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Alpha Lords #1
Warlord
He conquered her. Now he will claim her.
When Rowan inherited control of her pack upon her father's death, she vowed never to marry, and many a suitor has since been sent home disappointed. But Alaric of Ravenscar is no suitor...
He is a warlord, never defeated in battle, and he has come to take what he wants. He means to conquer not just Rowan's lands, but her beautiful virgin body as well, and her efforts to defy him merely result in her being mounted and claimed with her well-spanked bare bottom still burning.
Soon Alaric will mark her as his mate, but first she will be thoroughly and shamefully mastered.
Publisher's Note: Warlord includes spankings and sexual scenes. If such material offends you, please don't buy this book.
When Rowan inherited control of her pack upon her father's death, she vowed never to marry, and many a suitor has since been sent home disappointed. But Alaric of Ravenscar is no suitor...
He is a warlord, never defeated in battle, and he has come to take what he wants. He means to conquer not just Rowan's lands, but her beautiful virgin body as well, and her efforts to defy him merely result in her being mounted and claimed with her well-spanked bare bottom still burning.
Soon Alaric will mark her as his mate, but first she will be thoroughly and shamefully mastered.
Publisher's Note: Warlord includes spankings and sexual scenes. If such material offends you, please don't buy this book.
203 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 2, 2019
740 people are currently reading
495 people want to read
About the author
Delta James
320 books2,303 followersAs a USA Today bestselling romance author, Delta James aims to captivate readers with stories about complex heroines and the dominant alpha males who adore them. For Delta, romance is more than just a love story; it’s a journey with challenges and thrills along the way.
After creating a second chapter for herself that was dramatically different than the first, Delta now resides in Florida where she relaxes on warm summer evenings with her loveable pack of basset hounds as they watch the birds, squirrels, and lizards. When not crafting fast-paced tales, she enjoys horseback riding, hiking, and white-water rafting.
Her readers mean the world to her, and Delta tries to interact personally with as many messages as she can. If you’d like to chat or discuss books, you can find Delta on Instagram, Facebook, and in her private reader group https://www.facebook.com/groups/34898....
After creating a second chapter for herself that was dramatically different than the first, Delta now resides in Florida where she relaxes on warm summer evenings with her loveable pack of basset hounds as they watch the birds, squirrels, and lizards. When not crafting fast-paced tales, she enjoys horseback riding, hiking, and white-water rafting.
Her readers mean the world to her, and Delta tries to interact personally with as many messages as she can. If you’d like to chat or discuss books, you can find Delta on Instagram, Facebook, and in her private reader group https://www.facebook.com/groups/34898....
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 176 reviews
February 26, 2022
Rowan is alpha of Calon Onest, a shape-shifting wolf pack. She is a good leader: well-trained, successful, and brave in battle; kind and loyal to her pack to the point of being willing to risk her own life or her freedom for them. And her pack adores her.
So, what, you might reasonably ask, is the problem? The answer: nothing. There is no reason for the Council to object to her rule over the pack, except for one thing they despise: she is female. And Alaric, the so-called "hero," feels the same way. He is willing to wage war (as a last resort, but is still willing to do it); and imprison, banish, or kill (initially) a perfectly good warrior and ruler ("It will depend on how things go. I will try to avoid ending her life if at all possible") -- all to invade and take over a pack that not only is not his but does not need him. There is absolutely NO reason for any of this. Nor does it occur to the Council or to Alaric that he could rule at her side or -- gasp -- under her. Ah, but the latter would be so unmanly.
For those of you new to Delta James' books: I warn you that you will be reading about misogyny -- about men who think of women only as broodmares ("Think about the fiery spirit our offspring will have—born from a knot between two alpha parents, both of whom are battle-hardened warriors? She will bear me children with great spirit and destinies") and inferior beings (“Silent, mate. This is a conversation for men and you do not have the requisite parts.”) The men here are not interested in their women's happiness (.)
This is yet another book where the heroine is punished for quite reasonably not wanting to be taken against her will:
And where she is held to a vow she made under duress: “And yet you would break a vow that you have given? Do not forget, mate, that even though there was no one here to witness it, you did give your vow to accept me as your mate and alpha.”
This is also yet another book in which the supposedly battle-tried heroine folds at her first spanking.
There is also extreme humiliation: “I’m going to release my mate from the ring in the stone. If you would be so kind as to hand her up to me, she will ride back to the castle face down over the front of my saddle.”
There is also violence against women who reasonably object to how their alpha, Rowan, has been beaten and welted (and there are endless, endless beatings with hand and strap):
Oh, and finally, there's this little, pesky thing called rape: “Then I will take you before our beta and omega and force your vows from you.”
And, once again, misogyny:
There's also the fact that Ms. James is a very repetitious writer who gives us the same information over and over again, but that's the least of this book's problems.
One star. Five stars for those who like strong women who are welted, sexually assaulted, humiliated in front of their people, and have all their choices taken away from them.
PS: Can someone explain how this "preserves modesty"? "Truth was, Alaric probably would allow him to see her spanked if Gareth requested it and reported her behavior to him. He’d make sure her modesty was preserved, but he’d already proven he had no trouble letting her red backside be seen."
So, what, you might reasonably ask, is the problem? The answer: nothing. There is no reason for the Council to object to her rule over the pack, except for one thing they despise: she is female. And Alaric, the so-called "hero," feels the same way. He is willing to wage war (as a last resort, but is still willing to do it); and imprison, banish, or kill (initially) a perfectly good warrior and ruler ("It will depend on how things go. I will try to avoid ending her life if at all possible") -- all to invade and take over a pack that not only is not his but does not need him. There is absolutely NO reason for any of this. Nor does it occur to the Council or to Alaric that he could rule at her side or -- gasp -- under her. Ah, but the latter would be so unmanly.
For those of you new to Delta James' books: I warn you that you will be reading about misogyny -- about men who think of women only as broodmares ("Think about the fiery spirit our offspring will have—born from a knot between two alpha parents, both of whom are battle-hardened warriors? She will bear me children with great spirit and destinies") and inferior beings (“Silent, mate. This is a conversation for men and you do not have the requisite parts.”) The men here are not interested in their women's happiness (.)
This is yet another book where the heroine is punished for quite reasonably not wanting to be taken against her will:
"We will get a few things straight, mate. First, I, Alaric of Ravenscar, now of Calon Onest, take you, Rowan of Calon Onest to be my true and fated mate. What say you?” He let the question hang in the air. “Rowan, take care. Should I decide that spanking you with my hand is ineffective, I will take my sword belt and lay it across your pretty bottom. When I’ve finished, you will have raised welts and find riding difficult."
And where she is held to a vow she made under duress: “And yet you would break a vow that you have given? Do not forget, mate, that even though there was no one here to witness it, you did give your vow to accept me as your mate and alpha.”
This is also yet another book in which the supposedly battle-tried heroine folds at her first spanking.
There is also extreme humiliation: “I’m going to release my mate from the ring in the stone. If you would be so kind as to hand her up to me, she will ride back to the castle face down over the front of my saddle.”
There is also violence against women who reasonably object to how their alpha, Rowan, has been beaten and welted (and there are endless, endless beatings with hand and strap):
"No, my lord. Lady Rowan forbade disciplining our women.”
Alaric chuckled. “Well, that would explain their penchant for misbehaving. Explain to your women that from this point forward, she-wolves and any non-wolf female member of this pack will be subject to discipline from her mate, my beta, or myself. Confine Sloan to her chambers for the evening. See that she spends it in quiet contemplation of her new place and what will be expected of her.”.
Oh, and finally, there's this little, pesky thing called rape: “Then I will take you before our beta and omega and force your vows from you.”
And, once again, misogyny:
"the days of the females of this pack doing whatever they want without any consequences have come to a screeching halt. My mate will not be the only one to correct her behavior. I will not see a woman mistreated and any man doing so will find himself standing opposite me as her champion, but they will be expected to conduct themselves as they would in a more traditional pack.”
There's also the fact that Ms. James is a very repetitious writer who gives us the same information over and over again, but that's the least of this book's problems.
One star. Five stars for those who like strong women who are welted, sexually assaulted, humiliated in front of their people, and have all their choices taken away from them.
PS: Can someone explain how this "preserves modesty"? "Truth was, Alaric probably would allow him to see her spanked if Gareth requested it and reported her behavior to him. He’d make sure her modesty was preserved, but he’d already proven he had no trouble letting her red backside be seen."
August 9, 2023
DNF 70% it was good for what it was, a dark medieval shifter “erotica” romance with lots of spanking and dub con. I got bored of the smut, I need my stories to be emotional and angsty.
I picked it was because ppl were complaining about it being dark. Pfft,it was barely dark. 2/5 🙄
I picked it was because ppl were complaining about it being dark. Pfft,it was barely dark. 2/5 🙄
October 10, 2019
No recommendation.
Poor writing.
The dialogues make no sense at times, they were used as a tool to give the reader information about the past in such a silly way, no ordinary conversation would take place. I am astonished, how bad the writing style is.
The characters are poorly developed. Used to further the plot and therefore making no sense. Trusted, loyal men one second and the opposite in the next heartbeat.
A fierce and independent female character at the start, to turn ridiculous, childish and left without a brain cell not even halfway down the story.
It is tiresome.
I do like alpha males in various genres and appearances.
But I don’t like disrespectful behaviour, there is a big difference.
This book didn’t grasp the balance between a submissive and a dominant in a respectful manner.
As well as the difference between rape, misogyny and the real alpha/omega verse.
The plot was non existent. The world building poor.
So a big fat no from me.
Poor writing.
The dialogues make no sense at times, they were used as a tool to give the reader information about the past in such a silly way, no ordinary conversation would take place. I am astonished, how bad the writing style is.
The characters are poorly developed. Used to further the plot and therefore making no sense. Trusted, loyal men one second and the opposite in the next heartbeat.
A fierce and independent female character at the start, to turn ridiculous, childish and left without a brain cell not even halfway down the story.
It is tiresome.
I do like alpha males in various genres and appearances.
But I don’t like disrespectful behaviour, there is a big difference.
This book didn’t grasp the balance between a submissive and a dominant in a respectful manner.
As well as the difference between rape, misogyny and the real alpha/omega verse.
The plot was non existent. The world building poor.
So a big fat no from me.
August 17, 2021
TW/CW: Dubious Consent, Punishments (spankings), patriarchal society
Ohhhhh this book was a doozy. It had a lot BDSM elements between our two MCs BUT without the proper consent and respect that comes with a BDSM relationship. I want to make one thing very clear: I do not have issues with spankings as punishments in BDSM relationships. There is consent given from the punishee and protection and peace of mind knowing that a safe word can be used and consent withdrawn and all actions stopped immediately if things get too intense or out of hand. What I do have a problem with is spanking used to assert dominance and dominion over a woman with the excuse “you will behave like a more traditional female” without those prior safe guards in place.
So in the book we have a female alpha and a council that doesn’t like that and sends the male mc to take over her pack. The two MCs are actually fated mates. When they first meet, he asks her to accept him as alpha and pledge herself to him as his mate. She says no. She is then spanked and because of the fated mate bond, her body becomes aroused (she is still fully resisting and saying no) but the way it’s written, it makes it seems like the mating bond is causing her to have the aroused reaction because it is later mentioned that when punishments are given to other disobedient females by the omega (yes that does happen, unruly females are spanked by commanding wolves and grounded) the woman do not become aroused. The female mc only becomes aroused because he’s her mate. So since she’s aroused, he uses that against her and makes her orgasm in the hopes that she will be more compliant to his will…. And it fucking works. I know what you’re thinking, I was hoping for the same thing. I was hoping that she would still be that strong, independent alpha female that we saw at the beginning of the book and the male mc would realize that he’s stifling who she really is and they come to a mutual agreement that the old ways are old and obsolete and they need to change. That is not what happens. She gives in and he continues to rule as alpha and women continue to be subservient. Even going so far as to tell her maid who is human and doesn’t know the “traditional ways” of a pack that “this is just how it is now”. I felt physically sick to read certain parts of this book.
They seem to come to some agreement at the end after she did another thing to disobey him but she was still punished, still forced to wear clothes she doesn’t want to wear, and still forced to bend to the will of the male mc.
Ohhhhh this book was a doozy. It had a lot BDSM elements between our two MCs BUT without the proper consent and respect that comes with a BDSM relationship. I want to make one thing very clear: I do not have issues with spankings as punishments in BDSM relationships. There is consent given from the punishee and protection and peace of mind knowing that a safe word can be used and consent withdrawn and all actions stopped immediately if things get too intense or out of hand. What I do have a problem with is spanking used to assert dominance and dominion over a woman with the excuse “you will behave like a more traditional female” without those prior safe guards in place.
So in the book we have a female alpha and a council that doesn’t like that and sends the male mc to take over her pack. The two MCs are actually fated mates. When they first meet, he asks her to accept him as alpha and pledge herself to him as his mate. She says no. She is then spanked and because of the fated mate bond, her body becomes aroused (she is still fully resisting and saying no) but the way it’s written, it makes it seems like the mating bond is causing her to have the aroused reaction because it is later mentioned that when punishments are given to other disobedient females by the omega (yes that does happen, unruly females are spanked by commanding wolves and grounded) the woman do not become aroused. The female mc only becomes aroused because he’s her mate. So since she’s aroused, he uses that against her and makes her orgasm in the hopes that she will be more compliant to his will…. And it fucking works. I know what you’re thinking, I was hoping for the same thing. I was hoping that she would still be that strong, independent alpha female that we saw at the beginning of the book and the male mc would realize that he’s stifling who she really is and they come to a mutual agreement that the old ways are old and obsolete and they need to change. That is not what happens. She gives in and he continues to rule as alpha and women continue to be subservient. Even going so far as to tell her maid who is human and doesn’t know the “traditional ways” of a pack that “this is just how it is now”. I felt physically sick to read certain parts of this book.
They seem to come to some agreement at the end after she did another thing to disobey him but she was still punished, still forced to wear clothes she doesn’t want to wear, and still forced to bend to the will of the male mc.
August 6, 2019
This is a dark romance that contains scenes of non-consensual sex so if that isn't your thing, you should just walk on by. That being said, this was an awesome story between two stubborn and headstrong shifters. Rowan is the Alpha of her pack after her father passed away and wants nothing to do with being married and mated. Alaric is sent to take over but when he realizes that she is his mate, it starts getting very good. The struggle is real for Rowan as she doesn't want to be mated but can't help herself when Alaric takes charge. The drama, the mystery , the struggles of power, this whole story was a page turner from the very first. I love that he didn't try to make her less than what she was but more or less empowered her. I honestly can't wait for more in this series!!! Bring it on!!!
August 20, 2019
Ms. James toted this as a "new series," but it is not. A new moment in time "yes" but it's the same " type of players" from all her previous books. The one star is because I should have known better. I had hoped that Ms. James had finally decided that it was "okay" for her females, that she builds up as strong, independent, fierce, loyal, and in this case, battle-worthy to remain so when confronted with their mates, but she didn't/hasn't. Why bother making them strong only to tear them down, subjugate them? Their "mate" who forces submission through undeserved discipline, and humiliation who says things like " I can use you, your body anyway I see fit," but in the next breath says "I love you!" Why does Ms. James have to make her males so weak, so pathetic that they can't understand that submission given freely is far more worthy than using degradation to bring their "mates" to heal. This book, in particular, the female alpha has fought in battles, has fought hard to earn the role as the rightful caring alpha of her group. Has sacrificed her own dreams over the welfare of her group, can weld two swords better than many men can just one, but as soon as her "mate" is introduced she is belittled, degraded and spanked "cause she needs it", humiliated in front of those who she fought beside and it is all justified because he's her mate! Again, I consider this my fault for reading this in the first place; I shouldn't have hoped that Ms. James might have read some of the reviews that questioned why she felt the need to mistreat her women in her books. I've learned my lesson, and I won't waste any more money.
November 16, 2019
CONQUER THE STORM
Once again, Ms. Delta James has penned a page-turning, action-packed, romantic suspense filled shifter tale. Whether you have read her Wayward Mates series or not, the story will read well as a stand-alone. If you did read Wayward Mates, the story takes place many years into the future; a plague has ravished the earth, things are returned to the old ways, before technology.
NOTE: This is a post-apocalyptic dark shifter romance. It contains explicit sex scenes and may seem as non-con or dubious consent—but it is the way of life among these shifters---especially when they are fated mates. It is a way of life, with a strong, dominant alpha male and an equally strong submissive female who eventually capitulates and finds the pleasure in his control and mastery over her body. Yes, it even comes with the coveted HEA ended.
The story takes place at Calon Onest, on the Welsh coastline, one the older and stronger wolf packs will be lead by a female alpha, Rowan. She has lead her pack for five years, but the Ruling Council has other plans, and once again, she will be met with an over-confident male who she will vanquish. But—the tide is soon to change—the warlord is on his way—and he will not only conquer but claim and mate.
“Prepare yourself, mate. You will be mine. Do not fear, mate. I am close. Your burden will be lifted within a short amount of time.”
The Ruling Council will invite Alaric of Ravenscar for a meeting, and he is prepared with counter offers to theirs. He is tired of roaming and wants a home for him and his men, along with mates, and Calon Onest has single females. The challenge to claim Calon Onest is accepted, knowing that Rowan has defeated many. The rumor of fated mates is scoffed until he sees her, and everything becomes clear, but won’t be easy. Anything worth having is worth pursuing and winning—and Alaric will claim Rowan.
“I’ve called to her more than once, and she tries to shake it off. Rowan is used to being mistress of her own fate. I doubt she’ll trade that in for mistress of the pack she once ruled.”
The plot of the story has strong characters, challenging interactions, and plenty of angst. While there is an order of wolf packs, no one will discount the strengths of Rowan, and the loyalty of her pack. She is willing to concede leadership to Aliric and leave, becoming a lone wolf, as long as her people, especially her sister, Arielle, and human, Sloan, are safe. But fate is a fickle mistress and has different plans, and like it or not, Alaric knows Rowan is his fated mate, and he is determined to have her, conquer, mate, and mark her. She will go from Alpha to Mistress of Calon Onest—and that isn’t going to be easy for her.
“Settle yourself with the idea that you will take your vows, you will obey me, and you will be my mate.”
There is much to be said about two strong alpha being mated. There is plenty of angst, anger, and disagreements, but the passion and chemistry between them are the happiest. Alaric never discounts the strengths of Rowan, but as a Warlord Alpha, his priority is to her safety and that of their clan—getting her to capitulate won’t be easy, and leads to his forceful dominance before she will acquiesce to his leadership and mastery of her. There will be plenty of discipline scenes and explicit sex scenes between this fated pair.
“Give to me, Rowan. Allow yourself to surrender to your need to be mastered.”
Trouble is coming, and while Alaric has not sheltered Rowan from the truth, he will not allow her to join in the battle, and she will disobey him, using her knowledge of the land to lead others to conquer the enemy. Taming Rowan will be a lifelong and challenging journey.
“She is truly your fated mate. Headstrong and obstinate as she is, you are blessed to have her.”
While the story does not end on a cliffhanger, it does leave with the possibility of more stories to come, more mates to find each other, and the future of other clans.
Once again, Ms. Delta James has penned a page-turning, action-packed, romantic suspense filled shifter tale. Whether you have read her Wayward Mates series or not, the story will read well as a stand-alone. If you did read Wayward Mates, the story takes place many years into the future; a plague has ravished the earth, things are returned to the old ways, before technology.
NOTE: This is a post-apocalyptic dark shifter romance. It contains explicit sex scenes and may seem as non-con or dubious consent—but it is the way of life among these shifters---especially when they are fated mates. It is a way of life, with a strong, dominant alpha male and an equally strong submissive female who eventually capitulates and finds the pleasure in his control and mastery over her body. Yes, it even comes with the coveted HEA ended.
The story takes place at Calon Onest, on the Welsh coastline, one the older and stronger wolf packs will be lead by a female alpha, Rowan. She has lead her pack for five years, but the Ruling Council has other plans, and once again, she will be met with an over-confident male who she will vanquish. But—the tide is soon to change—the warlord is on his way—and he will not only conquer but claim and mate.
“Prepare yourself, mate. You will be mine. Do not fear, mate. I am close. Your burden will be lifted within a short amount of time.”
The Ruling Council will invite Alaric of Ravenscar for a meeting, and he is prepared with counter offers to theirs. He is tired of roaming and wants a home for him and his men, along with mates, and Calon Onest has single females. The challenge to claim Calon Onest is accepted, knowing that Rowan has defeated many. The rumor of fated mates is scoffed until he sees her, and everything becomes clear, but won’t be easy. Anything worth having is worth pursuing and winning—and Alaric will claim Rowan.
“I’ve called to her more than once, and she tries to shake it off. Rowan is used to being mistress of her own fate. I doubt she’ll trade that in for mistress of the pack she once ruled.”
The plot of the story has strong characters, challenging interactions, and plenty of angst. While there is an order of wolf packs, no one will discount the strengths of Rowan, and the loyalty of her pack. She is willing to concede leadership to Aliric and leave, becoming a lone wolf, as long as her people, especially her sister, Arielle, and human, Sloan, are safe. But fate is a fickle mistress and has different plans, and like it or not, Alaric knows Rowan is his fated mate, and he is determined to have her, conquer, mate, and mark her. She will go from Alpha to Mistress of Calon Onest—and that isn’t going to be easy for her.
“Settle yourself with the idea that you will take your vows, you will obey me, and you will be my mate.”
There is much to be said about two strong alpha being mated. There is plenty of angst, anger, and disagreements, but the passion and chemistry between them are the happiest. Alaric never discounts the strengths of Rowan, but as a Warlord Alpha, his priority is to her safety and that of their clan—getting her to capitulate won’t be easy, and leads to his forceful dominance before she will acquiesce to his leadership and mastery of her. There will be plenty of discipline scenes and explicit sex scenes between this fated pair.
“Give to me, Rowan. Allow yourself to surrender to your need to be mastered.”
Trouble is coming, and while Alaric has not sheltered Rowan from the truth, he will not allow her to join in the battle, and she will disobey him, using her knowledge of the land to lead others to conquer the enemy. Taming Rowan will be a lifelong and challenging journey.
“She is truly your fated mate. Headstrong and obstinate as she is, you are blessed to have her.”
While the story does not end on a cliffhanger, it does leave with the possibility of more stories to come, more mates to find each other, and the future of other clans.
June 15, 2021
This is a dark erotica shapeshifter romance with trigger warnings, with non-consensual punish so please beware and proceed with caution. I liked the story overall, Rowan and Alaric's story is not a sweet one, it's different with lots of mystery and drama. The dialogue could be improved the overall plot is interesting and since I love very dark stories this was up to my alley. I think it had some things that were a bit contradictory, building a strong heroine and tearing her down, having an alpha submission is not what I expected, setting that aside, also the male goes on degrading the female, and yet he says he loves her in the next minute, I wish it took more time to get the male to express that feeling.
May 2, 2020
Warlord is a darker read, with non-consensual punishments, so reader caution is advised. It is set in a dystopian future, the same one as
Virgin Tribute
but this is set in the UK and focuses on wolf shifters. There are also links to the Wayward Mates series, though you absolutely don't need to have read any other books to enjoy this one.
I really enjoyed this book, since the setting is dystopian/paranormal I can let go of societal norms and accept the patriarchal structure of the society. My modern brain doesn't always agree with it but since the fiction isn't mimicking 'real life' it is something I can live with.
I adored Rowan, she is a feisty no nonsense heroine, raised to be a warrior and unwilling to bow to any man. Alaric is all alpha and determined to master his naughty mate. He is prepared to deliver non-consensual spankings and beltings when he feels she has misbehaved, and doesn't mind displaying Rowan's punished behind to his men. Conversely he also holds her in high esteem and takes great care to otherwise ensure her comfort and happiness.
Two such strong and powerful alphas are bound to clash, and their passion is scorching hot. I'm not really sure how Delta James managed it but she took me from wanting Rowan to kick Alaric's butt, to being pleased with the relationship that unfolded.
The story flows smoothly, the plot and pace combining perfectly to hold my attention throughout. By the end, I not only liked but also respected both main characters. I'm also hoping that we might get both Sloan and Arielle's stories sometime in the future. If you enjoyed either the Wayward Mates series, Virgin Tribute, or like darker edged domestic discipline books, then I am only to happy to recommend this book to you.
I really enjoyed this book, since the setting is dystopian/paranormal I can let go of societal norms and accept the patriarchal structure of the society. My modern brain doesn't always agree with it but since the fiction isn't mimicking 'real life' it is something I can live with.
I adored Rowan, she is a feisty no nonsense heroine, raised to be a warrior and unwilling to bow to any man. Alaric is all alpha and determined to master his naughty mate. He is prepared to deliver non-consensual spankings and beltings when he feels she has misbehaved, and doesn't mind displaying Rowan's punished behind to his men. Conversely he also holds her in high esteem and takes great care to otherwise ensure her comfort and happiness.
Two such strong and powerful alphas are bound to clash, and their passion is scorching hot. I'm not really sure how Delta James managed it but she took me from wanting Rowan to kick Alaric's butt, to being pleased with the relationship that unfolded.
The story flows smoothly, the plot and pace combining perfectly to hold my attention throughout. By the end, I not only liked but also respected both main characters. I'm also hoping that we might get both Sloan and Arielle's stories sometime in the future. If you enjoyed either the Wayward Mates series, Virgin Tribute, or like darker edged domestic discipline books, then I am only to happy to recommend this book to you.
January 17, 2020
Super ott but hey that’s what I expected.
I just don’t get why she wrote them as shifters. They’re really not ? What alpha shifter just occasionally shifts to run and that’s the only ‘wolf-like’ thing they really do or mention. Just an excuse for all the mate and alpha stuff but that could’ve been explained in a way like some humans have evolved/genetically changed to become that or something. THEY WEREN’T SHIFTERS!
What self respecting shifter would be riding horses!? Is this a joke??? Why wouldn’t they run in wolf form/be able to just run faster as humans anyway? Why wouldn’t they travel as a pack? WHY WOULD A WOLF SHIFTER BE RIDING A HORSE THIS MAKES NO SENSE?!!!
Also why were they okay to be led by a woman and them suddenly they all weren’t? Why did they let her lead them to battle and everything for years? And she had to have a personality transplant to be with him because suddenly she wasn’t ‘allowed’ to be alpha or even lead with him and had to become the ‘mistress of the pack’ even though all she wanted was to be herself and be free. Why do these guys hate women? Let them wear something other than a dress if that’s what they want!
I just don’t get why she wrote them as shifters. They’re really not ? What alpha shifter just occasionally shifts to run and that’s the only ‘wolf-like’ thing they really do or mention. Just an excuse for all the mate and alpha stuff but that could’ve been explained in a way like some humans have evolved/genetically changed to become that or something. THEY WEREN’T SHIFTERS!
What self respecting shifter would be riding horses!? Is this a joke??? Why wouldn’t they run in wolf form/be able to just run faster as humans anyway? Why wouldn’t they travel as a pack? WHY WOULD A WOLF SHIFTER BE RIDING A HORSE THIS MAKES NO SENSE?!!!
Also why were they okay to be led by a woman and them suddenly they all weren’t? Why did they let her lead them to battle and everything for years? And she had to have a personality transplant to be with him because suddenly she wasn’t ‘allowed’ to be alpha or even lead with him and had to become the ‘mistress of the pack’ even though all she wanted was to be herself and be free. Why do these guys hate women? Let them wear something other than a dress if that’s what they want!
August 3, 2019
In this new series that the author has started, we are with the werewolves from the Wayward Mates series. This is set in the future where a plague has gone through the world and has reverted to medieval times.
Rowan is the alpha of Calon Onest. As a female, her pack is happy with her, but the rest of the wolf packs are not. After she kills the envoys from the council, they send Alaric, the warlord. Alaric is more than happy to go as he is looking for a place to settle down with his troops. On the way, he discovers that Riwan is his fated mate and that changes his plans somewhat. Of course, he tames Rowan, but the fun is the way it happens.
I highly recommend this book. I loved it and am looking forward to at least two more books in the series with Arielle and Sloan.
Rowan is the alpha of Calon Onest. As a female, her pack is happy with her, but the rest of the wolf packs are not. After she kills the envoys from the council, they send Alaric, the warlord. Alaric is more than happy to go as he is looking for a place to settle down with his troops. On the way, he discovers that Riwan is his fated mate and that changes his plans somewhat. Of course, he tames Rowan, but the fun is the way it happens.
I highly recommend this book. I loved it and am looking forward to at least two more books in the series with Arielle and Sloan.
September 3, 2019
4.4 stars
I was not at all expecting this to be as good as it was. I was expecting a quick easy shifter romance. It was so much more than that though. Great world building, hotter than Hades steamy times, and great characters.
My only complaint was that I wanted to see more in regards to the future instead of a HFN ending. I'm hoping that it is because the author intends to create more stories and turn this into a series.
I was not at all expecting this to be as good as it was. I was expecting a quick easy shifter romance. It was so much more than that though. Great world building, hotter than Hades steamy times, and great characters.
My only complaint was that I wanted to see more in regards to the future instead of a HFN ending. I'm hoping that it is because the author intends to create more stories and turn this into a series.
August 28, 2021
Skim, skim, skim….the dialogue did not flow, the writing was juvenile— almost like a teenage boy on hormones. The idea could have been fleshed out and finessed with a better writer like AS or KC. I love books written with a medieval sway/time frame but the writing style just didn’t work for me….at least I didn’t Dnf it. Maybe I should have given it 1 star.
August 27, 2019
I expected so much more
The book started off good. A strong heroine and a great alpha. I just hate how she succumbed so quickly. Yes, she tried to rub away but she was weak. She went from being alpha to being some weak girl. I hated her character in the end.
The book started off good. A strong heroine and a great alpha. I just hate how she succumbed so quickly. Yes, she tried to rub away but she was weak. She went from being alpha to being some weak girl. I hated her character in the end.
January 8, 2020
I absolutely agree with some of the reviewers saying this story was medieval in how men treated women in this supernatural world Delta James created as a background for this story. On the other hand though it was everything the blurb offered so no surprise at all. Both Rowan and Alaric were good and strong characters. Loyal to the pack and destined for each other. I liked very much this somewhat dystopian twist of the supernatural world. It gave some freshness to the story. Warlord has a satisfactory ending but I'd love to find out where the series is headed.
Jack Calihan's narration was superb. He used well distinguishable voices for both male and female characters. I loved his pace and clean spoken words. He was the perfect choice for this book.
Story: 4 stars
Narration: 5 stars
🎧AudiobookObsessionReviewer
Jack Calihan's narration was superb. He used well distinguishable voices for both male and female characters. I loved his pace and clean spoken words. He was the perfect choice for this book.
Story: 4 stars
Narration: 5 stars
🎧AudiobookObsessionReviewer
July 24, 2020
Abusive alpha male
I like my wolves dominant, fierce and strong. Alaric was fierce, strong and cruel. What I really want to call him will be deleted by Amazon. Total utter tool. Rowan has a strong spirit as she's an alpha. All he had to do was curve her spirit but he chose to crush it. He raped (metaphorically speaking) her of her identity, title, people and dignity. He belittled her and beat her. Talked down to her and let others do the same. This was called being "dominant" but actually it came across as abusive. I get that this was a dark shifter romance but honestly there was no romance and just abuse, causing our strong willed, confident heroine to become weak. It could have been written with an element of dark that left Rowan some class. Not a fan of hurting woman and calling it love when you take their will away.
I like my wolves dominant, fierce and strong. Alaric was fierce, strong and cruel. What I really want to call him will be deleted by Amazon. Total utter tool. Rowan has a strong spirit as she's an alpha. All he had to do was curve her spirit but he chose to crush it. He raped (metaphorically speaking) her of her identity, title, people and dignity. He belittled her and beat her. Talked down to her and let others do the same. This was called being "dominant" but actually it came across as abusive. I get that this was a dark shifter romance but honestly there was no romance and just abuse, causing our strong willed, confident heroine to become weak. It could have been written with an element of dark that left Rowan some class. Not a fan of hurting woman and calling it love when you take their will away.
October 10, 2024
First book into this series and I'm hooked! This read was quick(198 pages) sexy and hilarious. I loved Alaric and Rowen together. The constant push and pull of their relationship was great. I loved how she had a backbone and gave him a run for his money all the time. A shrinking violet she was not but Alaric, being the alpha that he was knew how to tame her.
Delta James isn't a new author but she's new to me. I can't wait to dive into the rest of this series. Hopefully, the other couples will be just as interesting as Alaric and Rowen were.
Delta James isn't a new author but she's new to me. I can't wait to dive into the rest of this series. Hopefully, the other couples will be just as interesting as Alaric and Rowen were.
October 26, 2021
As some have noted, the idea that this was a dystopian setting requiring an adherence to a feudal system from medieval times was strange, to say the least. As a result, I didn't tag this as a dystopian.
The storyline had some potential, though much of that was left unfulfilled in favor of focusing on the"romance" between Rowan and Alaric. That word is in quotes because I just can't get over how poorly done it was. This was no enemies-to-lovers arc; it was flat-out rape that the author defends because Rowan physically "enjoys" it. I've seen non-consensual sex scenes much more tastefully written. This was an excellent opportunity to build up a clan with strong, independent she-wolves and demonstrate that one can both take a fated mate and continue to be a fierce leader, but this plot just throws all of that out the window to further the dom/sub dynamic.
The storyline had some potential, though much of that was left unfulfilled in favor of focusing on the"romance" between Rowan and Alaric. That word is in quotes because I just can't get over how poorly done it was. This was no enemies-to-lovers arc; it was flat-out rape that the author defends because Rowan physically "enjoys" it. I've seen non-consensual sex scenes much more tastefully written. This was an excellent opportunity to build up a clan with strong, independent she-wolves and demonstrate that one can both take a fated mate and continue to be a fierce leader, but this plot just throws all of that out the window to further the dom/sub dynamic.
December 29, 2019
I loved the concept, the story builds slowly. I enjoyed the building up of Rowen and Alaric's story. Their characters were made for each other. Some of the repetitiveness was tedious to read, I mean I totally got that she was rebellious by about the third time that she rejected him, again and again, and again, and then, of course, the spanking, again and again, and again...but once we finally moved off from there, it was cool, action-packed, and a joy to read!
March 25, 2021
What in the world did I just read?!
Rowan- (h) female alpha
Alaric- (H) male alpha.
So I kind of liked the story even though some parts, well almost all the parts just made so angry on Alaric's behavior towards their fated mate.
Pretty much if you are female you are bound to obey your mate at all cost even if it's unreasonable if you dnt you will be subject to a beating by spanking your behind by either there hands/belts whatever they see fit to punish you. Rowan got a lot of beatings & was belittle right in front of her pack who now don't call her or even see her as their alpha at some point.. They all pretty much turned their backs on her
Rowan- (h) female alpha
Alaric- (H) male alpha.
So I kind of liked the story even though some parts, well almost all the parts just made so angry on Alaric's behavior towards their fated mate.
Pretty much if you are female you are bound to obey your mate at all cost even if it's unreasonable if you dnt you will be subject to a beating by spanking your behind by either there hands/belts whatever they see fit to punish you. Rowan got a lot of beatings & was belittle right in front of her pack who now don't call her or even see her as their alpha at some point.. They all pretty much turned their backs on her
February 12, 2020
Aleric is horribly demeaning to Rowan Degrading her abilities and intelligence of that type of thing bothers you then skip this book. She was alpha of her keep and he walks in and puts her in a subservient position 3 stars is generous
June 13, 2020
Very disappointed
Not what I thought it would be...
Rowan was an amazing, strong, fierce, loyal alpha female. She fought for her people and what was right. 5 stars for her character. Alaric was a total douche bag. I hated him. He humiliated and degraded Rowan at every turn. He just wanted to control and own her. He didn't really care for her. To him she was an object to own and control. He is the worst excuse for a man. This book blew dubious consent out of the water. Trigger warning!
Not what I thought it would be...
Rowan was an amazing, strong, fierce, loyal alpha female. She fought for her people and what was right. 5 stars for her character. Alaric was a total douche bag. I hated him. He humiliated and degraded Rowan at every turn. He just wanted to control and own her. He didn't really care for her. To him she was an object to own and control. He is the worst excuse for a man. This book blew dubious consent out of the water. Trigger warning!
October 5, 2021
This was not okay. One of my favorite parts of omegaverse is the emphasis of the give and take between alpha and omega. That each has their power and they complement one another. This was just pure male toxicity, where a man completely breaks a strong, beautiful woman. There is beauty in surrender, but only when done with trust and consent. This had none of that. Yuck, very yuck.
May 14, 2024
Started out really great
I appreciated the strong female heroin in this book and I knew she was going to be subdued. Even though spanking was described in the prologue there's just too much of it. Beating with the belt and leaving welps is simply abuse even if it's in a fantasy book. I hate how they use sex as punishment it takes all the romance out of it. You would think that he would understand how hard it was for her to give up her power. He sexually abuses her and then thanks a tub of warm water is going to make it all better. The story was good and the writing was good but I'm not sure I'll read any more from this author. Although I like the alpha male, the force and abuse takes away from the story.
I appreciated the strong female heroin in this book and I knew she was going to be subdued. Even though spanking was described in the prologue there's just too much of it. Beating with the belt and leaving welps is simply abuse even if it's in a fantasy book. I hate how they use sex as punishment it takes all the romance out of it. You would think that he would understand how hard it was for her to give up her power. He sexually abuses her and then thanks a tub of warm water is going to make it all better. The story was good and the writing was good but I'm not sure I'll read any more from this author. Although I like the alpha male, the force and abuse takes away from the story.
January 14, 2023
The smut was good.
But, I don't understand the point of building up a strong female lead and then tearing her down. Also, the plot was based on misogyny and that didn't bode well with me.
But, I don't understand the point of building up a strong female lead and then tearing her down. Also, the plot was based on misogyny and that didn't bode well with me.
November 24, 2019
The narration of this story was perfection. Jack Calihan was brilliant. He made me want to finish the book when I was ready to quit. Unfortunately the story lacked a redeeming hero, who in this book is a typical brutal savage Alpha, that never fills the role of the loving noble understanding Alpha mate. I've read plenty of dark shifter reads and I'm comfortable with the spanking, punishment, when it is nicely wrapped into a story that shows how both the female and male leads grow from the experience. I didn't see it here. Alaric is the Alpha wolf and Rowan is the shewolf. She is a skilled and admired ALPHA female, yes that's right, Alpha FEMALE! The story just tramples over her with Alaric coming in to punish her for her disobedience and her struggle to accept her destiny. She must step down and accept being a fated mate, something she never ever wanted to do. I get it, she is headstrong and it was clear spankings and punishments would be part of getting her to acquiesce. But to have her completely humiliated without any regard or consideration to her accomplishments was almost intolerable. As I said at the beginning of my review, Jack's perfect narration is what kept me steady until the end. This book could have redeemed itself had Alaric at some point seen the light and realized Rowan should be a part of helping him rule. Those nasty rules of not being able to speak unless she is allowed and needing permission to wear pants, could have been amended even if it was something as small as asking for Rowan's input. There was plenty of steamy scenes and that was the only time where at least Rowan was done some justice. Had any of the intimate scenes been non con or even dub con, (in my opinion none weren't because Rowan utterly enjoyed them, safe for the first time which could be seen as dub con), I probably would have needed Jack to sit next to me and read the story to me in person because otherwise I would have quit on the book, missed the conclusion which again missed an opportunity to reward and highlight Rowen's leadership skills and bravery.
August 28, 2019
Warlord: A Dark Shifter Romance By: Delta JamesFate's Bringing a "Warlord" RIGHT To HER... Will She Survive Him!
There's a Change com'n for Her...
A "Warlord" sent by the Council to take Her lands!
There's a Change com'n for Her...
A "Warlord" that won't take NO for an Answer!
There's a Change com'n for Her...
A "Warlord" that will demand Obedience!
There's a Change com'n for Her...
A "Warlord" that'll Spank Her bottom to ensure Compliance!
There's a Change com'n for Her...
A "Warlord" who's Alpha... Through & Through!
There's a Change com'n for Her...
A "Warlord" that'll demand EveryThing from Her!
Ohhh Yes! There's a Change com'n for Her...
A "Warlord" that'll MATE, Mark, Subdue, & CLAIM Her!
This book contains BDSM elements & it's intended for readers over 18; if that's not your type of Reading Genre, please don't dip your toes into this book, as you won't enjoy IT. Plus, leaving an unfavorable review, because it's not your cup of tea, is unfair to the author. That said, you know what to Expect... Sooo Enjoy an excellent Read!
I was granted an ARC of Delta James' "Warlord: A Dark Shifter Romance" via B00|{$P®0UT. I recommend this book to others based upon its own recommendations. All opinions expressed within this review are uniquely my own & freely given!
Until next time... Happy Reading!
December 3, 2019
I genuinely enjoy fated mate books and dark romance. But this one didn’t work for me. I don’t like that Rowan said no many, many times but because her body responded Alaric took it as a yes. I understand it’s a dark romance but because it was a fated mate book I was hoping for less force and more love. I didn’t like the world this was in. It just wasn’t a book for me.
#audiobookobsessionreviewer
#audiobookobsessionreviewer
December 1, 2019
FATE CAN BE TESTED BUT NOT CHANGED
I received this book for free and am giving my honest and voluntary review.
A post-apocalyptic story of a world where wolves are the dominating species and women are not accepted as leaders. This book has a lot of hard-core spanking and different sex acts. The storyline is wonderful and full of clashing personalities and mistrust. I loved the story and can’t wait to read the follow-ups.
I received this book for free and am giving my honest and voluntary review.
A post-apocalyptic story of a world where wolves are the dominating species and women are not accepted as leaders. This book has a lot of hard-core spanking and different sex acts. The storyline is wonderful and full of clashing personalities and mistrust. I loved the story and can’t wait to read the follow-ups.
February 19, 2022
A strong woman is brought down by a traditionalist.
Trope: Alpha Dark Romance
Spice level: Spicy
Romance: None
Plot: Medium
World building: Medium
Special note: Traditional values, Wolf Shifters, D/S, Fated mate
Triggers:
This book had so much potential, and then fell flat.
I loved the dominance, the spanking, the arguments.. But my fine line is usually drawn when the dominance takes away or hinders the personality/spirit of the mc. And that happens quite a bit in this book, especially the whole 'no pants, be traditional'. I found myself quite irritated by the lack of any care that the guy had for her, her ideas or her accomplishments. Here he has this great leader who is incredibly smart in battle and doesn't even really see her, just an object to lock up and tuck away. It's disappointing.
Will continue with the series but hope that eases up a bit.
**Moved this from 4 stars to 3 because after time went by, I found I didn't like the book. I was still angry about aspects of it.**
Trope: Alpha Dark Romance
Spice level: Spicy
Romance: None
Plot: Medium
World building: Medium
Special note: Traditional values, Wolf Shifters, D/S, Fated mate
Triggers:
This book had so much potential, and then fell flat.
I loved the dominance, the spanking, the arguments.. But my fine line is usually drawn when the dominance takes away or hinders the personality/spirit of the mc. And that happens quite a bit in this book, especially the whole 'no pants, be traditional'. I found myself quite irritated by the lack of any care that the guy had for her, her ideas or her accomplishments. Here he has this great leader who is incredibly smart in battle and doesn't even really see her, just an object to lock up and tuck away. It's disappointing.
Will continue with the series but hope that eases up a bit.
**Moved this from 4 stars to 3 because after time went by, I found I didn't like the book. I was still angry about aspects of it.**
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