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Hidden Wolves
Once an Alpha
Can I be both Alpha and the man Rob needs me to be?
I spent nineteen years rebuilding the pack I took from our abusive Alpha, with my bondmate Melody as my wife, and my best friend Rob at my side as Second. Then I lost Melody and the child we hoped to have, and my world crashed down on me. I holed up, grieving and fighting conflicting impulses, until my Third, Sherman, got tired of my apathy and Challenged me for pack Alpha.
I could've taken Sherman down, no sweat. Rob could've wiped the dirt with him. What held us back was the memory of one night when we were both seventeen, and three decades of not giving in to impossible dreams. If we were free, away from the violent homophobia of the packs, maybe we could finally be more than Alpha and Second. So I suppressed my Alpha instincts and walked away. Rob, as always, came with me.
Now we're in my truck, heading west into the mountains. Just David and Rob, two men trying to figure out what we can be to each other. Until we stop in a small town for a meal, and someone who smells like a wolf steals my truck. Trouble's afoot, the local lone wolves need help, and I'm discovering that once an Alpha, always an Alpha. But if we get entangled with a new pack, does that mean any relationship Rob and I might've found has to be lost again to werewolf laws?
Set in 2010, a year before Unacceptable Risk in the bad old days of the packs, this is a Hidden Wolves universe standalone 44,000 word novella with new characters.
Content warnings for grief, past abuse, past pregnancy loss, past captivity, and violence.
Contains the added bonus 5K short story Toby, Doyle, and the Cats.
I spent nineteen years rebuilding the pack I took from our abusive Alpha, with my bondmate Melody as my wife, and my best friend Rob at my side as Second. Then I lost Melody and the child we hoped to have, and my world crashed down on me. I holed up, grieving and fighting conflicting impulses, until my Third, Sherman, got tired of my apathy and Challenged me for pack Alpha.
I could've taken Sherman down, no sweat. Rob could've wiped the dirt with him. What held us back was the memory of one night when we were both seventeen, and three decades of not giving in to impossible dreams. If we were free, away from the violent homophobia of the packs, maybe we could finally be more than Alpha and Second. So I suppressed my Alpha instincts and walked away. Rob, as always, came with me.
Now we're in my truck, heading west into the mountains. Just David and Rob, two men trying to figure out what we can be to each other. Until we stop in a small town for a meal, and someone who smells like a wolf steals my truck. Trouble's afoot, the local lone wolves need help, and I'm discovering that once an Alpha, always an Alpha. But if we get entangled with a new pack, does that mean any relationship Rob and I might've found has to be lost again to werewolf laws?
Set in 2010, a year before Unacceptable Risk in the bad old days of the packs, this is a Hidden Wolves universe standalone 44,000 word novella with new characters.
Content warnings for grief, past abuse, past pregnancy loss, past captivity, and violence.
Contains the added bonus 5K short story Toby, Doyle, and the Cats.
190 pages, ebook
First published July 20, 2024
About the author
Kaje Harper
84 books2,660 followersI get asked about my name a lot. It's not something exotic, though. “Kaje” is pronounced just like “cage” – it’s an old nickname, and my pronouns are she/her/hers.
I was born in Montreal but have lived for 30 years in Minnesota, where the two seasons are Snow-removal and Road-repair, where the mosquito is the state bird, and where winter can be breathtakingly beautiful. Minnesota’s a kind, quiet (if sometimes chilly) place and it’s home.
I’ve been writing far longer than I care to admit (*whispers – fifty years*), mostly for my own entertainment, usually M/M romance (with added mystery, fantasy, historical, SciFi…) I also have a few Young Adult stories (some released under the pen name Kira Harp.)
My husband finally convinced me that after all the years of writing for fun, I really should submit something, somewhere. My first professionally published book, Life Lessons, came out from MLR Press in May 2011. I have a weakness for closeted cops with honest hearts, and teachers who speak their minds, and I had fun writing four novels and three freebie short stories in that series. I was delighted and encouraged by the reception Mac and Tony received.
I now have a good-sized backlist in ebooks and print, both free and professionally published. A complete list with links can be found on my website "Books" page at https://kajeharper.com/.
You can find me and my book reviews on my author page here on Goodreads - I hang out on Goodreads a lot because I moderate the Goodreads YA LGBT Books group. I also post free short YA stories on that group, more than 50 of them so far.
You can also find me on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/KajeHarper
I was born in Montreal but have lived for 30 years in Minnesota, where the two seasons are Snow-removal and Road-repair, where the mosquito is the state bird, and where winter can be breathtakingly beautiful. Minnesota’s a kind, quiet (if sometimes chilly) place and it’s home.
I’ve been writing far longer than I care to admit (*whispers – fifty years*), mostly for my own entertainment, usually M/M romance (with added mystery, fantasy, historical, SciFi…) I also have a few Young Adult stories (some released under the pen name Kira Harp.)
My husband finally convinced me that after all the years of writing for fun, I really should submit something, somewhere. My first professionally published book, Life Lessons, came out from MLR Press in May 2011. I have a weakness for closeted cops with honest hearts, and teachers who speak their minds, and I had fun writing four novels and three freebie short stories in that series. I was delighted and encouraged by the reception Mac and Tony received.
I now have a good-sized backlist in ebooks and print, both free and professionally published. A complete list with links can be found on my website "Books" page at https://kajeharper.com/.
You can find me and my book reviews on my author page here on Goodreads - I hang out on Goodreads a lot because I moderate the Goodreads YA LGBT Books group. I also post free short YA stories on that group, more than 50 of them so far.
You can also find me on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/KajeHarper
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
July 22, 2024
As long as Kaje Harper keeps writing stories set in the Hidden Wolves world, I’ll happily read them.
Once an Alpha is set a year before the beginning of the first book and isn’t connected to the main series in any way, as far as I can tell, so it’s not technically a prequel. It was still interesting to see how other packs (other wolves) were dealing with the “gay factor” before the Minneapolis West pack happened.
The story is mostly focused on the relationship between David and Rob, with a side of pack action/policy. David is another great alpha and once again the author managed to give us an interesting set of MCs and a background story for the main couple that isn’t your cookie-cut shifter story. It’s one of the many reasons why I love this series, I never know what I’m getting and in this subgenre that’s not to be taken for granted.
While I wasn’t 100% happy with some aspects of David and Rob’s relationship, I loved how realistic it was.
I also liked the part of the plot focused on pack’s policies, it had a bit of the found family trope going on and it was good to see that other packs/alphas were thinking along the same lines as Aaron before and around the time things started to change for good.
Another win for the series, made it even better by the BR with Rosa. Now if only we could have one story set in Rick Brown’s pack, pretty please. 😁
Once an Alpha is set a year before the beginning of the first book and isn’t connected to the main series in any way, as far as I can tell, so it’s not technically a prequel. It was still interesting to see how other packs (other wolves) were dealing with the “gay factor” before the Minneapolis West pack happened.
The story is mostly focused on the relationship between David and Rob, with a side of pack action/policy. David is another great alpha and once again the author managed to give us an interesting set of MCs and a background story for the main couple that isn’t your cookie-cut shifter story. It’s one of the many reasons why I love this series, I never know what I’m getting and in this subgenre that’s not to be taken for granted.
While I wasn’t 100% happy with some aspects of David and Rob’s relationship, I loved how realistic it was.
I also liked the part of the plot focused on pack’s policies, it had a bit of the found family trope going on and it was good to see that other packs/alphas were thinking along the same lines as Aaron before and around the time things started to change for good.
Another win for the series, made it even better by the BR with Rosa. Now if only we could have one story set in Rick Brown’s pack, pretty please. 😁
September 1, 2024
Kaje Harper can make a billion prequels and sequels for her Hidden Wolves series and I'll just keep reading them. This series just has a special place in my heart.
I really enjoyed Once an Alpha, though it felt a little short for my tastes. I could have read another 50 pages, though the pacing was nice. I just wasn't ready to let this world go. I sometimes struggle with books where there is a relationship already established prior to the start of the book (like friends to lovers), which is kind of what we get here, though the two MCs are in a sort of limbo between friends and lovers when the book starts. However, I thought that Kaje did a fab job of showing us how their dynamic is changing and growing, and she lets the readers really feel that change.
This book had a nice mix of some excitement and energy, something I love in paranormal romances, but also just solid relationship and character development. I feel the potential for even more off-shoot stories with the side characters from this book, and I couldn't be more delighted about it!
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I really enjoyed Once an Alpha, though it felt a little short for my tastes. I could have read another 50 pages, though the pacing was nice. I just wasn't ready to let this world go. I sometimes struggle with books where there is a relationship already established prior to the start of the book (like friends to lovers), which is kind of what we get here, though the two MCs are in a sort of limbo between friends and lovers when the book starts. However, I thought that Kaje did a fab job of showing us how their dynamic is changing and growing, and she lets the readers really feel that change.
This book had a nice mix of some excitement and energy, something I love in paranormal romances, but also just solid relationship and character development. I feel the potential for even more off-shoot stories with the side characters from this book, and I couldn't be more delighted about it!
*~*Follow me on instagram for more reviews, book talk, and deals posts*~*
July 11, 2024
I've read and enjoyed all Kaje Harper's previous Hidden Wolves books -- this one's no exception. It's a short prequel, taking place well before the events of Unacceptable Risk and Unexpected Demands, and consequently doesn't delve as richly into KH's hypermasculinist werewolf society as the main books do, what with the radical changes going on in that future. But no matter -- I pretty much inhaled this story of an exiled Alpha and his Second falling into the makings of a new pack that comprises a bunch of outcasts and in the process restarting their teenage love affair.
The book includes a bonus short story about a couple of gay werewolves, Toby and Doyle, adopting some kittens and in the process getting it together to, well, get together. A pleasingly fluffy cherry on top of a lupine cupcake. Though maybe I should rethink the metaphor of a fluffy cherry.
3.5 stars because there was some info dumping, but rounded up because I had so much fun. Thanks to GRR for the ARC, this is my honest opinion, etc.
The book includes a bonus short story about a couple of gay werewolves, Toby and Doyle, adopting some kittens and in the process getting it together to, well, get together. A pleasingly fluffy cherry on top of a lupine cupcake. Though maybe I should rethink the metaphor of a fluffy cherry.
3.5 stars because there was some info dumping, but rounded up because I had so much fun. Thanks to GRR for the ARC, this is my honest opinion, etc.
July 22, 2024
This was cute and fun to read. It's always a delight to come back to this world. I don't know what these wolves have, but I love to read about them, even when times were truly hard. I liked to see how it was before for other wolves far from the usual gang. I wish this would have been a bit longer, so there would have been more room to develop the ending. But it was fun, and I loved to BR this one with Ele (despite struggling with the urge of reread the whole series now).
July 25, 2024
I always love it when Kaje Harper returns to her Hidden Wolves universe. Going back, going forth, having stories in between, whatever. This one is going way back though, even before the Unacceptable Risk, so the wolves are really still hidden, and the queer (gay or bisexual) wolves are not accepted.
David and Rob are Alpha and Second but also best friends. When David decides to quit being Alpha of his pack after his wife died, Rob is coming with him - both trying to pursue that dream that they never tried before. Being together. Until they arrive in a small town, where there are lone wolves, and threat looming in for one of the lone wolves. Would David step forward again as Alpha to help?
Ah, road trip... I enjoy it always. There was road trip part here, loved that! Also when David and Rob finally talked about their feelings and what they were to each other and what would do they now, when they were no longer attached to their old pack. I also enjoyed reading about the lone wolves and how they ended up being part of David's pack -- except for Wilde, and that was VERY AMUSING.
I would love it to be longer, but at the same time, since this was pretty much a "contained" story, the length felt right.
And that additional short, with KITTENS, was a nice bonus!
David and Rob are Alpha and Second but also best friends. When David decides to quit being Alpha of his pack after his wife died, Rob is coming with him - both trying to pursue that dream that they never tried before. Being together. Until they arrive in a small town, where there are lone wolves, and threat looming in for one of the lone wolves. Would David step forward again as Alpha to help?
Ah, road trip... I enjoy it always. There was road trip part here, loved that! Also when David and Rob finally talked about their feelings and what they were to each other and what would do they now, when they were no longer attached to their old pack. I also enjoyed reading about the lone wolves and how they ended up being part of David's pack -- except for Wilde, and that was VERY AMUSING.
I would love it to be longer, but at the same time, since this was pretty much a "contained" story, the length felt right.
And that additional short, with KITTENS, was a nice bonus!
August 8, 2024
3.5 Stars
While I initally felt like the story started somewhat in the middle, once I settled in I quite enjoyed the story. David and Rob were a good team and I liked the lone-wolves as well.
While I initally felt like the story started somewhat in the middle, once I settled in I quite enjoyed the story. David and Rob were a good team and I liked the lone-wolves as well.
August 4, 2024
This was great. A fairly short story but one with a good pace, interesting characters and I really appreciated the authors writing style. They didn’t go into a whole heap of explanation and detail about things that I didn’t feel were relevant or interesting- they kept it to the point and I enjoyed it all the more for it.
I would def recommend this one. Xx
I would def recommend this one. Xx
July 20, 2024
4.5 stars rounded to 5 for Goodreads
Kaje Harper's wolves are in my top 3 favorite shifter romances, so when I saw she was realizing a new story in the universe I was more than a little excited. Once an Alpha is novella set a year before the Hidden Wolves series story line so it is one hundred percent perfect to read as a stand alone!
Alpha David and his second Rob left their pack in order to be together because they live in a time where Queer was not accepted by wolf packs. When they rest stop at in a small county they find themselves recruited into a situation involving the local lone wolves. David's wolf misses having pack and he can't stop himself from settling in and slowly earning the lone wolves trust until they form a little pack all of their own and allows them to openly be together.
Our main characters have a solid history that we are given through them reminiscing. I loved the Bi representation David brought to the story. He stressed how much he loved his late wife but that never diminished the love he had for Rob even if he wasn't allowed to show it. His character has depth with his grief and guilt over his late wife battling with his joy at finally getting to be with Rob. I of course enjoy Rob and his ability to bring humor and level headedness to David. I adored Asher and the other lone wolves we got to know.
Once an Alpha is a shifter romance novella between an Alpha and his second with older MCs, lone wolves, bi rep, steam, and finding a pack where you belong. I hope Kaje Harper writes more novellas or even full length stories in this universe because I can't get enough.
P.S. This includes a precious bonus story that takes places after the hidden wolves series 🥰 that was originally published in the Love & Hope Benefit Anthology. An age gap romance between 3rd and 11th in a pack , helpless baby kittens, and a sweet coming together.
Favorite Quotes
Kaje Harper's wolves are in my top 3 favorite shifter romances, so when I saw she was realizing a new story in the universe I was more than a little excited. Once an Alpha is novella set a year before the Hidden Wolves series story line so it is one hundred percent perfect to read as a stand alone!
Alpha David and his second Rob left their pack in order to be together because they live in a time where Queer was not accepted by wolf packs. When they rest stop at in a small county they find themselves recruited into a situation involving the local lone wolves. David's wolf misses having pack and he can't stop himself from settling in and slowly earning the lone wolves trust until they form a little pack all of their own and allows them to openly be together.
Our main characters have a solid history that we are given through them reminiscing. I loved the Bi representation David brought to the story. He stressed how much he loved his late wife but that never diminished the love he had for Rob even if he wasn't allowed to show it. His character has depth with his grief and guilt over his late wife battling with his joy at finally getting to be with Rob. I of course enjoy Rob and his ability to bring humor and level headedness to David. I adored Asher and the other lone wolves we got to know.
Once an Alpha is a shifter romance novella between an Alpha and his second with older MCs, lone wolves, bi rep, steam, and finding a pack where you belong. I hope Kaje Harper writes more novellas or even full length stories in this universe because I can't get enough.
P.S. This includes a precious bonus story that takes places after the hidden wolves series 🥰 that was originally published in the Love & Hope Benefit Anthology. An age gap romance between 3rd and 11th in a pack , helpless baby kittens, and a sweet coming together.
Favorite Quotes
July 31, 2024
This is my first foray into Kaje Harper's Hidden Wolves series and I really enjoyed it.
This is set prior to the main series, where being a gay werewolf is punishable by death.
This book starts after David and Rob have left their pack and their roles as Alpha and Second but before they have addressed a change in their relationship.
It's a tale of second chances, of finding a new place to belong and people who need and accept you.
There's some flashbacks to fill in the gaps of what's gone before.
An enjoyable shifter romance.
This is set prior to the main series, where being a gay werewolf is punishable by death.
This book starts after David and Rob have left their pack and their roles as Alpha and Second but before they have addressed a change in their relationship.
It's a tale of second chances, of finding a new place to belong and people who need and accept you.
There's some flashbacks to fill in the gaps of what's gone before.
An enjoyable shifter romance.
July 17, 2024
I really liked the whole hidden wolves series, and I'm quite happy we get another prequel in this world. I really liked this one
November 24, 2024
Thank you to Peppermint Vixen for gifting this to me during the 2024 Secret Santa Book Exchange!
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Another great installment in this series, which is one of my favs from this author. Well paced novella with really lovely characters and satisfying plot.
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Another great installment in this series, which is one of my favs from this author. Well paced novella with really lovely characters and satisfying plot.
August 5, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
A standalone novella in Kaje Harper's rich, brutal Hidden Wolves world. Harper provides a brief context note for readers new to this series, which is characterized by immersive worldbuilding, interconnected couples, and political machinations up the wazoo. We get relatively little of that here, making this read more like a treat for existing fans than a proper, substantive prequel. Honestly, I would advise new readers to dive straight into book 1, which is compelling and compulsively readable from the start; this book is set before the events of book 1, but does not overlap in terms of MCs. But time in this world is not time misspent.
I got an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews in exchange for an honest review.
A standalone novella in Kaje Harper's rich, brutal Hidden Wolves world. Harper provides a brief context note for readers new to this series, which is characterized by immersive worldbuilding, interconnected couples, and political machinations up the wazoo. We get relatively little of that here, making this read more like a treat for existing fans than a proper, substantive prequel. Honestly, I would advise new readers to dive straight into book 1, which is compelling and compulsively readable from the start; this book is set before the events of book 1, but does not overlap in terms of MCs. But time in this world is not time misspent.
I got an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews in exchange for an honest review.
August 13, 2024
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
Once an Alpha is a novella in Kaje Harper’s Hidden Wolves series and is set about one year before the series officially starts in Unacceptable Risk. The story is partly an exploration of David and Rob as a couple and partly an adventure/thriller where David grapples with satisfying his alpha wolf’s need/desire to form a pack and with solving the mystery of the strange events caused by a werewolf locked in werewolf form.
If you’re familiar with the original series from 2012, you’re sure to enjoy this prequel to the series. I loved the idea of unrequited love finding a way, even if David and Rob’s love story felt more like a side element to the thriller plot.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
Once an Alpha is a novella in Kaje Harper’s Hidden Wolves series and is set about one year before the series officially starts in Unacceptable Risk. The story is partly an exploration of David and Rob as a couple and partly an adventure/thriller where David grapples with satisfying his alpha wolf’s need/desire to form a pack and with solving the mystery of the strange events caused by a werewolf locked in werewolf form.
If you’re familiar with the original series from 2012, you’re sure to enjoy this prequel to the series. I loved the idea of unrequited love finding a way, even if David and Rob’s love story felt more like a side element to the thriller plot.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
July 30, 2024
If you've enjoyed the series, you need to read this one as well.
I'd like a story that starts after humans have found out about them. I want more Paul, Simon, Aaron, Zach, etc!! And what is Rick Brown up to?
I'd like a story that starts after humans have found out about them. I want more Paul, Simon, Aaron, Zach, etc!! And what is Rick Brown up to?
July 22, 2024
**********Contains Spoilers**********
This is only the second book that I’ve read by Kaje Harper. I thought that this was a good teaser to the Hidden Wolves Series, since I haven’t started the series as yet. This was a quick and enjoyable read but didn’t really delve too deeply into this world. I just know that the werewolf society are a bunch of homophobic a*seholes. It’s a shame that Alpha David and his Second Rob had to leave their pack in order to be able to be together. They were childhood best friends that crossed the line when they were 17 years old. Rob left after that as he knew he couldn’t hide his feelings for David from others.
David eventually bonded to his wife Melody but she kept on miscarrying and then he lost her and their final baby that she was carrying. I hope that this isn’t the last we get to see of the pack that the Alpha and his Second have created with the previously lone wolves but since this novella hasn’t been released yet, whereas the rest of the Hidden Wolves Series is already completed so I don’t think believe that we will, maybe Kaje will expand on this world. I’m looking forward to reading Unacceptable Risk next, as well as more books by Kaje Harper in the future. I��d recommend this novella, series and author to others.
I enjoyed this bonus short story included in the novella called Toby, Doyle, and the Cats. It’s about Toby, Doyle and taking care of the kittens that Toby found abandoned in a dumpsters outside his work. He asks Doyle for some help looking after them since they’re so little, and he’s bloody exhausted looking after them for the last four days.
I do wish that this was longer though since it was the setup of Toby and Doyle seeing how things go between them while the rest of the pack is away, and Doyle admitting that he’s gay and has been intrigued by Toby from the night they met.
Man, I loved how Toby told the pack at the meet requesting a place within the pack that his name’s Toby and he’s as gay as an Easter Parade, he then chose to challenge the 12th wolf in fur and won. Then he took on the 11th wolf in skin and won when the 11th wolf was being an a*sehole. I think that Toby’s a bad a*se.
******I received a complimentary copy of this novella through GRR. I would still happily review this book even if I purchased it myself. My thoughts and feelings about this book are completely unbiased******
This is only the second book that I’ve read by Kaje Harper. I thought that this was a good teaser to the Hidden Wolves Series, since I haven’t started the series as yet. This was a quick and enjoyable read but didn’t really delve too deeply into this world. I just know that the werewolf society are a bunch of homophobic a*seholes. It’s a shame that Alpha David and his Second Rob had to leave their pack in order to be able to be together. They were childhood best friends that crossed the line when they were 17 years old. Rob left after that as he knew he couldn’t hide his feelings for David from others.
David eventually bonded to his wife Melody but she kept on miscarrying and then he lost her and their final baby that she was carrying. I hope that this isn’t the last we get to see of the pack that the Alpha and his Second have created with the previously lone wolves but since this novella hasn’t been released yet, whereas the rest of the Hidden Wolves Series is already completed so I don’t think believe that we will, maybe Kaje will expand on this world. I’m looking forward to reading Unacceptable Risk next, as well as more books by Kaje Harper in the future. I��d recommend this novella, series and author to others.
I enjoyed this bonus short story included in the novella called Toby, Doyle, and the Cats. It’s about Toby, Doyle and taking care of the kittens that Toby found abandoned in a dumpsters outside his work. He asks Doyle for some help looking after them since they’re so little, and he’s bloody exhausted looking after them for the last four days.
I do wish that this was longer though since it was the setup of Toby and Doyle seeing how things go between them while the rest of the pack is away, and Doyle admitting that he’s gay and has been intrigued by Toby from the night they met.
Man, I loved how Toby told the pack at the meet requesting a place within the pack that his name’s Toby and he’s as gay as an Easter Parade, he then chose to challenge the 12th wolf in fur and won. Then he took on the 11th wolf in skin and won when the 11th wolf was being an a*sehole. I think that Toby’s a bad a*se.
******I received a complimentary copy of this novella through GRR. I would still happily review this book even if I purchased it myself. My thoughts and feelings about this book are completely unbiased******
December 26, 2024
Packs a punch
I’m new to Kaje Harper’s Hidden Wolves series. I’ll admit I don’t read a ton of shifter books. I’ve recently acquired a taste for them. I’m partial to dragon shifters (thank you PS and VK), but I’m enjoying wolf shifters as well.
Kaje’s stories are rarely easy and this one is no exception. She puts her men through hell.
David has made the choice to walk away from his old life. To let go of responsibility that has weighed him down for years. Things were okay when he had his wife by his side. He had to hide his bisexuality, but he had a good marriage and made a great alpha. All that fell apart when Melody died.
In the end, David heads west in his pickup truck with his second – and best friend – Rob. But they’ve held a secret for years – that they were once intimate. Circumstances drove them apart, and their paths were very different. But, in the end, Rob was there when David needed him.
Now they’re together.
I have to say – I expected more sexy times right away. But Kaje has a way of making the reader wait until just the right moment.
In the meantime, Rob and David run into some trouble in a small town out west. They hadn’t planned on staying, but there are wolves who need their help. Wolves without a pack. Wolves without an alpha.
David and Rob must make a decision – stay and fight, or move on as planned.
This story works in so many ways. It’s got the depth of emotion I expect from Kaje. There are small moments of humor. There’s deep and abiding love between two men who finally have the chance to set their world to right. The only question is what are they willing to sacrifice to help others.
I’ll encourage you to read and find out for yourself. I enjoyed this one and am looking forward to digging into more stories from this world.
I’m new to Kaje Harper’s Hidden Wolves series. I’ll admit I don’t read a ton of shifter books. I’ve recently acquired a taste for them. I’m partial to dragon shifters (thank you PS and VK), but I’m enjoying wolf shifters as well.
Kaje’s stories are rarely easy and this one is no exception. She puts her men through hell.
David has made the choice to walk away from his old life. To let go of responsibility that has weighed him down for years. Things were okay when he had his wife by his side. He had to hide his bisexuality, but he had a good marriage and made a great alpha. All that fell apart when Melody died.
In the end, David heads west in his pickup truck with his second – and best friend – Rob. But they’ve held a secret for years – that they were once intimate. Circumstances drove them apart, and their paths were very different. But, in the end, Rob was there when David needed him.
Now they’re together.
I have to say – I expected more sexy times right away. But Kaje has a way of making the reader wait until just the right moment.
In the meantime, Rob and David run into some trouble in a small town out west. They hadn’t planned on staying, but there are wolves who need their help. Wolves without a pack. Wolves without an alpha.
David and Rob must make a decision – stay and fight, or move on as planned.
This story works in so many ways. It’s got the depth of emotion I expect from Kaje. There are small moments of humor. There’s deep and abiding love between two men who finally have the chance to set their world to right. The only question is what are they willing to sacrifice to help others.
I’ll encourage you to read and find out for yourself. I enjoyed this one and am looking forward to digging into more stories from this world.
July 20, 2024
As a novella this story did not have the in-depth characterizations Kaje’s full-length novels typically resound with, nor did it have quite as much of the intrigue of her other Hidden Wolves series books, but it’s impossible not to like David and Rob. David was Alpha of his pack, mostly to save them from a terrible Alpha, and after a tragedy he realizes he’s got to leave the pack because he’s lost focus. Bonus: Rob will go with him, and he’s always loved Rob. Maybe they can be lone wolves and build a life together.
Rob was a bit of a surprise, showing up as David’s Second but, we learn quickly, really an instigator for good. And, of course, the love of David’s life. I particularly appreciated the relationship they developed during the years David was married to Melody, and that the marriage was in no way diminished by the change in his relationship with Rob – neither at the time, nor in hindsight.
The other bit I appreciate is the genus of the title: when asked for help, David can’t help but be true to his Alpha nature. And somehow, despite best intentions, roots are put down. Seeing his care for perfect strangers, you get a real feel for who David is, willing to upend his plans to help someone he has no obligation to. A lot of the tension in the novella comes from his decision, how it impacts his relationship with Rob, and the courage it takes to see the way forward in the world before 2010, when gay marriage was legal in only two states and a lot of hate and misunderstanding existed in between. Make no mistake, Hidden Wolves has a strong political undertone, and Once an Alpha is every bit a Hidden Wolves book. Really enjoyable, quick read too.
Rob was a bit of a surprise, showing up as David’s Second but, we learn quickly, really an instigator for good. And, of course, the love of David’s life. I particularly appreciated the relationship they developed during the years David was married to Melody, and that the marriage was in no way diminished by the change in his relationship with Rob – neither at the time, nor in hindsight.
The other bit I appreciate is the genus of the title: when asked for help, David can’t help but be true to his Alpha nature. And somehow, despite best intentions, roots are put down. Seeing his care for perfect strangers, you get a real feel for who David is, willing to upend his plans to help someone he has no obligation to. A lot of the tension in the novella comes from his decision, how it impacts his relationship with Rob, and the courage it takes to see the way forward in the world before 2010, when gay marriage was legal in only two states and a lot of hate and misunderstanding existed in between. Make no mistake, Hidden Wolves has a strong political undertone, and Once an Alpha is every bit a Hidden Wolves book. Really enjoyable, quick read too.
July 15, 2024
4.5/5 I really enjoyed this found family (pack) novella. I often dislike werewolf stories these days because so often they’re a dystopian tale of horrible pack structures and rules. Although the latter holds true here, the main characters have left such a pack at the beginning of the book (and David was a better alpha who helped protect and care for the pack until his circumstances change, and he leaves). The novella is all about forming a new pack of outcast werewolves, protecting this new family, and David and Rob getting to be true to a relationship they weren’t able to have in the old pack structure. So I could see a lot of potential for change and happiness that helped balance out the stupid pack politics and outdated laws.
I appreciated that Rob took steps to protect himself and David even when it was hard, and that there was no cheating. I also liked that David genuinely loved Melody, and she wasn’t simply dismissed. I liked the quirky wolves that David and Rob ran into, and the way that a new home and pack snuck up on them. I was so glad that they got to be true to themselves here.
Toby, Doyle, and the Cats
This is an adorable short story that’s basically exactly what it says on the tin, Doyle finally admitting how he feels about Toby when the latter shows up with three kittens needing care. The kitties are tiny and adorable, they both make great cat daddies, and I definitely like this glimpse of a better world where more acceptance is slowly growing.
I received an ARC from GRR. This is my honest review.
I appreciated that Rob took steps to protect himself and David even when it was hard, and that there was no cheating. I also liked that David genuinely loved Melody, and she wasn’t simply dismissed. I liked the quirky wolves that David and Rob ran into, and the way that a new home and pack snuck up on them. I was so glad that they got to be true to themselves here.
Toby, Doyle, and the Cats
This is an adorable short story that’s basically exactly what it says on the tin, Doyle finally admitting how he feels about Toby when the latter shows up with three kittens needing care. The kitties are tiny and adorable, they both make great cat daddies, and I definitely like this glimpse of a better world where more acceptance is slowly growing.
I received an ARC from GRR. This is my honest review.
July 15, 2024
4.5 stars
An interesting little prequel book that can be read as a standalone. I got into it straight away and read it pretty much straight through, which is vanishingly rare for me these days. It's sort of second chance, which I don't love but thought I'd give it a try. Happily, they were torn apart by circumstance as children, which makes it easier for me to read. There's a little bit of plot and a little bit of romance in this- I would have loved for both to be more developed but there's only so much you can fit in a book of this size. It felt almost like the author had set out to write a short story and not managed to unpack everything even after they realised it was going to be longer, but it was at least unpacked enough to make sense.
The characterisation, as always, was excellent, and I loved the dynamic between David and Rob. Alpha David was nominally in charge, but it often felt like Rob ran the show, tenderly taking care of his Alpha, and being a sensible man, David deferred to Rob on most things. Loved their banter and the gentle teasing, and their interactions frequently made me laugh out loud. They have a great relationship and it was a joy to see them together. I also adored the bonus story: Toby, Doyle and the Cats. A perfect little slice of sweetness that can also be read solo from anything else.
An interesting little prequel book that can be read as a standalone. I got into it straight away and read it pretty much straight through, which is vanishingly rare for me these days. It's sort of second chance, which I don't love but thought I'd give it a try. Happily, they were torn apart by circumstance as children, which makes it easier for me to read. There's a little bit of plot and a little bit of romance in this- I would have loved for both to be more developed but there's only so much you can fit in a book of this size. It felt almost like the author had set out to write a short story and not managed to unpack everything even after they realised it was going to be longer, but it was at least unpacked enough to make sense.
The characterisation, as always, was excellent, and I loved the dynamic between David and Rob. Alpha David was nominally in charge, but it often felt like Rob ran the show, tenderly taking care of his Alpha, and being a sensible man, David deferred to Rob on most things. Loved their banter and the gentle teasing, and their interactions frequently made me laugh out loud. They have a great relationship and it was a joy to see them together. I also adored the bonus story: Toby, Doyle and the Cats. A perfect little slice of sweetness that can also be read solo from anything else.
July 19, 2024
I loved this story.
I haven't read a lot of Kaje Harper's books but I've loved the ones that I have. Although I own all of her Hidden Wolves books, I've yet to read any of them (hangs head) so I was glad for the opportunity to read and review this new prequel novella.
I love found family stories and this one is a bit different from others I've read since it involves werewolves creating a new pack. It made me sad that Rob and David had to wait so long to finally be together and that David losing his beloved wife was the catalyst for them eventually being together. But the HEA was quite wonderful as was the nice long epilogue.
There were many interesting secondary characters that I would love to read more about. I'd also like to know if the new pack ever gained an elder (you'll know what I mean if you read the book). I scanned the blurbs for the other Hidden Wolves stories but couldn't tell if any of them appear in other books. Since Kaje says that this story contains new characters, I'm going to guess that they don't. I'm going to close by asking Kaje to pretty please give us another taste of David and his new pack. 🥰
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request by Gay Romance Reviews; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
I haven't read a lot of Kaje Harper's books but I've loved the ones that I have. Although I own all of her Hidden Wolves books, I've yet to read any of them (hangs head) so I was glad for the opportunity to read and review this new prequel novella.
I love found family stories and this one is a bit different from others I've read since it involves werewolves creating a new pack. It made me sad that Rob and David had to wait so long to finally be together and that David losing his beloved wife was the catalyst for them eventually being together. But the HEA was quite wonderful as was the nice long epilogue.
There were many interesting secondary characters that I would love to read more about. I'd also like to know if the new pack ever gained an elder (you'll know what I mean if you read the book). I scanned the blurbs for the other Hidden Wolves stories but couldn't tell if any of them appear in other books. Since Kaje says that this story contains new characters, I'm going to guess that they don't. I'm going to close by asking Kaje to pretty please give us another taste of David and his new pack. 🥰
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request by Gay Romance Reviews; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
July 28, 2024
I’m already a huge fan of this author but hadn’t read her wolves series yet. I thought this was a great place to start the series, and now I need to play catch up. I loved the world building and the characters, with tradition needing to be dragged into the modern world.
I loved David and Rob’s relationship, and that they come across as equals, despite their roles as Alpha and Second. I thought David’s hesitancy to act on who he is was realistic, given what they’ve left behind, and I liked that his late wife is still seen as a lost love. I love that Rob stands with David, yet will voice his opinions if needs be. Their love for each other is obvious, and it’s sad they need to start anew in order to be together.
I love the dynamics and slow building of the new pack, and how they work together to protect Asher. I’d love to see more of these guys from their perspective in future stories, and I’m particularly intrigued by Blake’s human mate whom we don’t see in this story, and Jullian. Wilde is interesting and I’d love to know what his story is.
I loved the interaction between David and Noah. Noah’s wife, Hailey rocks. I love her.
The added bonus story is cute, and well worth the short read.
I need to add this series to my paperback list.
I loved David and Rob’s relationship, and that they come across as equals, despite their roles as Alpha and Second. I thought David’s hesitancy to act on who he is was realistic, given what they’ve left behind, and I liked that his late wife is still seen as a lost love. I love that Rob stands with David, yet will voice his opinions if needs be. Their love for each other is obvious, and it’s sad they need to start anew in order to be together.
I love the dynamics and slow building of the new pack, and how they work together to protect Asher. I’d love to see more of these guys from their perspective in future stories, and I’m particularly intrigued by Blake’s human mate whom we don’t see in this story, and Jullian. Wilde is interesting and I’d love to know what his story is.
I loved the interaction between David and Noah. Noah’s wife, Hailey rocks. I love her.
The added bonus story is cute, and well worth the short read.
I need to add this series to my paperback list.
July 22, 2024
“Once an Alpha” by Kaje Harper centers on David, and Alpha who has left his pack after a terrible personal tragedy but is accompanied by his faithful Second, Rob. As the two men try to work out how their lives and relationship will settle out without their pack, they become embroiled with several lone wolves who need an alpha’s mediation, which complicates everything, especially their future.
This adult gay paranormal romance is set in the same world as the delicious ‘Hidden Wolves’ series, and reminds me of why I enjoy this author’s works so much. The artful combination of creating vivid characters and realistic locations always draw me in immediately. I enjoyed getting to know the various wolf shifters in this small town even as I sympathized with the reason for David having to leave his original pack and marveled at Rob’s tenacity and loyalty. I don’t quite have the same intense connection that I formed with Aaron and his pack, but I am definitely curious about the characters introduced in this story, especially the enigmatic and mysterious Julian, so I hope there will be more stories at some point.
A copy of this title was provided for review
This adult gay paranormal romance is set in the same world as the delicious ‘Hidden Wolves’ series, and reminds me of why I enjoy this author’s works so much. The artful combination of creating vivid characters and realistic locations always draw me in immediately. I enjoyed getting to know the various wolf shifters in this small town even as I sympathized with the reason for David having to leave his original pack and marveled at Rob’s tenacity and loyalty. I don’t quite have the same intense connection that I formed with Aaron and his pack, but I am definitely curious about the characters introduced in this story, especially the enigmatic and mysterious Julian, so I hope there will be more stories at some point.
A copy of this title was provided for review
July 24, 2024
This is sort of an after-the-fact prequel for the Hidden Wolves series and took place a year before book one, Unacceptable Risk.
I couldn’t help but feel for both David and Rob. They’d gone through so much through the years, loving each other but unable to be together both because David was the pack Alpha and married and because it was against pack law for a relationship between them.
Years later, when they finally had the chance to be together, it was so sweet, you could tell it had been hard won and it almost made me want to cry for them. I personally, wanted so bad to get rid of everything that got in the way of their newfound happiness but they were so patient and thoughtful, all the way up to the end. Just another reason why I loved the book so much!
If anything you’ve read in the blurb or any of the reviews you’ve read makes you even a little bit interested in the book, grab it; I think you’re gonna love it as much as I do! 4.5 stars!!
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
I couldn’t help but feel for both David and Rob. They’d gone through so much through the years, loving each other but unable to be together both because David was the pack Alpha and married and because it was against pack law for a relationship between them.
Years later, when they finally had the chance to be together, it was so sweet, you could tell it had been hard won and it almost made me want to cry for them. I personally, wanted so bad to get rid of everything that got in the way of their newfound happiness but they were so patient and thoughtful, all the way up to the end. Just another reason why I loved the book so much!
If anything you’ve read in the blurb or any of the reviews you’ve read makes you even a little bit interested in the book, grab it; I think you’re gonna love it as much as I do! 4.5 stars!!
I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 11, 2024
“So, what do we lose if we try?”
This is labeled as a Hidden Wolves universe standalone novella by Kaje Harper, a new to me author. Since it was a standalone, based on an existing series universe, I figured this would be a good place to start. This novella also contained a bonus 5K short story called Toby, Doyle, and the Cats. I did not read this bonus short since I have not started the Hidden Wolves series. I didn't want any spoilers to mess it up for me.
This was a fairly short read at around 185 pages, without the bonus story. I enjoyed it and now I want more. I only wish I got to see more of these guys... since this story is a new release and the existing Hidden Wolves series was completed in 2021, I guess it's the last we will see of them.
Forbidden love, an Alpha and his 2nd, childhood best friends, loss of a spouse and unborn child, old time pack dynamics, starting anew, found family
This is labeled as a Hidden Wolves universe standalone novella by Kaje Harper, a new to me author. Since it was a standalone, based on an existing series universe, I figured this would be a good place to start. This novella also contained a bonus 5K short story called Toby, Doyle, and the Cats. I did not read this bonus short since I have not started the Hidden Wolves series. I didn't want any spoilers to mess it up for me.
This was a fairly short read at around 185 pages, without the bonus story. I enjoyed it and now I want more. I only wish I got to see more of these guys... since this story is a new release and the existing Hidden Wolves series was completed in 2021, I guess it's the last we will see of them.
Forbidden love, an Alpha and his 2nd, childhood best friends, loss of a spouse and unborn child, old time pack dynamics, starting anew, found family
July 20, 2024
Once an Alpha
David and Rob are starting over after leaving their pack. Needing to eat they exit the highway and follow the signs to the nearest town. While getting some lunch their truck is stolen and they end up having to spend the night. The next morning the local lone wolf leader comes to see them. He tells them that their stolen truck was intentional so that they could help them with another lone wolf that's causing trouble. Helping the lone wolves causes some trouble with another pack.
This is a short story with second chance/friends to lovers/romance/paranormal troupes. Most of the conflict is off page and just mentioned as an afterthought. The mystery of the lone wolf is short and solved with little effort. The trouble with the other pack is also short and solved pretty easily. There's not much conflict/drama/tension/excitement. The romance between David and Rob is kind of blah. Not hot or sexy at all IMO. Their settling down and starting a pack with the lone wolves is not that exciting either. The world and character building is minimal. It's an ok story. I just wanted something more.
Bonus short story: Toby, Doyle and the cats.
This is a quick romance/paranormal read about two guys that take care of abandoned kittens and come to realize that they both like each other. There's very little world or character building. The romance isn't much to read about and isn't hot or sexy, no sexy times at all. There is a slight innocent feel to their attraction and realization that they like each other that I liked. Nice additional story.
David and Rob are starting over after leaving their pack. Needing to eat they exit the highway and follow the signs to the nearest town. While getting some lunch their truck is stolen and they end up having to spend the night. The next morning the local lone wolf leader comes to see them. He tells them that their stolen truck was intentional so that they could help them with another lone wolf that's causing trouble. Helping the lone wolves causes some trouble with another pack.
This is a short story with second chance/friends to lovers/romance/paranormal troupes. Most of the conflict is off page and just mentioned as an afterthought. The mystery of the lone wolf is short and solved with little effort. The trouble with the other pack is also short and solved pretty easily. There's not much conflict/drama/tension/excitement. The romance between David and Rob is kind of blah. Not hot or sexy at all IMO. Their settling down and starting a pack with the lone wolves is not that exciting either. The world and character building is minimal. It's an ok story. I just wanted something more.
Bonus short story: Toby, Doyle and the cats.
This is a quick romance/paranormal read about two guys that take care of abandoned kittens and come to realize that they both like each other. There's very little world or character building. The romance isn't much to read about and isn't hot or sexy, no sexy times at all. There is a slight innocent feel to their attraction and realization that they like each other that I liked. Nice additional story.
July 26, 2024
This book is a prequel to the Hidden Wolves series and is a standalone story that can easily be read without having read the series. I like the way that Kaje Harper is able to surprise me with the twists that she puts into her stories, even within the very much written about werewolf trope. I love her characters and I like how she makes even her side characters interesting. The story starts out fairly conventionally with two gay characters leaving their homophobic pack behind but then their truck with all that they took with them gets stolen and the story twists begin.
I also liked the way David was true to his wife Melody while she was alive and the way he talks about her and their relationship even though he is gay and their relationship wasn’t what he wanted. A lovely little peek into life before the series starts.
I got a copy of this book from GRR and this is my honest review
I also liked the way David was true to his wife Melody while she was alive and the way he talks about her and their relationship even though he is gay and their relationship wasn’t what he wanted. A lovely little peek into life before the series starts.
I got a copy of this book from GRR and this is my honest review
July 19, 2024
I really enjoyed this story about Alpha David and his Second, Rob, getting their second chance at love. I felt bad for David that he lost his beloved wife and unborn child and then ended up leaving his previous pack so that he could be with Rob. However, Rob is obviously worth it, he has a good head on his strong shoulders and he really loves David, who is a caring Alpha. I enjoyed the action, humour, and found family as the two of them set up a new pack with a few interesting side characters. It would be great to read more about this pack of wolves. This prequel to the Hidden Wolves series is easy to read, a page-turner and well written. I'm looking forward to reading more by Kaje Harper.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 20, 2024
Long gassy salvo, rubber boots, Georgie-Porgie
This is a marvelous and exciting book. The storyline is solid, sussed out expertly, and well-written. But then, I've come to expect that from Kaje Harper. Starting out, I didn't know what to expect, but I am pleasantly surprised by how enjoyable and satisfying the story is. I found myself on edge for several scenes. That's how compelling and captivating this book is. It's interesting how it begins going in one direction, then the plot shifts (pun intended) and takes it in another. I'd say the MCs are David and Rob, but Asher comes very close to being a MC also. But this is an MM romance, not an MMM one. If you enjoy a good wolf shifters story, I recommend reading this.
This is a marvelous and exciting book. The storyline is solid, sussed out expertly, and well-written. But then, I've come to expect that from Kaje Harper. Starting out, I didn't know what to expect, but I am pleasantly surprised by how enjoyable and satisfying the story is. I found myself on edge for several scenes. That's how compelling and captivating this book is. It's interesting how it begins going in one direction, then the plot shifts (pun intended) and takes it in another. I'd say the MCs are David and Rob, but Asher comes very close to being a MC also. But this is an MM romance, not an MMM one. If you enjoy a good wolf shifters story, I recommend reading this.
July 25, 2024
Closing one door, can make many new doors available. David sacrificed his Alpha position because his pack did not believe in homosexual relationship. He left with his second and mate, Rob and drove west looking for a new home. On their way they ran into an adventure involving solitary wolves. There are many moving parts to Rob and David's developing new relationship and hte relationships with the new wolves. There is a mystery and a bit of danger. There are some nice supportive new wolves maybe friends that become the new adventure. The author keeps the story funny, exciting, romantic and a bit sexy. Great characters, nice pace and nice cover art. Well done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily laving a review.
August 2, 2024
This review was difficult to write without spoilers, but I'll give it my best shot.
I enjoyed this story about two older wolves---I'm all about older adults finding/regaining love---forced by their circumstances to take back the love they'd suppressed for decades. David and Rob made a choice that landed them in a new town where the lessons they must learn quickly bring them both what they need not only personally as bond mates in a gay-unfriendly wolf world, but also as Alpha and Second with a new pack. I loved not only the second-chance romance but also the romantic suspense---another of my favorite tropes---that found pack members, settled an old score, and brought family back together.
I enjoyed this story about two older wolves---I'm all about older adults finding/regaining love---forced by their circumstances to take back the love they'd suppressed for decades. David and Rob made a choice that landed them in a new town where the lessons they must learn quickly bring them both what they need not only personally as bond mates in a gay-unfriendly wolf world, but also as Alpha and Second with a new pack. I loved not only the second-chance romance but also the romantic suspense---another of my favorite tropes---that found pack members, settled an old score, and brought family back together.
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