February 2021 – Book Reviews by the Reluctant Retiree

Interstellar Brides Program Book 8: Mated to the Vikens

As an art dealer in New York, Sophia Antonelli’s worked hard to build her business, but fate forces her to make a deal with organized crime. When things go wrong, she takes the fall and is offered a choice: twenty-five years in jail or the Interstellar Bride Program. The choice is easy and Sophia is shocked to learn she’s mated to not one, but three Viken warriors.

After ten years fighting the Hive, Gunnar, Erik and Rolf are now the Kings’ guards at Viken United. Bowing to the new Queen’s wishes, they agree to share an Interstellar Bride. It should be an easy task since she’s matched to three of them, all battle hardened warriors. But none can save her from being kidnapped during transport.

Accidentally mixed up in an evil organization’s plot to assassinate the Viken Queen, Sophia refuses to back down, even with her mates standing protectively in the way. After her experience on Earth, she’s not about to let anyone ruin her new life. Sophia will risk everything to expose her enemy, but when it comes to their new bride, her three Viken mates will do whatever it takes to eliminate the threat and keep her…forever.


Jo Ann Hines
5.0 out of 5 stars 25 years in prison or the interstellar bride program?!
Reviewed in the United States on December 11, 2016 Verified Purchase
When Sophia's needs the money to help her mothers medical bills she went to the mob. In exchange for the money Sophia helps transport money, diamonds, and arms. However, when her mom dies she thinks she would be cut loose, but she was wrong. Knowing the Feds are catching up the mob throws her to the wolves. Now her choice is 25 years in prison or interstellar bride program... choosing the bride program Sophia gets matched to 3 mates. She is kidnapped by mistake,escapes, united with her mates, and goes after the bad guy...she might be only 5'2" and petite but she is a wild courageous woman who has had enough of being taken advantage of!


MDGirl224
5.0 out of 5 stars Love this series!
Reviewed in the United States on December 11, 2016Verified Purchase
I have read all the books in this series and have never been disappointed. This is the 8th one in the series and with an Earth woman becoming the interstellar bride to three Viken warriors. The characters are well developed and the story line exciting. You don't have to have read the previous books but it would definitely increase your enjoyment if you do. This book has a courageous heroine and three hot Heroes along with an intriguing fight against a group of unknown bad guys trying to take over a world that only recently came together as one. Although the story of Sophia and her three mates is resolved in this book, I am eagerly awaiting the next ones to see what happens next! You've got to read this series!! Definite 5 stars 👍👍👍👍👍!

themadhag4.0 out of 5 stars The Series is Good Summer Fair!
Reviewed in the United States on July 27, 2017Verified Purchase
Light fair but they held my attention. Unlike so many of these novellas, the female characters are not aggressively stupid. They may veer to the to the "I don't know what he's thinking" side now and again but they come back from the dark side when it counts. These dominant males are more than just hot meat. I enjoyed learning about the Interstellar war with the Hive. The warriors that fight against the HIve are larger than life and the ones that get the brides and more than one dimensional. I have read the entire series and only once or twice was disappointed


Ann Shannon
5.0 out of 5 stars A great read
Reviewed in the United States on April 19, 2018Verified Purchase
Okay, if you've read any of my reviews, you know I love the Interstellar Brides series. I've read them all at this point and can't wait for more.

This one was a little different from the previous books in this series. It was a nice change up. It revisits the Vikens introduced in Book 3. Sophia's been matched to not one or two mates, but three and on top of that, someone doesn't want her to meet them.

There was, in my opinion, more mystery and tension in this book than in some of the others. It had me biting my nails to the end. My mantra was- this is an HEA, this is an HEA.
That being said, I don't think the others are missing anything without the added mystery and tension. It was just a nice change.

Dragonlord (Alpha Lords Book 5)

A dragon does not ask. He takes.

When Bridget set out on her own, she sought freedom from the strict rules of her pack. What she found was a beast more stern and demanding than any alpha wolf, a creature of legend intent on claiming her as his mate and breeding her to bring his kind back into the world. A dragon.

Gideon did not ask the little she-wolf if she wanted to belong to him. It was not up to her. The moment he awoke and smelled the scent of his mate, she became his. He tracked her down, punished her defiance, and then ravaged her until a thousand years of lust was fully slaked.

He did not mark her with his teeth like a wolf. He did not need to. Her body knows its master.

Marybeth
5.0 out of 5 stars Another great book from a great author!
Reviewed in the United States on February 7, 2020Verified Purchase
I loved this story. It is set in the world of Warlord, Overlord and Wolflord. In fact, Bridget is the widow of the former alpha of Dundalk. She decides that she wants to be treated as equal to the males of the pack. "...but I think I'm done with having males decide my fate." She leaves and goes to find somewhere for women to live free. A lot of this stems from her belief that her objections to be mated to the alpha were overlooked and she was forced to comply. She loved him, but she wanted to be able to make her own decisions as well. While travelling she meets Gideon who is a dragon. He starts the process for her to transform to a dragon without even telling her and he is not apologetic at all, in fact he is smug. There is conflict, but there is a HEA for our dragons. I will say that Delta loves to write about overbearing males. They have redeeming qualities, but they are definitely a**es. Saying that, I look forward to more stories about the dragons.


Mom12
4.0 out of 5 stars First James book
Reviewed in the United States on February 20, 2020Verified Purchase
This was my first book by this author and it said it was a standalone in the same world as others so I just dove in. I do think I would have benefited reading the others for the beginning, because I was a bit lost and it started in the middle of a battle. However, I really enjoyed the story and the world building. It had some editing issues and some clunky dialogue trying to mimic a sort of Elizabethan form of speaking, but not really committing to it. I still loved the characters of Gideon& Bridget, and enjoyed their origin story. My favorite parts were about the dragons and how they became near extinct. The sex scenes were great and interesting without the same old same old. I look forward to more.

CWJ
5.0 out of 5 stars Gideon - Dragon-shifter WOW
Reviewed in the United States on February 7, 2020Verified Purchase
I read an advanced copy of this book and I just bought my own copy. WOW. Been waiting for this one and it's worth the wait. It contains everything Delta's books are known for: kick-ass heroine (Bridget), strong, noble hero (Gideon), wonderful interaction between them, adventure, romance, respect and great steamy sex. If you like the Wayward Mates and Wolf-Shifters of the future you'll love the DragonLords

Brenda
4.0 out of 5 stars Darker side of romance
Reviewed in the United States on February 11, 2020
If you're looking for a light and airy paranormal romance, let me just stop you now because you're not going to find it here. Delta James' paranormal romance are on the darker side. Now, if that's what your're looking for, please, carry on. These books are not set in todays time, it is somewhere in the future after a planet changing event. Females in this future setting do not have much say in their lives. They are expected to follow orders and do as they're told and disciplined for disobeying. The discipline consists of being spanked, standing in a corner, etc. The sex scenes are plentiful and quite detailed.

This newest book by Delta James follows along with "Warlord", "Overlord" and "Wolflord". Characters from those books make brief appearances in this book, with the exception of Bridget, from "Wolflord", who is a main character in this book.

Bridget, looking to start a sanctuary for females that don't want to be claimed as mates, sneaks away to look for a lost city. Gideon, one of the last dragon shifters, awakens after a 1000 year sleep. When he catches Bridget's scent, the chase begins. When he finds Bridget, he immediately goes to her and stakes his claim. Bridget, not wanting to be mated again, sneaks out and runs. But Gideon is not going to allow his female to escape, she is his one true heart, something all male dragons yearned for. She was his to love and protect from now on, whether she wanted it or not.

If you are unable to get past my first paragraph of this review I do not recommend this book to you. Don't get this book and then leave a bad review because you didn't like the contents. For those that don't skip a beat with that first paragraph, give Delta James a try if you haven't already

Enjoy the Giggle!

Church Sign Edition!

They are everywhere, church signs that is! On one side may be the times for the worship services, while the other side has a short quote of some kind. It’s these short quotes that can down right give you the giggles. After seeing one at a Hispanic Seventh Day Adventist church that I walk by on a daily basis, I decided to start including them in my giggle listings. Enjoy!

Golden Fire Clan (Dragon Guard Series Book 6): Only For Her Dragon

There Are No Coincidences…
The last bachelor in a Force of elite Dragon Guardsmen, Aaron O’Brien decided long ago that single was the only way to be. Mates and children and happily ever after were for his brethren. He alone has accepted the responsibility of stopping the traitor and restoring peace to his clan. Unfortunately, Fate didn’t get the message.

The Universe Does Not Make Mistakes…
Intelligent, determined, and levelheaded, Dr. Charlene Gallagher has always found comfort in logic and reason. When the inexplicable jumps up and smacks her in the face, will Charlie cling to her old beliefs or let go and find answers in the one man that clouds her judgment and ignites her passion?

Fate Will Not Be Denied…
Nobody said it was going to be easy. The fight will be real. It will take compromise and a love created by the Universe. Only Charlie can take the leap of faith, and only for her dragon…


Jenna Lee
5.0 out of 5 stars A great addition to a amazing series
Reviewed in the United States on May 14, 2020 Verified Purchase
I love this series and this installment did not disappoint. I love how each book has a unique way of telling the love story.

Charlie witnessed an unbelievable site, a woman turning into a dragon. She pushed away everyone trying to figure this new reality.

Aaron knew Charlie was his mate the moment he saw her in the hospital. He had to have patience for her to reconcile this new reality and come to her mate on her terms.

But all is not what it seems with Charlie, a secret that only Aaron can help her with.

There is also information about Kyra's mother and the traitor.

I loved the relationship between Aaron and Charlie, there was action and passion.

Read these books in order, the richness of the story is more complete when you have the background of the other stories.

A great read, these books just keep getting better!

Anna-Marie Buchner
5.0 out of 5 stars “Julia you’re a Genius”
Reviewed in the United States on February 4, 2015 Verified Purchase
“Only for Her Dragon” Book #6 (Dragon Guard Series) Julia Mills

I think this may be my favorite book in the series. I know I know I probably have said it about all of them. Julia’s Dragon Guard Series is absolutely fantastic what can I say. I live for her next release.
Only for Her Dragon was a little lighter read. She had the perfect mix of action, humor and romance. Aaron the last bachelor of the guardsmen swore he would never take a mate. His teasing was brutal towards his brethren when they found their mates. Well Karma is a you know what. Aaron fell hard for Dr. Charlene (Charlie) Gallagher, who happened to be Sam’s (Lance’s mate) best friend. The first kiss and he was a goner but then again so was Charlie.
Charlie was with Aaron at Devon’s and Anya’s mating ceremony when a distress call went out by Aaron’s brethren through their mental link he had to leave Charlie to see what happened. Before he left he told her to go back inside. Well Charlie doesn’t take orders from anyone. So she followed Aaron staying far enough behind she thought. What she came upon put her in a state of shock among other things. Anya was going through her first transition from human form to her dragon. The entire group was there and Devon was going crazy. Anya was a miracle. The only female dragon known to still exist.
Charlie turned and started running and didn’t look back. For 15 days she went through a gamut of emotions all circling back to the incident and the most gorgeous guy she’s ever met. She was angry, she was hurt that her best friend never told her, she cried, she was confused, and she thought she was going crazy. Charlie would not take Sam’s calls and she didn’t want to see anyone. Finally she gave in and met with Sam. After lots and lots of questions, which Sam tried the best she could to answer Charlie still couldn’t wrap it all around her head. The hunk of her dreams was a dragon. She just needed time to process this.
After having a heart to heart with Aaron things seemed to be going better, until their first romantic encounter and Aaron noticed the marking on Charlie’s back. While rubbing her back to ease her discomfort he felt something move. After closer examination and entering her mind he discovered his mate had magic within her. Good white magic. He knew he would have to talk to Charlie about this and he wanted her to go with him to see Siobhan the Guardsmen’s healer and mother to all and Kyra. Between the two of them they should be able to figure her magic out and what the markings mean.
Turns out Charlie has a dream after meeting with Kyra and Siobhan and she finds out what the markings are and where her magic comes from. My absolutely favorite line from this read is “Aaron, get your dragon ass in here? I’m a freakin Fairy!” I never laughed so hard in my life. You have to read the story this is just so like Charlie and her mouth.
Even though this read was a little lighter Julia socks it to you in the Epilogue. OMG I totally lost it towards the end. In the beginning they are capturing Andrew (I’ll tell you a little secret, from book #1 or maybe #2 I’ve had a secret desire that Andrew could be reformed. Yes he was a douche but think about it he was captured and around evil for a long time, his revenge and hate I think was just a way of his survival. Okay so I’m delusional). What Julia teases at the end of the epilogue will have you gasping. Who is this mystery woman and what will ultimately happen to Andrew? That’s all I’m saying. I can’t wait for the next release. I’m also curious when we’ll find out more about Sydney’s abilities, Will we see a mate for Max hmmm what other mischief can we get those men into. LOL 5*

 
jenn
5.0 out of 5 stars and just keeps getting better as it goes on
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on February 7, 2015 Verified Purchase
This is the 6th book of the series so far, and they just keep getting hotter. The characters are gorgeous, i wouldnt mind a dragon who wanted to look after me. The erotic scenes are well written, not sleazy in any way, and there is action too. Traitors, Were Panthers, all kinds of shifters, witches and wizards too, all included in a fabulous series. The baddie, well, he features in every book, and just keeps getting better as it goes on. I pre order all of Julia's books so i dont miss any. If you havent read any yet, do please, you will not be disappointed. I very much recommended Julia she is lovely, always happy to talk to you, and her books are simply fascinating. Recommend very highly, please read you wont be disappointed. A+++++++++++++++++++++++++

Interstellar Brides® Program Book 7: Tamed by the Beast

When Tiffani is mated to an Atlan warrior believed lost to mating fever, she will stop at nothing to save him, including sneaking into an Atlan prison to seduce his beast..

Sick and tired of the dead-end path her life is taking, Tiffani Wilson heads to the nearest Interstellar Bride processing center to start over. She’s promised an amazing mate, an Atlan Warlord who will not only relish her plus sized body, but heal her lonely heart.

Commander Deek of Atlan has lost control of his inner beast and sits in an Atlan prison cell awaiting execution. Unfortunately, nothing can save an unmated male.

When Tiffani’s transport to Atlan is denied due to her mate’s unstable condition, she will stop at nothing to save him and the life she was promised. Her mate is out there, he’s in trouble, and she knows she’s the only one in the universe who can save him.

Deek and his inner beast take one look at Tiffani’s soft, lush body and know they will do anything to possess her, even if it means pushing her sensual limits or taking her over his knee. But it’s not just Deek’s tenuous hold on the beast that stands in the way of their happily-ever-after, for Deek’s descent into mating fever was no accident, and his enemies will not surrender so easily.

Debbie Kilburn 5.0 out of 5 stars Plus size
Reviewed in the United States on May 8, 2020 Verified Purchase
Tiffani was sick of a dead end job, all of the sleazy bosses and all of nasty jokes about big women. Finnally, she had enough! She spent her life savings and went to the bride program. And they find a match, but there's a problem. The match is condemned to die. Tiffani refused to let him die if she could stop it. So, she insisted that the match go on and she transported to where she needed to be. Then she finds out she will need to do, go to a prison cell. Deek is almost beyond help. He's in beast form because of mating fever. I leave it to you to find out more. But I will tell you that is worth your time to discover what and who. This is definitely a Grace Goodwin tale of love with an alien and a human woman. This is an adult only book times two.


Heather
4.0 out of 5 stars Give me my Beast
Reviewed in the United States on October 17, 2020Verified Purchase
Tiffany is a full figured woman who is fed up with Earth and all the drama and men. She puts her trust in the intersteller bride program to find her perfect match. Not only is she eager and more than willing when complications arise she demands to be transported to her mate.
Commander Deek is scheduled for execution after he has trouble controlling his beast. As they parade unmated woman after woman in front of his cell to entice him to mate his beast rejects each one, wanting only a true mate. Even at the cost of his life the beast isn't willing to settle for anything less.
I found this story a little refreshing. The woman is all for it. She wanted her man or male. Wanted what the bride processing dream showed her. She wanted it all. This story had a little more substance that others. You get a little drama with uncovering a secret plan rather than just plenty of sex. Although there is plenty of that too!


Lisa A.
5.0 out of 5 stars I love this series...
Reviewed in the United States on December 14, 2020
Tiffani, an insecure big girl, was tired of being made fun of on Earth so she signed up to be an Interstellar Bride. She’s matched to Atlan Commander Deek but he’s lost to mating fever and is scheduled to be executed. There is no way that Tiffani is going to allow that to happen. He’s her mate and she won’t allow anything or anyone to stop her from claiming him.


Serena B
5.0 out of 5 stars This is a book I will read again !!
Reviewed in the United States on June 25, 2019Verified Purchase
I have read this Author before, and the one thing I enjoy , is that the books are similar, yet different .
In this book , Tiffani is a " big girl " . Not the size 0 - 6 that the media wants us to think is " normal " . So , she has felt that know one , especially men , could see her worth . So , feeling alone and alienated from her community , Tiffani signs up for the Interstellar Bride program.
She has been matched to a fierce Alien Warrior , from Atlan . These WARRIORS have a Beast inside them , that helps make them one of the best fighters in the GALAXY.

Only one problem, Her matched mate is scheduled to be terminated. Which means that she will have no mate....
Which means that she has No where to go .......
Will Tiffani sacrifice everything for a male that she doesn't even know ?
Or will she just let this male die because of his biological make up ??

Fated: (Alpha Lords Book 4)

For centuries Emma has sought to keep herself from being bound to a mate, immortal or otherwise. But Jean-Cristophe is an alpha wolf, and he will take what belongs to him.

She will be claimed, marked, and ravaged until she screams his name, even if that means first stripping her bare and spanking her until she is sore, sobbing, and shamefully in need.

CWJ
5.0 out of 5 stars This Is a big WOW
Reviewed in the United States on May 1, 2020 Verified Purchase
I read an advanced copy of this book and couldn't wait to buy my own copy - which I did the moment it came out. If you're a fan of the Wayward Mates and their Post Apocalyptic descendants then this book has it all. You can read it as a stand-alone but if you like it you'll want to read the rest.
Meet Regency Emma who is turned into a vampire and follow her story as it draws her towards her "fated mate", Jean-Christophe the alpha of post apocalyptic New Orleans.
Can wolfshifter DNA give a vampire the gift of seeing the sun rise again?
It's probably an understatement to say I loved this book.....................

Melbelle
4.0 out of 5 stars Great Book
Reviewed in the United States on September 12, 2020
This is not my first Delta James so I know what to expect and she did not disappoint. In her books, she usually has discipline in the form of the Alpha Hero spanking the strong willed heroine. This book was pretty steamy hot and I really liked the time lapse involved in the story. Until the next listen, which there will be from this author and narrator as he does a great job also.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
AudiobookObsession
AudiobooksUnleashed

AquaVenatus
4.0 out of 5 stars A lovely PNR about fated mates and conflict amongst the species.
Reviewed in the United States on July 26, 2020
I enjoyed the way the author switched the sex of who was the wolf and who was the vampire. And, the author was clever in having the story told during different eras, which made for a complete understanding of both the plot and the subplot.

I'm looking forward to reading more from this "series."

Kindle Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Intriguing Story
Reviewed in the United States on August 3, 2020
I really loved the story of the young girl, well woman, who is kidnapped and turned into a vampire. The sex is way overboard for my taste and after a while i just skimmed through it. Unfortunately when i do that I definitely feel that i am losing out on parts of the story, potentially. But we jump from Regency into the Future and our Vampire Heroine is now a sexy predator but still unfortunately hunted by her Vampire Sire. Like I said, lots of really good story here.

Now along comes the Hero who is a Wolf Shifter. And there's all kinds of good details set up in his back story. Unfortunately he's got that Domestic Violence versus Domestic Discipline thing going on ... Let's face it, this Author enjoys having her heroines being bruised up by their men. Flung around a room, against walls, onto floors, furniture, terrorized, bleeding, injured - its all OK because the guy loves her and she gets orgasms so what's the problem? And in this case the Heroine points out REPEATEDLY to wolfboy that there is no difference between what he is forcing on her than what her Vampire Sire forced on her. Yet he's pissed at her VS? So why is he doing the same things if not worse to her? But wolfboy is like well that doesn't matter because you are my fated mate so i can treat you however i want and you will just have to put up with it.

There's romance for you, folks.

Still, fun story. Especially the little twist at the end. 💖👍💋👻

Planning for Canning!

Are you one of the many people who took up canning last summer as we were all home due to Pandemic? I noticed that there was an absolute run on all the canning supplies in every store that I checked. Now luckily I bought my equipment back in 2017 after Hurricane Irma knocked power down and I didn’t get it back for a week!

Folks, I’m Pennsylvania German and was raised to can with a Water Bath, that’s what my mom used. But if you are trying to can vegetables or soup, you need a Pressure Canner. My oldest daughter called me last year trying to find one for sale. At that time, they were selling for several hundred dollars!

So if you are planning to continue canning, now is a good time to start gathering your supplies. Besides the obvious jars, you will want/need:

Water Bath Canner – I found out the hard way that you can’t pressure can jelly and a pressure canner isn’t deep enough to do water bath with quart jars!
Pressure Canner – Note that I said canner, not Cooker. The USDA warns against trying to use a Pressure Cooker due to variations in pressure. This may not be a problem for cooking, but you need the consistency to kill all the toxins.
New lids – This is something else that can’t be stressed enough. When you opened that jar, you bend the rim to break the seal.

Recipe Books

The most trusted resource in home canning for over 100 years, the 2015 release of the Ball Blue Book is its largest update since the first edition in 1909. Expanding 56% from the previous edition, the 37th edition of the Ball Blue Book includes 75 new recipes, pictorial step by step guides for beginners, a special section for Meal Creations and unique “You Choose” and “Our Tip” recommendations where creative variations and helpful techniques are listed for creating your own signature foods

Canning Essentials is a go-to beginner’s guide that will take you step-by-step through the different processes of canning fruit and produce. From canning vegetables, like tomatoes and squashes, to preparing homemade jam, salsas, relishes, and so much more, this book simplifies food preservation so that even today’s busiest people can find time to do it themselves. Emphasizing cost-saving and sustainable food safety, you’ll learn methods for both freezing, canning, pressure canning, and water-bath canning, then discover over 60 delicious recipes for homemade jelly, chutneys, pickles, and more. With helpful charts throughout to detail methods with specific timings, temperatures, and required equipment, this book will teach you everything you need to know about preserving and canning fruits and vegetables.

Canning perfected the America’s Test Kitchen way.

The art of preserving produce by canning and preserving has come full circle from grandmother’s kitchen to a whole new generation now eager to learn it. This detailed guide to home preserving is perfect for novice canners and experts alike and offers more than 100 foolproof recipes across a wide range of categories, from sweet jams and jellies to savory jams, vegetables, condiments, pickles, whole fruits, and more. Let the experts at America’s Test Kitchen show you how to do it right with detailed tutorials, troubleshooting tips, equipment information, and insight into the science behind canning.

From the author of The Homestyle Amish Kitchen Cookbook comes a great new collection of recipes, hints, and Plain wisdom for everyone who loves the idea of preserving fresh, wholesome foods. Whether instructing a beginning canner or helping a seasoned cook hone her skills, certified Master Food Preserver Georgia Varozza shows people how to get the very best out of their food.

These are just a few of the books available to you. I should warn you, they will all cover the basic principles of canning safely .

Golden Fire Clan (Dragon Guard Series Book 5): Saved by Her Dragon

There Are No Coincidences…. The Universe Does Not Make Mistakes…

There Are No Coincidences…
Devon’s heritage has given him a unique perspective of the world around him. His father was one of the fiercest Guardsmen in history and his mother, a very talented and highly respected Healer. At the age of his transformation he chose to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a Guardsman still carrying the belief and wisdom of his mother’s clan in his heart. That, along with his complete trust in Destiny, may be all that saves the One the Universe made for him.

The Universe Does Not Make Mistakes…
Orphaned as a child and raised by powerful Earth witches, Anya Sloane thought her life was pretty normal and relatively happy until the night she left the family farm and headed into town. Abducted and left for dead outside the hospital, she spent the better part of a month fighting her way out of a magically induced coma only to wake and find everything she’d ever known was little more than smoke and mirrors.

Fate Will Not Be Denied…
Anya is the light of his soul and the only woman able to tame the beast within. Devon has the strength and knowledge she will need in the coming days. Together, they just may be the key to saving Dragon kin. All they have to do is defeat the traitor…but that means they have to find him first


Rhonda Hicks
VINE VOICE
5.0 out of 5 stars Julia Mills has shown us why she is the Queen of all things Dragon
Reviewed in the United States on February 17, 2019Verified Purchase
This is the fifth book in the Dragon Guard Series and although each can be read as a standalone, there is an underlying plot that runs though each book and you will see characters from previous books interacting in the current one. Beside, once you start the series, you'll want to continue all the way through. They're just addictive. This book is about Devon and Anya, both powerful and special in their own right. Devon, being the white dragon of the clan, hold the favor of night and day, with loyalty and strength of will being the two biggest assets. Julia Mills has given us we expect from her Dragon Guard and his mate without all the major battles this time. But there's more at play and she's given us the build up. Once again, she's shown us why she is the Queen of all things Dragon

TURTLE MOM1
5.0 out of 5 stars Saved by Her Dragon Rules!!!
Reviewed in the United States on December 10, 2017 Verified Purchase
The one thing you know for sure when you read a book by Julia Mills is you will get the sweetest love story imaginable. Devon and Anya's story is no exception. Anya is in a coma in the hospital and no one knows why or how it happened or who she is. Devon knows she is his mate when he finds her but doesn't even know her name. This story has alot of back story to it and does get a little confusing but that would be my only complaint if I were to voice one. Character development for the main characters is amazing and you become totally engulfed in their story. As they work towards their HEA Devon is awed by his luck in who is mate is and how he makes her feel. This story has suspense and intrigue and love to keep you turning pages until the end. You will not be disappointed in this book or any other work by Julia Mills.

RoseH
5.0 out of 5 stars Julia, I love the world you weave!
Reviewed in the United States on September 24, 2014 Verified Purchase
This is my favorite Dragon Guard book yet. Julia’s books just keep getting better & better.

Devon is a rare white dragon shifter & part of the Dragon Guard. One day, while visiting the hospital, he feels the pull of The One The Universe Created Just For Him. Unfortunately, she is a patient in the hospital & she is in a coma, but he can hear her calling out. He sits with her every day while she in unconscious, talking to her & taking over more & more of her care, sure in the knowledge that she knows he is there. He doesn’t know her name but he knows she was made for him. He knows she is special because not only is she made for him but they are already able to mind speak, something that is not usually possible until the after the mating ceremony.

“The universe made one astonishing woman for each dragon shifter… and only him. She completed him and the dragon within in every way possible. A dragon’s mate brought light to their soul and love to their life. But she was so much more. It was reflected in every person…dragon, mate, or human…that came into contact with her. They were drawn to her, as she was the light that would fill their darkness.”

Anya Sloane is in a fog. Occasionally that fog lessens and she cries out for help. She hears someone answer her from far away. Eventually it is decided that the best thing for her is to move her to Devon’s mothers’ (Siobhan is the healer for the clan) cottage. Finally she awakens, unsure where she is but knowing she is safe. The harder she tries to remember things the farther away they go

Book Flirts
5.0 out of 5 stars AMAZING!
Reviewed in the United States on September 24, 2014 Verified Purchase
I have read and followed all of Julia's Dragon Guardsmen and Devon's story was an unexpected one! Each one can be read as a standalone but there are characters that will be in the story that were introduced in previous books. So I do suggest reading them all in order but it isn't necessary. To be honest once you read one you will want to read them all anyways *wink*

As hot as these books are and can be, I thoroughly enjoyed the pace of this book. Not so quick to bed, but the love and angst were strong and pulled me in. I think having it drawn out made me love Devon and Anya more. They came close to Aidan & Grace, and those who know me knows that I LOVED Aidan! Devon is so compassionate, strong and it is very evident that him and Anya were meant to be.

Another aspect that I loved was learning more about the clan and their history. We always have some kind of a history lesson in each book but I finally see everything coming together...well almost. There are still some things to revealed I am sure, but I feel more and more that we are coming to a point in the series where a bigger picture will be presented.

As much as I loved the pace I kept waiting. Waiting for the "OMG" moment and boy did I get it!! I must have read the last few chapters at record speed because I was on the edge of my seat wondering what the hell was happening and thought my heart was going to stop. Julia certainly tugged on some of my emotions there!

And lets not forget the preview into her next book at the end! This is a preview that tops all of her other previews. Things are about to go crazy!!!

5 *WINK* READ

Book Flirts by Jessi

Interstellar Brides® Program Book 6: Mastered by Her Mates

How can she protect the warriors she has grown to love and save the people of Earth from making a terrible mistake? Will her human contacts believe her when, with every touch, every look, they will see just how thoroughly she has been mastered by her mates?

Amanda Bryant has been a spy for five long years, but when aliens suddenly appear claiming a deadly enemy threatens Earth’s very survival, Amanda is asked by her superiors to accept the most dangerous mission of her life…volunteer to be an alien’s bride, to share the strange warrior’s bed and then betray him.

Accepting the assignment, Amanda is processed as the first Interstellar Bride and transported halfway across the galaxy to her new mate’s battleship where she awakens to discover she has been matched to not just one huge Prillon warrior, but two.

Shocked by her craving for the touch of two dominant alpha males, Amanda attempts to hide her body’s immediate reaction to Commander Grigg and his second, Rav. Resistance is futile as her new mates expect to control every aspect of her life, and her pleasure, and neither will hesitate to deliver a thorough and embarrassing spanking should she disobey their sensual commands, or resist a complex and deeply arousing series of medical exams designed to ensure her sexual readiness for their claiming.

Seduced and cherished by two alpha alien warriors who hide nothing from her, Amanda quickly comes to realize that the threat to Earth is very real. When she witnesses a battle with the enemy and the resulting death of a highly respected warrior, she knows she must tell her mates the truth and hope they can forgive her for her duplicity before it’s too late.

Loyalties will be tested as Amanda fights the most important battle of her life. How can she protect the warriors she has grown to love and save the people of Earth from making a terrible mistake? Will her human contacts believe her when, with every touch, every look, they will see just how thoroughly she has been mastered by her mates?

MSY
5.0 out of 5 stars Enjoyable Characters - Has Substance As Well As Smut
Reviewed in the United States on September 1, 2017 Verified Purchase
I downloaded this expecting complete and utter smut. It definitely contains that, but also a surprising amount of world-building and detail put into the story around the sex scenes. Things I enjoyed: The point of view switches between the three main characters Amanda, Grigg, and Conrav from scene to scene. The characters have personalities and their own problems, and despite their kinky marriage traditions, they expect Amanda to integrate into their culture and be a useful member of society, not just a sex bunny who lives in their private quarters.

The men and Amanda each had subplots with problems to face that were not just about the marriage plot. The sci-fi world was enjoyably well-developed and deliberately went against cliches (and our Earth heroine's expectations) on several occasions. I really enjoyed the dominant and submissive nature of the characters' sexual relationship, which pushed boundaries but never got abusive or non-consensual. The poly triad was both hot in the sex scenes and sweet in scenes where they looked after and comforted each other. It's believable that they could fall in love in such a short amount of time. I enjoyed this book enough to tell a friend to grab a copy and read it, and I'll definitely be checking out more of this author's work, especially work featuring poly relationships.

BJaye Conway
4.0 out of 5 stars Good Storyline and Plenty of Flicks and Licks
Reviewed in the United States on March 13, 2017 Verified Purchase
Another great addition to the series. Amanda is actually the first human bride to be processes and placed through the Interstellar Bride Program, though unknown to the program, she is actually an American plant, sent to space under dubious orders. The Commander and doctor who are her matched mates don't know this at first, but obviously figure it out. The story evolves around the motives and desires of all the different parties involved in sending Amanda into space. It is a good story, but I don't think Amanda was a very good information collector, at least for her Earth bosses. Through the ups and downs, a HEA is achieved. Even though this story is about the first bride sent, I'm glad it was placed later in the series, the familiarity with the whole concept of this expanded universe gave me a better appreciation for the issues Amanda has to deal with being the first bride. I also think the human response to the aliens was plausible, dead on really, especially the government, seems exactly how they would act and react, not believing how awful the Hive truly is. I really enjoyed this book for both the plot and hotness. Loved the flicks and licks line.

There is one thing that I didn't like at all, but it's not from the story. I absolutely hate the book cover. These warriors are supposed to be 7 feet tall, extremely well built and handsome. The cover does not reflect that at all. Unfortunately, the one man you can clearly see is neither extremely tall, extremely well built or particularly awesome in the looks department (sorry, I'm sure he is a nice guy in real life.) Most of the covers have been good to great, this one just doesn't cut it.


AMorganna99
4.0 out of 5 stars Good start to series
Reviewed in the United States on July 20, 2020 Verified Purchase
This was a good start to the series. I liked seeing how some of the 'first contact' aftermath played out and how mistakes were definitely made on all sides. Amanda goes into this with a set idea that the aliens are hiding the truth from Earth but is able to change her mind when the evidence is right there- something her bosses on Earth aren't! The guys were fun to watch adjust to having to acknowledge their emotions and how to work together to be a family. Sexy and fun, a good read.


J&L Brown (author of Deadly Sai)
5.0 out of 5 stars I loved this story!
Reviewed in the United States on June 8, 2020 Verified Purchase
The imagination on how the Hive takes over a body and makes it part of the collective, how far away in the galaxy they were and how small Earth was in the scheme of things. How their bond evolves thru sharing and feelings being revealed thru the collar. I just loved it! Looking forward to reading one on an Atlan beseker!

Wolflord: Alpha Lords Book 3

Ruari of Clan Dundalk knew Arielle was his mate as soon as he set eyes on her, but he had planned to court her properly. When she arrives in his lands as an uninvited stowaway, however, he decides it is time for this beautiful, headstrong female to be taught her place over his knee.

As she is led to her new mate’s castle naked, blushing, and sore, with only a sheet to hide her helpless arousal, Arielle’s fury at being bared and spanked is exceeded only by her desperate need to be thrown to the ground and ravaged by the brute who just punished her so shamefully.

She won’t have to wait long…


CWJ
5.0 out of 5 stars WOW For Wolflord
Reviewed in the United States on November 16, 2019Verified Purchase
I read an advance copy of this book and, as I always say, my review is that I just purchased my own copy. The story of Ruari and Arielle and her journey from expecting to be the perfect:"mistress of a great pack" to kick-ass mate. Ruari will discover that what he thought he wanted may not quite be what he gets when "fate" strikes. Loved it. As usual a great story, well written characters, romance and sizzle. Thanks Delta

CChase
5.0 out of 5 stars Ruari and Arielle's story
Reviewed in the United States on December 1, 2019Verified Purchase
Holy hotness. Loving this series.
I love that Arielle isnt as meek as everyone thought. She has the fire and Sassines like her sister. Love seeing her give Ruari fits , not giving in so easy. Even though she knew he is her fated mate .

Ruari takes over his clan after his brother is killed in battle. Becomes Alpha . He knows Arielle is fated mate even before he takes over his clan . He was ready to send a message to Alaric for Arielle. But instead finds her on the ship as a stowaway.
Loved how she didnt go easy off the ship. She soon found out what happens next.
This amazing story. Hope that Ruari brother widow finds happiness again .
One click see how Ruari tames his mate .

Marybeth
5.0 out of 5 stars Arielle is not the sweet young thing they imagine
Reviewed in the United States on November 16, 2019Verified Purchase
I love this next book! Ruari has become the next Alpha of Dundaulm after his brother died. When Arielle escapes Calon Onest she ends up with Ruari who already knows that Arielle is his fated mate. But Arielle doesn't go easy and the story getting to their HEA is wonderful!

Redrabbitt
TOP 1000 REVIEWER
5.0 out of 5 stars SUCH IS THE CONFLICTING NATURE OF WOLVES
Reviewed in the United States on November 25, 2019Verified Purchase
Once again, Ms. Delta James has penned a page-turning, action-packed, romantic suspense filled shifter tale. Whether you have read her Wayward Mates series or not, the story will read well as a stand-alone. If you did read Wayward Mates, the story takes place many years into the future; a plague has ravished the earth, things are returned to the old ways, before technology.

NOTE: This is a post-apocalyptic dark shifter romance. It contains explicit sex scenes and may seem as non-con or dubious consent—but it is the way of life among these shifters---especially when they are fated mates. It is a way of life, with a strong, dominant alpha male and an equally strong submissive female who eventually capitulates and finds the pleasure in his control and mastery over her body. Yes, it even comes with the coveted HEA ended.

Now that Rowan has mated to Alaric and Sloan to Gareth, Arielle fears that she will be next for a pairing but decides to head out on her own, maybe start a female pack as their former ancestor did—but running away has her running to her future. Raised to be the mistress of a pack is one thing, being forced into it is another.

“She-wolves in their society had few choices and even less power.”

The sweet, biddable, normally obedient Arielle has more of Rowan in her than most realize, and she will start to assert herself, her wants, and it includes disobedience that will land her in trouble with her Alpha, Alaric, and over the knee of his Beta, Tristan. She isn’t going to have it and makes plans to leave, to branch out on her own, and it starts as a stowaway heading to Erie.

“I want you to be safe and happy, whether it’s in this pack or another. And for that to happen, you need to learn to behave—even when it’s not something you want to do. If you plan to be an effective mistress to a great pack, you will need to obey your mate and alpha.”

“Let this be a lesson to you, Arielle; little she-wolves who break the rules and disobey their alpha get their bottom turned bright red and have to stand in the corner until they have atoned for their behavior.”

Now that Ruari has become Alpha of Dundalk after the death of his brother, he knows it is time to claim his mate. He has felt her calling, and what a shock when he learns that Arielle is a stowaway on a warship sent by Alaric to his waters. He is ready to claim her, but she refuses his claim. She will fight him, but he will win.

“We have a difference of opinion. I suspect we will have more of those than I originally thought. Part of the lesson you need to learn today is that my opinion is the only one that matters. Nay, lass, we are more than well suited, and you know it. You are my fated mate and will do better if you learn to obey me from the start.”

The story has plenty of angst between Arielle and Ruari, and she fights him on his claim, demands the right to run, and still, he must show her his dominance when he catches her. She brings trouble to herself with her attitude, and he shows her she will not be allowed to get away with it. When trouble is on the way, heading straight for Gareth and Alaric, Ruari will not be able to go into seclusion with his mate, but instead must leave her and go to their aid. She wants to go, and he refuses—but will she listen or allow her strong-will to disobey him, knowing what the punishment will be?

“No, you are the daughter of an alpha, sister to a rogue female warrior, and cherished mate to the alpha of Dundalk. In my absence, in most ways, you will rule here. Our clan will look to you for comfort and guidance. There will be those whose mates are with me and do not have your strength, skills, and pedigree. I leave our lands and our clan in your most capable hands.”

“You wanted the Arielle that they all thought me to be—sweet, obedient, meek.”

“I may only be a wolf, but I am your fated mate. I could no more deny that than you. Thus is why it takes a she-wolf who knows her own mind and is beyond compare to take pity on a poor alpha, such as myself, to lower herself to accept my dominance.”