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Wildcats #3
Wild Card
Kaci Dillon is a man-eater.
She’s grown up on the fringes of shifter society, hearing the whispers. One desperate act as a starving, terrified child has made her the first tabby in history with no romantic prospects. But whatever. Eighteen is too young to get married anyway. Still, when she stumbles upon an opportunity to get away for a few days, who could blame her for seizing it?
Justus Alexander is screwed.
Confined to the South-Central territory, awaiting trial for crimes he committed as a traumatized, newly infected stray, Justus has discovered that the tribunal already intends to vote for the death penalty. He has no choice but to run. Too young to touch the trust fund that could finance his escape, he’s betting on a big win at the poker tables—until Kaci, his secret crush, catches him sneaking out and demands that he take her with him to Las Vegas
After a wild night she can’t remember, Kaci wakes up with a ring on her finger, next to a young billionaire who can’t access his fortune until he turns twenty-five—or ties the knot. If she can keep her hands off her hot, charismatic new groom, she can have their unconsummated marriage annulled. But can she really abandon Justus to his death sentence, just to undo her own mistake?
She’s grown up on the fringes of shifter society, hearing the whispers. One desperate act as a starving, terrified child has made her the first tabby in history with no romantic prospects. But whatever. Eighteen is too young to get married anyway. Still, when she stumbles upon an opportunity to get away for a few days, who could blame her for seizing it?
Justus Alexander is screwed.
Confined to the South-Central territory, awaiting trial for crimes he committed as a traumatized, newly infected stray, Justus has discovered that the tribunal already intends to vote for the death penalty. He has no choice but to run. Too young to touch the trust fund that could finance his escape, he’s betting on a big win at the poker tables—until Kaci, his secret crush, catches him sneaking out and demands that he take her with him to Las Vegas
After a wild night she can’t remember, Kaci wakes up with a ring on her finger, next to a young billionaire who can’t access his fortune until he turns twenty-five—or ties the knot. If she can keep her hands off her hot, charismatic new groom, she can have their unconsummated marriage annulled. But can she really abandon Justus to his death sentence, just to undo her own mistake?
261 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 25, 2017
36 people are currently reading
690 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Vincent
72 books9,773 followers[Note: Though Rachel's blog entries are cross posted here, she does not frequent Goodreads. The best ways to contact her are FB, Twitter, or her Wordpress blog. PLEASE DO NOT SEND HER MESSAGES HERE. SHE DOES NOT CHECK THEM.]
A resident of Oklahoma, Rachel Vincent has a BA in English and an overactive imagination, and consistently finds the latter to be more practical. She shares her workspace with two black cats (Kaci and Nyx) and her # 1 fan. Rachel is older than she looks-seriously-and younger than she feels, but remains convinced that for every day she spends writing, one more day will be added to her lifespan.
A resident of Oklahoma, Rachel Vincent has a BA in English and an overactive imagination, and consistently finds the latter to be more practical. She shares her workspace with two black cats (Kaci and Nyx) and her # 1 fan. Rachel is older than she looks-seriously-and younger than she feels, but remains convinced that for every day she spends writing, one more day will be added to her lifespan.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
December 31, 2017
Kaci is a bit unusual in the Shifters world, she is only a werecat because both of her parents carried recessive genes so she wasn't raised in a Pride and it was a complete shock to her when she hit puberty and turned into a giant cat. Totally traumatised Kaci ended up in a bad place and if she hadn't been rescued by Faythe and the others she would still be living wild in her cat form. Faythe and Marc have been like parents to her and she's been loved and cared for on the Lazy S ranch but because of her man-eater status (and I mean that in a literal sense rather than a figurative one) she is the only rare tabby who doesn't have a crowd of adoring toms just waiting for her to be old enough to marry. Sick of being looked at like a monster and overhearing the enforcers make snide comments when she sees a chance at a weekend of complete freedom she jumps at it.
Justus is a stray who was turned against his will and left to fend for himself as part of an elaborate plot against his brother Titus. He wasn't given any help during his transition period and ended up accidentally killing two people and infecting a third. To make sure he was given a fair trial Faythe and Marc took him into their Pride to give him the rights not normally extended to strays. When he overhears some of the other enforcers talking he realises that the outcome of the trial has been decided before the alphas have even heard his side of the story. Unwilling to just sit around and wait for his death sentence to be announced Justus plots his escape. The last thing he planned to do was take one of the pride's valuable tabbies along with him but when Kaci blackmails him into helping her he doesn't have much choice.
Rachel Vincent states at the beginning of the book that this has a lighter tone to the previous two Wildcats stories because Kaci is younger than the previous heroines and also because she has such a traumatic past. I have to agree that was the case but it didn't stop me enjoying Kaci and Justus's story just as much as all the others. Wild Card was much more humorous and I really loved the slow build relationship between the main couple, the attraction was there from very early on but Justus was very patient with Kaci and didn't want to push her into anything she wasn't ready for. They both had a difficult introduction to their lives as shifters and that made them understand each other in a way a lot of others didn't. I was actually incredibly angry with the way some of Faythe's enforcers spoke about Kaci, I couldn't believe they held her past against her when she was just a young and seriously messed up kid at the time it happened. I'm happy to say that they got what they deserved in the end but be prepared to be angry in the meantime!
I really loved the chance to catch up with Faythe, Marc and so many of the characters from the original Shifters series. As always there was plenty of political manoeuvring by the alphas going on in the background but I absolutely loved the way Kaci was able to talk her and Justus out of trouble on several occasions. That girl should definitely become a lawyer because she can talk anyone into her way of thinking! We don't see much of Titus in this instalment but he does make an appearance nearer the end of the book. I have to admit I was annoyed by one particular thing he did but he came around eventually and redeemed himself in the end. There are some huge changes in this book that are bound to have a knock on effect as the series continues and I can't wait to see what is in store for the rest of the strays now. I can't tell you how much I love being back in this world, the Shifters series is still one of my favourites and this spin off is just as fantastic so I'm hoping we have many more books still to come!
Justus is a stray who was turned against his will and left to fend for himself as part of an elaborate plot against his brother Titus. He wasn't given any help during his transition period and ended up accidentally killing two people and infecting a third. To make sure he was given a fair trial Faythe and Marc took him into their Pride to give him the rights not normally extended to strays. When he overhears some of the other enforcers talking he realises that the outcome of the trial has been decided before the alphas have even heard his side of the story. Unwilling to just sit around and wait for his death sentence to be announced Justus plots his escape. The last thing he planned to do was take one of the pride's valuable tabbies along with him but when Kaci blackmails him into helping her he doesn't have much choice.
Rachel Vincent states at the beginning of the book that this has a lighter tone to the previous two Wildcats stories because Kaci is younger than the previous heroines and also because she has such a traumatic past. I have to agree that was the case but it didn't stop me enjoying Kaci and Justus's story just as much as all the others. Wild Card was much more humorous and I really loved the slow build relationship between the main couple, the attraction was there from very early on but Justus was very patient with Kaci and didn't want to push her into anything she wasn't ready for. They both had a difficult introduction to their lives as shifters and that made them understand each other in a way a lot of others didn't. I was actually incredibly angry with the way some of Faythe's enforcers spoke about Kaci, I couldn't believe they held her past against her when she was just a young and seriously messed up kid at the time it happened. I'm happy to say that they got what they deserved in the end but be prepared to be angry in the meantime!
I really loved the chance to catch up with Faythe, Marc and so many of the characters from the original Shifters series. As always there was plenty of political manoeuvring by the alphas going on in the background but I absolutely loved the way Kaci was able to talk her and Justus out of trouble on several occasions. That girl should definitely become a lawyer because she can talk anyone into her way of thinking! We don't see much of Titus in this instalment but he does make an appearance nearer the end of the book. I have to admit I was annoyed by one particular thing he did but he came around eventually and redeemed himself in the end. There are some huge changes in this book that are bound to have a knock on effect as the series continues and I can't wait to see what is in store for the rest of the strays now. I can't tell you how much I love being back in this world, the Shifters series is still one of my favourites and this spin off is just as fantastic so I'm hoping we have many more books still to come!
April 24, 2023
There was this little voice at the front of.my brain that kept telling me there two characters were too young for this series ( it can get a bit steamy) but the author handles the age equation brilliantly. Also there actual age in years does not compare to their emotional age. Kaci and Justus are eighteen and twenty respectively, she's just finishing high school he's in his first years.of.college. But Kaci.suffered an immense trauma when she was thirteen and without warning turned into a cat, her parents were human but somewhere in the family tree was cat D.N.A. and it came out in Kaci with tragic results. (Anyone who's read the.pride series will be aware of the details) as a result of what happened then Kaci is the only female cat (tabby) that has no male Wildcats wanting to marry her, in fact they tend to ignore her existence. Whereas Justus, until four and a half months ago was fully human and knew Nothing of Wildcats, after he was attacked one night his life was changed irrevocably (See Blind Tiger) and due to his he reacted after he is now in protective custody awaiting trial with his life at stake if the council.rules against him. Justus is.willing to.stand trial.till he.finds.out they plan to rule against him ...........which means death............so one night he takes his chance to flee only Kacimspots him and insists on going with him. Two reasons, one, she's sick to death of his the other cats view her and two, Justus is the only male.cat that has ever looked.at her with desire in his eyes and she's not willing to.let him go without getting to know.him better. One.trip to.Vegas, one drunken wedding and one hell of a morning after leave Kaci and Justus on the run with nowhere to run to,............................
December 31, 2017
3.5 stars
January 20, 2020
3.75 stars ✨ would have been 4 if there wasn't an extra 20% worth of repeating.
June 25, 2020
Ohh she's good... Real good.
May 6, 2023
5 exciting stars!
Kaci and Justice are so cute! I hope they make lots of shifter babies in the future :D. Another great installment in the Shifter/ Wildcats world.
Kaci and Justice are so cute! I hope they make lots of shifter babies in the future :D. Another great installment in the Shifter/ Wildcats world.
April 29, 2022
It was great, very cute love story and adventure.
September 9, 2018
Más dulce que las anteriores, más corta también. Quizás por el amor adolescente de Kasi y Justus parece más superficial y volátil cuando es instantáneo que el adulterio...
Me alegra que no sea solo el enamoramiento y que tengamos dos cosas que asocio a esta saga: acción y política.
Finalmente, el sueño de Titus es una realidad. Pero me pregunto qué va a escribir la autora en el cuarto libro: no quedan más mujeres...
Me alegra que no sea solo el enamoramiento y que tengamos dos cosas que asocio a esta saga: acción y política.
Finalmente, el sueño de Titus es una realidad. Pero me pregunto qué va a escribir la autora en el cuarto libro: no quedan más mujeres...
September 21, 2023
I loved this series. This one was not spicy like the others were (hence only 4 stars, lack of spice is not consistent with this series) which was definitely missing but it was awsome to be back at the Lazy S Ranch and have Faythe and Marc involved alot. I'm sad to see this series end. I have enjoyed this one as well as The Shifters series SO much. I'll read Fat Cat soon. I'm eager to see what she does with another cat shifter series!
December 29, 2017
it was a bit sweet and Kaci showed she was a little too naive at times especially when her maturity in other areas flared but it was a great read and a great addition to the series (though there was a moment where i had a real hate for Titus). The werecat world has always been a fave and Marc still remains my fave character through both series so it was excellent to see him as one of the main support characters in this book
January 5, 2018
I reviewed a personal copy of this book for Wicked Reads Review Team
Wild Card is a young adultish installment on the Wildcats series. It's a little bit of "lighter fare" than the usual, even Vincent mentions this in the prologue. Kaci is only 18 but growing up in the shifter world makes a person an adult quicker than most. The other tom's in the enforcer group only know Kaci as the "man eater" because she was found eating a human corpse after being stuck in cat form for too long. They dont want a thing to do with her when usually tabbies are sought after. I felt for Kaci in her story, she didn't choose this life and she's overcome a lot of adversity. Hard to be an outcast among outcasts! Justus is up for trial for infecting and murder. He is in a similar situation to Kaci and can empathize more with her than most of the natural born tom cats. This is the story of the two of them running off together to Vegas. I really enjoyed their banter and their budding love story. There was a lot of power plays on the tribunal in this installment with Titus trying to get the strays accepted in the pack. Loved having Marc & Faythe in the action too. It was a fast moving and easy flowing story.
Wild Card is a young adultish installment on the Wildcats series. It's a little bit of "lighter fare" than the usual, even Vincent mentions this in the prologue. Kaci is only 18 but growing up in the shifter world makes a person an adult quicker than most. The other tom's in the enforcer group only know Kaci as the "man eater" because she was found eating a human corpse after being stuck in cat form for too long. They dont want a thing to do with her when usually tabbies are sought after. I felt for Kaci in her story, she didn't choose this life and she's overcome a lot of adversity. Hard to be an outcast among outcasts! Justus is up for trial for infecting and murder. He is in a similar situation to Kaci and can empathize more with her than most of the natural born tom cats. This is the story of the two of them running off together to Vegas. I really enjoyed their banter and their budding love story. There was a lot of power plays on the tribunal in this installment with Titus trying to get the strays accepted in the pack. Loved having Marc & Faythe in the action too. It was a fast moving and easy flowing story.
September 3, 2018
JUSTUS ALEXANDER
KACI DILLON
Read 4/1/18 | 4 stars
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Book synopsis: Kaci Dillon is a man-eater.
She’s grown up on the fringes of shifter society, hearing the whispers. One desperate act as a starving, terrified child has made her the first tabby in history with no romantic prospects. But whatever. Eighteen is too young to get married anyway. Still, when she stumbles upon an opportunity to get away for a few days, who could blame her for seizing it?
Justus Alexander is screwed.
Confined to the South-Central territory, awaiting trial for crimes he committed as a traumatized, newly infected stray, Justus has discovered that the tribunal already intends to vote for the death penalty. He has no choice but to run. Too young to touch the trust fund that could finance his escape, he’s betting on a big win at the poker tables—until Kaci, his secret crush, catches him sneaking out and demands that he take her with him to Las Vegas
After a wild night she can’t remember, Kaci wakes up with a ring on her finger, next to a young billionaire who can’t access his fortune until he turns twenty-five—or ties the knot. If she can keep her hands off her hot, charismatic new groom, she can have their unconsummated marriage annulled. But can she really abandon Justus to his death sentence, just to undo her own mistake?
KACI DILLON
Read 4/1/18 | 4 stars
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Book synopsis: Kaci Dillon is a man-eater.
She’s grown up on the fringes of shifter society, hearing the whispers. One desperate act as a starving, terrified child has made her the first tabby in history with no romantic prospects. But whatever. Eighteen is too young to get married anyway. Still, when she stumbles upon an opportunity to get away for a few days, who could blame her for seizing it?
Justus Alexander is screwed.
Confined to the South-Central territory, awaiting trial for crimes he committed as a traumatized, newly infected stray, Justus has discovered that the tribunal already intends to vote for the death penalty. He has no choice but to run. Too young to touch the trust fund that could finance his escape, he’s betting on a big win at the poker tables—until Kaci, his secret crush, catches him sneaking out and demands that he take her with him to Las Vegas
After a wild night she can’t remember, Kaci wakes up with a ring on her finger, next to a young billionaire who can’t access his fortune until he turns twenty-five—or ties the knot. If she can keep her hands off her hot, charismatic new groom, she can have their unconsummated marriage annulled. But can she really abandon Justus to his death sentence, just to undo her own mistake?
October 5, 2019
This is definitely my least favourite of the series so far. I just really didn't feel the chemistry between the two leads in this story.
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December 28, 2018
When we first met Kaci she was a young werecat that had attached herself to Faythe. Because of her frightening experience of becoming a tabby with no one around to guide, she had hurt those that she loved and was stuck in her tabby form. Faythe rescued her and took her in, all was forgiven by the council for what she did when she was in shock but not by the guys who were supposed to be vying for her affection. Yep, she is the only tabby without a willing shifter to date. Justus is a willing shifter, but he is pretty certain that he will be sentenced to death since he two hurt people when he was infected with the shifter virus. Before people could get to him and tell him what was going on. Really the council should have some type of protocol for helping others assimilate into their world.
I loved being back in the shifter world, seeing Marc and Faythe as they act as alphas together. Not only as alphas but also as parents. They did raise Kaci for the past several years. She has turned out fairly normal, given her feral status when we first met her. Kaci is smart, has learned the ways of the world in which she stumbled upon and is not afraid to use what she knows. Faythe and Marc raised her to be a good wife to a strong alpha. Now she just needs to find that person.
I feel bad for Justus, his life has not been easy, losing his parents at an early age, for his big brother whom he is close to suddenly distance himself. Then he gets a mysterious fever and the next thing you know his is on trial for infecting someone and murdering someone else (who totes deserves it). Now he hears that he isn’t getting a fair trial. I would probably run too. I enjoy their interactions with each other and their interactions with their alphas. You can tell that they hold Faythe and Marc in high respect and are trying hard not to disappoint them. They both also take their advice, instead of dismissing it which is a nice break from most new adult novels.
The back and forth banter is great at creating an environment of tension. The chemistry between these two is off the charts. I like that they keep it pretty PG-13ish. Which makes sense, they are really young and they did wind up married to each other. I like how Justus handles the situation when he realizes that Kaci may not be on board with the plan as much as he thought she was.
Overall, a fast pace read that allows you to forget your worries and stresses for a few short hours. Kaci’s hatred of the gender inequality is pretty spot and will have you giggling as she is ranting. Justus sweet mannerisms will make you want to make him your next book boyfriend.
My Rating 4 out of 5 stars
Favorite Quote “Nothing, I just… I’m tired of being the man-eater.”
Other People
Faythe- alpha female
Marc- alpha male
I loved being back in the shifter world, seeing Marc and Faythe as they act as alphas together. Not only as alphas but also as parents. They did raise Kaci for the past several years. She has turned out fairly normal, given her feral status when we first met her. Kaci is smart, has learned the ways of the world in which she stumbled upon and is not afraid to use what she knows. Faythe and Marc raised her to be a good wife to a strong alpha. Now she just needs to find that person.
I feel bad for Justus, his life has not been easy, losing his parents at an early age, for his big brother whom he is close to suddenly distance himself. Then he gets a mysterious fever and the next thing you know his is on trial for infecting someone and murdering someone else (who totes deserves it). Now he hears that he isn’t getting a fair trial. I would probably run too. I enjoy their interactions with each other and their interactions with their alphas. You can tell that they hold Faythe and Marc in high respect and are trying hard not to disappoint them. They both also take their advice, instead of dismissing it which is a nice break from most new adult novels.
The back and forth banter is great at creating an environment of tension. The chemistry between these two is off the charts. I like that they keep it pretty PG-13ish. Which makes sense, they are really young and they did wind up married to each other. I like how Justus handles the situation when he realizes that Kaci may not be on board with the plan as much as he thought she was.
Overall, a fast pace read that allows you to forget your worries and stresses for a few short hours. Kaci’s hatred of the gender inequality is pretty spot and will have you giggling as she is ranting. Justus sweet mannerisms will make you want to make him your next book boyfriend.
My Rating 4 out of 5 stars
Favorite Quote “Nothing, I just… I’m tired of being the man-eater.”
Other People
Faythe- alpha female
Marc- alpha male
July 24, 2018
I swallowed this book in two sittings. I definitely had other things to do but I just couldn't put it down.
One of my complaints about Blind Tiger (Wildcats, #2) was that the attraction between Robyn and Titus felt like it developed out of nowhere and was too similar to Abby and Jace's. With Wild Card being about two younger people who'd been through so much and seemed to understand one another so well, and with the implication that they'd already somewhat known one another and had a connection for months, that was not a complaint for Kaci and Justus.
When I read what the story was going to be about (A Vegas Wedding, excuse me?) I was skeptical, but the way Rachel Vincent did it was actually pretty clever, especially when I found it it was Kaci that proposed to Justus.
Speaking of Kaci and Justus, I was curious as to what their characters would be like. I loved Kaci and how smart she was about Shifter society politics, but I also appreciate how she was properly naive for an 18 year old. She was definitely a well developed character. And I was a little afraid that Justus would end up being just like reading from Titus' perspective all over again, but he was a perfect combination of a hormonal, flirty 20 year old and somehow also the perfect gentlemen to Kaci. I loved how he recognized how precious she was and how considerate he was of her vulnerability.
My biggest complaint about the book and the reason I didn't give it 5 stars was because I was a little disappointed at not seeing more of the original characters, seeing as how there's a word from Rachel at the beginning of the book about how half of it takes place on the Lazy S Ranch (set of the original stories). We didn't see Owen and Manx and their daughter, or Ethan's son. I wish there'd been a little more interaction with Jace and Abby as well. However I did love Faythe and Marc's involvement and the little reminder that, even as parents and co-alphas, their spicy romance isn't gone.
The thing that stood out to me the most and what I absolutely loved was how it was explained (I think for the first time, I don't remember it being explain in the Shifters series) why Marc was so protective and possessive of Faythe. We saw that replicated in Titus for Kaci, and Marc even explained it. I wish that had been brought up sooner, and the whole concept of it being sort of a biological/evolutionary thing seemed pretty genius to me.
All in all, I really hope this series continues, and I'm pretty sure I'd read anything Rachel Vincent wrote about this world.
One of my complaints about Blind Tiger (Wildcats, #2) was that the attraction between Robyn and Titus felt like it developed out of nowhere and was too similar to Abby and Jace's. With Wild Card being about two younger people who'd been through so much and seemed to understand one another so well, and with the implication that they'd already somewhat known one another and had a connection for months, that was not a complaint for Kaci and Justus.
When I read what the story was going to be about (A Vegas Wedding, excuse me?) I was skeptical, but the way Rachel Vincent did it was actually pretty clever, especially when I found it it was Kaci that proposed to Justus.
Speaking of Kaci and Justus, I was curious as to what their characters would be like. I loved Kaci and how smart she was about Shifter society politics, but I also appreciate how she was properly naive for an 18 year old. She was definitely a well developed character. And I was a little afraid that Justus would end up being just like reading from Titus' perspective all over again, but he was a perfect combination of a hormonal, flirty 20 year old and somehow also the perfect gentlemen to Kaci. I loved how he recognized how precious she was and how considerate he was of her vulnerability.
My biggest complaint about the book and the reason I didn't give it 5 stars was because I was a little disappointed at not seeing more of the original characters, seeing as how there's a word from Rachel at the beginning of the book about how half of it takes place on the Lazy S Ranch (set of the original stories). We didn't see Owen and Manx and their daughter, or Ethan's son. I wish there'd been a little more interaction with Jace and Abby as well. However I did love Faythe and Marc's involvement and the little reminder that, even as parents and co-alphas, their spicy romance isn't gone.
The thing that stood out to me the most and what I absolutely loved was how it was explained (I think for the first time, I don't remember it being explain in the Shifters series) why Marc was so protective and possessive of Faythe. We saw that replicated in Titus for Kaci, and Marc even explained it. I wish that had been brought up sooner, and the whole concept of it being sort of a biological/evolutionary thing seemed pretty genius to me.
All in all, I really hope this series continues, and I'm pretty sure I'd read anything Rachel Vincent wrote about this world.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 18, 2018
I was such an idiot forgetting Kaci was growing up alongside everyone else! These books make me very happy, and nothing makes me happier than when we get to revisit Faythe and Marc in the process.
Kaci Dillon is 18. That 13 year old we met years ago is grown up, or near enough and she's of course busy getting herself in trouble. It's hard to be known as a "Man eater" because of your accidentally canibalistic past (See the original Shifters books) But Justus Alexander, a recently made Stray sees so much more. Of course, in true Shifters style there's a trial before life can go on.
This edition of the Wildcats series is a little different in that we don't spend too much time in the Free zone with the Wildcat's Strays but rather there's many links including the Alpha of the Mississippi Free zone (who is trying to make it a territory still).
I LOVE SEEING FAYTHE AND MARC. Did I mention this ?! I loved the way we discover just how mature Kaci is now, she does all her running for the right reasons but she still knows she owes her "adoptive parents" (sometimes its so weird to think of Faythe and Marc that way!) and isn't disloyal. Faythe is fantastic in that she will always help Kaci, even if it's to see she is not making the best decisions, and to not take Kaci's newfound adulthood away from her but guide her right- let's face it, Faythe has made ALL the mistakes and had ALL the sass in the past, she knows what she's talking about.
Rachel has made this particular book so relevant. Point in case: The conversation between Justus and his Alpha brother Titus. Titus reiterates that as Strays and "second class citizens " they will always have to fight to be seen the same way as natural born Pride Cats, that even if they made the same mistakes, they wouldn't be judged the same way and it's so much of what is happening in real life at the moment.
If you haven't read the Shifters books, go back to the beginning. It's worth it. Wildcats is something Rachel does because some of us cannot leave this world alone and she puts it out herself so please come join us, I promise you won't regret it...
Kaci Dillon is 18. That 13 year old we met years ago is grown up, or near enough and she's of course busy getting herself in trouble. It's hard to be known as a "Man eater" because of your accidentally canibalistic past (See the original Shifters books) But Justus Alexander, a recently made Stray sees so much more. Of course, in true Shifters style there's a trial before life can go on.
This edition of the Wildcats series is a little different in that we don't spend too much time in the Free zone with the Wildcat's Strays but rather there's many links including the Alpha of the Mississippi Free zone (who is trying to make it a territory still).
I LOVE SEEING FAYTHE AND MARC. Did I mention this ?! I loved the way we discover just how mature Kaci is now, she does all her running for the right reasons but she still knows she owes her "adoptive parents" (sometimes its so weird to think of Faythe and Marc that way!) and isn't disloyal. Faythe is fantastic in that she will always help Kaci, even if it's to see she is not making the best decisions, and to not take Kaci's newfound adulthood away from her but guide her right- let's face it, Faythe has made ALL the mistakes and had ALL the sass in the past, she knows what she's talking about.
Rachel has made this particular book so relevant. Point in case: The conversation between Justus and his Alpha brother Titus. Titus reiterates that as Strays and "second class citizens " they will always have to fight to be seen the same way as natural born Pride Cats, that even if they made the same mistakes, they wouldn't be judged the same way and it's so much of what is happening in real life at the moment.
If you haven't read the Shifters books, go back to the beginning. It's worth it. Wildcats is something Rachel does because some of us cannot leave this world alone and she puts it out herself so please come join us, I promise you won't regret it...
January 2, 2018
Rachel Vincent never disappoints! Wild Card is the third book in the Wildcats series, that is actually a spin off from her Shifters Series. While you can certainly start the Wildcats series, without having read the Shifters series, I would highly recommend that you start with the Shifters series. The Wildcats series brings back all of our favorite characters from the Shifters series and there is quite a bit of retracing events that happened during the Shifters series, that I feel are important details to the current stories in the Wildcats series.
Wild Card is the story about Kaci Dillon, whom we first met in the Shifter series, as the young girl that had been found feral and in cat form during Faythe's trial. It also stars Justus Alexander, who we met in the second book of the Wildcats series, Blind Tiger. I always got the sense that Kaci would grow up to be a strong alpha female, and was excited to see that my assumptions were correct. Although we didn't get to know Justus much in Blind Tiger, I grew to appreciate the man that he became during the book. I also really appreciate that each books also has a continuous overall plot throughout the series, with a specific focus on each separate couple within their respective books. It helps the series to flow in true Rachel Vincent style.
What I love most about the Wildcats series is that we get to read the stories of some of the secondary characters in the Shifter series, revisit some of our favorites characters, and fall in love with a whole new cast of characters. It's like going to visit a family you came to love, and haven't seen for a while.
Wild Card is the story about Kaci Dillon, whom we first met in the Shifter series, as the young girl that had been found feral and in cat form during Faythe's trial. It also stars Justus Alexander, who we met in the second book of the Wildcats series, Blind Tiger. I always got the sense that Kaci would grow up to be a strong alpha female, and was excited to see that my assumptions were correct. Although we didn't get to know Justus much in Blind Tiger, I grew to appreciate the man that he became during the book. I also really appreciate that each books also has a continuous overall plot throughout the series, with a specific focus on each separate couple within their respective books. It helps the series to flow in true Rachel Vincent style.
What I love most about the Wildcats series is that we get to read the stories of some of the secondary characters in the Shifter series, revisit some of our favorites characters, and fall in love with a whole new cast of characters. It's like going to visit a family you came to love, and haven't seen for a while.
December 31, 2017
After hints in the last two books, we finally get Kaci’s story. I was very pleased with this addition to the Wildcats series. Abby and Jace is still my favourite couple but I liked Kaci and Justus more than Robyn and Titus. The understanding that the two quickly came to about their pasts was a pleasing footing for romance to develop. The feel of the story is younger but that is only due to their ages. While the romance was young, the politics firmly placed the story and nods to what future may bring. I knew Ed Taylor was going to become dangerous but I had no idea how that was going to occur. The moment I knew who Paul Blackwell’s son-in-law was, I knew something was going to happen. The climax was fantastic and is going to have massive ramifications for the universe. As for the next book and couples, there were a few hints of where the story may go or who the next couple will be. There was a discussion about werecat genetics again so maybe we will see another recessive gene werecat. If it happens and is a female, it will confirm a theory I have. Of course that does not say anything about the male lead. I would love, and hope, the Di Carlos get their chance for a future. Most likely it would be Vic as we have already been introduced to him. Maybe Ed Taylor’s daughter Carissa. Failing that, I would like to see Melody and Issac. It would be interesting to see an established couple as leads.
I would like to see what the consequences of the climax will have on Abby and Jace as they are back under US pride influence.
I would like to see what the consequences of the climax will have on Abby and Jace as they are back under US pride influence.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2018
Wild Card is the third book in the Wildcats series, a spin off to hugely amazing Shifters series, but Rachel Vincent.
This instalment follows Kaci, who we met as a teenager in the original Shift Rs series, and Justus, a new stray we met in Blind Tiger. In order to get the most out of this book, I really recommend you read both series. It gives you so much more of the world and characters and politics that are taking place.
Look, I loved this book. Read it in only two sittings because I just didn't want to put it down. Kaci is fun, and sassy, and determined to find her own way in the pride. Justus is sweet, and adorable, and for the short term, just wants to survive. The relationship is more innocent this time around too.
Seeing Marc in overprotective Dad mode with Kaci was a real highlight. It was also great to see Faythe in a mothering role, rather than just an Alpha/leader. I love this connection to the original series, it just ties it all together.
What I love most about this series though, is that the women kick ass. Actually, that kinda encompasses all of Rachel Vincent's novels (that I've read, anyway). But specifically in this case, the prides are trying to keep women in a subservient role, but we have these wonderful strong, independent women who aren't willing to put up with that. They have opinions and ideas, and pull off wonderful political manoeuvres. These are the kind of books I want my daughters to read one day.
Now....who's story can we expect next? After the ending of this one, I look forward to seeing where the story goes.
This instalment follows Kaci, who we met as a teenager in the original Shift Rs series, and Justus, a new stray we met in Blind Tiger. In order to get the most out of this book, I really recommend you read both series. It gives you so much more of the world and characters and politics that are taking place.
Look, I loved this book. Read it in only two sittings because I just didn't want to put it down. Kaci is fun, and sassy, and determined to find her own way in the pride. Justus is sweet, and adorable, and for the short term, just wants to survive. The relationship is more innocent this time around too.
Seeing Marc in overprotective Dad mode with Kaci was a real highlight. It was also great to see Faythe in a mothering role, rather than just an Alpha/leader. I love this connection to the original series, it just ties it all together.
What I love most about this series though, is that the women kick ass. Actually, that kinda encompasses all of Rachel Vincent's novels (that I've read, anyway). But specifically in this case, the prides are trying to keep women in a subservient role, but we have these wonderful strong, independent women who aren't willing to put up with that. They have opinions and ideas, and pull off wonderful political manoeuvres. These are the kind of books I want my daughters to read one day.
Now....who's story can we expect next? After the ending of this one, I look forward to seeing where the story goes.
April 20, 2020
This is the third novel in Rachel Vincent's spin off series. For those of us who are fans of the original series this novel gives us a chance to check in with some old favorites and see how they are doing. I also enjoyed how these three novels are linked allowing us to have contact with some of the newer characters as well. You could read this book as a stand alone but I did reread the original series before starting this new one. Just to refresh my memory. The shifter society Vincent has created is expertly done. I've always enjoyed the way she pushes the society to equality but in a believable way. It would make sense that a society of shifters would have strict codes of secrecy or they wouldn't have survived this long. It also begs to reason the whole group would be a little sexist, sense female equality has been a battle for a long time.
To balance that we have some strong willed modern female leads. Each book in this series follows one tabby in her search for love, respect and independence. This novel follows Kaci who has spent the last few years being raise by Faythe and Marc sense being found alone and in cat form in the Montana
Wilderness.
Kaci is all grown up but unable to escape the stigma that comes with being a Man Eater. Feeling alone and pretty down on herself she deides to hitch a ride with Justus who is headed to Las Vegas for a little pre-trial Vacation. Little does Kaci know this is going to be the trip of a lifetime!
I really enjoyed this novel. It was fun and exciting with a dash of romance. A perfect read to keep you up late into the night.
To balance that we have some strong willed modern female leads. Each book in this series follows one tabby in her search for love, respect and independence. This novel follows Kaci who has spent the last few years being raise by Faythe and Marc sense being found alone and in cat form in the Montana
Wilderness.
Kaci is all grown up but unable to escape the stigma that comes with being a Man Eater. Feeling alone and pretty down on herself she deides to hitch a ride with Justus who is headed to Las Vegas for a little pre-trial Vacation. Little does Kaci know this is going to be the trip of a lifetime!
I really enjoyed this novel. It was fun and exciting with a dash of romance. A perfect read to keep you up late into the night.
March 5, 2018
We aren't too far from where Blind Tiger ended, and we are now focus on the not so young anymore Kaci Dillion. The Kaci we knew was a fearful young werecat, born with two recessive werecat gene that triggered her shift.
Now Kaci is a teen, with much to learn. But she has no doubt that being married young was not on her radar, until she wakes up with a ring on her finger to a man that is about to stand on trial.
Justus was infected by a werecat with the intent on framing Titus (his older brother) for the crimes, but Justus's actions still lead to large consequences. So he's running away but then Kaci convinces him that there's a chance to clear his name.
Throughout this book, Kaci has taken her knowledge of growing up in the Lazy S ranch and convince a few alphas that Justus deserve a fairer trial despite their bylaws.
We do see Faythe and Marc taking an very parental side when it comes to Kaci, but they do know that she's growing up and they're learning to accept that as well as this sudden marriage.
The Tribunal are face with changes, some are agreeing to the new changes while some are still set in the old ways. We learned so much about the Tribunal in this book similar to following Faythe's journey, but again we see changes happen.
This book was fill with all sort of elements that I enjoy.
As always I love Rachel's books and I'm so glad she's is getting back into the werecats world again, I have no idea who she should write next but I want more!
Now Kaci is a teen, with much to learn. But she has no doubt that being married young was not on her radar, until she wakes up with a ring on her finger to a man that is about to stand on trial.
Justus was infected by a werecat with the intent on framing Titus (his older brother) for the crimes, but Justus's actions still lead to large consequences. So he's running away but then Kaci convinces him that there's a chance to clear his name.
Throughout this book, Kaci has taken her knowledge of growing up in the Lazy S ranch and convince a few alphas that Justus deserve a fairer trial despite their bylaws.
We do see Faythe and Marc taking an very parental side when it comes to Kaci, but they do know that she's growing up and they're learning to accept that as well as this sudden marriage.
The Tribunal are face with changes, some are agreeing to the new changes while some are still set in the old ways. We learned so much about the Tribunal in this book similar to following Faythe's journey, but again we see changes happen.
This book was fill with all sort of elements that I enjoy.
As always I love Rachel's books and I'm so glad she's is getting back into the werecats world again, I have no idea who she should write next but I want more!
June 5, 2024
I enjoyed this book so much that it only took me half a day and a bit of the next morning to finish it. I couldn’t put this book down. I really enjoyed book 2 that I had to start book 3 straight away! I love this sequel series so much that when I finished this book I just need more!
I really enjoyed the storyline, being at the Lazy S again, experiencing new characters and enjoying the company of old characters too! I love how each of these books link with one another. And again I really enjoy seeing all their lives grow!
I am really hoping that Rachel is going to add more to this series because I NEED more! The shifter series is one of my favourite series and to have the sequel series is just the best thing I could ever ask for! I had always wondered what happened next and now I do I never want to stop reading about them lol 😂
Rachel has done an amazing job creating strong women and protective men in these books. She shows that women (tabbies) don’t need a man (tom) to keep them save but shows that women can do what men can do. It also shows that women don’t need to be all about marriage and babies, but to be able to create their own future with their hopes and dreams on what they would like their life to be.
I really recommend the Shifter series, Hunt and this series! And I would definitely keep on rereading these amazing series x
I really enjoyed the storyline, being at the Lazy S again, experiencing new characters and enjoying the company of old characters too! I love how each of these books link with one another. And again I really enjoy seeing all their lives grow!
I am really hoping that Rachel is going to add more to this series because I NEED more! The shifter series is one of my favourite series and to have the sequel series is just the best thing I could ever ask for! I had always wondered what happened next and now I do I never want to stop reading about them lol 😂
Rachel has done an amazing job creating strong women and protective men in these books. She shows that women (tabbies) don’t need a man (tom) to keep them save but shows that women can do what men can do. It also shows that women don’t need to be all about marriage and babies, but to be able to create their own future with their hopes and dreams on what they would like their life to be.
I really recommend the Shifter series, Hunt and this series! And I would definitely keep on rereading these amazing series x
January 13, 2018
Home. That's what Wild Card was for me. Like stepping through your childhood home and smelling the scent of- whatever you associate home with, after being away for far too long. It was so good to be back at the Lazy S Ranch with Faythe, Marc, and Kaci again. Seeing Faythe and Marc in their parenting roles and seeing Kaci all grown up and showing Faythe and Marc just what her parents went through with her. I love the relationship Kaci has with both Marc and Faythe but the bond she has with Faythe is so heartwarming. I was brought to tears numerous times during this book and most were due to conversations between them two. With Marc and Kaci I couldn't help but laugh. He has the protective dad over a teenage girl down perfectly. And holy fuck is that sexy. Didn't think that man could get any hotter but dad Marc makes a woman's ovaries go boom!
Wild Card was a much needed adventure and over way too quick! A must read for all Shifters fans! Thank your Rachel for bringing us back Home!
Wild Card was a much needed adventure and over way too quick! A must read for all Shifters fans! Thank your Rachel for bringing us back Home!
February 9, 2019
I love the shifters series. Not super in love with kaci, Justice was really hard to like aswell compared to how I naturally liked Titus and Jace. Alot of monologue, good action but i guess the love story felt a little forced with Kaci and Justice. I have never minded a age gap but not sure why this one was streesed to the point were I just skiped the bits were they talked about it. I read the stray series and fell in love with Vic and I hope he gets some sort of action out side of one night stands. Also would have been nice as this book was based alot at the Lazy S to have touched base with a few of the other characters from Faythes story.
I dont have the best memory for all the alphas and what territories they have and who are the enforcers for what area so maybe it would be cool if there was like a list at the end or beginning. I guess i could just google but skmething to reference shen your reading just to keep up with who is from were and territory lines etc
I dont have the best memory for all the alphas and what territories they have and who are the enforcers for what area so maybe it would be cool if there was like a list at the end or beginning. I guess i could just google but skmething to reference shen your reading just to keep up with who is from were and territory lines etc
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2018
Soooo, this one was about Kaci, the maneater. When I learned that I was excited to read it. Kaci's past was one that is guaranteed to break your heart and I loved what we saw of her in the past, loved the relationship that Faythe forged with her. But now that Kaci is 18 it seems like there are some growing pains between these two, that while are not mother/daughter, their relationship is that.
Kaci surprised me in this one. For a 18 year old, she didn't act like one. I loved how she manipulated everyone, from Justus, to all the Pride Alphas. Of course Kaci learned from the master in Faythe, but it seemed like Kaci was moves ahead of Faythe. That was a great thing as it allowed some bad moves to come out in the open, solidifying Faythe's faction to remain in control of the Council and for Kaci to find her HEA.
Kaci surprised me in this one. For a 18 year old, she didn't act like one. I loved how she manipulated everyone, from Justus, to all the Pride Alphas. Of course Kaci learned from the master in Faythe, but it seemed like Kaci was moves ahead of Faythe. That was a great thing as it allowed some bad moves to come out in the open, solidifying Faythe's faction to remain in control of the Council and for Kaci to find her HEA.
September 1, 2022
Kaci Dillon is a different kind of tabby. She’s a man-eater, and she’s the only tabby without any potential prospects, despite being an eligible age. Justus Alexander is about to go on trial for infection, murder, and exposure of the species, and he already knows which way his tribunal will vote. The two of them decide to run off to Vegas, and chaos ensues.
There was definitely instant love, and this book felt more YA given how young and naive Kaci and Justus are, despite the same politics we’ve seen in the Shifters series.
I loved seeing Kaci grown up. She’s grown a lot and has a lot of maturity, but she’s still a teenager. Justus was cute, and I liked how well they got along.
The book was fast paced, and a little cheesy, but cute nonetheless. I couldn’t predict what would happen next.
There was definitely instant love, and this book felt more YA given how young and naive Kaci and Justus are, despite the same politics we’ve seen in the Shifters series.
I loved seeing Kaci grown up. She’s grown a lot and has a lot of maturity, but she’s still a teenager. Justus was cute, and I liked how well they got along.
The book was fast paced, and a little cheesy, but cute nonetheless. I couldn’t predict what would happen next.
January 2, 2018
This third installment of Rachael Vincent's Wildcats series did not disappoint. This is Kaci's and Justus' story. Kaci is the young, traumatized "man-eater" introduced in Vincent's Shifters series, and Justus is Titus' brother, awaiting "trial" for events that occurred in the previous Widcats book, Blind Tiger. The story is well-paced and keeps the reader's interest. There is romance and sexual tension but the primary focus is the action and adventure the couple resulting from their mutual decision to sneak away from their home base, for very different reasons. The climax/resolution at the end seemed somewhat contrived and perhaps a bit too easy, especially when compared to the two previous books when the council's decisions were completely antagonistic to the protagonists. 4.5 stars
April 1, 2018
Another great book..
I love this series.. The Shifters still hold a place in my heart, so reading about the others just tickles me.
Most people may not like this book.. There is more romantic elements and less explicit interactions but the heroine is 18 and really that is rather ok with me. Kaci needed a HEA and this was well done.
I took off 1 star because the ageism was a little heavy handed. Yes, you can get married at 18 but no, you can't drink champagne until your 21st bday. Yes, you can vote at 18 but no, you can't gamble in a casino (honestly, in politics in the 21st century, its about the same thing) After a while it began to sound petulantly tired and maybe, that was RV's way of relating the bridge gap between teens and adults.
I love this series.. The Shifters still hold a place in my heart, so reading about the others just tickles me.
Most people may not like this book.. There is more romantic elements and less explicit interactions but the heroine is 18 and really that is rather ok with me. Kaci needed a HEA and this was well done.
I took off 1 star because the ageism was a little heavy handed. Yes, you can get married at 18 but no, you can't drink champagne until your 21st bday. Yes, you can vote at 18 but no, you can't gamble in a casino (honestly, in politics in the 21st century, its about the same thing) After a while it began to sound petulantly tired and maybe, that was RV's way of relating the bridge gap between teens and adults.
December 5, 2018
My favorite in the Wildcat series!
Kasie has always been one of my favorite characters in the Shifter’s series, And I very much was looking forward to her story in this series. But that’s not why this book is my favorite in the Wildcat series. I loved the chemistry and sexual tension between her and justus, and I also enjoyed the story as more of an adventure rather than a mystery. I liked the way that Rachel Vincent portrayed Kasie’s character as an 18-year-old, and the fact that she made the story plausible given the circumstances within the story. Rachel Vincent is a truly talented author, and I can’t wait to see what she has in store next.
Kasie has always been one of my favorite characters in the Shifter’s series, And I very much was looking forward to her story in this series. But that’s not why this book is my favorite in the Wildcat series. I loved the chemistry and sexual tension between her and justus, and I also enjoyed the story as more of an adventure rather than a mystery. I liked the way that Rachel Vincent portrayed Kasie’s character as an 18-year-old, and the fact that she made the story plausible given the circumstances within the story. Rachel Vincent is a truly talented author, and I can’t wait to see what she has in store next.
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