you will not want to stop until you reach the last page. I should know; I've spent the last week binge-reading the entire series and falling asleep holding my Kindle every night! lol... Alanea Alder, you're killing me! If you enjoy perilous danger, intense drama, agonizing angst, pulse-pounding action, nail-biting suspense, side-splitting humor, heartwarming romance, and a few mind-blowing plot twists that you'll never see coming, then this book is screaming your name. Extraordinary world building, exceptional character introduction/development, along with skilled plot progression make this series a fabulous, can't-put-down read! Thanks for the recommendation Fran Zoch!
Title: My Defender
Series: Bewitched & Bewildered
Author: Alanea Alder
Designation: Book Eight of Series, Full-Length, **Can Be Read As Standalone, No Cliffhanger #paranormalromance #fantasy #shifters #vampires #fae #witches #sprites #adultcontent
My Rating: Five Delightfully Entertaining Stars*****
**Each book of the Bewitched and Bewildered series features a different couple finding love along with their very own happy ending and can technically be read as a standalone. However, there are recurring characters and an underlying interconnected conflict that play a major part in all the books, therefore to avoid spoilers, I highly recommend reading the books sequentially.
OMG! I loved, loved, loved My Defender. Alder's books are like crack for us paranormal romance junkies! I can see it now: Room in a church basement, a circle of chairs, surrounded by a group of grim faces, and I stand and say, "Hello, my name is Judy and I'm an Alanea Alder paranormal romance addict!" lol... All joking aside, Alder's books really are addictive. They're like potato chips; you can't stop with just one! This is the eighth book of the series and each story gets better and better! I can hardly wait to dive into the ninth! lol... I love unique paranormal romance, addicted to danger, action, adventure & suspense, completely smitten with sexy, alpha heroes, adore sassy, courageous heroines, and there's nothing I enjoy more than a few mind-bending plot twists along with a generous infusion of laugh-out-loud humor, but when I can get it all in one exceptionally well-crafted and beautifully written book, I'm in absolute heaven! And that's exactly what Alanea Alder delivered - AGAIN - in My Defender, the eighth full-length paranormal romance in her riveting and highly imaginative Bewitched & Bewildered Series. Did I like this book? No, I LOVED it! Was it perfect? No, but it was perfect for me. There were a few little boo-boos missed in the editing process, but nothing that distracted me from the story. Would I recommend it? You bet, and I am but only for adult readers since it does contain explicit language, some violence, and steamy, dreamy sex. Will I read this author again? Absolutely which is probably the best recommendation I can give! As a matter of fact, after completing the first book of this series, I raced back to Amazon and purchased the remaining nine books and signed up for her newsletter, which speaks volumes as to how much I enjoyed this author's work! And finally, was I entertained? Completely! I was glued to my chair, white-knuckling my ereader, my heart fluttering wildly in my chest as the pages flew as quickly as the time!
The series takes a bit of a turn in Book 6 when Unit Commander Aiden McKenzie and his firecracker mate Meryn leave Lycaonia to visit vampire pillar city Noctem Falls, Naturally, they are accompanied by Meryn's squire Sei Ryuu and, of course, Felix the sprite along with former Noctem Falls resident Elizabeth Monroe and her mate Gavriel Ambrosios. Then in Book 8, they are joined by Colton, Rheia, Kendrick, and Anne. Aiden, Meryn, Ryuu, Felix, Beth, Gavriel, Colton, Rheia, Kendrick, and Anne are all recurring characters readers have gotten to know in the previous books of the series and always add so much to each story. We're also introduced to an entire new cast of intriguing characters in Book 6 but the primary couple in this story is enigmatic unit warrior wolf-shifter Grant Douglas and kindhearted elephant-shifter Doctor Eleanor 'Ellie' Kimball, world-renowned pediatrician and medical researcher. I fell in love with the fierce, stoic, man-of-few-words, and always scowling Grant Douglas though he's also a bit of a mystery. But once again, wait until you find out who and what he his! Oh my! Shhh... No spoilers from me. And the sweet, shy, humble and extremely self critical Ellie is the epitome of keen intelligence, generosity, kindness, and heartwarming devotion to children and those she loves, like her lovely grandmother, retired nurse Marjarom Johanson, who accompanies Ellie to Noctem Falls, is an absolute delight. At first glance, Grant and Ellie appear to be total opposites but were so perfect for each other! Ellie was just the woman to see the gentle, generous, kind soul beneath the layers of Grant's stern nature and self-doubt! Both of their stories just broke my heart and one-year-old orphaned toddler Benji was soooo adorable! Sigh... So dreamy! And naturally, Meryn 'the menace', her minions Jaxson and Noah, along with her two newly adopted twin 'baby Keelans' provide loads of laughter and shenanigans galore! And once again, this story ripped my heart out of my chest! I snickered, snorted, sniffled, snuffled, chuckled, and outright ugly cried through the entire story! This one will really tug on your heartstrings! But just a little warning, folks, don't start this book unless you have plenty of time; you will not want to stop until you reach the last page. I should know; I've spent the last week binge-reading the entire series and falling asleep holding my Kindle every night! lol... Alanea Alder, you're killing me! If you enjoy perilous danger, intense drama, agonizing angst, pulse-pounding action, nail-biting suspense, side-splitting humor, heartwarming romance, and a few mind-blowing plot twists that you'll never see coming, then this book is screaming your name. Extraordinary world building, exceptional character introduction/development, along with skilled plot progression make this series a fabulous, can't-put-down read! Thanks for the recommendation Fran Zoch!
May 17, 2017
I love this book.
Grant is wolf Shifter that's brooding left and right but yet he calms the children.
Ellie is doctor who loves her job and taking care of the children are her first priority.
Grant is wolf Shifter that's brooding left and right but yet he calms the children.
Ellie is doctor who loves her job and taking care of the children are her first priority.
April 25, 2017
I waited what seemed like forever for the next book in the Bewitched and Bewildered series. In reality it was only a few months but these are the types of books that you want to read for days at a time. I was excited we would be getting another shifter and was excited to see some of my favorites characters again!
Grant was amazing! I had no doubt he would be. His past breaks your heart but to see how much of a fighter and survivor he is, really maybe you respect him more.
Ellie was a tough women who from the start showed her strength and determination. Her grandma was also an amazing character that you could see meant the world to her and was her biggest supporter.
The plot hit home to me. It revolves around the shifter children being sick and as a mother I could feel the helplessness that Ellie felt. She has such a huge heart that she loved her job, it was so much more then a job to hear. The emotions I felt while reading this were so raw and real that I couldn't stop even when I had tears.
This book is the toughest one of the series and the author knocked it out of the park. She kept us laughing and broke our hearts while keeping us moving forward and wondering what was going on.
I wish o could tell you my favorite parts but it would ruin those parts for other readers, but seeing this new couple, seeing our favorite couples from the other books made this book simply amazing! I didn't want it to end but I know there is a lot more to come!!!
Overall, the author can write 100 more of these books and I will never get tired of them! They all deal with paranormal creatures and the subplot carries on through each book, but I still can't get enough of each one I read. This one was absolutely no different. I was sad when it was over because now I know I will have to wait for the next one. 5 stars #2OCCJD
Grant was amazing! I had no doubt he would be. His past breaks your heart but to see how much of a fighter and survivor he is, really maybe you respect him more.
Ellie was a tough women who from the start showed her strength and determination. Her grandma was also an amazing character that you could see meant the world to her and was her biggest supporter.
The plot hit home to me. It revolves around the shifter children being sick and as a mother I could feel the helplessness that Ellie felt. She has such a huge heart that she loved her job, it was so much more then a job to hear. The emotions I felt while reading this were so raw and real that I couldn't stop even when I had tears.
This book is the toughest one of the series and the author knocked it out of the park. She kept us laughing and broke our hearts while keeping us moving forward and wondering what was going on.
I wish o could tell you my favorite parts but it would ruin those parts for other readers, but seeing this new couple, seeing our favorite couples from the other books made this book simply amazing! I didn't want it to end but I know there is a lot more to come!!!
Overall, the author can write 100 more of these books and I will never get tired of them! They all deal with paranormal creatures and the subplot carries on through each book, but I still can't get enough of each one I read. This one was absolutely no different. I was sad when it was over because now I know I will have to wait for the next one. 5 stars #2OCCJD
May 9, 2017
I literally did a stakeout for this book waiting for it and then getting it and then closeting myself in my room for the rest of the day and then finishing it XD
- And no surprise this book was another adorable book to the most amazing series
- I've been interested in how Grant's book would look like since we knew that he was next from the previous book, but I never expected this .. wow
- Ok I need to point out a slight disappointment i had which I created by myself: so since the last book I thought there would be more side couples and I have hoping that Magnus would find his someone, at the same time I looked at the authors Pinterest B&B inspiration board and saw the heroine's grandmother and I automatically coupled them up I thought he would be mated to the grandma but no, so that was my only disappointment which was build on my own misconception.
- I loved how the hero worshipped the heroine and how adorable he was
- I LOVED that he was from hufflepuff it just cements that he's that adorable
- I loved how the kids loved him too and not just because he's Alpha Born but cause he's gentle and sweet, and especially when he covered the twins on the video debacle
- I loved the appearance of the previous book side couple they were so adorable even the heroine couldn't stand firm on her strictness because they were just so adorable
- Yeah and the fact that he is an Alpha Born is kick ass, and all of them discovered his history like when he joined the units he was only around 50 yrs which is in human years is like around 10-12 yrs and the fact the he didn't even know how to talk then and all of that and more and how no one even noticed
- I loved how the heroine made a turn over to a badass elephant mama it was cool XD
Overall, *thumbs up*
- And no surprise this book was another adorable book to the most amazing series
- I've been interested in how Grant's book would look like since we knew that he was next from the previous book, but I never expected this .. wow
- Ok I need to point out a slight disappointment i had which I created by myself: so since the last book I thought there would be more side couples and I have hoping that Magnus would find his someone, at the same time I looked at the authors Pinterest B&B inspiration board and saw the heroine's grandmother and I automatically coupled them up I thought he would be mated to the grandma but no, so that was my only disappointment which was build on my own misconception.
- I loved how the hero worshipped the heroine and how adorable he was
- I LOVED that he was from hufflepuff it just cements that he's that adorable
- I loved how the kids loved him too and not just because he's Alpha Born but cause he's gentle and sweet, and especially when he covered the twins on the video debacle
- I loved the appearance of the previous book side couple they were so adorable even the heroine couldn't stand firm on her strictness because they were just so adorable
- Yeah and the fact that he is an Alpha Born is kick ass, and all of them discovered his history like when he joined the units he was only around 50 yrs which is in human years is like around 10-12 yrs and the fact the he didn't even know how to talk then and all of that and more and how no one even noticed
- I loved how the heroine made a turn over to a badass elephant mama it was cool XD
Overall, *thumbs up*
June 12, 2019
In this edition we’re getting into the crux of the issues of Noctum Falls (every time I see this word I want to say nocturn instead).
Ellie, or Dr. Eleanor Kimball, has been called in to help with the shifter children that have come down with a magically charged virus. The circumstances surrounding these children lead her and her newly discovered mate, Grant Fenrirson, to adopt an orphaned child named Benji as their own.
The fact that the virus is magical in nature leads our MC’s to believe someone intentionally infected the shifter children in a play to get them removed from their city. An area fueled by classist Founding Families that view any and all beings other than vampires as less than.
The story starts out with Ellie quitting her job when her boss, whom is later discovered to be feral, tries to take her research and put a skinnier spokesperson behind her hard work. Later, while taking her son Benji home to tuck in for the night her old boss, Mr. Redley, holds her and Benji at gunpoint. Him threatening the life of her child makes her go mama bear, and shift into her elephant skin stomping him into the earth. The only reason I mention this scene is because it further supports the previous unit warrior and mates thoughts on how wide spread the new type of ferals play at world domination has spread.
Ellie and Grant’s love story is beautiful. With his newly discovered Alpha Born traits, and her finally finding a home. I really enjoyed this addition to the Bewitched and Bewildered series.
Ellie, or Dr. Eleanor Kimball, has been called in to help with the shifter children that have come down with a magically charged virus. The circumstances surrounding these children lead her and her newly discovered mate, Grant Fenrirson, to adopt an orphaned child named Benji as their own.
The fact that the virus is magical in nature leads our MC’s to believe someone intentionally infected the shifter children in a play to get them removed from their city. An area fueled by classist Founding Families that view any and all beings other than vampires as less than.
The story starts out with Ellie quitting her job when her boss, whom is later discovered to be feral, tries to take her research and put a skinnier spokesperson behind her hard work. Later, while taking her son Benji home to tuck in for the night her old boss, Mr. Redley, holds her and Benji at gunpoint. Him threatening the life of her child makes her go mama bear, and shift into her elephant skin stomping him into the earth. The only reason I mention this scene is because it further supports the previous unit warrior and mates thoughts on how wide spread the new type of ferals play at world domination has spread.
Ellie and Grant’s love story is beautiful. With his newly discovered Alpha Born traits, and her finally finding a home. I really enjoyed this addition to the Bewitched and Bewildered series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2023
MY DEFENDER is the eighth book in the Bewitched and Bewildered series and was another enjoyable read. The story continues on from MY CHAMPION and follows the mating of Grant (wolf shifter) and Ellie (elephant shifter), and we’re still in Noctem Falls.
As I’ve said in my reviews of the last couple of books, the romance and relationship side of the story is lacking, but that doesn’t really bother me anymore. Instead, I choose to focus on everything else that is going on in this paranormal world that connects these books together.
I don’t remember much about Ellie, other than she’s a really sweet, caring and loving woman. I don’t even remember Grant from the previous two books, even though he’s one of the top Unit Warriors at Noctem Falls, and I assume readers have met before. But while I might not have remembered him at the start, I don’t think I’ll be forgetting about him any time soon. From how he comforts children, to hearing about everything he went through between the ages of twenty and fifty, you can’t help but admire his strength, his compassion and his ability to adapt and survive.
MY DEFENDER is told in dual POVs, with the epilogue being told in Etain’s POV as he’ll get the next book. While each book is about a different couple, the books in this series cannot be read as a stand-alone and must be read in order.
For more reviews, please visit our website: http://romancebetweenthesheets.com/re...
As I’ve said in my reviews of the last couple of books, the romance and relationship side of the story is lacking, but that doesn’t really bother me anymore. Instead, I choose to focus on everything else that is going on in this paranormal world that connects these books together.
I don’t remember much about Ellie, other than she’s a really sweet, caring and loving woman. I don’t even remember Grant from the previous two books, even though he’s one of the top Unit Warriors at Noctem Falls, and I assume readers have met before. But while I might not have remembered him at the start, I don’t think I’ll be forgetting about him any time soon. From how he comforts children, to hearing about everything he went through between the ages of twenty and fifty, you can’t help but admire his strength, his compassion and his ability to adapt and survive.
MY DEFENDER is told in dual POVs, with the epilogue being told in Etain’s POV as he’ll get the next book. While each book is about a different couple, the books in this series cannot be read as a stand-alone and must be read in order.
For more reviews, please visit our website: http://romancebetweenthesheets.com/re...
January 21, 2019
Oh Alanea how I adore you.
Once again you don't disappoint I have never laughed as much as I do when I read this series and My Defender was no exception seriously you had me in tears from laughter alone not just the Meryn moments which always provides a laugh but that one scene with the boys (those who have read it know which one I'm referring too) my god I had to stop reading and repeat it to my sister because I was laughing so hard. I cannot wait to see what happens next and hopefully it wont be a long wait coz I still have questions that need answers and one in particular the Stefan/Meryn connection.
So I give this a 5 out of 5 but if I could it would be a 10 because it was just that good.
Alanea I will be waiting with bated breath for the next chapter in this amazing series :)
Once again you don't disappoint I have never laughed as much as I do when I read this series and My Defender was no exception seriously you had me in tears from laughter alone not just the Meryn moments which always provides a laugh but that one scene with the boys (those who have read it know which one I'm referring too) my god I had to stop reading and repeat it to my sister because I was laughing so hard. I cannot wait to see what happens next and hopefully it wont be a long wait coz I still have questions that need answers and one in particular the Stefan/Meryn connection.
So I give this a 5 out of 5 but if I could it would be a 10 because it was just that good.
Alanea I will be waiting with bated breath for the next chapter in this amazing series :)
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