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Borealis Bears #2
The Bear's Fated Mate
He’s going to pick someone perfectly wrong for him—because fate isn’t in charge of his world!
A stand alone title in a brand-new shifter trilogy by New York Times bestselling author Vivian Arend.
As head of security for the family company, polar bear shifter Alex Borealis has intel warning something big is about to happen. His prime suspect? Tantalizing, infuriating Lara Lazuli, youngest daughter of Borealis Gems’ main competitor. But when mating fever hits, he decides she’s the perfect one to turn to. They’ve got chemistry hot enough to melt the polar ice caps, but he doesn’t trust her enough for a permanent connection to form.
Being with Alex is one step shy of torture for Lara. As a wolf shifter, she scented the truth the instant she met him months ago—he’s her mate. But she’s not about to trap anyone into being with her, especially not a man who thinks she’s up to no good. Add in her own suspicions of wrong-doing in her pack and Lara’s caught between heaven and hell.
But tangled sheets lead to real communication, and a bond of friendship forms that neither expected. When Lara asks for help, Alex finds himself living in the pack house, scaring off random Alpha wolves and fighting at her side.
Because the mating fever knows a thing or two about fate and forever.
Borealis Bears series:
Book 1 - The Bear's Chosen Mate
Book 2 - The Bear's Fated Mate
Book 3 - The Bear's Forever Mate
A stand alone title in a brand-new shifter trilogy by New York Times bestselling author Vivian Arend.
As head of security for the family company, polar bear shifter Alex Borealis has intel warning something big is about to happen. His prime suspect? Tantalizing, infuriating Lara Lazuli, youngest daughter of Borealis Gems’ main competitor. But when mating fever hits, he decides she’s the perfect one to turn to. They’ve got chemistry hot enough to melt the polar ice caps, but he doesn’t trust her enough for a permanent connection to form.
Being with Alex is one step shy of torture for Lara. As a wolf shifter, she scented the truth the instant she met him months ago—he’s her mate. But she’s not about to trap anyone into being with her, especially not a man who thinks she’s up to no good. Add in her own suspicions of wrong-doing in her pack and Lara’s caught between heaven and hell.
But tangled sheets lead to real communication, and a bond of friendship forms that neither expected. When Lara asks for help, Alex finds himself living in the pack house, scaring off random Alpha wolves and fighting at her side.
Because the mating fever knows a thing or two about fate and forever.
Borealis Bears series:
Book 1 - The Bear's Chosen Mate
Book 2 - The Bear's Fated Mate
Book 3 - The Bear's Forever Mate
152 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 19, 2019
162 people are currently reading
262 people want to read
About the author
Vivian Arend
152 books2,628 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Vivian Arend loves to share the products of her over-active imagination with her readers. She writes contemporary, western, and light-hearted paranormal romances. The stories are humorous yet emotional, usually with a large cast of family or friends, and a guaranteed happily-ever-after. Vivian lives in British Columbia, Canada, with her husband of many years—her inspiration for every hero and a willing companion for all sorts of adventures.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
November 21, 2019
The Bear's Fated Mate is the second book in Vivian Arend's Borealis Bears series staring three polar bear brothers. We already saw James find his mate in The Bear's Chosen Mate and now it's his older brother Alex's turn to find love. Their meddling grandfather is determined to see all of his grandsons settled down and he's not above playing dirty to get what he wants.
Alex is head of security for the family's firm and he's pretty sure that their main competitors are up to something. He's been keeping an eye on Lara, the youngest daughter of the rival firm's founding family, and he's sure she's hiding something which makes him determined to root out all of her secrets. The fact that they have great chemistry is just a bonus, especially since he can feel his mating fever coming on. Who better to burn off the fever with than a wolf shifter from a rival family who couldn't possibly be his mate?
Lara is worried that her family are about to do something stupid and start some kind of war with Borealis Gems. She's been trying to find out what her sister is hiding but so far all she's managed to achieve is catching Alex's attention. Spending time with Alex is a unique kind of torture for her, all her wolf instincts tell her that he's her fated mate but Alex has no interest in a long term relationship and she doesn't want to get her heart broken no matter how much she longs to accept his advances. With Alex about to go into mating fever things are going to get complicated!
I think I enjoyed this even more than the first book which is saying something because the first book was great. I loved the chemistry between Lara and Alex, they fit together really well as a couple and have a lot of similar interests and skills. What's really funny is that Lara, her wolf and his bear all recognise each other as mates but Alex is too stubborn to see what is right under his nose until he nearly looses it. Grandfather Giles is up to his old tricks and meddling in his grandson's affairs but he's not the only family member involved this time and it was brilliant when all of the trickery going on behind the scenes was finally revealed. I enjoyed seeing Alex spending time living amongst the wolf pack and it was fun to see James and Kaylee so loved up too. I'm really looking forward to Cooper's book so I'm glad we only have to wait until February for it to release.
Alex is head of security for the family's firm and he's pretty sure that their main competitors are up to something. He's been keeping an eye on Lara, the youngest daughter of the rival firm's founding family, and he's sure she's hiding something which makes him determined to root out all of her secrets. The fact that they have great chemistry is just a bonus, especially since he can feel his mating fever coming on. Who better to burn off the fever with than a wolf shifter from a rival family who couldn't possibly be his mate?
Lara is worried that her family are about to do something stupid and start some kind of war with Borealis Gems. She's been trying to find out what her sister is hiding but so far all she's managed to achieve is catching Alex's attention. Spending time with Alex is a unique kind of torture for her, all her wolf instincts tell her that he's her fated mate but Alex has no interest in a long term relationship and she doesn't want to get her heart broken no matter how much she longs to accept his advances. With Alex about to go into mating fever things are going to get complicated!
I think I enjoyed this even more than the first book which is saying something because the first book was great. I loved the chemistry between Lara and Alex, they fit together really well as a couple and have a lot of similar interests and skills. What's really funny is that Lara, her wolf and his bear all recognise each other as mates but Alex is too stubborn to see what is right under his nose until he nearly looses it. Grandfather Giles is up to his old tricks and meddling in his grandson's affairs but he's not the only family member involved this time and it was brilliant when all of the trickery going on behind the scenes was finally revealed. I enjoyed seeing Alex spending time living amongst the wolf pack and it was fun to see James and Kaylee so loved up too. I'm really looking forward to Cooper's book so I'm glad we only have to wait until February for it to release.
November 19, 2019
4 stars
ABOUT THE BOOK: RELEASE DATE November 19, 2019
He’s going to pick someone perfectly wrong for him—because fate isn’t in charge of his world!
A stand alone title in a brand-new shifter trilogy by New York Times bestselling author Vivian Arend.
As head of security for the family company, polar bear shifter Alex Borealis has intel warning something big is about to happen. His prime suspect? Tantalizing, infuriating Lara Lazuli, youngest daughter of Borealis Gems’ main competitor. But when mating fever hits, he decides she’s the perfect one to turn to. They’ve got chemistry hot enough to melt the polar ice caps, but he doesn’t trust her enough for a permanent connection to form.
Being with Alex is one step shy of torture for Lara. As a wolf shifter, she scented the truth the instant she met him months ago—he’s her mate. But she’s not about to trap anyone into being with her, especially not a man who thinks she’s up to no good. Add in her own suspicions of wrong-doing in her pack and Lara’s caught between heaven and hell.
But tangled sheets lead to real communication, and a bond of friendship forms that neither expected. When Lara asks for help, Alex finds himself living in the pack house, scaring off random Alpha wolves and fighting at her side.
Because the mating fever knows a thing or two about fate and forever.
•••••••••
REVIEW: THE BEAR’S FATED MATE is the second instalment in Vivian Arend’s contemporary, adult BOREALIS BEARS erotic, paranormal romance series focusing on the Borealis brothers. This is head of security for Borealis Gems, polar bear shifter Alex Borealis, and head of security for Midnight Inc, wolf shifter Lara Lazuli. THE BEAR’S FATED MATE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.
SOME BACKGROUND: Patriarch Giles Borealis is hoping to hand over the reigns of Borealis Gems to his three grandsons but in an effort to help things along, Giles blackmails his heirs into finding mates, or lose control of Borealis Gems. James, Cooper and Alex have no intention of tying themselves down with one woman but the mating fever is about to take control.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Alex and Lara) THE BEAR’S FATED MATE follows the building relationship between Alex Borealis and Lara Lazuli. Lara Lazuli knows that polar bear shifter Alex Borealis is her mate but the rivalry between companies weighs heavily between our leading couple. A surprise invitation to a local spa finds Lara fantasizing about the man with whom she would fall in love, a man whose polar bear is about to enter into the mating fever. Offering a week of no strings attached $ex, Alex will soon come to the realization that Lara is also his fated mate. What ensues is the enemies to friends to lovers quick building romance and the potential fall-out when our couple return to civilization, and Alex soon discovers that not all is well within the Yellowknife, NWT wolf shifter pack.
Lara Lazuli’s wolf knows Alex Borealis is their mate but the polar bear’s mating fever overrides all good common sense including the reality of forever and a happily ever after. When Lara challenges the pack Alpha for control, Alex will step up to assume the position of protector and guardian of the woman he loves.
The relationship between Lara and Alex is an enemies to lovers, fated mated romance that is given a kick in the pants by competing sides. Lara struggles with her attraction to a man she believes despises her existence, and Alex battles between head and heart knowing his grandfather has decreed that each of his grandsons must mate or lose control of Borealis Gems. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
We are reintroduced to Alex’s brothers James Borealis and his mate Kaylee Banks: Cooper Borealis and his best friend Amber Myawayan; grandparents Giles and Laureen, as well as Lara’s sister Crystal, and Auntie Amethyst. Cooper and Amber’s story line is next in THE BEAR’S FOREVER MATE.
THE BEAR’S FATED MATE is a story of family, friendship, adversaries, destiny, and love. The premise is entertaining and energetic; the characters are colorful and dynamic; the romance is captivating and seductive. THE BEAR’S FATED MATE is an imaginative and charming addition Vivian Arend’s BOREALIS BEARS paranormal romance series.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: RELEASE DATE November 19, 2019
He’s going to pick someone perfectly wrong for him—because fate isn’t in charge of his world!
A stand alone title in a brand-new shifter trilogy by New York Times bestselling author Vivian Arend.
As head of security for the family company, polar bear shifter Alex Borealis has intel warning something big is about to happen. His prime suspect? Tantalizing, infuriating Lara Lazuli, youngest daughter of Borealis Gems’ main competitor. But when mating fever hits, he decides she’s the perfect one to turn to. They’ve got chemistry hot enough to melt the polar ice caps, but he doesn’t trust her enough for a permanent connection to form.
Being with Alex is one step shy of torture for Lara. As a wolf shifter, she scented the truth the instant she met him months ago—he’s her mate. But she’s not about to trap anyone into being with her, especially not a man who thinks she’s up to no good. Add in her own suspicions of wrong-doing in her pack and Lara’s caught between heaven and hell.
But tangled sheets lead to real communication, and a bond of friendship forms that neither expected. When Lara asks for help, Alex finds himself living in the pack house, scaring off random Alpha wolves and fighting at her side.
Because the mating fever knows a thing or two about fate and forever.
•••••••••
REVIEW: THE BEAR’S FATED MATE is the second instalment in Vivian Arend’s contemporary, adult BOREALIS BEARS erotic, paranormal romance series focusing on the Borealis brothers. This is head of security for Borealis Gems, polar bear shifter Alex Borealis, and head of security for Midnight Inc, wolf shifter Lara Lazuli. THE BEAR’S FATED MATE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.
SOME BACKGROUND: Patriarch Giles Borealis is hoping to hand over the reigns of Borealis Gems to his three grandsons but in an effort to help things along, Giles blackmails his heirs into finding mates, or lose control of Borealis Gems. James, Cooper and Alex have no intention of tying themselves down with one woman but the mating fever is about to take control.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Alex and Lara) THE BEAR’S FATED MATE follows the building relationship between Alex Borealis and Lara Lazuli. Lara Lazuli knows that polar bear shifter Alex Borealis is her mate but the rivalry between companies weighs heavily between our leading couple. A surprise invitation to a local spa finds Lara fantasizing about the man with whom she would fall in love, a man whose polar bear is about to enter into the mating fever. Offering a week of no strings attached $ex, Alex will soon come to the realization that Lara is also his fated mate. What ensues is the enemies to friends to lovers quick building romance and the potential fall-out when our couple return to civilization, and Alex soon discovers that not all is well within the Yellowknife, NWT wolf shifter pack.
Lara Lazuli’s wolf knows Alex Borealis is their mate but the polar bear’s mating fever overrides all good common sense including the reality of forever and a happily ever after. When Lara challenges the pack Alpha for control, Alex will step up to assume the position of protector and guardian of the woman he loves.
The relationship between Lara and Alex is an enemies to lovers, fated mated romance that is given a kick in the pants by competing sides. Lara struggles with her attraction to a man she believes despises her existence, and Alex battles between head and heart knowing his grandfather has decreed that each of his grandsons must mate or lose control of Borealis Gems. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
We are reintroduced to Alex’s brothers James Borealis and his mate Kaylee Banks: Cooper Borealis and his best friend Amber Myawayan; grandparents Giles and Laureen, as well as Lara’s sister Crystal, and Auntie Amethyst. Cooper and Amber’s story line is next in THE BEAR’S FOREVER MATE.
THE BEAR’S FATED MATE is a story of family, friendship, adversaries, destiny, and love. The premise is entertaining and energetic; the characters are colorful and dynamic; the romance is captivating and seductive. THE BEAR’S FATED MATE is an imaginative and charming addition Vivian Arend’s BOREALIS BEARS paranormal romance series.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
November 24, 2021
Quick little paranormal romance reads are my guilty pleasure, and bears seem to be my favourite. Why? I have no idea. I don't live in a country with bears (beyond at the zoo) and I'm never likely to go anywhere with bears. But I love me some bear shifters. Once I saw these were polar bears, I was in for the series.
This one is a little different than the last one. Lara is a wolf shifter, and already knows Alex is her mate. The problem is, he hates her. So she's pressed it down and stayed away for self-preservation. But when Alex shows up in the throws of his mating heat, is she going to turn him away?
The passage of time in this is a little skew-if, they have scenes and then it's six months later (Okay, only one was six months, but quite a few were significantly later). But it is a year between the prequel scene and the end of this one, and the whole lead up didn't really seem necessary.
There's not a huge plotline to these books: it's very quick and simple and a great zone out book. Though I still wish we knew what happened to all those cats.
This one is a little different than the last one. Lara is a wolf shifter, and already knows Alex is her mate. The problem is, he hates her. So she's pressed it down and stayed away for self-preservation. But when Alex shows up in the throws of his mating heat, is she going to turn him away?
The passage of time in this is a little skew-if, they have scenes and then it's six months later (Okay, only one was six months, but quite a few were significantly later). But it is a year between the prequel scene and the end of this one, and the whole lead up didn't really seem necessary.
There's not a huge plotline to these books: it's very quick and simple and a great zone out book. Though I still wish we knew what happened to all those cats.
January 7, 2022
While you don’t *have* to listen to The Bear’s Chosen Mate first – they’re definitely best listened to in order.
I liked this one, but found it to be a little too similar to the last one. This is labeled “enemies to lovers”, but the enemies part isn’t that aggressive and doesn’t last that long. Worked for me as that isn’t one of my fav tropes, but someone looking for that might be disappointed.
There’s kind of a mystery aspect weaved through as Lara & Alex try to figure out what Lara’s sister, the pack Alpha, is up to. Though, there was so much going on that it felt really superficial, even for a novella.
It was an easy listen and I’m looking forward to Cooper & Amber’s story in The Bear’s Forever Mate.
Narration:
Tatiana Sokolov was great again. Unique voices for all the characters. Delight to listen to her.
I liked this one, but found it to be a little too similar to the last one. This is labeled “enemies to lovers”, but the enemies part isn’t that aggressive and doesn’t last that long. Worked for me as that isn’t one of my fav tropes, but someone looking for that might be disappointed.
There’s kind of a mystery aspect weaved through as Lara & Alex try to figure out what Lara’s sister, the pack Alpha, is up to. Though, there was so much going on that it felt really superficial, even for a novella.
It was an easy listen and I’m looking forward to Cooper & Amber’s story in The Bear’s Forever Mate.
Narration:
Tatiana Sokolov was great again. Unique voices for all the characters. Delight to listen to her.
November 18, 2019
***5 Stars***
This was a fun, quick, smexy as sin read that was low on drama and had me grinning the entire time.
I adored Alex and Lara. Alex is a bit of a grump, but he comes by it honestly as he is all about protecting his family’s interests. But underneath it all is a man who cares deeply and a bear who is all kinds of fun. Lara is awesome! She’s sweet, sassy and can definitely hold her own in any situation. Their enemies to lovers journey wasn’t a lot of fun. I loved their bantering and simply how well matched they were on every level. There angsty drama was low ~ which I loved ~ but they had a few road bumps to deal with, but they were handled well and I’m very happy with how everything turned out for the two of them.
This is simply a fun, quick read that hooked me from the start. All of the characters ~ from the meddling grandfather to Alex and Lara’s own ‘animals’ ~ are all kinds of fun and I cannot wait to get my hands on Cooper’s book!
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
This was a fun, quick, smexy as sin read that was low on drama and had me grinning the entire time.
I adored Alex and Lara. Alex is a bit of a grump, but he comes by it honestly as he is all about protecting his family’s interests. But underneath it all is a man who cares deeply and a bear who is all kinds of fun. Lara is awesome! She’s sweet, sassy and can definitely hold her own in any situation. Their enemies to lovers journey wasn’t a lot of fun. I loved their bantering and simply how well matched they were on every level. There angsty drama was low ~ which I loved ~ but they had a few road bumps to deal with, but they were handled well and I’m very happy with how everything turned out for the two of them.
This is simply a fun, quick read that hooked me from the start. All of the characters ~ from the meddling grandfather to Alex and Lara’s own ‘animals’ ~ are all kinds of fun and I cannot wait to get my hands on Cooper’s book!
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
December 29, 2019
This second book in the Borealis Bears series is a sexy, funny, romance and another enjoyable polar bear shifter story! This time head of the family Alex is on his grandpa's 'hit list a.k.a. marry him off list' and it's the intriguing and infuriating and family competition wolf shifter Lara who seems to be always underfoot. There is some witty banter, amusing commentary from both of their shifter sides, and some sexy scenes as Lara, who knows that Alex (inconveniently) is actually her fated mate tries not to give it away to Alex as that would put her at a disadvantage. Plus she's not interested in trapping anyone in a relationship, and certainly not a polar bear. Still, spending a week of mating fever with Alex is something she can't resist, leading to some hot and steamy times and an unexpected friendship that eventually becomes the more she'd been resisting (but secretly hoping for). It's another great read in the series and I'm looking forward to more!
A copy of this story was provided by the author for review.
A copy of this story was provided by the author for review.
November 9, 2019
This one was ok for me. It seemed like a lot of sex with Alex going into his bear's heat. It seemed convenient for Alex that Lara was there. I understood why Lara would agree as she knew Alex was her mate. It was fun to see Alex and Lara's bear and wolf chime in on things. Things started to pick up towards the end and the changes that happened in their lives. I have to say...that the last scene with the bear dance was worth reading the whole thing.
November 13, 2022
3.5 Stars
Read
December 5, 2019Originally Reviewed on Bewitching Bibliophile
Like most of the books I read, I went into this one blind, I love Vivian's work and have been apart of her street team for a while. When the link came for this one based on the cover I asked to be apart of the reviews. I'm so glad I did, this was so funny and sweet and I totally want to read the rest of the trilogy now. Basically, these three polar bear brothers make a pact not to be influenced by their busybody Grandfather during their mating fever, except you don't live this long and remain as Patriarch for as long as their Grandfather if you aren't a wily bear. He's got a few plans in place to help his grandsons realize their potential mates and he's not afraid to meddle when he needs to. I loved it.
Lara is the sister to the Alpha of the local wolf pack, having gone away for college and lived her life away from the pack, she returns home to help with the security for the pack. When she returns she notices there appear to be things the leaders of the pack won't share with her and she's suspicious of what that could mean for their people. She's also discovered who her mate is and the infuriating man doesn't even recognize her. Alex the security expert for the local bear pack is suspicious of the little wolf Lara and her interest in being friends with his newest sister in law and he's beyond attracted to her but can't fathom why her. When his Grandfather begins to drop hints he's suspicious the wolf pack may be making moves he decides to look into it.
Alex's brother has recently discovered his mate and he's broken the vow the brothers have made and now it's up to Alex to hold out. He's going to find out what the wolves are up to and if he can get close to the wolf his bear likes who is he to complain?? Lara wants to find out what her family is up to and she wants her mate, but she's not willing to put herself out there to be hurt, as the first to recognize the mating bond she's feeling the full effects and he's unaware of it.
These two were a riot to read, their animals were separate personalities and would inject their ideas on how to handle the other often. Alex's bear certainly had his mind made up his human just had to catch up. This was a great romantic story that focused on the two getting to know each other as friends first then as mates. Neither were aware of just how much they were being pushed together not just by their animals but their family as well. I certainly didn't expect what was happening in Lara's pack to happen. And I loved how great their familial relationships were. The Grandfather was hilarious and the way he went about getting them together was too funny. His voice is what kick starts the story and I was hooked from reading his journal entry.
These two were so good together and I loved how even as they tried to navigate being friends then becoming more all while trying to figure out just what is happening with the leadership of the pack. I loved the bit of tension that brought to the story and even how it was all resolved. The ending had me cracking up when all the answers came out and I now need to read the third book because it's going to be interesting to see how she gets this one hooked to his mate. I absolutely loved that despite Alex being described as a 'bear' of a man Lara was still able to handle him because she was so kick ass. Just so awesome!!! And of course, the sexual chemistry was off the charts. There are so many cute moments in the book that I just ugh couldn't stop smiling while reading. Lara's sister?? I love her and I sure would love a story about her and her mate (which we learn about in this one but still). Highly recommend for those seeking a good romantic comedy with a kick-ass female and a polar bear that loves to play.
★★★★☆
Series In Order
The Bear's Chosen Mate (Book 1) ** haven't read yet**
The Bear's Fated mate (Book 2)
RECOMMENDATIONS
Christine Feehan Carpathian Series
Lora Leigh Breed Series
Happy Reading my loves,
Like most of the books I read, I went into this one blind, I love Vivian's work and have been apart of her street team for a while. When the link came for this one based on the cover I asked to be apart of the reviews. I'm so glad I did, this was so funny and sweet and I totally want to read the rest of the trilogy now. Basically, these three polar bear brothers make a pact not to be influenced by their busybody Grandfather during their mating fever, except you don't live this long and remain as Patriarch for as long as their Grandfather if you aren't a wily bear. He's got a few plans in place to help his grandsons realize their potential mates and he's not afraid to meddle when he needs to. I loved it.
Lara is the sister to the Alpha of the local wolf pack, having gone away for college and lived her life away from the pack, she returns home to help with the security for the pack. When she returns she notices there appear to be things the leaders of the pack won't share with her and she's suspicious of what that could mean for their people. She's also discovered who her mate is and the infuriating man doesn't even recognize her. Alex the security expert for the local bear pack is suspicious of the little wolf Lara and her interest in being friends with his newest sister in law and he's beyond attracted to her but can't fathom why her. When his Grandfather begins to drop hints he's suspicious the wolf pack may be making moves he decides to look into it.
Alex's brother has recently discovered his mate and he's broken the vow the brothers have made and now it's up to Alex to hold out. He's going to find out what the wolves are up to and if he can get close to the wolf his bear likes who is he to complain?? Lara wants to find out what her family is up to and she wants her mate, but she's not willing to put herself out there to be hurt, as the first to recognize the mating bond she's feeling the full effects and he's unaware of it.
These two were a riot to read, their animals were separate personalities and would inject their ideas on how to handle the other often. Alex's bear certainly had his mind made up his human just had to catch up. This was a great romantic story that focused on the two getting to know each other as friends first then as mates. Neither were aware of just how much they were being pushed together not just by their animals but their family as well. I certainly didn't expect what was happening in Lara's pack to happen. And I loved how great their familial relationships were. The Grandfather was hilarious and the way he went about getting them together was too funny. His voice is what kick starts the story and I was hooked from reading his journal entry.
These two were so good together and I loved how even as they tried to navigate being friends then becoming more all while trying to figure out just what is happening with the leadership of the pack. I loved the bit of tension that brought to the story and even how it was all resolved. The ending had me cracking up when all the answers came out and I now need to read the third book because it's going to be interesting to see how she gets this one hooked to his mate. I absolutely loved that despite Alex being described as a 'bear' of a man Lara was still able to handle him because she was so kick ass. Just so awesome!!! And of course, the sexual chemistry was off the charts. There are so many cute moments in the book that I just ugh couldn't stop smiling while reading. Lara's sister?? I love her and I sure would love a story about her and her mate (which we learn about in this one but still). Highly recommend for those seeking a good romantic comedy with a kick-ass female and a polar bear that loves to play.
★★★★☆
Series In Order
The Bear's Chosen Mate (Book 1) ** haven't read yet**
The Bear's Fated mate (Book 2)
RECOMMENDATIONS
Christine Feehan Carpathian Series
Lora Leigh Breed Series
Happy Reading my loves,
November 11, 2019
I loved getting to see Alex and Lara as they circled around one another and learned to handle the attraction and pull they both felt toward one another. Alex is a stubborn and grumbly guy, definitely the home of a polar bear, but he is also a badass and smart security expert with a suspicious nature, so when his radar continues to be triggered by a woman he has trained his brain to think of as an enemy it takes him a good long time to overcome that impression. Once he does, Alex’s passion overcomes his mistrust and he begins to enjoy his time with the sexy she-wolf, he learns that they have so much more in common than he imagined. Lara has been hiding her feelings for the growly bear for six months and it is slowly making her wild, but she has to figure out what is going on in her pack and family company before she can turn her thoughts to finding a way to capturing her mate. Putting her efforts into ferreting out the secrets that are being kept from her, she is side-swept by Alex’s proposal for helping him through the fever but there is no denying him when he needs her. Together the passion they share will keep any reader plenty warm on a cold winter’s night and I loved having it to keep me warm for sure. The story was sweet, sexy and had me laughing and sighing in equal measure. I enjoy seeing the bears as they challenge one another and Grandpa Giles is definitely a tricky old bastard and I am dying to find out what scheme he comes up with next to get his last grandson mated. Cooper’s story is bound to be a doozy and I know that his and Amber’s story will be beyond sensually amazing. I am looking forward to the chance to read the finale, but Alex and Lara are a couple that I know I will be coming back to for rereads when I need something for a light, fun and sexy read. Thanks for another passionate adventure Vivian.
For Full review see the blog at:
https://romancewitchreviews.blogspot....
For Full review see the blog at:
https://romancewitchreviews.blogspot....
November 9, 2019
These bears think they're so clever in trying to get around their grandfather's mating decree, but they keep ending up playing right into his schemes. Which is hilarious when you think about it. Because Gramps Borealis is a stellar matchmaker and he isn't above doing what needs to be done to see his grandsons end up happy.
Which brings us to Alex. Alex likes the pretty wolf who keeps crossing his path (and tangling him up in the best possible way), but he's *determined* to stay single. So what if his bear gets giddy around Lara. So what if he can't stop thinking about her and her ninja-like fighting skills. He's a single bear and he's happy to stay that way.
Until he's not.
Yep, when the mating heat hits, he heads straight for the woman he thinks there's no way he'll end up matched with. And the more time he spends with her, the more he falls for her. Which works out well for everyone since...
Lara's known he's her mate for months. With the things going on with her pack (or at least the things she suspects) and his seeming disinterest in her romantically, she's locked down her want and tried to ignore it.
Guess what? There's no ignoring something as primal as fate and mating and sexy times with the bear of your dreams.
Two brothers down, one to go. Cooper isn't going to know what hit him!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Which brings us to Alex. Alex likes the pretty wolf who keeps crossing his path (and tangling him up in the best possible way), but he's *determined* to stay single. So what if his bear gets giddy around Lara. So what if he can't stop thinking about her and her ninja-like fighting skills. He's a single bear and he's happy to stay that way.
Until he's not.
Yep, when the mating heat hits, he heads straight for the woman he thinks there's no way he'll end up matched with. And the more time he spends with her, the more he falls for her. Which works out well for everyone since...
Lara's known he's her mate for months. With the things going on with her pack (or at least the things she suspects) and his seeming disinterest in her romantically, she's locked down her want and tried to ignore it.
Guess what? There's no ignoring something as primal as fate and mating and sexy times with the bear of your dreams.
Two brothers down, one to go. Cooper isn't going to know what hit him!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
November 20, 2019
I really enjoyed this second book in Arend’s Borealis Bears series. There was something about the concept of Lara knowing Alex was her fated mate suffering because she needed him to want her as more than a sexual partner because wolves mate for life that touched me. The way Arend wrote the story I could feel her pain and desperation. Beyond that melancholy there was a lot of humor to be found in this story and more than a fair share of surprises. Of course, Alex being your typical contemporary romance thick headed male took a while to catch on. Even in that regard I liked the way their relationship gradually progressed from wary adversaries to respect, friendship and finally love. Not a whole lot of angst or drama in this story. Just a lot of unordinary romance, humor and plenty of heat when the mating fever strikes.
January 12, 2026
J’avais apprécié le premier tome de cette série et j’étais curieuse de découvrir le reste de la fratrie Borealis. On suit ici Alex, le frère du milieu et responsable de la sécurité de l’entreprise familiale. Alex est une sacrée tête de mule et il n’est pas certain d’apprécier les termes imposés par son grand-père, l’obligeant à se trouver une âme soeur. Seulement Alex se dit qu’il pourrait peut-être détourner les règles et lorsque la fièvre amoureuse va le frapper il prendre quelqu’un avec qui il est sûr que le lien ne se mettra pas en place définitivement. Et pour ça qui de mieux que Lara? C’est une loup-garou qui fait partie d’une famille adversaire des Borealis. Il ne peut nier qu’il y a une forte attraction entre eux mais pour lui c’est juste de l’attirance sexuelle rien de plus. Pour Lara c’est plus compliqué. Non seulement elle doit faire face à des problèmes au sein de sa meute qui pourraient s’avérer assez grave mais en plus de ça elle cache un secret: elle sait depuis la première fois qu’elle l’a vu qu’Alex est son âme soeur. Mais elle ne peut rien lui dire et ne veut pas le faire. Seulement quand les problèmes de la meute la dépasse, il n’y a que lui vers qui elle peut se tourner. Alex lui propose alors un marché: passer la semaine de fièvre amoureuse avec lui et en échange il veut bien l’aider à découvrir ce qu’il se passe dans la meute. Seulement les choses vont très vite devenir plus que physiques entre eux et ils forment une amitié qu’aucun d’eux ne pensaient possible. et Alex se retrouvent à se battre à ses côtés pour la protéger. Parce qu’au final la fièvre est plus forte que tout et sait une chose ou deux sur le destin et l’éternité.
J’ai bien aimé ce tome. Ce n’est pas une histoire exceptionnelle mais ça reste une lecture sympa. Tout comme pour le premier tome on reste sur un format plus proche de la nouvelle que du roman à proprement parler. On reste donc beaucoup en surface ce qui est un peu dommage car certains points méritaient d’être plus développés, notamment concernant l’histoire personnelles des personnages. Alex et Lara sont des personnages assez cool. Alex est sacrèment têtu mais il est aussi incroyablement protecteur avec ceux à qui il tient. C’est pour cela que son rôle à la tête de la sécurité de l’entreprise familiale lui tient à coeur. Et lors de sa rencontre avec Lara il ne peut s’empêcher d’être méfiant car elle fait partie d’une famille rivale… Mais il ne peut nier qu’il est attiré par elle et lorsqu’elle va avoir besoin d’aide il ne pourra pas la laisser tomber… J’ai bien aimé ce perso et j’aurai bien aimé en savoir plus sur lui et son histoire personnelle. Il en va de même pour Lara. Je l’ai tout autant aimé. Elle a un sacrè tempérament et ne se laisse pas marcher sur les pieds, surtout pas par Alex. Leur relation à tous les deux est intéressante surtout vu son évolution, après il y a un poil trop de scènes de sexe à mon goût surtout pour un roman aussi court.
L’histoire en elle-même n’est pas mal et je dois avouer que le complot dans la famille de Lara apportait un vrai plus. Seulement j’ai été un peu déçue par le dénouement qui est certes inattendu mais un poil trop simple pour moi… Après ça reste une bonne lecture pour se vider la tête et je suis curieuse de lire le dernier tome qui porte sur Cooper, l’aîné de la fratrie et Amber, une amie proche des Borealis. Je viens d’ailleurs de le commencer donc la chronique devrait être en ligne très prochainement.
https://kingdomofwordsblog.wordpress....
J’ai bien aimé ce tome. Ce n’est pas une histoire exceptionnelle mais ça reste une lecture sympa. Tout comme pour le premier tome on reste sur un format plus proche de la nouvelle que du roman à proprement parler. On reste donc beaucoup en surface ce qui est un peu dommage car certains points méritaient d’être plus développés, notamment concernant l’histoire personnelles des personnages. Alex et Lara sont des personnages assez cool. Alex est sacrèment têtu mais il est aussi incroyablement protecteur avec ceux à qui il tient. C’est pour cela que son rôle à la tête de la sécurité de l’entreprise familiale lui tient à coeur. Et lors de sa rencontre avec Lara il ne peut s’empêcher d’être méfiant car elle fait partie d’une famille rivale… Mais il ne peut nier qu’il est attiré par elle et lorsqu’elle va avoir besoin d’aide il ne pourra pas la laisser tomber… J’ai bien aimé ce perso et j’aurai bien aimé en savoir plus sur lui et son histoire personnelle. Il en va de même pour Lara. Je l’ai tout autant aimé. Elle a un sacrè tempérament et ne se laisse pas marcher sur les pieds, surtout pas par Alex. Leur relation à tous les deux est intéressante surtout vu son évolution, après il y a un poil trop de scènes de sexe à mon goût surtout pour un roman aussi court.
L’histoire en elle-même n’est pas mal et je dois avouer que le complot dans la famille de Lara apportait un vrai plus. Seulement j’ai été un peu déçue par le dénouement qui est certes inattendu mais un poil trop simple pour moi… Après ça reste une bonne lecture pour se vider la tête et je suis curieuse de lire le dernier tome qui porte sur Cooper, l’aîné de la fratrie et Amber, une amie proche des Borealis. Je viens d’ailleurs de le commencer donc la chronique devrait être en ligne très prochainement.
https://kingdomofwordsblog.wordpress....
August 6, 2020
Loved Alex and Lara,.enemies, sort of, to mates shifter romance
Polar bear shifter, Alex Borealis,.middle brother, and security specialist for Borealis Gems, suspicious of Lara Lazuli. Wolf shifter, Lara has struck up a friendship with his little brothers mate Kaylee and his.big brothers PA, Amber. She is security specialist with their rival Midnight Ink and youngest sister to the Alpha.
Something suspicious is going on with the Orion Pack that has Lara worried. Her new friends have her back. Alex has caught wind of a threat to Borealis Gems and it looks like the Orion Pack may be involved. He plans to.keep is eye on the ninja she wolf, he bear totally in board, but not for the same reason.
When Alex's mating fever hits his bear leads him to Lara. Lara can't say know to the near she knows is her mate, even though he may break her heart.
Alex gets to know Lara. They team up to investigate her pack and alpha. He takes up residence at the Pack House.
Things aren't what they seem. Alex and Lara are caught in an elaborate plot, devised by an unlikely trio.
A fun fast paced and steamy enemies,.kind of, to mates romance. Love Alex's bear!
Polar bear shifter, Alex Borealis,.middle brother, and security specialist for Borealis Gems, suspicious of Lara Lazuli. Wolf shifter, Lara has struck up a friendship with his little brothers mate Kaylee and his.big brothers PA, Amber. She is security specialist with their rival Midnight Ink and youngest sister to the Alpha.
Something suspicious is going on with the Orion Pack that has Lara worried. Her new friends have her back. Alex has caught wind of a threat to Borealis Gems and it looks like the Orion Pack may be involved. He plans to.keep is eye on the ninja she wolf, he bear totally in board, but not for the same reason.
When Alex's mating fever hits his bear leads him to Lara. Lara can't say know to the near she knows is her mate, even though he may break her heart.
Alex gets to know Lara. They team up to investigate her pack and alpha. He takes up residence at the Pack House.
Things aren't what they seem. Alex and Lara are caught in an elaborate plot, devised by an unlikely trio.
A fun fast paced and steamy enemies,.kind of, to mates romance. Love Alex's bear!
April 18, 2025
The Wooing Bear
Alex Borealis and Lara Lazuli are "mysteriously" thrown together (in my opinion, there really isn't any mystery to it) with interesting consequences. The way the prior book ended was a fantastic introduction to these two together. I love the challenge. It is freaking hilarious.
Lara slammed her lips together, mostly to stop from drooling. Alex Borealis smiling did something dangerous to her hormones.
-- Lara Lazuli
The potential issues within her pack turn out to be good for a couple of reasons. The biggest is pushing her and Alex together. The other you'll have to read to find out. All in all, it is an entertaining book with plenty of steam and laughs.
I listened to this as part of 'Borealis Bears: Books 1-3' collection. The narrator is Tatiana Sokolov, who consistently delivers an easy listen.
Story: 4 stars
Narration: 4 stars
Listening Speed: 1.8x
H = 30?; h = 24?
September 2, 2025
Sexy sweet falling in love story
Well, this is one guy that does not fall first. Polar bear shifter Alex goes into mating fever metaphorically “kicking and screaming” having promised his Grandfather and brothers he would spend it with a female. However he did not think it would be a rival security expert and wolf shifter Lara. For a character driven falling in love tale this one has quite a few twists. Alex is a good guy even if he has been a confirmed bachelor. But Lara is a gem of a dark horse, she can kick just about anyone’s bu++, and wants only the best for her pack even to her own detriment. Loved this read.
Well, this is one guy that does not fall first. Polar bear shifter Alex goes into mating fever metaphorically “kicking and screaming” having promised his Grandfather and brothers he would spend it with a female. However he did not think it would be a rival security expert and wolf shifter Lara. For a character driven falling in love tale this one has quite a few twists. Alex is a good guy even if he has been a confirmed bachelor. But Lara is a gem of a dark horse, she can kick just about anyone’s bu++, and wants only the best for her pack even to her own detriment. Loved this read.
March 14, 2021
I love shifter romances, they are always so much fun, and this novel was no excerption. I mean, come on, who does not enjoy a polar bear shifter romance?!
Lara knows that Alex is her fated mate, but Alex does not know that...yet! There is quite a lot of sex in this book so if that is not your thing then this book would probably not be for you.
I thought the author did an amazing job bringing these characters to life, and it was really worth the time I spent dedicated to reading it. I will certainly be reading more books by this author in the future.
Lara knows that Alex is her fated mate, but Alex does not know that...yet! There is quite a lot of sex in this book so if that is not your thing then this book would probably not be for you.
I thought the author did an amazing job bringing these characters to life, and it was really worth the time I spent dedicated to reading it. I will certainly be reading more books by this author in the future.
March 31, 2021
Alex and Lara are cute together even though the amamosity between the two is palpable. But as the grandfathwr stated at the beginning of the boom what better combination of enemies to make good lovers for one another.
In this book you have two on opposite ends but when that mating fever strikes you are going down regardless if you are willing or not. It's anyone's game at this point.
She has no problem handling business and asking for help when needed. Alex has no issues of letting her handle her business.
In this book you have two on opposite ends but when that mating fever strikes you are going down regardless if you are willing or not. It's anyone's game at this point.
She has no problem handling business and asking for help when needed. Alex has no issues of letting her handle her business.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2025
Can a polar bear shifter and a wolf shifter be fated mates?
Alex is head of security for the family company and Lara is the head of security for his competitor. There was rumblings of a takeover of the company. Can he trust her enough to figure out what is going on? What happens when the mating fever hits him? Lara knows he is her fated mate but he just wants her for the week with no strings attached. Will they be able to walk away from each other after the week is up? Do they figure out what the rumor of a takeover is about?
Alex is head of security for the family company and Lara is the head of security for his competitor. There was rumblings of a takeover of the company. Can he trust her enough to figure out what is going on? What happens when the mating fever hits him? Lara knows he is her fated mate but he just wants her for the week with no strings attached. Will they be able to walk away from each other after the week is up? Do they figure out what the rumor of a takeover is about?
January 13, 2021
A cute continuation of this series.
Wolf, and Midnight Inc's, Secuity Chief, Lara, has known polar bear, and Borealis Jems, Chief of Security, Alex Borealis was her mate months ago when she first returns home, but refuses to force him into mating her. Especially when he doesn't trust her. Eventually he figures out the truth and "all's right with the world". A sweet and sexy beach read. Now on to Cooper and Amber's story....
Wolf, and Midnight Inc's, Secuity Chief, Lara, has known polar bear, and Borealis Jems, Chief of Security, Alex Borealis was her mate months ago when she first returns home, but refuses to force him into mating her. Especially when he doesn't trust her. Eventually he figures out the truth and "all's right with the world". A sweet and sexy beach read. Now on to Cooper and Amber's story....
September 8, 2020
Excellent Author
I just started reading Vivian Arend’s books and I can’t put the book down for to long. I want to know what’s going to happen next. Can’t wait to start reading book 3.
I just started reading Vivian Arend’s books and I can’t put the book down for to long. I want to know what’s going to happen next. Can’t wait to start reading book 3.
July 28, 2021
Enjoyed this!
This quick read was good... What I always get from MS. Arend. I have read many of her books and never been disappointed. I would have liked the hinted suspense to go on a little longer. This was a sweet romance.
This quick read was good... What I always get from MS. Arend. I have read many of her books and never been disappointed. I would have liked the hinted suspense to go on a little longer. This was a sweet romance.
January 26, 2022
I enjoyed this story so much and just finished listening to it in audio. The storyline as always was stunning and the characters are so lovable. There is action and adventure with a wonderful couple and a HEA. The narration was spot on. Can’t wait to listen to the next book.
October 24, 2024
I have no idea why I found this to be tedious. It could be that I read shapeshifter romance for the family aspects, and this series focuses fairly tightly on the romantic plot. There is not a lot of character development for the rest of the clans.
May 17, 2025
The Bear’s Fated Mate by Vivian Arend – If you ever worry that Fate would have to do something really complicated to get you married, it can’t be worse than the drama Lara and Alex are twisted up in lol! The first 1/3 of the book was slow, but it was worth hanging in there for! Happy Reading!
July 26, 2020
Must read
Book two just as great as one. The hearts wants what the heart wants even if Bears are grumpy and stubborn. Love the characters especially the meddling ones.
Book two just as great as one. The hearts wants what the heart wants even if Bears are grumpy and stubborn. Love the characters especially the meddling ones.
January 14, 2021
Waiting
The bear and the wolf have done one heck of a job . Staying away from each other. Hmm looks like someone is playing matchmaker. Sly old man. Happy reading.
The bear and the wolf have done one heck of a job . Staying away from each other. Hmm looks like someone is playing matchmaker. Sly old man. Happy reading.
January 15, 2021
Good read
Alex and Lara are great characters and the author is good at weaving a good storyline. Nice paranormal romance and a delight to read.
Alex and Lara are great characters and the author is good at weaving a good storyline. Nice paranormal romance and a delight to read.
July 26, 2021
This is a cute and funny tale. Loved the sparks between Lara and Alex from the start.
January 7, 2022
3.5 Stars
Alex and Lara's story
Alex and Lara's story
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