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Wolves Next Door #1
Wolf's Bane
The things that go bump in the night are supposed to be headboards, not monsters.
Leaving my husband was hard. Trying to face the world alone with my teenage daughter is the sort of thing nightmares are made of, but I caught a break. My best friend just hired me for a great job. It's not anything special, simply managing the leasing office of this very fancy and highly exclusive neighborhood, yet the perks mean I get my second chance.
Speaking of perks, my rent-free house is right beside not just one handsome man, but five! Each one is hotter than the last, and all of them seem interested in me. Maybe I can't remember the last date I was on, but if I want to master being a strong woman, then this is a good place to start. It's just dating, right? Normal life stuff.
Not so much.
Everyone around us has these strange golden eyes. Then there are the questions no one will answer. And who cares if there's a lot of wildlife running around at night? I do, especially when a wolf keeps sneaking into my backyard. I have a kid to worry about. Things have got to change before someone gets bitten!
Normal is going out the window, and fast. My neighbors say I don't belong here, and they don't mean because I'm Hispanic. Never mind that I just heard a man growl. Now they're talking about fated somethings, and I'm pretty sure they mean me.
I feel like I'm going crazy!
Because when I said I wanted to learn how to be strong, this wasn't what I meant at all. Still, when it comes to taking care of my little girl, I will definitely learn how to be the biggest bitch on the block.
I just hope that doesn't become literal.
Wolf's Bane is a 136,000 word, full-length novel with multiple love interests. Note: Wolves Next Door series contains profanity, consensual sex, and one adult woman who falls for multiple younger men. This is the first book in a trilogy.
Leaving my husband was hard. Trying to face the world alone with my teenage daughter is the sort of thing nightmares are made of, but I caught a break. My best friend just hired me for a great job. It's not anything special, simply managing the leasing office of this very fancy and highly exclusive neighborhood, yet the perks mean I get my second chance.
Speaking of perks, my rent-free house is right beside not just one handsome man, but five! Each one is hotter than the last, and all of them seem interested in me. Maybe I can't remember the last date I was on, but if I want to master being a strong woman, then this is a good place to start. It's just dating, right? Normal life stuff.
Not so much.
Everyone around us has these strange golden eyes. Then there are the questions no one will answer. And who cares if there's a lot of wildlife running around at night? I do, especially when a wolf keeps sneaking into my backyard. I have a kid to worry about. Things have got to change before someone gets bitten!
Normal is going out the window, and fast. My neighbors say I don't belong here, and they don't mean because I'm Hispanic. Never mind that I just heard a man growl. Now they're talking about fated somethings, and I'm pretty sure they mean me.
I feel like I'm going crazy!
Because when I said I wanted to learn how to be strong, this wasn't what I meant at all. Still, when it comes to taking care of my little girl, I will definitely learn how to be the biggest bitch on the block.
I just hope that doesn't become literal.
Wolf's Bane is a 136,000 word, full-length novel with multiple love interests. Note: Wolves Next Door series contains profanity, consensual sex, and one adult woman who falls for multiple younger men. This is the first book in a trilogy.
524 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 4, 2020
1243 people are currently reading
1580 people want to read
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December 11, 2022
A gated community of wolf shifters!
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💚🖤💙💜❤️
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙📘📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏🌎
Character development: ☹️🙃☺️😀
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Dual Narration
The heroine: Elena - a housewife with a teenage girl. She sees her daughter’s classmates pushing her daughter to do things she wouldn’t normally do and she tells her daughter to stand up for herself. Her daughter refuses to stand up for herself since her mother never stands up for herself with her father. Elena realizes that her daughter spoke the truth and she has been a doormat to her husbands wants and needs for years. So she leaves her husband after her best friend gets her a job as a leasing agent, which comes with a great salary and a rent free home in the Wolf’s Run community.
The Heroes: Ian, Lane, Seth, Trent, Pax - Ian was not happy at all to see the new human neighbors next door. He is the alpha and the pack leader and was pissed at his sister for hiring a human. The entire point of Wolf’s Run was to give them a place to live in peace, though after he meets her, he sees she is just his type. Lane was raised by Ian’s father after being alone with real wolves for two years in the wild, now he is one of Ian’s 4 beta’s and when he meets Elena, he knows she is his fated mate.
The Story: This book treats wolf shifters quite a bit different than many others. In this book, Lycanthropy is a disease that can be transmitted through a bite or is sexually transmitted. Also an Alpha wolf has 4 betas and the betas share the Alpha’s mate, but don’t have their own. Fated mates were very rare and when Lane discovers Elena is his fated mate, the only solution is for her to be Ian’s mate, then all of them will be able to have her. Otherwise, if Ian mated someone else, Lane would go crazy at being away from his fated mate.
Elena is excited about her new job and life after leaving her husband and moving to Wolf’s Run. However, it isn’t long before she started to notice some strange things. Like how everyone in the community looked much to pretty to be natural, and how she saw way too many wolves wandering too close to the homes.
The book is told in multiple points of view via dual narration, meaning the female narrator does the chapters in the female protagonist point of view and does all the narration within those chapters, even the male lines and vice versa. The book is narrated by Lola James, Aiden Snow and Aaron Shedlock. All three of these narrators did a terrific job and I really enjoyed all their voices.
The story was original and very good. The romance was a bit of a slow burn which works best for reverse harem. Since these can just be too smutty if things happen right away. I really enjoyed the story of Wolf’s Run since it is a gated community. I liked the idea of it. It serves as a safe place for shifters to live together in peace and also is surrounded by walls which will protect them if the secret ever gets out. Ian thinks that with all the camera’s in the world, the secret will come out eventually.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💚🖤💙💜❤️
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙📘📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏🌎
Character development: ☹️🙃☺️😀
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Dual Narration
The heroine: Elena - a housewife with a teenage girl. She sees her daughter’s classmates pushing her daughter to do things she wouldn’t normally do and she tells her daughter to stand up for herself. Her daughter refuses to stand up for herself since her mother never stands up for herself with her father. Elena realizes that her daughter spoke the truth and she has been a doormat to her husbands wants and needs for years. So she leaves her husband after her best friend gets her a job as a leasing agent, which comes with a great salary and a rent free home in the Wolf’s Run community.
The Heroes: Ian, Lane, Seth, Trent, Pax - Ian was not happy at all to see the new human neighbors next door. He is the alpha and the pack leader and was pissed at his sister for hiring a human. The entire point of Wolf’s Run was to give them a place to live in peace, though after he meets her, he sees she is just his type. Lane was raised by Ian’s father after being alone with real wolves for two years in the wild, now he is one of Ian’s 4 beta’s and when he meets Elena, he knows she is his fated mate.
The Story: This book treats wolf shifters quite a bit different than many others. In this book, Lycanthropy is a disease that can be transmitted through a bite or is sexually transmitted. Also an Alpha wolf has 4 betas and the betas share the Alpha’s mate, but don’t have their own. Fated mates were very rare and when Lane discovers Elena is his fated mate, the only solution is for her to be Ian’s mate, then all of them will be able to have her. Otherwise, if Ian mated someone else, Lane would go crazy at being away from his fated mate.
Elena is excited about her new job and life after leaving her husband and moving to Wolf’s Run. However, it isn’t long before she started to notice some strange things. Like how everyone in the community looked much to pretty to be natural, and how she saw way too many wolves wandering too close to the homes.
The book is told in multiple points of view via dual narration, meaning the female narrator does the chapters in the female protagonist point of view and does all the narration within those chapters, even the male lines and vice versa. The book is narrated by Lola James, Aiden Snow and Aaron Shedlock. All three of these narrators did a terrific job and I really enjoyed all their voices.
The story was original and very good. The romance was a bit of a slow burn which works best for reverse harem. Since these can just be too smutty if things happen right away. I really enjoyed the story of Wolf’s Run since it is a gated community. I liked the idea of it. It serves as a safe place for shifters to live together in peace and also is surrounded by walls which will protect them if the secret ever gets out. Ian thinks that with all the camera’s in the world, the secret will come out eventually.
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September 22, 2020
Entirely too slow
This book is way too slow and mundane. For real.
This would have been so much better if I knew it was going to be PNR lite. I went into this thinking it was going to be a full blown paranormal romance, and instead I got a contemporary romance with a splash of paranormal.
See the premise is that Elena is leaving her husband of 18 years with their 14 year old daughter. Learning to live without a husband and raising her daughter. Moving in next door to shifters should have made it more paranormal but it didn’t.
There was toooooooo much internalizing by Elena. There were so many times when she brought up her age difference that annoyed the crap out of me. She’s 40 and she said numerous times how she’s “old” and how she’s not young enough to do such and such. I definitely know that there IS a stigma when a woman dates younger, I totes get that, but I just couldn’t get on board with Elena’s they’re too young for me vibe when we are constantly seeing their actions of how mature they actually are. See I’ve seen 70 year olds who are immature and I’ve seen 20 year olds who are really mature, its just how people work. But to be going on and on and on for pages and pages was annoying. Also 40 is not old. Stop it.
See I have an age difference between my SO and I, I’m the younger one but we have a 14 year difference, and honestly, in adulthood it doesn’t really matter. Nor does age truly come up often imo. Not to say her worries didn’t matter but ugh.
The book then takes FOREVER to relate to anything wolf. Like they are there in the background, but not...fully part of the story. Even though we get Ian and Lane’s POV (btw why not the rest of the guys?) I’m still not completely clear on how being a shifter works. I still don’t understand their pack hierarchy, I still don’t know why they share, I still don’t know why Ashley was able to step down if she is an Alpha. Like....ok? It just didn’t make sense.
I expected the ex husband to be more of a problem than he was, he was just there, but not really causing problems yet. IDK. I just could have used more. It isn’t until around the 80% mark when Elena FINALLY finds out about her neighbors and Ashley (her BFF). EIGHTY PERCENT. That’s too long. I love a good slow burn but many scenes were glossed over and not live, completely unexpected from the author who wrote a seriously detailed High Fantasy (Rise of the Iliri - excellent series).
I am disappointed in this book because it was like molasses to slog through. It took too long, was only slightly interesting, I kept reading waiting for the turning point. But nada.
I also SERIOUSLY disliked how when Elena found out about them she kept likening them to dogs and pets, and that seems pretty offensive. I’m actually surprised Ian didn’t get offended by her comment, because why in the world would they even think of her as a pet or dog.
I like Gabby even though at the beginning she’s a bit of a brat. But that gets settled. I just find myself wishing for more. I would not read this one until the second or third book was out because it’s boring. It really is. I would normally chalk it up to world building but I’m still unclear about this world. I hope book 2 explains things further because it’d be a shame for this to not be a good series I know this author is capable of.
Read with Gotta Have Romance with a Kick goodreads group August 2020 PNR BOTM.
This book is way too slow and mundane. For real.
This would have been so much better if I knew it was going to be PNR lite. I went into this thinking it was going to be a full blown paranormal romance, and instead I got a contemporary romance with a splash of paranormal.
See the premise is that Elena is leaving her husband of 18 years with their 14 year old daughter. Learning to live without a husband and raising her daughter. Moving in next door to shifters should have made it more paranormal but it didn’t.
There was toooooooo much internalizing by Elena. There were so many times when she brought up her age difference that annoyed the crap out of me. She’s 40 and she said numerous times how she’s “old” and how she’s not young enough to do such and such. I definitely know that there IS a stigma when a woman dates younger, I totes get that, but I just couldn’t get on board with Elena’s they’re too young for me vibe when we are constantly seeing their actions of how mature they actually are. See I’ve seen 70 year olds who are immature and I’ve seen 20 year olds who are really mature, its just how people work. But to be going on and on and on for pages and pages was annoying. Also 40 is not old. Stop it.
See I have an age difference between my SO and I, I’m the younger one but we have a 14 year difference, and honestly, in adulthood it doesn’t really matter. Nor does age truly come up often imo. Not to say her worries didn’t matter but ugh.
The book then takes FOREVER to relate to anything wolf. Like they are there in the background, but not...fully part of the story. Even though we get Ian and Lane’s POV (btw why not the rest of the guys?) I’m still not completely clear on how being a shifter works. I still don’t understand their pack hierarchy, I still don’t know why they share, I still don’t know why Ashley was able to step down if she is an Alpha. Like....ok? It just didn’t make sense.
I expected the ex husband to be more of a problem than he was, he was just there, but not really causing problems yet. IDK. I just could have used more. It isn’t until around the 80% mark when Elena FINALLY finds out about her neighbors and Ashley (her BFF). EIGHTY PERCENT. That’s too long. I love a good slow burn but many scenes were glossed over and not live, completely unexpected from the author who wrote a seriously detailed High Fantasy (Rise of the Iliri - excellent series).
I am disappointed in this book because it was like molasses to slog through. It took too long, was only slightly interesting, I kept reading waiting for the turning point. But nada.
I also SERIOUSLY disliked how when Elena found out about them she kept likening them to dogs and pets, and that seems pretty offensive. I’m actually surprised Ian didn’t get offended by her comment, because why in the world would they even think of her as a pet or dog.
I like Gabby even though at the beginning she’s a bit of a brat. But that gets settled. I just find myself wishing for more. I would not read this one until the second or third book was out because it’s boring. It really is. I would normally chalk it up to world building but I’m still unclear about this world. I hope book 2 explains things further because it’d be a shame for this to not be a good series I know this author is capable of.
Read with Gotta Have Romance with a Kick goodreads group August 2020 PNR BOTM.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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March 23, 2021Spoilers ahead
Huh, not sure how I feel about the set up of this. One of the guys recognized her as his fated mate, as betas don't have their own mate the Alpha offered to mate her so they could all share her. No special connection, nothing. One of the guys actually said she's at least10 years older but he'd do her(paraphrasing) This is not what I expect in a RH especially with wolves.
It's a pet peeve of mine when broke people refuse help. Girl shut up and accept it, you ain't got no money! Damn!
Currently reading
Huh, not sure how I feel about the set up of this. One of the guys recognized her as his fated mate, as betas don't have their own mate the Alpha offered to mate her so they could all share her. No special connection, nothing. One of the guys actually said she's at least10 years older but he'd do her(paraphrasing) This is not what I expect in a RH especially with wolves.
It's a pet peeve of mine when broke people refuse help. Girl shut up and accept it, you ain't got no money! Damn!
Currently reading
January 15, 2023
4.5 star -- for the series
Okay, sooooo I binge read this one. I might have actually liked it more had I not, which is saying something because I really, really liked this series. The romance is pretty slow burn and there is a ton of communication. COMMUNICATION! I always want characters to talk more and here they finally do! I do think there is a lot of outside of the couple talk too which I personally wouldn't like, but in this setting, in this pack, I understand why they do what they do.
That being said, I do think Elena overthinks things and makes people repeat things time and time again. She worries constantly, she's stubborn too which doesn't always help the beating some conversations to death and then it feels like she doesn't listen! But, there is communication and I was so happy for it. It makes the relationship growth feel more natural and the conversations between her and her daughter are lovely. I hope more teens are able to have such hope communications with their parents.
I also thought the characters were grand. Yes, Elena got on my nerves at times and I couldn't always tell Pax & Trent apart, but there are great characters. There are quite a few lgbt characters as well (gay, bisexual, asexual are explicitly mentioned and polyamory is also talked about). This is also an age gap book with Elena being 40 with the guys being 36, 30, 29, and I think Pax & Trent are... 32? while Elena's daughter is 14. I liked that her being a mom is taken seriously and ALSO Elena's decision about having more children is also taken at heart and no one tries to change her mind. Elena, while an over-thinker, is rational and not prone to dramatics like many younger heroines are. She trusts her guys and doesn't let gossip or people obviously trying to derail her relationship sway her mind. So, the over-thinking can be annoying, but if I'm being honest... super realistic? I'd probably act much the same way she does and I think if I read this series slower and spread it out I wouldn't have minded as much.
Okay, next we would probably talk... length? These books are massive! They are lovely and I fell into them, but WOW they are long. Personally? Loved it. It can feel like they are dragging at times, but I only felt that when I wondered "where is this going?" but thinking about it as character-driven and Elena's journey to finding where she belongs makes it work. This series does have some action scenes, but for the most part it is a book about relationships and personal growth. Not my usual thing, but these characters dug into my heart. There were times in book 2 and 3 that I ended up nearly in tears. My eyes were definitely watering.
I am attached to these characters, the pack, and the world. I would LOVE to read more set in this world.
So, if you're looking for a slower-paced, low stakes, slow burn romance with a huge cast of wonderful characters that is honestly just a happy, feel-good book, then you should give this series a try.
Okay, sooooo I binge read this one. I might have actually liked it more had I not, which is saying something because I really, really liked this series. The romance is pretty slow burn and there is a ton of communication. COMMUNICATION! I always want characters to talk more and here they finally do! I do think there is a lot of outside of the couple talk too which I personally wouldn't like, but in this setting, in this pack, I understand why they do what they do.
That being said, I do think Elena overthinks things and makes people repeat things time and time again. She worries constantly, she's stubborn too which doesn't always help the beating some conversations to death and then it feels like she doesn't listen! But, there is communication and I was so happy for it. It makes the relationship growth feel more natural and the conversations between her and her daughter are lovely. I hope more teens are able to have such hope communications with their parents.
I also thought the characters were grand. Yes, Elena got on my nerves at times and I couldn't always tell Pax & Trent apart, but there are great characters. There are quite a few lgbt characters as well (gay, bisexual, asexual are explicitly mentioned and polyamory is also talked about). This is also an age gap book with Elena being 40 with the guys being 36, 30, 29, and I think Pax & Trent are... 32? while Elena's daughter is 14. I liked that her being a mom is taken seriously and ALSO Elena's decision about having more children is also taken at heart and no one tries to change her mind. Elena, while an over-thinker, is rational and not prone to dramatics like many younger heroines are. She trusts her guys and doesn't let gossip or people obviously trying to derail her relationship sway her mind. So, the over-thinking can be annoying, but if I'm being honest... super realistic? I'd probably act much the same way she does and I think if I read this series slower and spread it out I wouldn't have minded as much.
Okay, next we would probably talk... length? These books are massive! They are lovely and I fell into them, but WOW they are long. Personally? Loved it. It can feel like they are dragging at times, but I only felt that when I wondered "where is this going?" but thinking about it as character-driven and Elena's journey to finding where she belongs makes it work. This series does have some action scenes, but for the most part it is a book about relationships and personal growth. Not my usual thing, but these characters dug into my heart. There were times in book 2 and 3 that I ended up nearly in tears. My eyes were definitely watering.
I am attached to these characters, the pack, and the world. I would LOVE to read more set in this world.
So, if you're looking for a slower-paced, low stakes, slow burn romance with a huge cast of wonderful characters that is honestly just a happy, feel-good book, then you should give this series a try.
August 8, 2020
I don’t fully know what to say about this one. I struggled to even rate it. On the plus side, it’s written well. But that’s a given with Auryn. Lane and Seth are probably my favourite characters but they didn’t have a lot of screen time so to speak.
The story and characters themselves I actually really struggled with. Part of me was tempted to DNF before I even finished the first chapter. I didn’t connect with the largest POV characters especially the fmc. For a large portion of the book it’s the same thing being worried about over and over and over and over and over .... you get my drift. My eyes started rolling.
I’m not even going to get myself started on Gabby and Roman.
I definitely think the Fmc needs to learn about boundaries pronto.
I just realised I can’t actually remember all of the main characters names which isn’t good.
Would I read it again? No.
Just because I didn’t particularly enjoy it, doesn’t mean others won’t.
The story and characters themselves I actually really struggled with. Part of me was tempted to DNF before I even finished the first chapter. I didn’t connect with the largest POV characters especially the fmc. For a large portion of the book it’s the same thing being worried about over and over and over and over and over .... you get my drift. My eyes started rolling.
I’m not even going to get myself started on Gabby and Roman.
I definitely think the Fmc needs to learn about boundaries pronto.
I just realised I can’t actually remember all of the main characters names which isn’t good.
Would I read it again? No.
Just because I didn’t particularly enjoy it, doesn’t mean others won’t.
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February 6, 2024Sometimes I randomly read a new to me author and it pays off, but not this time. I love a wide range of genres and writing styles, but this book is a DNF for me.
It’s a painfully boring read, where nothing much happens. It has an obvious set up to be a reverse harem type of story, but I never made it that far, because it’s a snooze fest.
Things I liked-
Cover art
Main character leaves husband for a better life. She’s 40 and I can root for anyone who wants a new beginning.
Things I didn’t-
The main character constantly mentions her age to everyone. It’s annoying and who does that? No one that’s who.
The weak parenting of the teenage daughter. The dialogue between the men was cringy.
Pretty much everything. This book just isn’t my jam. Hence the lack of rating and DNF. Life is too short.
It’s a painfully boring read, where nothing much happens. It has an obvious set up to be a reverse harem type of story, but I never made it that far, because it’s a snooze fest.
Things I liked-
Cover art
Main character leaves husband for a better life. She’s 40 and I can root for anyone who wants a new beginning.
Things I didn’t-
The main character constantly mentions her age to everyone. It’s annoying and who does that? No one that’s who.
The weak parenting of the teenage daughter. The dialogue between the men was cringy.
Pretty much everything. This book just isn’t my jam. Hence the lack of rating and DNF. Life is too short.
August 11, 2020
All over again
I tried to read this book, but I dnf at 50%. I understand Elena well with he ex machismo husband, understand being raised strictly in a Hispanic household. The way a women is raised is way different then a mans up bringing at that showed in how Elena thought process worked. Her constantly only referring to herself as a old mother was aggravating, but not off the mark of what she thought proper for herself, my issue was that her being strong lasted only her leaving her husband, she was just so worried about everything and everyone else opinion but her and her daughter that at 50% it was a broken record of a women to scared to even try to live, so why not lay down and die since ur old and that's pretty much what ur pushing anyways? The guys were desperately trying and after half the book I thought why continue with trying? Every obstacle you over come Elena just puts another wall or drinks her wine so she doesn't have to deal, it's one thing to work hard for someone who's worth putting that effort in, yet I didn't feel like Elena was actually worth it. As I read on this book reminded me of another book, not the storyline, but the writing skills. When I noticed who the author was that's when I decided to throw in the towel. I liked her last books, that's until I was 4 books in an realized we were still talking about the same issues from the previous books, again, the broken record issue. That was when I decided this book was not for me, this author has a bad habit of getting the characters to overcome the RH relationship issues, yet some how make the characters over and over again discuss it while always going back at square one. I can't not read anymore books like that! It drove me to be aggravated and emotionally done with a book, I can't invest in this authors any longer knowing that every book or series will be like this.
I tried to read this book, but I dnf at 50%. I understand Elena well with he ex machismo husband, understand being raised strictly in a Hispanic household. The way a women is raised is way different then a mans up bringing at that showed in how Elena thought process worked. Her constantly only referring to herself as a old mother was aggravating, but not off the mark of what she thought proper for herself, my issue was that her being strong lasted only her leaving her husband, she was just so worried about everything and everyone else opinion but her and her daughter that at 50% it was a broken record of a women to scared to even try to live, so why not lay down and die since ur old and that's pretty much what ur pushing anyways? The guys were desperately trying and after half the book I thought why continue with trying? Every obstacle you over come Elena just puts another wall or drinks her wine so she doesn't have to deal, it's one thing to work hard for someone who's worth putting that effort in, yet I didn't feel like Elena was actually worth it. As I read on this book reminded me of another book, not the storyline, but the writing skills. When I noticed who the author was that's when I decided to throw in the towel. I liked her last books, that's until I was 4 books in an realized we were still talking about the same issues from the previous books, again, the broken record issue. That was when I decided this book was not for me, this author has a bad habit of getting the characters to overcome the RH relationship issues, yet some how make the characters over and over again discuss it while always going back at square one. I can't not read anymore books like that! It drove me to be aggravated and emotionally done with a book, I can't invest in this authors any longer knowing that every book or series will be like this.
February 25, 2021
Spoilers Ahead
Honestly, I didn't like a thing about this book. Between the fmc being a mouse and letting her kid run her life, to the 'best' friend thats using her as an experiment in their werewolf community, and the guys that just decide to mate her without asking her because it's easier for them? And the mating doesn't even mean anything significant, but yet somehow puts her on the same level as the alpha? It doesn't mean that she's tied to them, theres no commitment what so ever, but allows her all this protection, how? And the part that I'm mad about? That being turned into a werewolf is as simple as getting an STD, literally, they constantly mention it to themselves in the book, but yet never tell the woman they're trying to mate to, and then tell her she's overreacting when she finds out and gets mad. There's more than just this, but these were the over the top moments for me and I figure this is enough to mention.
Honestly, I didn't like a thing about this book. Between the fmc being a mouse and letting her kid run her life, to the 'best' friend thats using her as an experiment in their werewolf community, and the guys that just decide to mate her without asking her because it's easier for them? And the mating doesn't even mean anything significant, but yet somehow puts her on the same level as the alpha? It doesn't mean that she's tied to them, theres no commitment what so ever, but allows her all this protection, how? And the part that I'm mad about? That being turned into a werewolf is as simple as getting an STD, literally, they constantly mention it to themselves in the book, but yet never tell the woman they're trying to mate to, and then tell her she's overreacting when she finds out and gets mad. There's more than just this, but these were the over the top moments for me and I figure this is enough to mention.
December 16, 2021
3.5 stars.
Really fun, cute, enjoyable series! It's exactly what you'd expect after reading the blurb.
A bit forgettable, to tell you the truth, but it's still really, really relaxing and nice. Definitely worth a try if you're in the mood for a fast-paced, relaxing series. What's not to like when you have a strong female character and some really hot guys, right?
Really fun, cute, enjoyable series! It's exactly what you'd expect after reading the blurb.
A bit forgettable, to tell you the truth, but it's still really, really relaxing and nice. Definitely worth a try if you're in the mood for a fast-paced, relaxing series. What's not to like when you have a strong female character and some really hot guys, right?
August 11, 2020
Alright
I wanted to give this book 5 stars.. I really did. But I have to be honest, I found it really lacking.
The length of the book suggests that a lot happens, but nothing really does. The first 46% is little interactions here and there, some build up and some hints as to whats going to happen - but MOSTLY just useless and boring fluff. The book is mostly told. I skimmed way to often. The world building was also lacking. A vague “other packs are vicious but we want to do things better” and some information about the lycan disease. The author DID show how this werewolf community was different than the others, but no proof or info about what the lycan world is like.
There were too many harem guys and not enough quality time spent on them. For the length of the book, I expect to connect to them on a emotional level but even at the end, they were just names to me. The waste of space in the book is a missed opportunity for more character development, relationship development and all around quality.
1 almost threesome and 1 orgy.
I did appreciate that the main character was older. She was 40 and has a 14 year old daughter. I appreciated that there were more important characters outside of the harem and best friend. I appreciated that the daughter plays an important role. But thats where the positives end..
I wouldn’t buy this book.
I wanted to give this book 5 stars.. I really did. But I have to be honest, I found it really lacking.
The length of the book suggests that a lot happens, but nothing really does. The first 46% is little interactions here and there, some build up and some hints as to whats going to happen - but MOSTLY just useless and boring fluff. The book is mostly told. I skimmed way to often. The world building was also lacking. A vague “other packs are vicious but we want to do things better” and some information about the lycan disease. The author DID show how this werewolf community was different than the others, but no proof or info about what the lycan world is like.
There were too many harem guys and not enough quality time spent on them. For the length of the book, I expect to connect to them on a emotional level but even at the end, they were just names to me. The waste of space in the book is a missed opportunity for more character development, relationship development and all around quality.
1 almost threesome and 1 orgy.
I did appreciate that the main character was older. She was 40 and has a 14 year old daughter. I appreciated that there were more important characters outside of the harem and best friend. I appreciated that the daughter plays an important role. But thats where the positives end..
I wouldn’t buy this book.
August 5, 2020
All done.... and now into a book slump. Auryn, you did it again! Elena is amazing. A single mom at 40 yrs old, not quite divorced yet, and ready to become independent - it’s not a common FMC, but she is beautiful and strong. The best thing about this book was her thoughts through it all. How she processed everything that was going on, decided when to ask questions and when to stay silent and just observe so as not to upset the balance of her new life. I loved how the whole book wasn’t her denying a relationship with them but instead them figuring out how to make it work when there is a 14-yr old daughter in the picture to consider. And the guys interactions and care for Gabby - so sweet. Can’t wait for the next one, as usual.
November 7, 2021
Rating : 3/5 ... that was an interesting book for a shifter book
Review in french : cliquez ici
Review in english : It's been a long time since I read a book by Auryn Hadley. I really liked her series "The Wolf of Oberhame" and "The Dark Orchid" (a bit dark and hard so I don't recommend it for everyone).
I knew in advance that I liked the author's style. Her stories are always well written and well thought. Nevertheless, I get bored very quickly with her series. In general, I love the first 2 books and after I get bored.
The first thing I liked about this book is that the author tried to differentiate herself from all the other shifter stories, which are very popular right now in the fantasy genre. The main character, Elena, is a 40 year old woman who just divorced her husband and has a 14 year old daughter. It was nice to have a main character who is not in her twenties. Elena, is a woman who is mature and has a life and a child. She has other problems than those of 20 year olds.
Elena takes a job in an exclusive community. She is happy to manage the reception and help her friend Ashley. She didn't expect to see wolves around her house at night or have 5 neighbors very interested in her.
I really enjoyed the beginning of the novel with Elena and Gabby's arrival in the community. Elena is far from a perfect MC but her reactions make sense. I wish she would have stopped saying every 5 minutes that she is old...because clearly at 40 she is not. Gabby is a teenager in all her glory, so she is a bit irritating, but hey, that's normal.
This book is a reverse harem (also a very popular genre in fantasy at the moment). Personally, I would have preferred a slower romance. By the second meeting, Ian's pack decides that they are going to try dating Elena.
Despite this I think this book is worth a 3.5/5 because:
→ while the romance is quick on the wolf side, it takes longer for Elena. She has much more logical reactions than most fantasy MCs. Being hit on by 5 young men doesn't feel natural to her.
→ Finally an older MC with younger men ...
→ The only downside: I would have preferred Elena to be stronger and more confident. She often lets herself be dictated what to feel by others. And I also would have liked a little less perfect neighbors. I'm not going to lie to you, the romance is not extraordinary but I spent a pleasant moment.
In short, I recommend this fantastic book if you like mature MCs. If you like fantasy, this book is different enough from the others to be interesting. Don't read it for the romance but for the mature main character and her introduction into the fantasy world.
Review in french : cliquez ici
Review in english : It's been a long time since I read a book by Auryn Hadley. I really liked her series "The Wolf of Oberhame" and "The Dark Orchid" (a bit dark and hard so I don't recommend it for everyone).
I knew in advance that I liked the author's style. Her stories are always well written and well thought. Nevertheless, I get bored very quickly with her series. In general, I love the first 2 books and after I get bored.
The first thing I liked about this book is that the author tried to differentiate herself from all the other shifter stories, which are very popular right now in the fantasy genre. The main character, Elena, is a 40 year old woman who just divorced her husband and has a 14 year old daughter. It was nice to have a main character who is not in her twenties. Elena, is a woman who is mature and has a life and a child. She has other problems than those of 20 year olds.
Elena takes a job in an exclusive community. She is happy to manage the reception and help her friend Ashley. She didn't expect to see wolves around her house at night or have 5 neighbors very interested in her.
I really enjoyed the beginning of the novel with Elena and Gabby's arrival in the community. Elena is far from a perfect MC but her reactions make sense. I wish she would have stopped saying every 5 minutes that she is old...because clearly at 40 she is not. Gabby is a teenager in all her glory, so she is a bit irritating, but hey, that's normal.
This book is a reverse harem (also a very popular genre in fantasy at the moment). Personally, I would have preferred a slower romance. By the second meeting, Ian's pack decides that they are going to try dating Elena.
Despite this I think this book is worth a 3.5/5 because:
→ while the romance is quick on the wolf side, it takes longer for Elena. She has much more logical reactions than most fantasy MCs. Being hit on by 5 young men doesn't feel natural to her.
→ Finally an older MC with younger men ...
→ The only downside: I would have preferred Elena to be stronger and more confident. She often lets herself be dictated what to feel by others. And I also would have liked a little less perfect neighbors. I'm not going to lie to you, the romance is not extraordinary but I spent a pleasant moment.
In short, I recommend this fantastic book if you like mature MCs. If you like fantasy, this book is different enough from the others to be interesting. Don't read it for the romance but for the mature main character and her introduction into the fantasy world.
July 19, 2023
This book is a contemporary fantasy (urban fantasy?) book where werewolves are trying to adapt to modern society and prepare for the eventual outing of their supernatural community. The world building was minimal relying on the genre to support the story. However, the author did a pretty good job making the fantastical elements seem more realistic. The book boils down to a single mom leaving an unloving marriage to be an example for her 14 year old daughter. Then trying to wrap her mind around an alternative lifestyle. The werewolf element really didn't come into play until the very end of the book, which makes me want to read book two to see what happens next.
One thing I didn't like:
I've had issues with this author in the past because she's fond of soap boxing in her books. Unfortunately, this book was no different and I felt like I was getting lectured every other chapter. (Not a fan)
One thing I didn't like:
I've had issues with this author in the past because she's fond of soap boxing in her books. Unfortunately, this book was no different and I felt like I was getting lectured every other chapter. (Not a fan)
August 18, 2023
Interesting and intriguing twist on the wolf world as becoming a wolf is something you are born with or can be changed which isn't anything new, but this book treated becoming a wolf like an STD and it was actually referred to as such several times. The narration of the audiobook is outstanding as dual narration is great, but they added a 3rd narrator to add more separation and uniqueness to the characters. It was also nice that the female lead was an older (40, not old) woman with a bit more maturity (supposedly) even though she lacked experience with men other than her soon to be ex-husband. Single mom to a teenager so we get a variety of storylines going here. Overall, a fun read and well written so I'll definitely be looking for more from this author.
August 11, 2020
Well, there were a lot of things that happened in this story that just didn't make sense or left me confused. Like how a werewolf bite or blood or sexual transmission can transmit the disease but not a kiss or saliva, it just doesn't make sense, as it's the saliva in the bite that transmits it. There were a few moments that had me pissed at the story as a whole, but overall, I liked it enough to at least finish it. The story did end with a mild plot cliff-hanger, but the main group of 6 in the RH seemed to have worked out the relationship enough to have a "Happy for Now" ending, enough to not have to continue with the series if a person doesn't enjoy it enough to want to continue. I think the big thing that held my attention in this book more than anything, was I pretty much liked all 5 of the guys in the RH. It was refreshing to not have the atypical douche bag in the group that everyone is angry at -all the time. At times they did seem to be interchangeable as I didn't get enough personality differences between them for the most part to differentiate at times -other than a few things like Ian being the Alpha, Trent with his theater background, or Lane in his wolf form so much, & Seth wanting to be honest with her and having been turned not born. Poor Pax, nothing really stood out about him to even give him acknowledgement like the rest got. But those things really aren't personality traits, just “what is” about them. Now Elena, she was another whole ball of confusion. One minute she's a doormat with no confidence, the next she's a strong mama bear, then back to a door mat. Her character was very inconsistent, and that sort of had me not liking her as a whole because she wasn't believable. I also felt she was sort of stagnant, always worrying, always doubting herself, all the way until the end of the book, there's no growth or development into a strong independent woman, that felt like what it was supposed to be -her journey thru the book. Then there's the daughter, Gabby. It's really confusing to take a 14 year old girl that's one minute a hormonal raging teenager (actually happens), and then make her so worldly and smart. To let her get away with so much bad behavior in the story, made it really hard to like her, let alone like that part of the story. The plot point with Gabby & Roman dating & then the horrific thing he did (against his Alpha's orders, which I wouldn’t think was a possibility), was one of those things that had me cringe & hate the book. Maybe I'm just too old, but my kids did not date at 14. That whole plot line with Roman really had me pissed off & hating him. It's hard to believe the inconsistencies in behavior of the teen and end up at the end "trusting" her as Elena did -all within weeks of the whole blowup thing. I wouldn't have forgiven that quickly as a parent. My kids had to earn my trust & if they blew up that trust, it took a long time to earn it back. Not sure if I will continue with this series, I guess it will depend how I feel at the time when book 2 comes out.
September 6, 2020
This review pains me all the way down to my soul. I have never given a book by this authors anything less than 4 stars. The story is great, but omg I just couldn't get past all the bad parenting all around. Coming from someone who raised teens, the bad parenting just kept making me angry and throwing me out of the story. A 14 year old is a CHILD. I don't care if you are great friends, you still discipline them. There's was no discipline and the MF just let her get away with everything right to the end. Why??? She did a horrible thing but eh, she has to take extra lessons and the person who did it to her is still around that child? I didn't dnf because I honestly wanted to know what happened, but this was not something I expected.
August 4, 2020
I was glad to read about a more mature heroine, but I was hesitant at first because I like older males and such a huge age gap is normally a turn off for me, because I cannot fathom the appeal of a boy toy.
But, as usually, Auryn is able to push my boundaries.
Good job!
But, as usually, Auryn is able to push my boundaries.
Good job!
September 18, 2020
Another phenomenon book by Auryn Hadley. She has the ability to take something we all know, and twist it. Love love love this story!
August 5, 2020
I received an ARC and it was amazing. Im horrible with words, I hate writing reviews but this deserved me writing something. Thank you for such an amazing book.
October 29, 2020
RATING: 4 STARS!
Gorgeous cover!
Gorgeous cover!
February 21, 2024
Wolf's Bane, Wolves Next Door, #1 had all the appearances of a good listen for me. I did enjoy the narration by Lola James, Aiden Snow and Aaron Shedlock who provided a very good performance of the characters. My two stars is for the annoying heroine, Elena that will not accept help when she desperately needs it...and the money. Five supposedly younger neighbors...all wolves where one pics up on her being a mate but the Alpha by default who is the younger sibling to her best friend and acts more mature than his sister, decides to mate her for the pack sake so they all can have privy to Elena. My first time listening to one of Auryn Hadley novels that I thought was well-written but for me all over the place and not what I was expecting. About 55%-60% into the story it became a repeat recording of a RH relationship. This story was lacking something and I don't know what. Fourteen hours of jumping throughout the listen where the heroine appeared cowardly, 14 year old daughter ran the mother's life, and repetitive mentioning of transmitted diseases. I do love a paranormal wolf story but this was just not it for me.
August 7, 2020
10 Stars
OMG!!!!! This is one story in can get behind. Single mom, teenage daughter, hot neighbors.
Auryn Hadley does not let her readers down as she ventures into a brand new series. The story telling is significant. The book is absolutely amazing!! I highly recommend this book!
OMG!!!!! This is one story in can get behind. Single mom, teenage daughter, hot neighbors.
Auryn Hadley does not let her readers down as she ventures into a brand new series. The story telling is significant. The book is absolutely amazing!! I highly recommend this book!
Want to read
August 18, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (8/18/2020)! 🎁
August 9, 2020
Ok but not a typical AH book
I just barely forced myself to finish this book. Not that it's bad in it's own right but compared to her other books it's severely lacking. Usually AH books create crazy new worlds with deep thoughtful world building. This is just a typical werewolf book with a single mother/ RH aspect. Pretty disappointed.
I just barely forced myself to finish this book. Not that it's bad in it's own right but compared to her other books it's severely lacking. Usually AH books create crazy new worlds with deep thoughtful world building. This is just a typical werewolf book with a single mother/ RH aspect. Pretty disappointed.
November 4, 2020
My reaction after finishing the book just now,
"Wait a second, are you kidding me?!!?!" (and not in a good way)
"Wait a second, are you kidding me?!!?!" (and not in a good way)
August 7, 2020
A fantastic and unique take on shifters!
I loved that Elena is a 40yr old single mother, just trying to do her best for her daughter, and doesn't realise she's moved in next to shifters.
Elena was easy to relate to with her goals for herself and Gabby and her reactions and thought processes as she settles in to her new community and starts to uncover secrets. She doesn't realise how strong she is but proves that throughout the book.
Gabby was a great character too - typical teen in some instances, but also more mature in other instances.
The guys are all very different and really complement each other as a group, and bring something different to Elena's (& even Gabby's) life. They might be younger than Elena (some a slightly bigger age gap than others), but they're all very mature, confident, and know what they're looking for and needing in their lives.
The connections between Elena and the guys was so real and authentic, and their interactions with Gabby really sweet and proving how serious they are about Elena.
Fantastic book and can't wait to see what happens next!
I loved that Elena is a 40yr old single mother, just trying to do her best for her daughter, and doesn't realise she's moved in next to shifters.
Elena was easy to relate to with her goals for herself and Gabby and her reactions and thought processes as she settles in to her new community and starts to uncover secrets. She doesn't realise how strong she is but proves that throughout the book.
Gabby was a great character too - typical teen in some instances, but also more mature in other instances.
The guys are all very different and really complement each other as a group, and bring something different to Elena's (& even Gabby's) life. They might be younger than Elena (some a slightly bigger age gap than others), but they're all very mature, confident, and know what they're looking for and needing in their lives.
The connections between Elena and the guys was so real and authentic, and their interactions with Gabby really sweet and proving how serious they are about Elena.
Fantastic book and can't wait to see what happens next!
December 19, 2022
I really did not like this book. The story hit my radar like dysfunction on parade and that never resolved for me even at its most functional.
I didn't give it a single star because those things ar entirely subjective preference. The book was otherwise competently written with identifiable characters, stated personal growth goals for several of the primary characters, and lots of sex.
But the lies that the entire story is predicated upon, and how quickly that was resolved, was distasteful to me, even in fiction.
That said, Auryn Hadley's Rise of the Iliri series is some of the best reverse harem I've ever read. It's fantasy that stands on its own. So I'm chalking this up to just not to my taste.
I didn't give it a single star because those things ar entirely subjective preference. The book was otherwise competently written with identifiable characters, stated personal growth goals for several of the primary characters, and lots of sex.
But the lies that the entire story is predicated upon, and how quickly that was resolved, was distasteful to me, even in fiction.
That said, Auryn Hadley's Rise of the Iliri series is some of the best reverse harem I've ever read. It's fantasy that stands on its own. So I'm chalking this up to just not to my taste.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2020
Loved this start to a new series
I adore anything Auryn Hadley writes and this book is no exception. This is a Wolf shifter series but it’s also about family and relationships.
As with all of Auryn’s books she takes a unique stance on shifters which is very refreshing.
I love Elena and Gabby their relationship is so strong even with a hormonal teenager you can see the strength.
I also love Elena’s relationship with the guys. They are all really different but are perfect together.
There is no cliffhanger but I am so excited foe the next book in this series to see what happens.
I adore anything Auryn Hadley writes and this book is no exception. This is a Wolf shifter series but it’s also about family and relationships.
As with all of Auryn’s books she takes a unique stance on shifters which is very refreshing.
I love Elena and Gabby their relationship is so strong even with a hormonal teenager you can see the strength.
I also love Elena’s relationship with the guys. They are all really different but are perfect together.
There is no cliffhanger but I am so excited foe the next book in this series to see what happens.
December 17, 2020
DNF 34%
That wasn't my story. I love Auryn Hadleys Dark Orchid Series, so I'm disappointed that I don't like this one.
I don't really like the "older woman younger man" trope. But here I really couldn't stand it, because the Heroine acted like a 12 year old regarding her "love life".
And I don't want to read about a Heroine who had only one love interest in all her life (her ex-husband and it wasn't really enjoyable) in 40 years and Heroes who had many many women who they also shared together. Nope.
Also I didn't really care for Ian. Lane was more interesting. Ian didn't really seem to be an "alpha".
That wasn't my story. I love Auryn Hadleys Dark Orchid Series, so I'm disappointed that I don't like this one.
I don't really like the "older woman younger man" trope. But here I really couldn't stand it, because the Heroine acted like a 12 year old regarding her "love life".
And I don't want to read about a Heroine who had only one love interest in all her life (her ex-husband and it wasn't really enjoyable) in 40 years and Heroes who had many many women who they also shared together. Nope.
Also I didn't really care for Ian. Lane was more interesting. Ian didn't really seem to be an "alpha".
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2020
If you want an older heroine, this is a good one!
Elena starts the book getting a divorce and moving with her 14 yo daughter into a new community. Elena wants to change her life but little did she know how much it would change! Her love interests are all different but alike in the way they care for her and want to get to know her better. The society in this book is well thought out, as I anticipate from this author, and I am interested in learning more in the next two books.
If you do not like reverse harem, this isn't a book for you.
Elena starts the book getting a divorce and moving with her 14 yo daughter into a new community. Elena wants to change her life but little did she know how much it would change! Her love interests are all different but alike in the way they care for her and want to get to know her better. The society in this book is well thought out, as I anticipate from this author, and I am interested in learning more in the next two books.
If you do not like reverse harem, this isn't a book for you.
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