The Wolf on Her Doorstep

by Kate Pearce

*Previously appeared in the anthology Lone Wolf

In Morgan Valley, two wary loners discover they’re perfect together . . .

Beth Baker can tell that her summer tenant wants to be left to himself, and that suits her more than fine. Conner O’Neil is a brooding, retired Navy SEAL whose only friend seems to be his pet half-wolf, Loki. But Beth becomes concerned when Loki turns up on her doorstep, demanding she follow him back to Conner’s cabin . . .

Ailing, Conner would rather stay holed up like a wounded animal than allow anyone to nurse him back to health. But he quickly learns that resisting Beth is futile. Another discovery: they have more in common than he expected. She’s an irresistible blend of strength and gentleness, and soon enough, Conner wants to show her it’s okay to trust him, because he’ll never let trouble reach her side again . . .

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Anthologies, Small Town Romance

99 pages, Paperback

First published April 27, 2021

About the author

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kate Pearce was born in England in the middle of a large family of girls and quickly found that her imagination was far more interesting than real life. After acquiring a degree in history and barely escaping from the British Civil Service alive, she moved to California and then to Hawaii with her kids and her husband and set about reinventing herself as a romance writer.

She is known for both her unconventional heroes and her joy at subverting romance clichés. In her spare time she self publishes science fiction erotic romance, historical romance, and whatever else she can imagine. You can find Kate on katepearce.com.

Reviews

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a Cowboy Romance. This is a fast moving romance with a lot of suspense. The characters where ok, but I wanted a little bit more character developed. I love the storyline. Overall, this is a fast paced action packed romance book with a lot of twists and turns. I read this story when I read and reviewed Lone Wolf by Diana Palmer, Rebecca Zanetti, and Kate Pearce (which this book was one of the three short stories that were in that book.). I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.

[BrandyD · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading the beginning of Beth’s and Conner’s insta-attraction love story. They were both likable, multi-faceted characters, who, despite a rocky start, became intertwined in each other’s lives. I found it to be a little unbelievable, however, by how easily the lone wolf changed his mindset about settling down and becoming attached to one woman.
I didn’t realize this was a novella until I reached the abrupt ending, so that was a bit of a letdown. I wish the story were longer and we could read about how the relationship bloomed with time.
The writing was well done. This is a stand-alone story in a series.
Many thanks to the publisher via NetGalley for allowing me access to this book in exchange for my own, unbiased review.

[Janet (iamltr) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was instalove on a massive scale. In a matter of 2 days, Beth and Mr Grumpy hooked up, handled a trip to go after one of her sons, and then decided to become a couple.

I totally bought that they had an attraction and even if the actual sex was fade to black, at least there was a little foreplay before it. My only issues was with the massive amount of domestic violence that happened in the past that is affecting the sons now and that the wolf hybrid was not in the story more.

Being such a short story, one had to just believe what was happening and that was easy to do with this one.

[Heather Moll · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve always liked Kate Pearce’s historical mysteries under her pseudonym and I wanted to read something completely different, so when the opportunity to review this came up I thought it’d be perfect. Something out of the box for me but still with an author I liked.

This fast paced novella previously appeared in an anthology but it’s new to me. With a history of domestic violence, single mom to teenagers Beth is minding the ranch when she learns her grumpy tenant hasn’t picked up his weekly supplies. Connor is a navy SEAL suffering from ptsd whose dog goes for help when he’s ill with a wound infection.

There’s a lot of traumatic backstory and plot packed into this novella. The setup is incredibly contrived but I was entertained so I didn’t care. I will definitely seek out Kate Pearce’s other romances.

I received an arc from NetGalley

[Heather · Rating 3 out of 5]

This a novella that was previously released in an anthology last year. It is set in Morgan Valley, but it can be read as a stand-alone. Even though there are mentions of other characters from the series, they don't factor into this story at all. Since it is a novella, the romance between Connor and Beth is rushed but still this is an enjoyable read if you are short on time.

[Mysterious · Rating 2 out of 5]

Too much plot for the page count; everything felt rushed.

[Marsha Keeper Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf

The Wolf on Her Doorstep is part of the larger Morgan Valley world but could be read on its own without any trouble. It was also included in the anthology Lone Wolf. So it is possible that you might have read this title before, so my suggestion is to check to see if you have the anthology. I love talking about good books, but I also watch my book budget, which is why I give these types of bits of information on previously published titles.

I enjoyed being back in this world for Connor and Beth’s romance – but, to be fair, I adored Loki most of all. What can I say? I think wolves are such majestic creatures, and Connor’s half-wolf pet stole my heart early on.

Connor is a former Navy SEAL dealing with issues from the past; he’s very much a grumpy lone wolf keeping to himself and rarely if ever, asking for help. This is how Beth found him, ill with a raging fever, after Loki came to her to lead her back to Connor. Beth also has issues of her own, including a vile ex and struggling to deal with the antics of her son and stepson, which has brought trouble into their lives.

The Wolf on Her Doorstep is packed with action and an instant love (attraction) between Connor and Beth – a lot for a short story, yet it fell together in a way that brought me into their lives and had me enjoying every moment spent with this couple. Being a short story, I don’t want to go into details here. I had a good time with this story, loved being back in this world, and loved a very special half-wolf who didn’t get enough page time (in my opinion, because I loved that wolf). If you love a fast-paced romance with a touch of danger, instant connections, and a well-written story, then you’ll want to check this one out soon.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Wolf on Her Doorstep by Kate Pearce is a clever short novel written as part of the Morgan Ranch series and features the lovely Beth Baker, who is divorced, the mother of one, and the stepmother of another. She works as a part-time physical therapist and part-time caretaker for the cabins on the Garcia ranch. Her job for Garcia is stepped up right now as they are on vacation. It is always her job to do minor housekeeping at the cabin that is at present occupied and today she is taking supplies as the occupant, Connor O’Neil, hasn’t come to get them himself. When she arrives at the cabin she discovers why: Connor has injured himself and allowed it to get infected. He is in bed with a raging fever. Beth goes to work immediately, takes care of both the supplies and Connor. Worrying about her sons, although they are old enough to take care of themselves, she dreams of her ex-husband attacking her as he was wont to do, and worrying about the fact her son has been corresponding with him. She awakes to Connor comforting her.

Short and sweet is this novel but it covers it all: the issues with her son, the issues with her ex, and obtaining a little romance for herself. Beth is a strong character and functions well on her own. The plot is a little contrived, but what romance isn’t? Connor is a grump and we all know grumps are the best in a romance. The story was sweet. I recommend it.

I was invited to read a free e-ARC of The Wolf on Her Doorstop by Kensington through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Kensington #KatePearce #TheWolfOnHerDoorstep

[ButtonsMom2003 · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great addition to the Morgan Ranch/Millers of Morgan Valley world.

I read this book when it was first released in the Lone Wolf anthology back in April 2021. I’ve read all of the books in the Morgan Ranch/Millers of Morgan Valley series and I’ve enjoyed all of them very much. The Wolf on Her Doorstep is a short-ish novella and a very quick read so there’s not a lot of time for character development or romance.

Conner is retired military who survived a oil refinery blowing up. I was actually kind of pleased that this story didn’t dwell too much on Conner’s issues as a veteran as this was a change from the usual retired military trope. Beth and her young adult sons are survivors of domestic abuse. She has a few different jobs, one of which is looking after the cabin where Conner is spending the summer.

For such a short book, Kate Pearce really packs a lot into the story. Beth and Conner have a one-night encounter when she visits his cabin and finds him with a fever and an infected leg. After those things are taken care of, they share a night of uncomplicated sex. Later Conner helps Beth when one of her sons goes to visit his father in prison.

Things happen very quickly in this story, which is necessary due to its short length, but I love to read these because they can act as a palate cleanser in between reading much longer books.

A review copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley but this did not influence my opinion or rating of the book.

[JigsawGirl · Rating 3 out of 5]

I originally read this story about 15 months ago as part of an anthology. My original review stated that it would have been interesting to get more of Conner and Beth's back stories. I re-read this thinking it might have been different, or had info added to it. I think it's pretty much the same as before.

Conner and Beth's story is definitely instalove. I believe this tale took place over a period of 2 - 5 days max. Conner was a retired Navy SEAL. Beth was the PT for one of the rancher's. They had seen one another around for months.

I felt like this could have been a more interesting story if it had not felt so rushed. There was information about Beth, Mikey, and Wes' background, but it was very basic. There was as story there and a brief outline of how they ended up in Morgantown. Same thing for Conner.

There was a whole side story about her sons, her ex, her ex mother in law. A side story about the end of Conner's military career. I had questions about a number of things, but this nook didn't provide the answers.

Kate Pearce tells a good detailed story. This one sparked the interest, but never reached the point of a full flame. I suppose because it had to be part on an anthology. Connor, Beth,and her sons did seem to be moving toward their HEA. It was an OK read.

I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book received via NetGalley.

[Madoka Kamimura Mason · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kate Pearce brings us a novella from the world of The Millers of Morgan Valley series. We find ourselves back in Morgan Valley with Beth and Connor. Beth finds herself having to bring groceries up to the cabin with her boss's summer tenant who would rather be left alone when he doesn't show up for his weekly pickups. When she finds his pet wolf at her doorstep, she ends up finding Connor running a fever with gashes in his leg. Connor ends up becoming involved in her family when her stepson decides to go visit his father in prison and they go chasing after him. Will Beth turn to Connor for support, or will she be too headstrong to accept his help?

Kate Pearce brings us a story that is short and sweet. You get to go back to Morgan Valley and visit with the other characters while meeting new ones and reading Beth's story. Kate brings you into this world and keeps you there with all of the different people you meet who entice you to read their stories. I look forward to reading more from this author.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I would like to thank NetGalley, Kensington Books, Zebra Books, and Kate Pearce for this privilege.

[Marti · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Wolf on her Doorstep by Kate Pearce is a modern day romance. It takes place up in the high Sierra Mountains in Morgan Valley. This book is not a full length novel and as such reads quickly.

Connor O’Neil is renting a cabin on Morgan Ranch. He is an ex seal, and is rather curt and short with everyone. However, he has not picked up his groceries for two weeks and is not answering either his cell or radio phone. Beth Baker works a variety of jobs. One of them is helping take care of the cabins on Morgan Ranch. When she finds out that Connor has not picked up his groceries, she takes them and agrees to bring them out to him. What she first finds is that his dog is at Morgan Ranch on the doorstep. So she collects him as well and drives out to the cabin. Connor is hurt and ill. He discovers that resistance is futile and ends up with her patching him up and bringing him to the doctors, but she runs into her own dilemma and Connor jumps in to help her.

The story is short and focuses on Connor and Beth building a relationship in a short amount of time. Both characters are wounded in their own way and struggle with trust. This is a nice fun read with mature characters. The Wolf on her Doorstep by Kate Pearce is a good read.

[Heather M Jones-Lancto · Rating 4 out of 5]

'The Wolf on Her Doorstep' was originally published as part of an anthology. I have enjoyed both of Pearce's series that revolve around Morgan Valley and this is a novella set in the same world. The main male character, Conner O'Neill previously appeared in another book in the series so there was already a familiarity. Conner wasn't much of a likable character at that time but in this book he opens up and becomes more relatable. I wish we had gotten more back story on Conner but there is enough about his time with the Navy Seal's to understand he struggles from PSTD. Beth has had plenty of bumps in her life so on some level she can relate to Conner's state of mind. The drama aspect to the novella revolves more around Beth, her two sons, and her ex-husband who was abusive during their marriage. I enjoyed this book and finished it in one sitting, it was very engaging and easy to read.

Full Review:
https://heathersreadingnook.blogspot....

[Nancy Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE WOLF ON HER DOORSTEP by Kate Pearce is a short novella with a good romance. Beth Baker is a single mother raising two teenage boys. A half wolf/half husky named Loki showed up on her doorstep and she knows right away that Loki is there because his owner needs help. Conner is a loner, but since he hadn't shown up for his food supplies, she was headed to his cabin anyway. When she finds him in bed, with his leg hurt plus infected and also was burning up with a fever. She'd known Conner O'Neil was one stubborn man and didn't want Beth's help. She was used to handling two teenagers and wasn't going to let Conner not let her help him. He was feeling better after she tended to his wounded leg and got his fever down. Beth fed him and made sure he was hydrated. But when she told him the doctor's advice had been she should stay the night, he bulked again. She said she'd sleep on the couch bed and again he had to give in. By morning dawning, Conner was more than happy she had spent the night! And both of them were feeling so much better!

[Jeanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Wolf on Her Doorstep by Kate Pearce
Connor is a grumpy recluse only supposed to be in town for the summer. When he doesn't show to pick up his supplies in town the concern for his safety prompts Beth to head out to check on him. As if she doesn't have enough on her plate with her moody son Mikey and the somewhat settled Wes to contend with. And when Mikey drops a bomb on Beth about being in contact with his father she's glad she has somewhere to be.
Connor is not pleased to have Beth show up at the cabin. But he's in no condition to argue. Fevered and dealing with his own inadequate first aid he's forced to accept her assistance. Yet even ill he's not able to suppress his reaction to Beth. And when the shadows fall so do the inhibitions. Now reality surfaces and errant man children have to be dealt with. And decisions on whether to get balance and finally stop drifting and call something more than Loki his.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Lot of emotion is packed into this short story!

The Wolf on Her Doorstep by Kate Pearce is an emotionally charged story. There’s the immediate attraction of Beth and Connor, the worry of Beth for her sons, and the fear that her abusive ex will manipulate her youngest into a relationship with him. Connor’s mistrust of people and need for solitude. Together they are explosive and so good for each other.

I really enjoyed watching the sparks ignite between Beth and Connor, as well as his calm and purposeful demeanor when the proverbial sh*t hits the fan in Beth’s world. Connor has such respect for Beth and her sons and just wants to help.

I love the way Kate brings her characters together and involves other characters to help round out the personalities of the protagonists. Part of the Morgan Ranch series, this book was previously part of an anthology, but I’m so glad to have it separately and part of the series. This is my voluntary review.

[Viper Spaulding · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deeply emotional story with compelling characters

Set in the Morgan Valley world, this story features Beth, whose two boys are nearly grown yet she's still gun shy after surviving an abusive marriage, and Conner, a veteran who is just visiting for the summer but winds up needing Beth's help when he's injured. I adored the role his dog played in the whole story.

This story focuses more on the inner demons both Conner and Beth are fighting, with a bit of action as they work to help Beth's son deal with his conflicting feelings about his father. I loved the way they supported each other and weren't afraid to address the tough heart issues.

I loved their HEA and any romance with a guy and his dog gets extra bonus points from me. If you've read any of this author's Morgan Valley books, you don't want to miss this one.

[Penny Leidecker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve loved this author’s Morgan Ranch series and this short read added a little extra to our reading pleasure. Beth doesn’t have time for a relationship between working and raising her two sons. When she learns from Maureen at Maureen’s General Store that the loner renting a cabin on the Garcia Ranch hasn’t been in to pick up his supplies, she knows she has to check on him. Conner likes to stay to himself and comes across as gruff and standoffish. He may think he doesn’t need any help, but his wolf mix dog, Loki, knows best. Beth finds him feverish and in pain. She takes it upon herself to help. Grab your copy and see what happens when these two loners end up spending time together, at the cabin and on an unforeseen road trip.

I received an advance reader copy of this book from NetGalley and this is my voluntary and honest review.

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and I am voluntarily reviewing it.

I had previously read this story when the anthology Lone Wolf was released. I loved it then and I had to re-read it (as Ms. Pearce is a favorite author of mine!) Dang I just get lost in her stories especially the Morgantown ones!

This is told from a dual POV format. That really helps me to identify with both of the characters. It helps for a more enjoyable story.

While this story takes place over a couple of days, from the story it is revealed that the characters have seen each other around so it really isn't the case of insta-love. But when the two become more involved with each other as Connor is injured and Beth comes to his aid. The two become much closer.

If you have a spare hour, I would definitely recommend you spend it reading this! It makes for a great bookcation.

[Jennifer Ritter · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Wolf on Her Doorstep, by Kate Pearce, is a Millers of Morgan Valley novella. This story relates what happens when Beth Baker, who works as both a physical therapist and land manager for the Garcia Ranch, goes above and beyond to assist a tenant. As part of her work with the Garcia’s, it is Beth’s job to check on those who rent their remote cabins. As she prepares to check on Connor O’Neil in an out cabin since he has not picked up his supplies two weeks in a row, his wolf/dog mix Loki finds her to seek help. Connor has suffered an injury followed by infection and it is now up to Beth to help him heal. But when there is a crisis that falls at Beth’s feet, Connor is ready to return the favor.

This is a lovely story of healing on multiple levels. I very much enjoyed this story and do recommend it!

[Carey’s Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars! Cute, fast-paced, quick read, perfect for a day at the beach. This was previously an anthology ‘Lone Wolf in Morgan Valley’, can be read as a standalone novella and this book is now part of ‘The Miller’s of Morgan Valley’ series. Beth and Connor are the main characters and Beth has two teen sons, Mikey and Wes. Didn’t really mention any of Connors past but does mention Beth’s past with an abusive ex-husband quite a bit. I wish the story had more of the wolf-dog, Loki, in it, considering he is in the title. The story felt a bit rushed but it IS a novella, so, what do you expect?! Enjoyable quick read, perfect if you’re short on time but still want a good read.
*I received this at no charge & I voluntarily left this review.*

[Lupe McClan · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Morgantown, the backdrop for the Morgan Ranch stories (must read!), Beth Baker drives up to the Garcia Ranch, to check things out while the Garcias are taking a well deserved vacation. Loki, the part wolf & husky pet of the sole guest on the ranch, arrives at the back doorstep of the Garcia home, whining at Beth - but why? Beth realizes that Loki’s owner must need help & since that man was one of the reasons for her visit to the ranch anyway, she might as well see what’s up. What follows is a story of two individuals who each have their own issues; can they overcome the pile of baggage to see what’s in front of them? A great novella length love story, written very well by a great author!

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beth Baker is keeping an eye on Garcia ranch cabins in Morgan Valley whilst the family are away. She senses her grumpy summer tenant must be in trouble when his pet wolf Loki shows up at her door, demanding she follow. Conner O’Neil, solitary and stubborn, doesn’t want Beth’s help.
Another resident of Morgantown finds love.
I loved that Connor & Beth were mature, Beth is raising two young adult boys & Connor a retired SEAL, this was a very well written novella, which I wanted to be longer & see how things panned out. A delightful read which I read in a sitting, both Connor & Beth had issues to deal with but their attraction sizzled & they found that they were willing to give things a chance
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

[Whispers From · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beth is a single mom raising two boys. One hers Mikey and one by her ex husband who is in prison for killing Wes mother, the one she adopted. She cleans a ranch and is a physical therapist.
Conner is former SEAL and now stays in a cabin on the ranch Beth works at. Beth goes to check on Conner and he is running a high fever from the injury to his leg. He is grouchy but Beth gets to him. When her son goes to the prison to see his dad, Conner goes with her to find him. Between letting her two boys fend for themselves and the attraction between Conner and Beth, she has a lot on her shoulders.

Good, short story. I thought it was a paranormal book because of the title. A little disappointed but read it anyway.

* Voluntarily read and reviewed this for NetGalley*

[Darcy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first story by Ms. Pearce and it won’t be my last. I really liked this story.
Beth is the mother of 2 teen sons, whose abusive ex husband is in jail. Connor is a war vet staying in one of the cabins at the ranch where Beth works. When he doesn’t show up in town for his groceries, Beth is asked to take them out to him. She finds him in bed with a fever and an infected leg wound. I liked their banter. He’s grumpy and she’s no nonsense. The only part I didn’t care for is that she ends up in bed with him…… he had a temp of 102’ and sick. I felt like that part could have waited a bit.
He ends up helping her when her son takes off to visit his dad in jail. There is a happy ending. I would have liked it to be a little longer. I couldn’t put it down!

[travelbug74 · Rating 2 out of 5]

I did not realize this was actually a novella. The character development was not all the way there.

Beth was a survivor of abuse by her husband and had 2 adult teen sons. Her younger son had been protected from this abuse and still wanted a relationship with his father who was in prison for murder. This caused a lot of stress in the house.

Connor was your typical former military guy who had seen so much crap he could not function in society preferring to be alone.

I thought there might be more drama about the ex but there wasn't enough time to create that tension.

I received and eARC from NetGalley in exchange for my review.

[Tripip · Rating 3 out of 5]

A quick read. I really liked how this involved some older characters. Beth has 2 teenage sons and Conner is an ex-soldier. I liked how all these characters were integral to the story. Beth and Conner’s relationship was a little too quick for my liking but since this is a nouvella, it makes sense. There is mild steamy foreplay that basically continues behind a closed door. While I would have liked a longer and more developed story, I liked this author’s style of writing so will look for more stories by her. This is the first book by this author for me.

I received a free copy from Netgalley. This is my unbiased review.

[Denise Schenk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beth Baker is at Physical Therapist and works for one the ranches' part time. Connor O'Neil is a ex-navy seal staying in a cabin on the ranch. When he doesn't pick up his groceries Beth goes out to check on him. He is a bit of a grumpy gus. He has injured his leg and has a fever. Beth stays the night to take care of his wound and take him into town to the doctor the next day. Beth is raising two teenage boys and is used to stubborn men. Good read about Beth and Connor getting closer together as they chase after one of her sons who has left home. This is a great short read.

[Lisa Garcia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn’t realize this was a Novella. It was a great story, but I found it to be lacking. I was expecting more. It has all the things for a great read: great characters, interesting back stories (which could have been more detailed), some conflict and happily ever after. Unfortunately, the story felt rushed. I wanted more about Beth and Connor’s pasts, Beth’s ex and his mother.

Thank you NetGalley, Kensington/Zebra Books and Kate Pearce for the ARC of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Delacey · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story had the interesting writing that is typical Kate Pearce book. While I enjoyed the story, the format of a short story just didn't do this couple enough justice. The romance happened extremely quickly, and half the plot dealt with the h's son, with the romance taking a back seat. Complexity of the characters were hinted at, but there just wasn't the pages to develop them fully. That being said, this quick read was entertaining. *I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and this is my voluntary and honest review.