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Shifter Rogues #1
Wolf's Mate
Danger shouldn't be this sexy...
Cougar shifter Abby Carter always plays it safe. That's why she's an accountant--no excitement, no danger, and no cocky alpha males. She loves her quiet life, but fate has other plans. When Abby uncovers the shady dealings of an anti-shifter organization, she'll have to trust the too-sexy-for-her-peace-of-mind werewolf Declan Reed... or end up six feet under.
Declan Reed is starting over. After two years with Shifter Operations Command, it's time to put his past behind him. Now Declan is the only thing standing between the gorgeous Abby and an early grave, and if he's going to have any chance of keeping her alive, he'll have to embrace the darkness he's fought to keep at bay. But first he has to convince Abby that there's no safer place in the world than the arms of a big bad werewolf.
Cougar shifter Abby Carter always plays it safe. That's why she's an accountant--no excitement, no danger, and no cocky alpha males. She loves her quiet life, but fate has other plans. When Abby uncovers the shady dealings of an anti-shifter organization, she'll have to trust the too-sexy-for-her-peace-of-mind werewolf Declan Reed... or end up six feet under.
Declan Reed is starting over. After two years with Shifter Operations Command, it's time to put his past behind him. Now Declan is the only thing standing between the gorgeous Abby and an early grave, and if he's going to have any chance of keeping her alive, he'll have to embrace the darkness he's fought to keep at bay. But first he has to convince Abby that there's no safer place in the world than the arms of a big bad werewolf.
353 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2017
About the author
Celia Kyle
259 books2,810 followersCelia Kyle would like to rule the world and become a ninja. As a fall-back, she’s working on her writing career and giving readers stories that touch their hearts and *ahem* other places. Visit her online at http://celiakyle.com | http://facebook.com/celiakyle | http://twitter.com/celiakyle | http://pinterest.com/celiakyle
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 191 reviews
March 20, 2018
I was given an arc of this book by the Publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
If you love shifters then I can definitely recommend this read. This is a fast paced story which begins with wolf shifter Declan and his lethal colleagues watching a company that is suspected of being a major player in a cruel anti-shifters organisation.
Accountant and cougar shifter Abby, works late every night and Declan cannot take his eyes off her, his wolf is obsessed with the beautiful cougar.
Abby discovers a discrepancy in an account and follows the trail, finding proof that links the company to the shifter murderers and unbeknown to her this triggers a warning to her boss and his evil associates, luckily for Abby Declan's crew have bugged the boss and know that he is on his way. While Abby is unknowingly transferring copies of the documents to her iPad, Declan is speeding to protect her but her boss has arrived, along with fully armed associates who are all out to kill the cougar shifter.
Between Declan and Abby they escape but Abby is shot, doesn't know who the hell Declan is, or the threat that he poses to her.
Abby makes her escape and hides the iPad but is quickly kidnapped by Declan and his team.
While Declan's priority is to get Abby to safety the rest of his team are doing a job and it isn't long before the Shifter Council instruct the team to bring Abby in to be interrogated, and they are known for going as far as it takes to get the answers they need.
Declan and his wolf have no intention of allowing it to happen so he breaks the vows he made when he joined and abandons his team to escape with Abby before she can be transported to the Shifter council.
On the run, Declan's priority is to keep Abby safe and earn her trust. Luckily Abby is tough in her own right and is a strong female lead.
As I said at the start, fast paced!
I'm not giving any more away but this book maintains the excitement and energy level. You want adventure, suspense, and romance all wrapped up in a sexy shifter package then I recommend this book which is the first in series for The Shifter Rogue Series
I was given an arc of this book by the Publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
If you love shifters then I can definitely recommend this read. This is a fast paced story which begins with wolf shifter Declan and his lethal colleagues watching a company that is suspected of being a major player in a cruel anti-shifters organisation.
Accountant and cougar shifter Abby, works late every night and Declan cannot take his eyes off her, his wolf is obsessed with the beautiful cougar.
Abby discovers a discrepancy in an account and follows the trail, finding proof that links the company to the shifter murderers and unbeknown to her this triggers a warning to her boss and his evil associates, luckily for Abby Declan's crew have bugged the boss and know that he is on his way. While Abby is unknowingly transferring copies of the documents to her iPad, Declan is speeding to protect her but her boss has arrived, along with fully armed associates who are all out to kill the cougar shifter.
Between Declan and Abby they escape but Abby is shot, doesn't know who the hell Declan is, or the threat that he poses to her.
Abby makes her escape and hides the iPad but is quickly kidnapped by Declan and his team.
While Declan's priority is to get Abby to safety the rest of his team are doing a job and it isn't long before the Shifter Council instruct the team to bring Abby in to be interrogated, and they are known for going as far as it takes to get the answers they need.
Declan and his wolf have no intention of allowing it to happen so he breaks the vows he made when he joined and abandons his team to escape with Abby before she can be transported to the Shifter council.
On the run, Declan's priority is to keep Abby safe and earn her trust. Luckily Abby is tough in her own right and is a strong female lead.
As I said at the start, fast paced!
I'm not giving any more away but this book maintains the excitement and energy level. You want adventure, suspense, and romance all wrapped up in a sexy shifter package then I recommend this book which is the first in series for The Shifter Rogue Series
I was given an arc of this book by the Publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
March 30, 2018
This is a kick ass, action packed shifter PNR with great characters, an ongoing story line that keeps you glued to your kindle and a sweet romance between a gentle cougar and a bad ass (if a bit psycho) wolf. This is the first in the series and it was an amazing intro to the Shifter Rogues. It pretty much had a little of everything I like in a shifter read. There was heat, passion, humor, action, suspense, danger and some crazy good characters!
What I loved about it:
Declan was a nut but an adorable one and Abby is just the kind of heroine I love to root for. She’s a bit innocent and sheltered but she’s brave and loyal. Watching her and crazy ass Declan together was equal parts hilarious, touching and *fans self* freaking hot!
Then there’s the phenomenal supporting characters that blew my mind and tbh I have a crush on all the SHOC guys. I fell in love with every member from the team leader and grizzly, Birch, fellow wolf and goof ball, Grant, slick lion, Ethan, and smoldering tiger, Cole, I was hooked. These guys were all amazing in their own way and can’t wait to read their stories.
I’m still on the fence with Declan’s brother – but if this is any indication of the author’s style, I’m sure I’ll grow to love him too. There is definitely a story to tell there.
Favorite Lines:
Pretty much any inner dialogue from Declan and his wolf :)
Would I recommend?
Yes, this was a great story that was highly entertaining.
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All
thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
What I loved about it:
Declan was a nut but an adorable one and Abby is just the kind of heroine I love to root for. She’s a bit innocent and sheltered but she’s brave and loyal. Watching her and crazy ass Declan together was equal parts hilarious, touching and *fans self* freaking hot!
Then there’s the phenomenal supporting characters that blew my mind and tbh I have a crush on all the SHOC guys. I fell in love with every member from the team leader and grizzly, Birch, fellow wolf and goof ball, Grant, slick lion, Ethan, and smoldering tiger, Cole, I was hooked. These guys were all amazing in their own way and can’t wait to read their stories.
I’m still on the fence with Declan’s brother – but if this is any indication of the author’s style, I’m sure I’ll grow to love him too. There is definitely a story to tell there.
Favorite Lines:
Pretty much any inner dialogue from Declan and his wolf :)
He made sure the water was ice cold. His beast snarled at the frigid tempatures. Then it suddenly decided frozen was okay because maybe Abby could warm them. Horny little shit.
… he tried not to notice how good it felt to hold her close. The wolf noticed. The wolf liked it-a lot- even if she was a feline and their pups might spit up the occasional hairball.
Would I recommend?
Yes, this was a great story that was highly entertaining.
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All
thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
July 10, 2017
Never thought danger could be so fresh, hot and humorous in a world where alpha shifters get all the tough jobs and one woman becomes job one for the heart! Celia Kyle’s WOLF’S MATE is a great take on paranormal romance that sizzles with passion, blazes with action and bursts off the pages with fabulous dialogue.
Abby has always played it low key and safe after the horrors she experienced as a young shifter, so when she finds herself in the middle of a game of dirty money and danger, she found a whole new side of herself, thanks to the tough werewolf who is determined to be her mate. DeClan has been given a do-over in life, a chance to put his "skills" to good use and right now, he will use anything and anyone at his disposal to keep Abby safe.
I love my alphas and my heroines with some backbone and this time out, I got it all from Celia Kyle! It’s always a plus to have supporting characters that feel like they really know and care about those around them, too, and humor? Loved it! Loved the banter, the high energy and even the “bad” times when I was sitting on the edge of my seat! When a heroine who needs someone in her corner finds it in an Super-hot, Black Ops, bad boy shifter, really was isn’t to love?
Fast paced action, nail-biting moments, attitude, it’s all in here!
I received an ARC edition from Forever in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Shifter Rogues - Book 1
Publisher: Forever (August 1, 2017)
Publication Date: August 1, 2017
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Mass Market Paperback: 368 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Abby has always played it low key and safe after the horrors she experienced as a young shifter, so when she finds herself in the middle of a game of dirty money and danger, she found a whole new side of herself, thanks to the tough werewolf who is determined to be her mate. DeClan has been given a do-over in life, a chance to put his "skills" to good use and right now, he will use anything and anyone at his disposal to keep Abby safe.
I love my alphas and my heroines with some backbone and this time out, I got it all from Celia Kyle! It’s always a plus to have supporting characters that feel like they really know and care about those around them, too, and humor? Loved it! Loved the banter, the high energy and even the “bad” times when I was sitting on the edge of my seat! When a heroine who needs someone in her corner finds it in an Super-hot, Black Ops, bad boy shifter, really was isn’t to love?
Fast paced action, nail-biting moments, attitude, it’s all in here!
I received an ARC edition from Forever in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Shifter Rogues - Book 1
Publisher: Forever (August 1, 2017)
Publication Date: August 1, 2017
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Mass Market Paperback: 368 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
July 18, 2017
*ARC generously provides by publisher via Net galley in exchange for honest review*
This is my first time reading Celia Kyle and I was completely sucked in by the paranormal tone. I love a good shifter tale and this book sets up what seems to be a very promising series.
Wolf's Mate introduces a group of fierce yet fun shifter soldiers of sorts that are part of the SHOC team. This group of sexy dangerous shifters are on assignment watching the ins and outs of potenrial threats to their kind. While under cover, Declan, an alpha wolf extraordinaire, can't seem to keep his focus from a sweet and innocent Abby Carter. This cougar shifter has no idea her job is about to put her on the run and on course to be paired with a rogue wolf.
I enjoyed the fast pace and the edge of danger within the tale. Each character has a tale to tell and Abby and Declan were just the tip of the complexity that the author dropped. With troubled pasts and uncertain futures they must depend on one another to survive all while dealing with their growing "animal" attraction. With every shifter tale needing that moment of claiming...this story was no different. Talk about a slow burn...it took quite a while for this wolf to mark his mate!
For those fans of shifter romances, Wolf's Mate will be an enjoyable read. As previously stated the book is the start to a new series. There is alot if introduction and alot of action setting up future works. I did have some trouble with chapter transitions and keeping the setting and time frame clear. I also felt some aspects of the story were wrapped up quickly and quietly. Without spoiling...there is alot more to this story and the actions of the team members. I am looking forward to the next installment for not only the hot shifters but also for more progression!
This is my first time reading Celia Kyle and I was completely sucked in by the paranormal tone. I love a good shifter tale and this book sets up what seems to be a very promising series.
Wolf's Mate introduces a group of fierce yet fun shifter soldiers of sorts that are part of the SHOC team. This group of sexy dangerous shifters are on assignment watching the ins and outs of potenrial threats to their kind. While under cover, Declan, an alpha wolf extraordinaire, can't seem to keep his focus from a sweet and innocent Abby Carter. This cougar shifter has no idea her job is about to put her on the run and on course to be paired with a rogue wolf.
I enjoyed the fast pace and the edge of danger within the tale. Each character has a tale to tell and Abby and Declan were just the tip of the complexity that the author dropped. With troubled pasts and uncertain futures they must depend on one another to survive all while dealing with their growing "animal" attraction. With every shifter tale needing that moment of claiming...this story was no different. Talk about a slow burn...it took quite a while for this wolf to mark his mate!
For those fans of shifter romances, Wolf's Mate will be an enjoyable read. As previously stated the book is the start to a new series. There is alot if introduction and alot of action setting up future works. I did have some trouble with chapter transitions and keeping the setting and time frame clear. I also felt some aspects of the story were wrapped up quickly and quietly. Without spoiling...there is alot more to this story and the actions of the team members. I am looking forward to the next installment for not only the hot shifters but also for more progression!
February 28, 2021
1 star on reading again
Too stupid, too light and with too many weak points in plot and characterisation.
2
Cute romance. Nothing fresh under the moon, but cute. Fluffy, too. (And that undercut the plot in its serious or dangerous aspects.)
Wasn't strong enough to make me care about the sequels, but it had some good points, one being that even if they were mates, it took all the book for them to have sex (95%) and declare their love. Yes, it's still a mate thing, but there is no bond nor mythical connections :) You take your pleasure where you can *grin*
Not really much else to say, you have probably read this story under some other name or title.
Too stupid, too light and with too many weak points in plot and characterisation.
2
Cute romance. Nothing fresh under the moon, but cute. Fluffy, too. (And that undercut the plot in its serious or dangerous aspects.)
Wasn't strong enough to make me care about the sequels, but it had some good points, one being that even if they were mates, it took all the book for them to have sex (95%) and declare their love. Yes, it's still a mate thing, but there is no bond nor mythical connections :) You take your pleasure where you can *grin*
Not really much else to say, you have probably read this story under some other name or title.
August 4, 2017
It really is nothing against the storyline because it wasn't half bad. It wasn't the writing in itself either. But first, the characters and their approach rubbed me the wrong way from the beginning and it never let up. I would find myself rolling my eyes at some of the things that happened or they said. It wasn't one in particular, I just didn't end up liking any of them. The heroine should've been smart and then she would do something stereotypical and dumb, the hero was pushy at times and I would've loved to see more layers to his character. And then the side characters would annoy me as well. I can't pin this on one particular thing they did, I just didn't like being in their head too much or listen to their banter.
That being said, and although I was interested in the plot, the pacing was killing me. There's a lot of what felt like filler to me and maybe this goes back to my previous point because if I had been more interested in the characters then maybe I would feel different about this. But reading this book felt like it dragged for me and I honestly thought several times to just DNF it but I wanted to give it a shot and see if by the end I would change my mind.
Honestly, I'm disappointed in myself that I didn't like it. I should've, I wanted to. I tried. In the end, this just wasn't the book for me. And while there are some good points about this (I did manage to finish it after all!) it wasn't enough to make me want to continue reading the series.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Francesca❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
August 2, 2017
I really liked this shifter book and it had all the elements I enjoy in paranormal romance. If honest I actually enjoyed it much more than I expected because I normally associate this author with fun, quirky, sexy, fluff which quite often often is relatively short. So I'm delighted by this pairing of Declan and Abby and yes it's the first in a series so lots to set up and a team of shifters to meet . Yet it didn't suffer for that and rather it told a credible story that made sure these shifters feel very 'other '.
So essentially the basic premise is that Abby is a cougar working as an accountant and keeping her head down when one night she discovers a link implicating that there's strong links to an organisation set on taking down any furry friends out there! It just so happens that a crack team of shifters are investigating the company which puts wolf Declan on the spot when Abby's findings come back to bite her hard! Getting Abby away safely should mean she's out of danger but soon Declan questions whether she's really secure at his base!
I loved that this pair listen and communicate with their inner beasts as it made for interesting and indeed comical moments. Plus these are the sort of shifters I like , as in they have enhanced senses meaning they hear and smell for example much better than humans . Really interesting plot as surprises keep on coming plus of course the romance that is central to the story .
So the romance and what did I think? Right from the start Declan and his wolf are incredibly drawn to the woman who shakes her stuff and shimmies when she thinks no one is looking. Abby isn't quite ready to follow her cougars instincts but it's so obvious that she really would like a taste of the sexy, domineering wolf. Declan is such fun ( when he's not killing people! ) and constantly challenges Abby but no he never forces the issue no matter how hard it is, ahem!
I really liked this and I'm beyond excited to find out what a certain tiger will get up to next but for now I'm happy that this solitary cougar has found her place with the very seductive Declan. If you want to read something a little different to the standard pack type stories out there then I'd happily recommend this book
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts are honest and I believe fair
So essentially the basic premise is that Abby is a cougar working as an accountant and keeping her head down when one night she discovers a link implicating that there's strong links to an organisation set on taking down any furry friends out there! It just so happens that a crack team of shifters are investigating the company which puts wolf Declan on the spot when Abby's findings come back to bite her hard! Getting Abby away safely should mean she's out of danger but soon Declan questions whether she's really secure at his base!
I loved that this pair listen and communicate with their inner beasts as it made for interesting and indeed comical moments. Plus these are the sort of shifters I like , as in they have enhanced senses meaning they hear and smell for example much better than humans . Really interesting plot as surprises keep on coming plus of course the romance that is central to the story .
So the romance and what did I think? Right from the start Declan and his wolf are incredibly drawn to the woman who shakes her stuff and shimmies when she thinks no one is looking. Abby isn't quite ready to follow her cougars instincts but it's so obvious that she really would like a taste of the sexy, domineering wolf. Declan is such fun ( when he's not killing people! ) and constantly challenges Abby but no he never forces the issue no matter how hard it is, ahem!
I really liked this and I'm beyond excited to find out what a certain tiger will get up to next but for now I'm happy that this solitary cougar has found her place with the very seductive Declan. If you want to read something a little different to the standard pack type stories out there then I'd happily recommend this book
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts are honest and I believe fair
August 1, 2017
I had a blast reading this, it was so freaking fun! A lighter paranormal romance with really likable characters. It was fast paced, kept me on my toes, and left me excited for the next book.
Declan and Abby were so fantastic. They've got the light hearted animosity and chemistry down. I loved the playfulness between Declan and Abby, their fun conversations and flirting. Since they're shifters, there's an added element of their animals liking each other as well while their humans selves fight it that attracion. I smiled so many times because I loved that fight. I loved the shifter aspect too. I really enjoyed the descriptions of their animals and how everything worked, I thought it was a great world that was created. I loved the push and pull between Abby and Declan while they came together.
It started out great so I was pulled in right away. It's fast paced with really awesome details, good character development and back stories. Not overly in depth, just the prefect amount to keep things moving along. I loved the alternating POVs a lot, it kept things moving along at a good pace and had me excited for what would happen next.
This was definitely a lighter read, it had a bouncy, fun vibe happening but it was also pretty action packed. I loved the drama that was mixed in as well. There's a nice mystery happening as well and I'm thinking that's going to carry out through the series. While there is an HEA for the couple, there are still on going questions facing the team and what's happening in their world. I loved the other shifters on Declan’s team as well. Everyone seemed to have a really distinct personality. I enjoyed their bickering and challenging each other.
In short, this was just super entertaining to read and left me with a smile on my face. This was my first time reading this author and I will definitely be reading her again. This was the prefect PNR summer read.
Complimentary copy received for honest review.
Declan and Abby were so fantastic. They've got the light hearted animosity and chemistry down. I loved the playfulness between Declan and Abby, their fun conversations and flirting. Since they're shifters, there's an added element of their animals liking each other as well while their humans selves fight it that attracion. I smiled so many times because I loved that fight. I loved the shifter aspect too. I really enjoyed the descriptions of their animals and how everything worked, I thought it was a great world that was created. I loved the push and pull between Abby and Declan while they came together.
It started out great so I was pulled in right away. It's fast paced with really awesome details, good character development and back stories. Not overly in depth, just the prefect amount to keep things moving along. I loved the alternating POVs a lot, it kept things moving along at a good pace and had me excited for what would happen next.
This was definitely a lighter read, it had a bouncy, fun vibe happening but it was also pretty action packed. I loved the drama that was mixed in as well. There's a nice mystery happening as well and I'm thinking that's going to carry out through the series. While there is an HEA for the couple, there are still on going questions facing the team and what's happening in their world. I loved the other shifters on Declan’s team as well. Everyone seemed to have a really distinct personality. I enjoyed their bickering and challenging each other.
In short, this was just super entertaining to read and left me with a smile on my face. This was my first time reading this author and I will definitely be reading her again. This was the prefect PNR summer read.
Complimentary copy received for honest review.
September 13, 2024
This started out pretty interesting and had lots of action and sexy shifters, but then it started lagging. It took FOREVER to get the couple together. Yes there was lots of action,drama, twist and turns; but I got to the point where I was like PLEASE get to the point!
I just couldn't love it. It was ok.
Received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
I just couldn't love it. It was ok.
Received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
August 7, 2017
I have to be honest. I had a hard ... HARD time getting into this book and it saddens me because I adore Celia Kyle. It is slow and the 2 MC take FOREVER to get together as in "doing the sexy". There is no cohesiveness at all within Declan's team, yes sure I understand that were supposed to be the badass of all the badass but their group is a hot mess. I couldn't bring myself to savour Abby and Declan's HEA because I was tearing my hair and screaming "WTF is wrong with both of you?!", I just want to quickly finish reading the book and get on with my life. Urghh!
My sincere hope is that Book 2 will be a MUCH BETTER progression and not choppy. Oh yes, and please don't make us readers wait till almost the end of the book for the 2 MC's to get together. I have never given up on any of Celia Kyle's series and I really don't want to drop Shifters Rogues from my "must read" list.
My sincere hope is that Book 2 will be a MUCH BETTER progression and not choppy. Oh yes, and please don't make us readers wait till almost the end of the book for the 2 MC's to get together. I have never given up on any of Celia Kyle's series and I really don't want to drop Shifters Rogues from my "must read" list.
March 29, 2022
This was readable - not great, but adequate to spend some time with - until the moment the over the top Alpha H called the heroine 'baby' - and she didn't claw half his face off in response.
Baby? Is she a toddler? Baby is not sexy, not as a nickname, and certainly not as a reference to your intended sexual partner.
This book was written in 2017, so there is no excuse here. He could have called her sweetheart, or darling... or even her gosh darned name, but baby? Way to kill the mood. This book went to ick town so fast it was like whiplash, and once he starts calling her baby, he can't seem to stop. And it's the way he does it, to cajole her to do things she is uncomfortable with (showering together - yes, she is hurt and needs help, but if he'd just been straight forward about that I would have found it sexier)
And there seems to be some kind of weird stalker/bullying vibe the author is trying to sell me on - that because the Hero's inner wolf thinks mate when he sees Abby then all his macho over the top actions, commands and getting his own way all the time are perfectly okay????
I'm half way through - I'm going to skim the rest. Maybe it will get better, if so I'll be back to update this - but I doubt it.
Baby? Is she a toddler? Baby is not sexy, not as a nickname, and certainly not as a reference to your intended sexual partner.
This book was written in 2017, so there is no excuse here. He could have called her sweetheart, or darling... or even her gosh darned name, but baby? Way to kill the mood. This book went to ick town so fast it was like whiplash, and once he starts calling her baby, he can't seem to stop. And it's the way he does it, to cajole her to do things she is uncomfortable with (showering together - yes, she is hurt and needs help, but if he'd just been straight forward about that I would have found it sexier)
And there seems to be some kind of weird stalker/bullying vibe the author is trying to sell me on - that because the Hero's inner wolf thinks mate when he sees Abby then all his macho over the top actions, commands and getting his own way all the time are perfectly okay????
I'm half way through - I'm going to skim the rest. Maybe it will get better, if so I'll be back to update this - but I doubt it.
July 18, 2017
-Good start to new shifter series. Ms. Kyle is one of those authors that I know can bring it when it comes to shifter romances, a special weakness of mine. Some are hits and others, well not so much, but this series definitely has the makings of hit. It has all the elements that I enjoy, good smutty romance mixed with humor and action, so let’s discuss.
- The sitch is right up my alley. Abby Carter is an accountant who likes to dance in the office when no one’s watching (my kind of gal). She also stumbles upon a big ole conspiracy to eradicate “furries” by a human-run hate group and before she knows it, she’s on the run for her life with a big ole protective wolf shifter right by her side. Declan, who’s been assigned to watch said hate group and has narrowed his focus on the company that Abby is auditing. Plus, he can’t keep his eyes off her booty shaking ways and is more than willing to put his life on the line to keep her safe and along the way, you guessed it, romance happens.
-Good action. A good portion of the story is Abby and Declain on the run, and I have to say I was drawn in with the first few chapters. The characters were set up nicely through their inner monologues and dialogue with others and their actions made sense considering the danger they were in. It managed to keep me turning that page to find out what would happen next and I liked that tension.
-Humor worked for me. I know it’s subjective but Ms. Kyle’s humor usually makes me giggle at least a little, if not outright laugh out loud. I definitely liked the banter between the characters and that humor really helped to establish those relationships and gave some balance to the action.
-Transition at the end was slightly off. I think the transition from the wrap up of this romance and the next happened sooner than I would have liked and made the pacing at the very end of the book slow down more than it needed to. But in the grand scheme of things, it’s a small quibble I can live with because I am very curious about the next hero and his heroine, so all’s well that ends (fairly) well.
I really enjoyed myself. Ms. Kyle’s books have been hit or miss for me, but I’m happy to say that this series is a definite hit. I’m looking forward to the next book because I am ready to catch that tiger by his tail.
**ARC provided by publisher via netgalley for review**
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March 28, 2018
OMG!!
This book right here!!! If anyone knows me they know how super picky I am when it comes to the paranormal genre. I received this book in the mail and I put it to the side since I was in the middle of another book. Later that night around 11pm I decided to read one chapter since this a new to me author and I wasn’t sure how I would like the story. Several hours later I had to FORCE myself to close this book. I kept playing the one more chapter game but sadly I had to go to the place that pays me and feeds my book addiction. From the first few chapters this book had me sucked in and wouldn’t let me go.
Declan is part of a special ops team called SHOC Team One. They don’t hide who they are and they aren’t hero’s so to speak. More like anti hero’s with a twist. The team is made up of a select few and they are all shifters. While on an observation task their subject, Abby, another shifter uncovered some information about her current job and her life is at risk. There is a group called Unified Humanity that is out to kill shifters and Abby finds out some info that puts her in danger. I really loved this aspect of this storyline. This is very original and way different from normal shifter storylines. Declan and Abby’s animal sides are attracted to each other from the beginning but the human side needs more work. And yes this is a delicious slow burn that is brewing and I loved every minute of it. I enjoyed not only seeing Declan and Abby’s animal side fall in love as well. Usually in shifter books we are told how their animal feels but in this book we saw the cougar and wolf bond and it was nice seeing.
As the story progresses we get introduced to more of the secondary characters and I loved reading about the guys. Each guy is unique and they really are a family. A little dysfunctional and unconventional but a family nonetheless. I can’t wait to read the next book about Cole and I’m hoping we get a book about the rest of the guys as well.
This was the first time I’ve read anything by this author and I love her writing style. The plot was refreshing and I couldn’t stop reading this story. I purchased the novella right after reading because I can’t get enough of this shifter rogue world! As I stated before I’m very picky about my paranormal reads and this booked knocked me off my feet!
*Received review copy from publisher*
This book right here!!! If anyone knows me they know how super picky I am when it comes to the paranormal genre. I received this book in the mail and I put it to the side since I was in the middle of another book. Later that night around 11pm I decided to read one chapter since this a new to me author and I wasn’t sure how I would like the story. Several hours later I had to FORCE myself to close this book. I kept playing the one more chapter game but sadly I had to go to the place that pays me and feeds my book addiction. From the first few chapters this book had me sucked in and wouldn’t let me go.
Declan is part of a special ops team called SHOC Team One. They don’t hide who they are and they aren’t hero’s so to speak. More like anti hero’s with a twist. The team is made up of a select few and they are all shifters. While on an observation task their subject, Abby, another shifter uncovered some information about her current job and her life is at risk. There is a group called Unified Humanity that is out to kill shifters and Abby finds out some info that puts her in danger. I really loved this aspect of this storyline. This is very original and way different from normal shifter storylines. Declan and Abby’s animal sides are attracted to each other from the beginning but the human side needs more work. And yes this is a delicious slow burn that is brewing and I loved every minute of it. I enjoyed not only seeing Declan and Abby’s animal side fall in love as well. Usually in shifter books we are told how their animal feels but in this book we saw the cougar and wolf bond and it was nice seeing.
As the story progresses we get introduced to more of the secondary characters and I loved reading about the guys. Each guy is unique and they really are a family. A little dysfunctional and unconventional but a family nonetheless. I can’t wait to read the next book about Cole and I’m hoping we get a book about the rest of the guys as well.
This was the first time I’ve read anything by this author and I love her writing style. The plot was refreshing and I couldn’t stop reading this story. I purchased the novella right after reading because I can’t get enough of this shifter rogue world! As I stated before I’m very picky about my paranormal reads and this booked knocked me off my feet!
*Received review copy from publisher*
August 1, 2017
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog: https://romancingthereaders.blogspot....
I was so thrilled when I saw that Celia Kyle was picked up by one of my favorite publishers. I've really enjoyed the books of hers that I've read. She writes the type of books that I enjoy, I always finding myself laughing at something her characters have done.
So I was so happy to see that she had a new series for me to enjoy. And what a series it is. I can tell by just the first book that I'm going to be loving it!
Wolf's Mate is a great start to her new Shifter Rouges series. You are going to just love them! Like with her other series you will find wonderful writing, great characters and a ton of humor.
One of the best parts of the story is the interaction between Declan and his team. They cracked me up more then once. Funny as hell!
You are going to love Declan. He comes off all tough and a loner but you soon learn there is more to him then that. Abby will crack you up too. She is such a great heroine, you'll find her to be loving and caring. You feel bad for the position she's in but happy that she's not in it alone.
Kyle does a wonderful job of setting up the plot that is going to run through the series. She gave you enough to understand what's going on but not enough that you won't care what comes next because you know already. You'll want, no need more!
Follow me on:
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ARC received for a honest review
I was so thrilled when I saw that Celia Kyle was picked up by one of my favorite publishers. I've really enjoyed the books of hers that I've read. She writes the type of books that I enjoy, I always finding myself laughing at something her characters have done.
So I was so happy to see that she had a new series for me to enjoy. And what a series it is. I can tell by just the first book that I'm going to be loving it!
Wolf's Mate is a great start to her new Shifter Rouges series. You are going to just love them! Like with her other series you will find wonderful writing, great characters and a ton of humor.
One of the best parts of the story is the interaction between Declan and his team. They cracked me up more then once. Funny as hell!
You are going to love Declan. He comes off all tough and a loner but you soon learn there is more to him then that. Abby will crack you up too. She is such a great heroine, you'll find her to be loving and caring. You feel bad for the position she's in but happy that she's not in it alone.
Kyle does a wonderful job of setting up the plot that is going to run through the series. She gave you enough to understand what's going on but not enough that you won't care what comes next because you know already. You'll want, no need more!
Follow me on:
https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...
https://twitter.com/Romancingreader
ARC received for a honest review
July 6, 2024
Declan Reed has always lived on the edge, a wolf shifter alpha with dark urges and without a pack, he has joined SHOC as an agent to keep the darkest parts of himself at bay. But when he and his team are put on a case to find out more about Unified Humanity, an organisation that aims to kill shifters, his path crosses with the gorgeous cougar-shifter Abby Carter. While working as an accountant she made a horrifying discovery that put her straight into danger, her life is at stake for the information she has. Declan might be the only one that can save her and they might find more than trouble on their run for safety.
Pro's:
+ The story is very easy to read, there is a great flow throughout the story and I feel like the pace is pretty consistent. It makes it an easy story to follow and I was sucked into the story itself pretty quick.
+ There are some great side characters in this story I would like to know more about. All the agents of team one have quite the different personalities, but there must be lurking more beneath the surface.
Con's:
- I felt like there was not any depth or substance to this story at all. Sure, there are actions scenes and people get hurt, but I had no connection to the main characters. It was bland and to be honest, for this type of story quite boring.
I feel like I might be over the shifter novels, because there was not a lot about this book I truly enjoyed. Yes, it was easy to read and I flew through the story in no time, but I might have expected more of it. The leading characters were bland and uninteresting, there was more fun story to be found at the side characters. Yes, there were actions scenes and they were written pretty well, but I just could not get over the cringe-ness of the 'thirst' scenes and the eventual sexy scenes. This was a disappointment and I think I won't continue to any other of these types of books soon.
Pro's:
+ The story is very easy to read, there is a great flow throughout the story and I feel like the pace is pretty consistent. It makes it an easy story to follow and I was sucked into the story itself pretty quick.
+ There are some great side characters in this story I would like to know more about. All the agents of team one have quite the different personalities, but there must be lurking more beneath the surface.
Con's:
- I felt like there was not any depth or substance to this story at all. Sure, there are actions scenes and people get hurt, but I had no connection to the main characters. It was bland and to be honest, for this type of story quite boring.
I feel like I might be over the shifter novels, because there was not a lot about this book I truly enjoyed. Yes, it was easy to read and I flew through the story in no time, but I might have expected more of it. The leading characters were bland and uninteresting, there was more fun story to be found at the side characters. Yes, there were actions scenes and they were written pretty well, but I just could not get over the cringe-ness of the 'thirst' scenes and the eventual sexy scenes. This was a disappointment and I think I won't continue to any other of these types of books soon.
March 25, 2018
Wolf’s Mate by Celia Kyle
Paranormal romantic suspense on the light side of the genre. 1st in a series.
This is my first book by this author. I thoroughly enjoyed the story, the pacing, the dialog and mostly the light-hearted, tongue-in-cheek type humor. I will absolutely read more of this author.
I could list dozens of examples of the humor and funny one liners. The heroine is a cat shifter. A cougar. She scolds her inner cat for not helping by swearing not to go to the pet store for catnip. Hilarious.
“Just see if she bought catnip at the pet store. Just see.
That assumed she made it out of the hot mess alive so she could go to the pet store. If she had a Magic 8-ball, her fortune would be “outlook not so good.”
“The cougar told her she was a big fat liar from Liarton, smack-dab in the middle of the great state of Liar-isiana, living on Lying Avenue.”
Very entertaining.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. I also purchased a copy to gift.
Paranormal romantic suspense on the light side of the genre. 1st in a series.
This is my first book by this author. I thoroughly enjoyed the story, the pacing, the dialog and mostly the light-hearted, tongue-in-cheek type humor. I will absolutely read more of this author.
I could list dozens of examples of the humor and funny one liners. The heroine is a cat shifter. A cougar. She scolds her inner cat for not helping by swearing not to go to the pet store for catnip. Hilarious.
“Just see if she bought catnip at the pet store. Just see.
That assumed she made it out of the hot mess alive so she could go to the pet store. If she had a Magic 8-ball, her fortune would be “outlook not so good.”
“The cougar told her she was a big fat liar from Liarton, smack-dab in the middle of the great state of Liar-isiana, living on Lying Avenue.”
Very entertaining.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. I also purchased a copy to gift.
March 3, 2019
Wolf's Mate:
4 stars
This is my first Celia Kyle story. I really liked this shifter romance. Im starting to branch out more to other shifter stories besides werewolves, therefore in this one, Abby is a cougar and Declan is a werewolf. It has a lot of suspense and action to the plot which kept the momentum of the story going throughout.
4 stars
This is my first Celia Kyle story. I really liked this shifter romance. Im starting to branch out more to other shifter stories besides werewolves, therefore in this one, Abby is a cougar and Declan is a werewolf. It has a lot of suspense and action to the plot which kept the momentum of the story going throughout.
September 29, 2017
Fast paced, suspense and a new world of shifters, Ms. Kyle introduces me to an exciting new series. I have read Ms. Kyle before years ago and enjoyed her work. They were short stories and engaging. It seems I have missed out on a bit as her latest story is meaty and more robust. Her characters are fun and headstrong. Abby is a do good-er who keeps her shifter side quiet. Declan is a ruthless killer who will do whatever it takes to take out the anti-shifter organization. When the two cross paths, it is explosive and both their plans go sideways.
This first book in the series promises to bring suspense, intrigue, double agents and irrational humans. At the heart of this book is a conflict between shifter hating humans and the shifters who defend all other shifters. Some shifters, like Abby try to fly under the radar. Others are warriors like Declan. Still Abby does her part in bringing down shifter hating humans. She does what a smart person knows… she follows the money. When she gets too close to answers, Declan needs to come save her. From the moment they meet, there is hot chemistry. Under her mild looking persona, Abby is a wild cat. Her interactions with Declan are delightful. She sticks up for herself and quickly gets with the program. For Declan, he is not expecting to be enticed by a little kitty cat. Abby's pussy cat entices Declan's wolf. Their little chasing mating dance whilst dodging bullets and bad guys is erotic and exciting.
I liked Abby. She is a genuinely sweet person who is caught up by more than she expects. She does not shy away and steps up to help out. She may have been a bit startled by being under surveillance, but she quickly realizes she has the same goals as Declan's team. A team that is quite a bit rogue and more likely to shoot first then ask questions. This is opposite of Abby's methods which makes her attraction to Declan more amusing. They balance each other well. Whilst this romance is whirling along, the world building moves at a similar fast pace. This story is a fast read because it is hard to put down once started. Recommended for paranormal romance readers who enjoy alpha males who find their match in a smart female.
*provided by NetGalley
This first book in the series promises to bring suspense, intrigue, double agents and irrational humans. At the heart of this book is a conflict between shifter hating humans and the shifters who defend all other shifters. Some shifters, like Abby try to fly under the radar. Others are warriors like Declan. Still Abby does her part in bringing down shifter hating humans. She does what a smart person knows… she follows the money. When she gets too close to answers, Declan needs to come save her. From the moment they meet, there is hot chemistry. Under her mild looking persona, Abby is a wild cat. Her interactions with Declan are delightful. She sticks up for herself and quickly gets with the program. For Declan, he is not expecting to be enticed by a little kitty cat. Abby's pussy cat entices Declan's wolf. Their little chasing mating dance whilst dodging bullets and bad guys is erotic and exciting.
I liked Abby. She is a genuinely sweet person who is caught up by more than she expects. She does not shy away and steps up to help out. She may have been a bit startled by being under surveillance, but she quickly realizes she has the same goals as Declan's team. A team that is quite a bit rogue and more likely to shoot first then ask questions. This is opposite of Abby's methods which makes her attraction to Declan more amusing. They balance each other well. Whilst this romance is whirling along, the world building moves at a similar fast pace. This story is a fast read because it is hard to put down once started. Recommended for paranormal romance readers who enjoy alpha males who find their match in a smart female.
*provided by NetGalley
August 4, 2017
Received in exchange for a honest review.
Love Declan. I love how even though his co-workers were like family he went against them for Abby at first. He listened to his inner wolf and protected her. He at first denied that she was his mate thinking it was just an insane attraction but as the wolf reached out to him he found more and more that she was the one for him.
Abby is a cougar that is smart and a survivor. She was working and got into a dangerous situation. One she was determined to expose so that she could get revenge and stop others from going through what she had in the past. Only there were alot of double stabbing and moles hanging around. So when she is in trouble it is Declan that helps her. She is feisty and distrusting of him at first. Over time though she gives into her inner cougar and begins to feel safe around him. He protects her. And even though he doesn’t think he is good for her she believes he is. At first she is scared of his past deeds but she sees beyond them and finds him to be a caring and kind guy albeit one that does mercenary work.
Declan is smart and rough around the edges. He goes on instinct and his past weighs on him. It is through Abby that he learns he is more than the actions he potrays. He hides his caring persona except to Abby. With her he is protective and real. Loving and tender. She calms him. And with the danger she is in he lets his alpha side come out.
He goes against everything to protect her and they are put through a lot. There is revelations, danger, anger, betrayal and hope. Hope that love and family will rule out. Loyalty prevails and we see Abby and Declan protected and come out in one piece and together.
A well written, fast paced story with characters to fall for, danger, intrigue and mystery that carries into the next book in the series as you hope this gang will find love and discover the mole and expose the danger to protect everyone not only themselves.
Love Declan. I love how even though his co-workers were like family he went against them for Abby at first. He listened to his inner wolf and protected her. He at first denied that she was his mate thinking it was just an insane attraction but as the wolf reached out to him he found more and more that she was the one for him.
Abby is a cougar that is smart and a survivor. She was working and got into a dangerous situation. One she was determined to expose so that she could get revenge and stop others from going through what she had in the past. Only there were alot of double stabbing and moles hanging around. So when she is in trouble it is Declan that helps her. She is feisty and distrusting of him at first. Over time though she gives into her inner cougar and begins to feel safe around him. He protects her. And even though he doesn’t think he is good for her she believes he is. At first she is scared of his past deeds but she sees beyond them and finds him to be a caring and kind guy albeit one that does mercenary work.
Declan is smart and rough around the edges. He goes on instinct and his past weighs on him. It is through Abby that he learns he is more than the actions he potrays. He hides his caring persona except to Abby. With her he is protective and real. Loving and tender. She calms him. And with the danger she is in he lets his alpha side come out.
He goes against everything to protect her and they are put through a lot. There is revelations, danger, anger, betrayal and hope. Hope that love and family will rule out. Loyalty prevails and we see Abby and Declan protected and come out in one piece and together.
A well written, fast paced story with characters to fall for, danger, intrigue and mystery that carries into the next book in the series as you hope this gang will find love and discover the mole and expose the danger to protect everyone not only themselves.
May 4, 2018
Rating - if I could give ( - negative - )⭐s I would in this case.
Buddy reading this title as part of a sexy reads book club.
This book is astounding in its scope of debilitating and destructive ideas regarding female sexuality. The wolf dude, Declan, is a predatory, abusive jerk, and what's her face is an unrealistic combination of cringe stupid and horny stupid. Not reading for any literary credence, I was still genuinely surprised at how little character development there was regarding the two MCs. It was more of a devolvement, to be quite honest. Wolf and Cougar interactions, sexual and otherwise, were pre-teen awkward, accompanied by a cacophony of growls, purring and other shifter traits to go along with a litany of abusive behavior, perceptions and compulsions that diminish and demean the struggle of #MeToo survivors everywhere.
Kyle's writing subjects the reader to excruciating euphemisms that will no doubt compel you to reread them, just so you can say to anyone in the wave of your rage tweet/book rant: I never thought that that could be a thing/how is this even published/I now feel sorry for the words "liar" and "baseball bat"/I did this to myself.
This story was devoid of anything resembling romance, and the payoff at the end of this agonizing read is that you need never ever endure it again, except in PTSD flashbacks whenever someone uses the words liar, baseball bat, wolf, and cougar, (as mentioned above,) and of course the genre-solidifying (and gag worthy) partner possessive; the incomparable "mate".
Buddy reading this title as part of a sexy reads book club.
This book is astounding in its scope of debilitating and destructive ideas regarding female sexuality. The wolf dude, Declan, is a predatory, abusive jerk, and what's her face is an unrealistic combination of cringe stupid and horny stupid. Not reading for any literary credence, I was still genuinely surprised at how little character development there was regarding the two MCs. It was more of a devolvement, to be quite honest. Wolf and Cougar interactions, sexual and otherwise, were pre-teen awkward, accompanied by a cacophony of growls, purring and other shifter traits to go along with a litany of abusive behavior, perceptions and compulsions that diminish and demean the struggle of #MeToo survivors everywhere.
Kyle's writing subjects the reader to excruciating euphemisms that will no doubt compel you to reread them, just so you can say to anyone in the wave of your rage tweet/book rant: I never thought that that could be a thing/how is this even published/I now feel sorry for the words "liar" and "baseball bat"/I did this to myself.
This story was devoid of anything resembling romance, and the payoff at the end of this agonizing read is that you need never ever endure it again, except in PTSD flashbacks whenever someone uses the words liar, baseball bat, wolf, and cougar, (as mentioned above,) and of course the genre-solidifying (and gag worthy) partner possessive; the incomparable "mate".
February 19, 2021
|This book was won from a Goodreads Giveaway|
I know, I know. Erotica is not my genre. I don't read much of it, and honestly, if it's not Elliot Wake, I usually don't like it very much. But I did read my fair share of fanfiction. And I wrote my fair share of fanfiction.
By god was this godawful. I just didn't like it. I didn't like the romance, I didn't like the main characters (I will say, the side characters--particularly Grant and Birch--were kind of fun, that's what I liked the most), the plot didn't make any fucking sense, and the sex scenes were awful and hardly even around. See, I try and branch out...
I know, I know. Erotica is not my genre. I don't read much of it, and honestly, if it's not Elliot Wake, I usually don't like it very much. But I did read my fair share of fanfiction. And I wrote my fair share of fanfiction.
By god was this godawful. I just didn't like it. I didn't like the romance, I didn't like the main characters (I will say, the side characters--particularly Grant and Birch--were kind of fun, that's what I liked the most), the plot didn't make any fucking sense, and the sex scenes were awful and hardly even around. See, I try and branch out...
September 27, 2017
Wolf’s Mate was ridiculous. I wanted to like the story, but both main characters made such ridiculous choices I couldn’t keep going. Declan and his team were supposed to be black-ops agents, but he made questionable choices that put him and others in danger. Abby supposedly grew up really rough and had to learn to defend herself, but she didn't have any training and constantly ran into danger just because she didn't want to be left behind. I made it through about half of the book before giving up. I just couldn't do it.
DNF
DNF
February 17, 2021
1.5 stars
I just couldn't like the H, what an arsehole
The thing with Pike in the end, that should never ever be forgiven, no reason good enough. She is the H's mate
I just couldn't like the H, what an arsehole
The thing with Pike in the end, that should never ever be forgiven, no reason good enough. She is the H's mate
August 6, 2018
Review originally posted at BooksOfMyHeart.net.
I forget how I stumbled upon Celia Kyle’s Grayslake series, but it is a series I truly loved. So when the opportunity came to review the first book in the Shifter Rogues series on audio, I jumped on it. I’ll be honest, I didn’t read up on this series at all. I saw the author’s name and decide to just give it a go. I was also not familiar with this narrator, but more on her later.
So this series is about a group of guys that work for Shifter Operations Command, Team One. SHOC is a group that are loners and have a tendency to break the law. Most were given the option of join SHOC or go to prison. Basically, use your powers for good protecting shifters or else. Team One was the best of the best at what they did, but they also have the most personality issues.
In this book, we follow Declan, a wolf with a past, like most of SHOC. He’s done some things he’s not proud of. Those things really come back to haunt him in this story.
We also meet Abby. She’s a cougar, who was orphaned at a young and age and raised by a group of seal shifters. Because of her foster family, she is much better at swimming than most of her species. But she also has no love lost from her foster family. Once she was old enough, she went out on her own and been alone ever since.
So, Abby is an accountant. That is until she stumbles on an account that doesn’t look quite right. The only problem is, that this particular account belongs to an anti-shifter group. When she sets off an alert by accessing a particularly sensitive digital file, things blow up all around her.
This story is full of action and humor as Abby and Declan hide from the anti-shifter group while trying to hunt them down. The help of Declan’s team and brother add a lot of humor to the story. I really like Declan’s team. They are a hoot. I’m not a fan of the big boss, a black mamba shifter. I do like his immediate supervisor, a bear shifter.
There are some moments that I really wanted to throttle both Abby and Declan. There is the whole, “I don’t want a mate” thing. There are also some “too stupid to live” moments. But overall, I really enjoyed the story. I can’t wait to get to know this team better. I’m really excited to get to the next book about Cole, a tiger shifter. I really enjoyed him in this book.
Narration
As I said above, this is my first audiobook with Mia Nichols narrating. I think she did a good job. I liked all of her voices. I think she picked great voices for each character. I think her pace and tone are well done. I have to say that the way she voiced Director Quade, the black mamba mentioned earlier. He gets quite the hiss in his voice when angry.
**I like to thank the publisher for providing me with a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
I forget how I stumbled upon Celia Kyle’s Grayslake series, but it is a series I truly loved. So when the opportunity came to review the first book in the Shifter Rogues series on audio, I jumped on it. I’ll be honest, I didn’t read up on this series at all. I saw the author’s name and decide to just give it a go. I was also not familiar with this narrator, but more on her later.
So this series is about a group of guys that work for Shifter Operations Command, Team One. SHOC is a group that are loners and have a tendency to break the law. Most were given the option of join SHOC or go to prison. Basically, use your powers for good protecting shifters or else. Team One was the best of the best at what they did, but they also have the most personality issues.
In this book, we follow Declan, a wolf with a past, like most of SHOC. He’s done some things he’s not proud of. Those things really come back to haunt him in this story.
We also meet Abby. She’s a cougar, who was orphaned at a young and age and raised by a group of seal shifters. Because of her foster family, she is much better at swimming than most of her species. But she also has no love lost from her foster family. Once she was old enough, she went out on her own and been alone ever since.
So, Abby is an accountant. That is until she stumbles on an account that doesn’t look quite right. The only problem is, that this particular account belongs to an anti-shifter group. When she sets off an alert by accessing a particularly sensitive digital file, things blow up all around her.
This story is full of action and humor as Abby and Declan hide from the anti-shifter group while trying to hunt them down. The help of Declan’s team and brother add a lot of humor to the story. I really like Declan’s team. They are a hoot. I’m not a fan of the big boss, a black mamba shifter. I do like his immediate supervisor, a bear shifter.
There are some moments that I really wanted to throttle both Abby and Declan. There is the whole, “I don’t want a mate” thing. There are also some “too stupid to live” moments. But overall, I really enjoyed the story. I can’t wait to get to know this team better. I’m really excited to get to the next book about Cole, a tiger shifter. I really enjoyed him in this book.
Narration
As I said above, this is my first audiobook with Mia Nichols narrating. I think she did a good job. I liked all of her voices. I think she picked great voices for each character. I think her pace and tone are well done. I have to say that the way she voiced Director Quade, the black mamba mentioned earlier. He gets quite the hiss in his voice when angry.
**I like to thank the publisher for providing me with a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
March 23, 2018
New Release Review! Wolf’s Mate (Shifter Rogues #1) Celia Kyle
Danger shouldn't be this sexy... Cougar shifter Abby Carter always plays it safe. That's why she's an accountant--no excitement, no danger, and no cocky alpha males. She loves her quiet life, but fate has other plans. When Abby uncovers the shady dealings of an anti-shifter organization, she'll have to trust the too-sexy-for-her-peace-of-mind werewolf Declan Reed... or end up six feet under. Declan Reed is starting over. After two years with Shifter Operations Command, it's time to put his past behind him. Now Declan is the only thing standing between the gorgeous Abby and an early grave, and if he's going to have any chance of keeping her alive, he'll have to embrace the darkness he's fought to keep at bay. But first he has to convince Abby that there's no safer place in the world than the arms of a big bad werewolf.
Celia Kyles’ Wolf’s Mate is the first book in her new Shifter Rogues series and I was completely thrilled with this new world. There were lots of strong, fascinating characters that easily drew me into their world and I am not embarrassed to say that I am hooked and will definitely be looking for more. The team seems to be one of misfits that scream bad boys and had me melting on the spot with their attitudes and ‘take it or leave it’ vibes that poured from the pages. Declan and Abby had lots of electrifying chemistry to heat things up and but were real and not so easy to give in to those feelings while they were on the run, which made the romance really interesting right along with all the suspense building thrills. Speaking of which there were lots of twists that kept me guessing and lots of action ensured that there was never a dull moment which added to the anticipation and kept me glued to the pages.
I have always been a real fan of Celia Kyles’ work and this new world is certainly one that I will be following as she made it thrilling and romantic but gave her characters real personalities that seemed to jump off the pages and make each character uniquely individual and had me wanting to get to know them better. And the world is full of mysteries to keep readers guessing at real intentions of some of the characters and wondering just how well this team will function. The dialogue she used also added to the realistic feel of this team and added some humor as well. Needless to say, I am definitely looking forward to reading Tiger’s Claim when it releases in October.
Wolf’s Mate is the 1st book in the Shifter Rogues series.
#1.5 Wolf’s Mate: Nine Month Mission is available
#2 Tiger’s Claim is set to be released on October 30, 2018.
Wolf’s Mate is available in ebook at:
Amazon B&N Kobo iBooks GPlay eBooks
Celia Kyle can be found at:
Website Gooreads Amazon BookBub Twitter Facebook
Danger shouldn't be this sexy... Cougar shifter Abby Carter always plays it safe. That's why she's an accountant--no excitement, no danger, and no cocky alpha males. She loves her quiet life, but fate has other plans. When Abby uncovers the shady dealings of an anti-shifter organization, she'll have to trust the too-sexy-for-her-peace-of-mind werewolf Declan Reed... or end up six feet under. Declan Reed is starting over. After two years with Shifter Operations Command, it's time to put his past behind him. Now Declan is the only thing standing between the gorgeous Abby and an early grave, and if he's going to have any chance of keeping her alive, he'll have to embrace the darkness he's fought to keep at bay. But first he has to convince Abby that there's no safer place in the world than the arms of a big bad werewolf.
Celia Kyles’ Wolf’s Mate is the first book in her new Shifter Rogues series and I was completely thrilled with this new world. There were lots of strong, fascinating characters that easily drew me into their world and I am not embarrassed to say that I am hooked and will definitely be looking for more. The team seems to be one of misfits that scream bad boys and had me melting on the spot with their attitudes and ‘take it or leave it’ vibes that poured from the pages. Declan and Abby had lots of electrifying chemistry to heat things up and but were real and not so easy to give in to those feelings while they were on the run, which made the romance really interesting right along with all the suspense building thrills. Speaking of which there were lots of twists that kept me guessing and lots of action ensured that there was never a dull moment which added to the anticipation and kept me glued to the pages.
I have always been a real fan of Celia Kyles’ work and this new world is certainly one that I will be following as she made it thrilling and romantic but gave her characters real personalities that seemed to jump off the pages and make each character uniquely individual and had me wanting to get to know them better. And the world is full of mysteries to keep readers guessing at real intentions of some of the characters and wondering just how well this team will function. The dialogue she used also added to the realistic feel of this team and added some humor as well. Needless to say, I am definitely looking forward to reading Tiger’s Claim when it releases in October.
Wolf’s Mate is the 1st book in the Shifter Rogues series.
#1.5 Wolf’s Mate: Nine Month Mission is available
#2 Tiger’s Claim is set to be released on October 30, 2018.
Wolf’s Mate is available in ebook at:
Amazon B&N Kobo iBooks GPlay eBooks
Celia Kyle can be found at:
Website Gooreads Amazon BookBub Twitter Facebook
August 15, 2018
Contains Spoilers!!!!!
I've been saving this up to read for awhile. I had some free time and decided to read it. Its a new series by one of my favorites so I was intrigued. I really enjoyed it. I didnt absolutely love it but I enjoyed it and will be reading more of the series as it gets released. This is different than her usual so dont think this is more of the same. Its not. Its got some darker elements. These are some bad bad boys BUT they are good compared to the baddies. They dont do things that isnt deserved. They are killers dont get me wrong. They kill the really bad ones at least Declan does. We dont know the other guys as well yet which will come in the other books. First of a new series can be difficult. There is a lot of information and set up to the series in it. I loved the story and there were spots it was a little slow for me but it picked up pretty quickly.
Abby is in some trouble. She is an auditor and she found a link between the company who she is auditing and Unified Humanity who wants to wipe shifters out. Well they are out to kill her and take the data she downloaded. Until Declan an agent of SHOC (Shifters Operation Command) saves her. He's a tough wolf shifter. He's not a good guy BUT he's nothing compared to UH. Yes, he's basically an assassin and someone chosen to carry out operations that others will not/cannot. He's among 5 other team members doing the same operation. Surveillance and watching Abby for days well his wolf is attached to her hence he saves her. Abby is a cougar shifter but she's been through hell as a child so she keeps to herself. She isnt a violet person so when this stuff happens she's just in over her head. I found her a little weak character wise but she came into her own later on. I enjoyed the other guys in his unit. Cole's story is coming next. I just love Birch the bear shifter Alpha of the team poor dude. You can actually SEE him getting pissed off at his guys for their antics and putting those 2 fingers on the bridge of his nose and shaking his head or looking up trying to count for patience. There's a lot thats not explained yet so I look forward to the next book.
I've been saving this up to read for awhile. I had some free time and decided to read it. Its a new series by one of my favorites so I was intrigued. I really enjoyed it. I didnt absolutely love it but I enjoyed it and will be reading more of the series as it gets released. This is different than her usual so dont think this is more of the same. Its not. Its got some darker elements. These are some bad bad boys BUT they are good compared to the baddies. They dont do things that isnt deserved. They are killers dont get me wrong. They kill the really bad ones at least Declan does. We dont know the other guys as well yet which will come in the other books. First of a new series can be difficult. There is a lot of information and set up to the series in it. I loved the story and there were spots it was a little slow for me but it picked up pretty quickly.
Abby is in some trouble. She is an auditor and she found a link between the company who she is auditing and Unified Humanity who wants to wipe shifters out. Well they are out to kill her and take the data she downloaded. Until Declan an agent of SHOC (Shifters Operation Command) saves her. He's a tough wolf shifter. He's not a good guy BUT he's nothing compared to UH. Yes, he's basically an assassin and someone chosen to carry out operations that others will not/cannot. He's among 5 other team members doing the same operation. Surveillance and watching Abby for days well his wolf is attached to her hence he saves her. Abby is a cougar shifter but she's been through hell as a child so she keeps to herself. She isnt a violet person so when this stuff happens she's just in over her head. I found her a little weak character wise but she came into her own later on. I enjoyed the other guys in his unit. Cole's story is coming next. I just love Birch the bear shifter Alpha of the team poor dude. You can actually SEE him getting pissed off at his guys for their antics and putting those 2 fingers on the bridge of his nose and shaking his head or looking up trying to count for patience. There's a lot thats not explained yet so I look forward to the next book.
October 13, 2022
3.4 stars. I enjoyed this but also am left incredibly confused. And I think I might have kept reading so I could understand the author's choices a little bit better, but it didn't help.
The idea of an accountant caught up in something dangerous and crazy was intriguing. The beginning is quite fun. But almost immediately things don't make sense.
Throughout this book, there are so many twists and turns and changes of mind that felt like I was being whipped back and forth. They admit to being mates and then next step, they fight against it. His brother and friends all flirt with the female lead and there's some lusting after her that's bizarre. They know their friend is into her AND she's into him, and yet, they still talk openly about wanting her. It's weird and gross. She is making it clear that she wants to be with the hero so the internal and external talk about how these guys want to get with her makes me dislike/distrust them.
The hero tells her he's not worthy cause he's a killer... but turns out he only kills bad guys. Sigh. It's set up to be so twisty and dark, but then, it's not.
They don't get with each other until the VERY end of the book, like 96% of the total book, but the last 3% is epilogue.
It is confusing to know who to trust. I don't know why the author would want me constantly distrusting folks, but she
It was a mindf*** and not in a good way. It just felt like poor editing/plotting choices.
I think the book was too long. It was a lot of fun-ish, but I probably won't be trying to chase more of this author's work down, which is too bad because there are a lot of audiobooks. I don't like being messed around with by authors.
This book stressed me out for a LOT of it and ends up being for no good reason.
The idea of an accountant caught up in something dangerous and crazy was intriguing. The beginning is quite fun. But almost immediately things don't make sense.
Throughout this book, there are so many twists and turns and changes of mind that felt like I was being whipped back and forth. They admit to being mates and then next step, they fight against it. His brother and friends all flirt with the female lead and there's some lusting after her that's bizarre. They know their friend is into her AND she's into him, and yet, they still talk openly about wanting her. It's weird and gross. She is making it clear that she wants to be with the hero so the internal and external talk about how these guys want to get with her makes me dislike/distrust them.
The hero tells her he's not worthy cause he's a killer... but turns out he only kills bad guys. Sigh. It's set up to be so twisty and dark, but then, it's not.
They don't get with each other until the VERY end of the book, like 96% of the total book, but the last 3% is epilogue.
It is confusing to know who to trust. I don't know why the author would want me constantly distrusting folks, but she
It was a mindf*** and not in a good way. It just felt like poor editing/plotting choices.
I think the book was too long. It was a lot of fun-ish, but I probably won't be trying to chase more of this author's work down, which is too bad because there are a lot of audiobooks. I don't like being messed around with by authors.
This book stressed me out for a LOT of it and ends up being for no good reason.
August 2, 2017
(RabidReads.com) Wolf’s Mate. Sure, the title sounds like a paranormal romance, but I will say this one has plenty of suspense and violence to possibly interest even an urban fantasy fan a bit. This was my first read by Celia Kyle and I can safely say that I would be interested in reading other books by her.
Abby is a cougar shifter that is working as an accountant for a large company. When she starts seeing big discrepancies in the books and the boss acts like it’s nothing, she is determined to find out what’s going on. Unbeknownst to her, a team of rogue shifters are staking out the company she works for, and since she works by herself(mostly)at night, she is one of the ones that is interesting to them-in particular wolf shifter, Declan. He can’t bring himself to leave his post across the street from her office window. His wolf, it seems, is in lust or something like it. On the night that Abby stumbles onto the truth that the company she works for is helping to fund a major anti-shifter group, she doesn’t realize she has triggered an alarm, but Declan and his group does. The anti-shifter group is the reason the rogues have been hired. They are supposed to find out if Abby’s company is the one that is funding them. And the action starts about at this point. And the violence.
I enjoyed main characters Abby and Declan, even if at times I wanted to throttle one of them for their actions. You know very early on that they are going to fall for each other, so it’s just a matter of getting them there. The group that Declan works with is filled with misfits and men that are incapable(mostly)of obeying the law. Some have attitudes, and one can’t stay away from junk food. Sometimes when there is a group involved it’s hard to distinguish one member from another, not so with this book. Each man has his own quirks, specialties, and different type of animal, and I knew immediately that I wanted to read the future books about them. The head of the agency they work for is a king cobra shifter and when he gets upset, he hisses and his skin starts to look like a snake. Needless to say, he didn’t come off as a good guy in my thinking. Kyle’s world building also included the shifter partially shifting at times, for example, claws or teeth forming, or even fur on parts of the body-usually under stressful conditions. I thought that was well done and pretty different. There’s some angst on Abby’s part and questioning if her cougar really wants a mate-since cougars don’t mate like wolves do, but then true love and all that doesn’t always run smoothly. I also liked how the man and his or her animal are separate within the shifter and the animal can come to the forefront of the mind at times. Really good world building.
Yes, there are literally hundreds, if not thousands of shifter books out there and I have read more than my share. Some are really good, and some are really not so great. I think this book, and hopefully series, stands out for me as one of the better ones and I will definitely be on board for reading the next in the series. Recommended to adult paranormal romance readers-adult due to some steamy scenes and violence.
Abby is a cougar shifter that is working as an accountant for a large company. When she starts seeing big discrepancies in the books and the boss acts like it’s nothing, she is determined to find out what’s going on. Unbeknownst to her, a team of rogue shifters are staking out the company she works for, and since she works by herself(mostly)at night, she is one of the ones that is interesting to them-in particular wolf shifter, Declan. He can’t bring himself to leave his post across the street from her office window. His wolf, it seems, is in lust or something like it. On the night that Abby stumbles onto the truth that the company she works for is helping to fund a major anti-shifter group, she doesn’t realize she has triggered an alarm, but Declan and his group does. The anti-shifter group is the reason the rogues have been hired. They are supposed to find out if Abby’s company is the one that is funding them. And the action starts about at this point. And the violence.
I enjoyed main characters Abby and Declan, even if at times I wanted to throttle one of them for their actions. You know very early on that they are going to fall for each other, so it’s just a matter of getting them there. The group that Declan works with is filled with misfits and men that are incapable(mostly)of obeying the law. Some have attitudes, and one can’t stay away from junk food. Sometimes when there is a group involved it’s hard to distinguish one member from another, not so with this book. Each man has his own quirks, specialties, and different type of animal, and I knew immediately that I wanted to read the future books about them. The head of the agency they work for is a king cobra shifter and when he gets upset, he hisses and his skin starts to look like a snake. Needless to say, he didn’t come off as a good guy in my thinking. Kyle’s world building also included the shifter partially shifting at times, for example, claws or teeth forming, or even fur on parts of the body-usually under stressful conditions. I thought that was well done and pretty different. There’s some angst on Abby’s part and questioning if her cougar really wants a mate-since cougars don’t mate like wolves do, but then true love and all that doesn’t always run smoothly. I also liked how the man and his or her animal are separate within the shifter and the animal can come to the forefront of the mind at times. Really good world building.
Yes, there are literally hundreds, if not thousands of shifter books out there and I have read more than my share. Some are really good, and some are really not so great. I think this book, and hopefully series, stands out for me as one of the better ones and I will definitely be on board for reading the next in the series. Recommended to adult paranormal romance readers-adult due to some steamy scenes and violence.
August 2, 2017
This book was amazingly written and had the best characters interaction and dialogue I have read in a long time. I loved Declan and Abby. They were on fire and even with all the crazy going on, they still had that undeniable CLICK.
This story delivered a heroine I LOVED who really held her won, with an alpha who gave that word true meaning. I couldn't wait to see where the story was going and by the end I was hooked. I want more. Celia Kyle has a way of writing shirts that truly makes you think the next person you talk to could be one. She writes with such passion and description it was like watching TV.
Loved every word.
Buy On Amazon: http://amzn.to/2uRiauo
Synopsis:
Danger shouldn't be this sexy...
Cougar shifter Abby Carter always plays it safe. That's why she's an accountant--no excitement, no danger, and no cocky alpha males. She loves her quiet life, but fate has other plans. When Abby uncovers the shady dealings of an anti-shifter organization, she'll have to trust the too-sexy-for-her-peace-of-mind werewolf Declan Reed... or end up six feet under.
Declan Reed is starting over. After two years with Shifter Operations Command, it's time to put his past behind him. Now Declan is the only thing standing between the gorgeous Abby and an early grave, and if he's going to have any chance of keeping her alive, he'll have to embrace the darkness he's fought to keep at bay. But first he has to convince Abby that there's no safer place in the world than the arms of a big bad werewolf.
August 2, 2017
A classic tale of species racism and fated mates, Wolf's Mate by Celia Kyle kicks off her new Shifters Rogues series with a bang. Abby, a cougar shifter with a tragic past, finds herself embroiled in a battle she wasn't prepared for. She is just an accountant after all. Declan is all about death and destruction, so he was fully prepared for the battle. He was NOT expecting to meet his mate.
The plot had potential. I liked the racist angle about the United Humanity group attempting to kill all shifters. It kind of reminded me of the old school PNR books and TV shows with hunters who killed the vampires, shifters, and demons. Abby's job as an accountant was a plus as well because I love heroines who have math or science related jobs. It shows women as smart and capable. The danger is certainly ever present once Abby realizes she caught her boss in a big accounting lie since he was funneling money to United Humanity. Now they want her and SHOC, the group Declan works for, also want her. No one seems to care if they get her alive though. Well, no one but Declan.
I like the idea of SHOC. These are not good guys out to save the world. The men and women of SHOC were 'encouraged' to use their talents for hunting and killing to help the shifter community, less they be put in shifter prison for their crimes. None of them are bleeding hearts who are standing up for shifters because they want to help. It was refreshing to have a group of bad boys doing good for bad reasons. Of course, Declan's reasons change when his wolf falls for Abby.
A little creepy, a hint psychotic, but beneath it all was an instinctual need to simply have. All of her.
One thing I love about shifter stories is the fated mates trope. I just have always loved the idea. Declan and Abby both resist the idea for a time, which I appreciate because it shows that they are at least partially human!
You have lots of supporting characters and quite frankly, you are never quite sure who you can trust. I really enjoyed that aspect because it adds even more tension to the plot. You have the obvious danger from the United Humanity group, but then there is the hidden possible dangers from other characters. Pike and Cole both gave me a untrustworthy vibe that had me questioning their motives!
I think what bothered me the most was the constant bickering with their shifter half. Both Abby and Declan spend a LOT of time arguing and fighting with their animal and it just made the book drag for me. I understand the need to show that the human and the animal are 2 separate entities in a body, but the constant 'talk' between human and beast was disruptive to the flow of the plot in my opinion. However, this is me being very nit-picky. I am not sure it would have bothered me so much if I wasn't feeling a bit cranky. And honestly, that was really the only thing I didn't love about the story.
I think the Shifters Rogue series has potential. While there was a thing or two I didn't like with Wolf's Mate, I do think I will continue with the series because I am interested in how Kyle will play out all the characters. Cole's story is next and I am very interested in who will catch this tiger!
POV: 3rd
Tears: no
Trope: shifters, fated mates
Triggers: none
Series/Standalone: stand alone
Cliffhanger:
HEA:
Drakon's Promise by NJ Walters, Buck Naked by Evangeline Anderson, Dark Alpha's Lover...then you will probably like Wolf's Mate!
Wolf's Mate
Celia Kyle tells The Book Disciple....
Top 5 reasons shifter romances rock!
Growly, over the top alpha heroes.
Possessive heroes who refuse to let their ladies go once they find them.
A shifter’s bone-deep desire to protect those they love. No one is going to hurt a shifter’s family or loved ones!
Mating for life. I love that a shifter finds their mate and then that’s it for them.
The dual nature of a shifter and how the human half interacts with the animal half. It definitely makes for some fun internal “conversations” between the two.
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