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The Lycanthrope Protection Agency #1
To Hunt a Moonborn Beast
This world isn’t kind to werewolves. Especially wolves without a pack.
It’s a lesson that human-werewolf hybrid Max Gallagher learns when he’s abducted by the Moonborn cult. Scared and on the run, Max has learned that the only one he can trust is himself.
Until Agent Gabe Reyes rescues him, and Max finds sanctuary with the wolves of the Lycanthrope Protection Agency. The moment Max catches Gabe’s scent, Max’s wolf knows he’s found his fated mate.
But there’s no room for love in the fight to come. When the cult arrives on the agency’s doorstep, Max and Gabe find themselves in the battle for their lives. The Moonborn will kill to get their hands on Max, and Max fears he may lose Gabe and his found family for good.
Unless Max is willing to make the ultimate sacrifice.
It’s a lesson that human-werewolf hybrid Max Gallagher learns when he’s abducted by the Moonborn cult. Scared and on the run, Max has learned that the only one he can trust is himself.
Until Agent Gabe Reyes rescues him, and Max finds sanctuary with the wolves of the Lycanthrope Protection Agency. The moment Max catches Gabe’s scent, Max’s wolf knows he’s found his fated mate.
But there’s no room for love in the fight to come. When the cult arrives on the agency’s doorstep, Max and Gabe find themselves in the battle for their lives. The Moonborn will kill to get their hands on Max, and Max fears he may lose Gabe and his found family for good.
Unless Max is willing to make the ultimate sacrifice.
362 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 15, 2023
163 people are currently reading
480 people want to read
About the author
C.J. Ravenna
10 books69 followersCJ Ravenna loves to tell stories where the ordinary meets the extraordinary. Her books often feature an explosion or two, possessive and protective werewolves who adore their mates, steamy and swoony romance, and of course a happy ending.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
May 4, 2023
My enjoyment of this book started out strong - it’s main themes are hurt/comfort and fated mates and I had high hopes for this slow burn romance. Unfortunately it burned a little too slow and then just fizzled out for me.
My issues were: the uncomfortable love triangle*, no one having a lick of sense around a clearly suspicious character, the constant contradictions (eg Max telling Gabe that he’s going to be fine and ten seconds later being worried Gabe might die), and the lack of romance/passion between the fated mates.
*I don’t want to rip this book to shreds, but I do want to expand on why the love triangle was uncomfortable. Gabe & Zach have known each other for years and eventually became friends with benefits but at some point Zach confessed his love and Gabe didn’t feel the same. Instead of ending things there, they continued to be intimate with Zach saying he felt like eventually Gabe would fall for him. I just couldn’t help but feel like Gabe was taking advantage of his friend for easy sex and it felt like he knew he was never going to return Zach’s feelings and then he meets Max and is sort of between the two of them for flimsy reasons and it takes a big event for Gabe to make a choice. 👎🏻 Didn’t make me think too highly of Gabe tbh.
I received an advanced copy for review - all opinions are my own.
My issues were: the uncomfortable love triangle*, no one having a lick of sense around a clearly suspicious character, the constant contradictions (eg Max telling Gabe that he’s going to be fine and ten seconds later being worried Gabe might die), and the lack of romance/passion between the fated mates.
*I don’t want to rip this book to shreds, but I do want to expand on why the love triangle was uncomfortable. Gabe & Zach have known each other for years and eventually became friends with benefits but at some point Zach confessed his love and Gabe didn’t feel the same. Instead of ending things there, they continued to be intimate with Zach saying he felt like eventually Gabe would fall for him. I just couldn’t help but feel like Gabe was taking advantage of his friend for easy sex and it felt like he knew he was never going to return Zach’s feelings and then he meets Max and is sort of between the two of them for flimsy reasons and it takes a big event for Gabe to make a choice. 👎🏻 Didn’t make me think too highly of Gabe tbh.
I received an advanced copy for review - all opinions are my own.
May 10, 2023
Max escaped, he doesn’t remember how it’s a blur, it was impossible but he escaped.
His stepfather was a cruel man and despised Max because he was a hybrid, and all hybrids should be eliminated. He kept him locked with silver shackles, he hurt him, physically and mentally.
When Agent Gabe Reyes finds him, Max is a wolf, feral and unable to return to his human body, Gabe takes him to the sanctuary of the Lycanthrope Protection Agency.
Max is special, with his red fur. But oh boy there’s more to Max than anyone could guess.
Slowly, oh so slowly Max became to trust the people from the sanctuary, especially Gabe.
It’s quite complicated, for both, even though there are signs they could be mates. Both are more alike than Max expected.
John Stone, a renegade of the Council, together with some other fanatics, became the Moonborn cult.
They want pureness, and every hybrid must die. Stone wants Max, cost what costs.
Above is just a little bit about the story, there’s a lot more going on, also between the people of the Agency. There are several protagonists besides the two MCs, who are important in this story, in a good or bad way. The animalistic instinct and behavior was awesome to watch, really great done.
The story has a slow build, captivatingly written for sure, with a lot of angst, a lot of events, and maybe an itsy-bitsy too much drama, the friendship-to-lovers was even slower, but all acceptable to me. There’s a ton of hurt, and sensible, my heart cracked more than once for them.
Overall an exciting read!
His stepfather was a cruel man and despised Max because he was a hybrid, and all hybrids should be eliminated. He kept him locked with silver shackles, he hurt him, physically and mentally.
When Agent Gabe Reyes finds him, Max is a wolf, feral and unable to return to his human body, Gabe takes him to the sanctuary of the Lycanthrope Protection Agency.
Max is special, with his red fur. But oh boy there’s more to Max than anyone could guess.
Slowly, oh so slowly Max became to trust the people from the sanctuary, especially Gabe.
It’s quite complicated, for both, even though there are signs they could be mates. Both are more alike than Max expected.
John Stone, a renegade of the Council, together with some other fanatics, became the Moonborn cult.
They want pureness, and every hybrid must die. Stone wants Max, cost what costs.
Above is just a little bit about the story, there’s a lot more going on, also between the people of the Agency. There are several protagonists besides the two MCs, who are important in this story, in a good or bad way. The animalistic instinct and behavior was awesome to watch, really great done.
The story has a slow build, captivatingly written for sure, with a lot of angst, a lot of events, and maybe an itsy-bitsy too much drama, the friendship-to-lovers was even slower, but all acceptable to me. There’s a ton of hurt, and sensible, my heart cracked more than once for them.
Overall an exciting read!
June 6, 2024
3.5 stars an okay book, I would have loved for this to been shorter.
This was the first book by the author for me to read with this story.
A bad beginning as Max had turned feral after he'd been abused and beaten, now his mother was injured while saving him. Not for the faint hearted in scenes played, yeah I skimmed past them.
Gabriel’s mission was to find kids that had been abducted and reunite them to their families before the human cops get them. Gabe 28 yrs worked with the lycanthrope Protection agency but he had a personal mission too.
A sad first meeting as Gabe senses something different with Max but he's gone feral and scared on the run. I felt for poor Max 20 yrs as he'd been through so much, but now he's rescued. Reuniting with his mum didn't go well at first as Max was stuck in his wolf.
Both characters have issues to work through from their past abuses leaving ptsd.
I wasn't sure about the triangled storyline between Zach and Gabe.
There’s an issue for me with the mate bond, both Max and Gabe feel something but it takes forever to take place.
Huge triggers included domestic violence, attacks and much more.
This has a fair amount of narrated telling between their dialogue.
This was the first book by the author for me to read with this story.
A bad beginning as Max had turned feral after he'd been abused and beaten, now his mother was injured while saving him. Not for the faint hearted in scenes played, yeah I skimmed past them.
Gabriel’s mission was to find kids that had been abducted and reunite them to their families before the human cops get them. Gabe 28 yrs worked with the lycanthrope Protection agency but he had a personal mission too.
A sad first meeting as Gabe senses something different with Max but he's gone feral and scared on the run. I felt for poor Max 20 yrs as he'd been through so much, but now he's rescued. Reuniting with his mum didn't go well at first as Max was stuck in his wolf.
Both characters have issues to work through from their past abuses leaving ptsd.
I wasn't sure about the triangled storyline between Zach and Gabe.
There’s an issue for me with the mate bond, both Max and Gabe feel something but it takes forever to take place.
Huge triggers included domestic violence, attacks and much more.
This has a fair amount of narrated telling between their dialogue.
May 29, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
This is the first book in the Lycanthrope Protection Agency series by new-to-me author C.J. Ravenna. The premise intrigued me and I dove right in. Though this book wasn’t without it’s problems for me, it was an engaging story that kept me reading.
This is an AU world where werewolves and humans coexist, but it’s not without tension and strife. Humans look down upon werewolves and purebred wolves despise hybrid wolves, those born from a human-wolf pairing or bitten to change. It’s why the LPA exists: to protect the werewolves who need help. Hate crimes are common against wolves. Both the MCs here have suffered abuse and kidnapping, are both a bit broken, and are both trying their best to survive.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
4 stars
This is the first book in the Lycanthrope Protection Agency series by new-to-me author C.J. Ravenna. The premise intrigued me and I dove right in. Though this book wasn’t without it’s problems for me, it was an engaging story that kept me reading.
This is an AU world where werewolves and humans coexist, but it’s not without tension and strife. Humans look down upon werewolves and purebred wolves despise hybrid wolves, those born from a human-wolf pairing or bitten to change. It’s why the LPA exists: to protect the werewolves who need help. Hate crimes are common against wolves. Both the MCs here have suffered abuse and kidnapping, are both a bit broken, and are both trying their best to survive.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
May 17, 2023
The first part of the story was excellent, really good world building and ideas about a divided werewolf society coexisting with humans. Max and Gabe were well portrayed, until further into the story the self-sacrificing just kept coming back instead of them trying to communicate and plan together. The multiple fight scenes began to feel a little repetitive somehow. I'm curious about what happens next.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am happy to leave a voluntary review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am happy to leave a voluntary review.
August 30, 2023
2.5 stars
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February 26, 2024So this started off strong and the beginning had me hooked but then it slowly spiraled into me just wanting it to end between the "love triangle" which shouldn't be a think when talking about fated mates and the heavy influence of a certain populary werewolf series .
July 3, 2024
Cults, werewolves, and a hunt for hybrids. These are the things you can look forward to in CJ Ravenna's "To Hunt A Moonborn Beast". The book focuses on Gabe and Max, two hybrid werewolves (half human, half werewolf). Max is a terrified, feral wolf when we first meet him due to harsh treatment and violence from his stepfather Richard. He finally escapes into the night after a harrowing experience where he's found by Gabe. Gabe is a member of the Lycanthrope Protection Agency, or LPA that rescues and protects wolves from harm. From the very start, Max and Gabe have a special connection. But it's one neither of them is able to define until much later, after Max is able to shift back to human and their bond begins to grow. But just as things are starting to heat up, dangerous actors from Max and Gabe's pasts come crashing back into their lives. Will their found family at the LPA be strong enough to defeat an entire cult? Or will Max succumb to a grisly fate?
Folks, this book was intense. Heed the trigger warnings at the front of the book. My heart went out to poor Max and his mom right away as we see the horrors that Richard is capable of. His self-esteem has been so destroyed that he can't imagine why someone like Gabe would promise to stay with him and protect him. On the other hand, Gabe is so focused on avenging his father's death at any cost that he's blind to almost anything else. He knows at a certain point that Max is into him, but just can't let himself get involved, knowing that his life might end during his quest. The internal conflict of both MCs was so well written that I wanted to throw my Kindle multiple times and yell at them to get their heads out of the sand and TALK to each other. But eventually after enough turmoil (and other-man drama 👀) they truly give in to each other and it's beautiful.
The pacing of the relationship and the book as a whole was perfect. You're in for a slllooowww burn with this one as Max and Gabe take their time with literally every step of their relationship. I'd be lying if I said I didn't want them to get together a little bit sooner since I'm a fast-burn type of girlie. But I've been purposefully working on my patience with slow burns, so I still enjoyed it immensely! And it makes sense based on their past trauma and how they view their futures.
The action scenes were perfectly sprinkled in and well done. I found myself holding my breath at times as I quickly read to see the outcome of a fight. It added another layer of enjoyment to this book. It's definitely still a romance first and paranormal action book second.
Overall I really enjoyed this story! I would recommend it to anyone looking for a slow-burn paranormal shifter romance with elements of found family, hurt/comfort, action, and drama.
Special thanks to CJ Ravenna for sending over a copy of this book and letting me vent in the DMs as I was reading lol.
Folks, this book was intense. Heed the trigger warnings at the front of the book. My heart went out to poor Max and his mom right away as we see the horrors that Richard is capable of. His self-esteem has been so destroyed that he can't imagine why someone like Gabe would promise to stay with him and protect him. On the other hand, Gabe is so focused on avenging his father's death at any cost that he's blind to almost anything else. He knows at a certain point that Max is into him, but just can't let himself get involved, knowing that his life might end during his quest. The internal conflict of both MCs was so well written that I wanted to throw my Kindle multiple times and yell at them to get their heads out of the sand and TALK to each other. But eventually after enough turmoil (and other-man drama 👀) they truly give in to each other and it's beautiful.
The pacing of the relationship and the book as a whole was perfect. You're in for a slllooowww burn with this one as Max and Gabe take their time with literally every step of their relationship. I'd be lying if I said I didn't want them to get together a little bit sooner since I'm a fast-burn type of girlie. But I've been purposefully working on my patience with slow burns, so I still enjoyed it immensely! And it makes sense based on their past trauma and how they view their futures.
The action scenes were perfectly sprinkled in and well done. I found myself holding my breath at times as I quickly read to see the outcome of a fight. It added another layer of enjoyment to this book. It's definitely still a romance first and paranormal action book second.
Overall I really enjoyed this story! I would recommend it to anyone looking for a slow-burn paranormal shifter romance with elements of found family, hurt/comfort, action, and drama.
Special thanks to CJ Ravenna for sending over a copy of this book and letting me vent in the DMs as I was reading lol.
June 2, 2023
I was really excited when I started this book and the first half had me gripped.
The story and world building is really good and I liked the characters, on sine occasions the secondary characters even more than the MCs.
But unfortunately the whole book has some weaknesses, which could have been avoided:
- there are some inconsistencies especially regarding the pack bonds, which had me scratching my head as I wondered why they didn't know some things and developments
- the story was a bit too much of a roller coaster for me to build a real flow, which made me a bit impatient in-between.
I love action in my books but in this case it would have worked better to maybe take a step back and just work on or two major actions in more depth or make two books out of this storyline
- Gabes' behaviour regarding Max and Zach is also not really consistent. There are so many ups and downs it ends up being more annoying than interesting
Nevertheless, as I really enjoyed the characters and found the storyline interesting, I will read the second book as well.
The story and world building is really good and I liked the characters, on sine occasions the secondary characters even more than the MCs.
But unfortunately the whole book has some weaknesses, which could have been avoided:
- there are some inconsistencies especially regarding the pack bonds, which had me scratching my head as I wondered why they didn't know some things and developments
- the story was a bit too much of a roller coaster for me to build a real flow, which made me a bit impatient in-between.
I love action in my books but in this case it would have worked better to maybe take a step back and just work on or two major actions in more depth or make two books out of this storyline
- Gabes' behaviour regarding Max and Zach is also not really consistent. There are so many ups and downs it ends up being more annoying than interesting
Nevertheless, as I really enjoyed the characters and found the storyline interesting, I will read the second book as well.
Read
May 12, 2023 *I received an ARC copy for a honest review*
Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5B4...
The book first caught me with the teaser quotes, and I was like: ,,I have to read this!"
Because, if there's one thing I love it's hurt/comfort, fated mates & shifters.
Definitely a strong start to the story and had everything I love:
The backstory is developed, we get a world built up.
The characters are sympathetic and likable, though not yet particularly convincing.
I loved the relationship between them - the way they feel the attraction, the smell of everything good the other likes, the way the wolf part of them talks to them. And the slowburn and getting to know each other? Yes, please.
Later, about halfway through, the plot was still good and even getting more exciting, but the characters and the relationship described above lost me.
Max and Gabe were together too little, there was too little communication between them, the pull that was present at the beginning seemed to disappear, yet their feelings for each other grew more serious and stronger, which I just didn't understand.
You feel the pull, which is all very well and good, but you still want to get to know each other, and then it disappears a little bit, and then it's "i love you?"
Overall though, it was an enjoyable read, I'm curious to see what happens to our main characters, they absolutely have potential, and the author writes exceptionally well, she has a style that I like.
Absolutely suitable and good as an introductory volume!
Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5B4...
The book first caught me with the teaser quotes, and I was like: ,,I have to read this!"
Because, if there's one thing I love it's hurt/comfort, fated mates & shifters.
Definitely a strong start to the story and had everything I love:
The backstory is developed, we get a world built up.
The characters are sympathetic and likable, though not yet particularly convincing.
I loved the relationship between them - the way they feel the attraction, the smell of everything good the other likes, the way the wolf part of them talks to them. And the slowburn and getting to know each other? Yes, please.
Later, about halfway through, the plot was still good and even getting more exciting, but the characters and the relationship described above lost me.
Max and Gabe were together too little, there was too little communication between them, the pull that was present at the beginning seemed to disappear, yet their feelings for each other grew more serious and stronger, which I just didn't understand.
You feel the pull, which is all very well and good, but you still want to get to know each other, and then it disappears a little bit, and then it's "i love you?"
Overall though, it was an enjoyable read, I'm curious to see what happens to our main characters, they absolutely have potential, and the author writes exceptionally well, she has a style that I like.
Absolutely suitable and good as an introductory volume!
May 18, 2023
I have complicated feelings about this book. Parts felt very head-hoppy. The characters acted...young. Like...really young. Could be a me-thing. I dunno. But also the lack of communication and the *protection* agency that seemed weirdly helpless when it came to actually protecting anyone? I dunno. The plot was interesting, but I'm not convinced I actually enjoyed the book. Will have to sit with this for a while.
May 18, 2023
Long drawn out read
I must confess that I skipped over parts of this book. It didn’t seem to affect my comprehension of the plot. Honestly it ok but just ok and I feel like it could use a meeting with an editor who has a good red pen. It’s also an ok story but nothing terribly new or innovative to justify over 400 pages depending on your font size. There is too much description and a lot of repetition, as I said it needs to be tightened up by a good editor. I was bored by parts of it and that always makes me want to give up on a book. I plugged through but I don’t think I’m interested in reading the rest of the series.
I must confess that I skipped over parts of this book. It didn’t seem to affect my comprehension of the plot. Honestly it ok but just ok and I feel like it could use a meeting with an editor who has a good red pen. It’s also an ok story but nothing terribly new or innovative to justify over 400 pages depending on your font size. There is too much description and a lot of repetition, as I said it needs to be tightened up by a good editor. I was bored by parts of it and that always makes me want to give up on a book. I plugged through but I don’t think I’m interested in reading the rest of the series.
December 12, 2023
An interesting set-up, fascinating but slightly under-developed supernatural system, and a host of characters that are surprisingly surface-level, given the intensely traumatic backstories they have. The conflicts that occur are partly cliche on the relationship aspect, and there is a disconnect between the huge reveals of the events and how the characters end up reacting to/handling them which keeps this book more superficial than I think it’s intended to be.
Would I go back in time and still read this book, knowing what I know now?
Eh. Sure. Maybe not so quickly though. And I haven’t decided whether I’ll move on to the second book in the series.
See below for the four criteria I use to decide whether and when to read a book
CHARACTERS: The main characters come with some hefty traumatic backstories, which should lend to some really dynamic moments, but in many ways those elements felt glossed over to me. Unrealistic to how someone may react to that level of intense trauma. Because of that, the characterizations felt slightly juvenile. The main relationship conflicts also rely a lot on non-communication which, especially on such a blatant level, is a turn off for me, as it feels like it’s being done simply to ensure that the plot gets dragged out. But ultimately the disconnect between the emotional depth of the characters and the events of the plot kept them 2D for me.
PLOT: Moderately-paced, the plot has the potential to be super interesting, but because none of the characters handle the events in ways that feel real, it lacks the true depths of the stakes one would hope for in this type of plot.
EMOTIONAL INTENSITY: There is no good/bad here. Sometimes I just want a low-investment entertainment read whereas other times a high-stakes 'I need a therapist to recover' is what I need.
1 out of 5. This surprised me. Given the traumatic histories, I would have expected a higher depth of intensity, but this one remains more beach-read level. Which isn’t a bad thing, just not what I was expecting or wanting from a plot like this.
CATHARTIC FULFILLMENT: Is the emotional journey worth it? Do I finish this book feeling that I've crested the wave of the climactic moment and everything has been settled, leaving me settled and fulfilled?
50%. There wasn’t really one. I mean… the climactic event wasn’t so climatic and felt both deus ex machina and completely at odds with how the population of this world reacted to everything that occured. There’s more to come so not everything is wrapped up completely, but it didn’t leave me satisfied enough to want to keep going.
Would I go back in time and still read this book, knowing what I know now?
Eh. Sure. Maybe not so quickly though. And I haven’t decided whether I’ll move on to the second book in the series.
See below for the four criteria I use to decide whether and when to read a book
CHARACTERS: The main characters come with some hefty traumatic backstories, which should lend to some really dynamic moments, but in many ways those elements felt glossed over to me. Unrealistic to how someone may react to that level of intense trauma. Because of that, the characterizations felt slightly juvenile. The main relationship conflicts also rely a lot on non-communication which, especially on such a blatant level, is a turn off for me, as it feels like it’s being done simply to ensure that the plot gets dragged out. But ultimately the disconnect between the emotional depth of the characters and the events of the plot kept them 2D for me.
PLOT: Moderately-paced, the plot has the potential to be super interesting, but because none of the characters handle the events in ways that feel real, it lacks the true depths of the stakes one would hope for in this type of plot.
EMOTIONAL INTENSITY: There is no good/bad here. Sometimes I just want a low-investment entertainment read whereas other times a high-stakes 'I need a therapist to recover' is what I need.
1 out of 5. This surprised me. Given the traumatic histories, I would have expected a higher depth of intensity, but this one remains more beach-read level. Which isn’t a bad thing, just not what I was expecting or wanting from a plot like this.
CATHARTIC FULFILLMENT: Is the emotional journey worth it? Do I finish this book feeling that I've crested the wave of the climactic moment and everything has been settled, leaving me settled and fulfilled?
50%. There wasn’t really one. I mean… the climactic event wasn’t so climatic and felt both deus ex machina and completely at odds with how the population of this world reacted to everything that occured. There’s more to come so not everything is wrapped up completely, but it didn’t leave me satisfied enough to want to keep going.
May 15, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up to 4!
This read had a lot of promise. For one, I enjoyed the worldbuilding very much, and the premise that werewolves were known to humans - and discriminated against - at the same time that there were factions within the werewolf community.
And Gabe being an agent of an agency fighting to help and protect werewolves had all the potential. Also, the writing is excellent, and technically this is a very well composed story.
However, this is a slow-burn, and even though those aren't my preferred reads, the blurb was just too tempting to pass up. So I'm not sure if maybe my inherent scepticism towards slow-burns may play a part in my overall rating of the story - so please bear that in mind when it comes to my following comment.
But the thing is, I was quite confused when it came to Gabe's and Max's interactions and budding romance. They both kept running hot and cold, constantly vacillating between 'yes, let's do this!' to 'no, I can't possibly'. I don't know if this is the standard approach for most slow-burns, but either way I found it off-putting.
But again, that might be my slow-burn reticence that's talking!
Otherwise, my only other concern that took away some of my enjoyment of the read was the initial 'relationship' between Gabe and his friend Zack.
I think that a previous relationship would have been fine. It would just have added complexity and realism to the story after all. Even an on-going one had been fine, if it ended when Gabe realized that Max was the one.
But the fact was that even though Gabe from the start claimed to have ended that relationship a couple of months earlier, it wasn't actually over. And Zack even told Gabe that he thought that Gabe would come around eventually, and that it was clear that he was in love with Gabe even if those feelings weren't returned... And Gabe didn't really correct him, he just kept low-key encouraging Zack by not being clear enough... Well, I just thought that made Gabe look like an insensitive jerk to be honest.
But I might be over-thinking this.
I'm sure lots of people will fall in love with Gabe and Max because this is overall a very well-written story. And it definitely has great potential as a series starter!
A complementary e-book was provided by Gay Romance Reviews and this is my unbiased and voluntary review.
This read had a lot of promise. For one, I enjoyed the worldbuilding very much, and the premise that werewolves were known to humans - and discriminated against - at the same time that there were factions within the werewolf community.
And Gabe being an agent of an agency fighting to help and protect werewolves had all the potential. Also, the writing is excellent, and technically this is a very well composed story.
However, this is a slow-burn, and even though those aren't my preferred reads, the blurb was just too tempting to pass up. So I'm not sure if maybe my inherent scepticism towards slow-burns may play a part in my overall rating of the story - so please bear that in mind when it comes to my following comment.
But the thing is, I was quite confused when it came to Gabe's and Max's interactions and budding romance. They both kept running hot and cold, constantly vacillating between 'yes, let's do this!' to 'no, I can't possibly'. I don't know if this is the standard approach for most slow-burns, but either way I found it off-putting.
But again, that might be my slow-burn reticence that's talking!
Otherwise, my only other concern that took away some of my enjoyment of the read was the initial 'relationship' between Gabe and his friend Zack.
I think that a previous relationship would have been fine. It would just have added complexity and realism to the story after all. Even an on-going one had been fine, if it ended when Gabe realized that Max was the one.
But the fact was that even though Gabe from the start claimed to have ended that relationship a couple of months earlier, it wasn't actually over. And Zack even told Gabe that he thought that Gabe would come around eventually, and that it was clear that he was in love with Gabe even if those feelings weren't returned... And Gabe didn't really correct him, he just kept low-key encouraging Zack by not being clear enough... Well, I just thought that made Gabe look like an insensitive jerk to be honest.
But I might be over-thinking this.
I'm sure lots of people will fall in love with Gabe and Max because this is overall a very well-written story. And it definitely has great potential as a series starter!
A complementary e-book was provided by Gay Romance Reviews and this is my unbiased and voluntary review.
May 13, 2023
To Hunt A Moonborn Beast is a good start to this new supernatural series by C.J. Ravenna. Werewolves live alongside humans though, not always in peace, but it's the wolves causing so much trouble here. A cult of purebloods who call themselves the Moonborn cult want to rid the world of hybrids - a shifter born from a human and a werewolf couple. The leader, John Stone, has caused mental and physical harm to Agent Gabe Reyes and so the man is determined to hunt him down. When Max comes into the care of the LPA (Lycanthrope Protection Agency) after escaping, he hopes it will bring him closer to that end. He wasn't counting on the connection he feels to the young red wolf. Unfortunately, Max has experienced severe trauma and comes close to losing his humanity and becoming permanently feral.
My heart broke for Max as we read what he goes through. It's not for the faint of heart to read as some of the scenes are quite graphic with physical and verbal abuse towards Max, his mother, and in other scenes, Gabe. We also see the aftermath with nightmares and Max's struggles, blaming himself for what happened and what may be to come. The rescue is not the end of Max's troubles as, being a red wolf, he's apparently special in some way and so the Moonborn are not willing to let him go. This leads to more fights and attempts to grab him. John Stone is the perfect bad guy; determined in his beliefs, ever so slightly unhinged and really intelligent.
There is the unknown for the possible relationship between Gabe and Max, as well as what will happen with the Moonbeam Cult and John Stone. Readers are left with a HFN romance and a cliffhanger with the case. We are also introduced to a great cast of characters that are part of the LPA team, though Gabe has a stronger relationship with one of them than the others which made for a few tension filled moments. I look forward to getting to know them better and love the feeling of family that they share by living and working so close together. I'm interested in seeing how the story progresses and how both Gabe and Max move forward with both their traumas and their relationship.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
My heart broke for Max as we read what he goes through. It's not for the faint of heart to read as some of the scenes are quite graphic with physical and verbal abuse towards Max, his mother, and in other scenes, Gabe. We also see the aftermath with nightmares and Max's struggles, blaming himself for what happened and what may be to come. The rescue is not the end of Max's troubles as, being a red wolf, he's apparently special in some way and so the Moonborn are not willing to let him go. This leads to more fights and attempts to grab him. John Stone is the perfect bad guy; determined in his beliefs, ever so slightly unhinged and really intelligent.
There is the unknown for the possible relationship between Gabe and Max, as well as what will happen with the Moonbeam Cult and John Stone. Readers are left with a HFN romance and a cliffhanger with the case. We are also introduced to a great cast of characters that are part of the LPA team, though Gabe has a stronger relationship with one of them than the others which made for a few tension filled moments. I look forward to getting to know them better and love the feeling of family that they share by living and working so close together. I'm interested in seeing how the story progresses and how both Gabe and Max move forward with both their traumas and their relationship.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
May 9, 2023
Independent reviewer for GRR, I was gifted my copy of this book.
From what I can see, this book is the author's FIRST book and by gosh she nails it!
It's different, and I do LOVE me some different. It's quite hard, I think, to get a different take on the werewolf/half breed thing, but I loved the way this went!
Both Max and Gabe get a say, along with a certain character in the epilogue (not saying who!) so that made me happy.
We get a sort of dance with the pace of this book: slow, slow, quick quick, slow! and I loved that. The slower parts gave you chance to catch you breath after the faster, more challenging parts.
I loved that we had to wait til ALMOST the end, for Max and Gabe to finally admit to each other what their feelings were. I understood why Gabe held back though. It's not especially steamy, though. But I don't think this book needed that. I wonder if the next book, now they are fully commited to each other, will be steamier? I don't mind if not, to be honest!
I loved the supporting cast and how their stories are now intertwined with Max and Gabe. I do hope a certain pair get *THEIR* act together, though.
My only criticism is this: it is violent, graphically so. The blurb on some sites says its got graphic violence and I knew going in that this would be my issue. It's just that it's right at the edge of my boundaries, is all. What's here is well written and well delivered (as much as murdering cults trying to rid the world of halfbreds can be well delivered) but for me? It's just a teeny tiny step too close to the edge.
THAT point aside though, I WILL read the rest of these books. Because now I know what to expect and I can pull my big girl pansts up and deal with it, cos let me tell ya: if this really IS the author's first book?? I can't wait to see what she comes up with next!
Cliif hanger ending, folks! But for Max and Gabe its a HFN ending. I think these guys have got a LOT of poop to get through before they get their HEA!
4 very VERY good stars
* same worded review will appear elsewhere
From what I can see, this book is the author's FIRST book and by gosh she nails it!
It's different, and I do LOVE me some different. It's quite hard, I think, to get a different take on the werewolf/half breed thing, but I loved the way this went!
Both Max and Gabe get a say, along with a certain character in the epilogue (not saying who!) so that made me happy.
We get a sort of dance with the pace of this book: slow, slow, quick quick, slow! and I loved that. The slower parts gave you chance to catch you breath after the faster, more challenging parts.
I loved that we had to wait til ALMOST the end, for Max and Gabe to finally admit to each other what their feelings were. I understood why Gabe held back though. It's not especially steamy, though. But I don't think this book needed that. I wonder if the next book, now they are fully commited to each other, will be steamier? I don't mind if not, to be honest!
I loved the supporting cast and how their stories are now intertwined with Max and Gabe. I do hope a certain pair get *THEIR* act together, though.
My only criticism is this: it is violent, graphically so. The blurb on some sites says its got graphic violence and I knew going in that this would be my issue. It's just that it's right at the edge of my boundaries, is all. What's here is well written and well delivered (as much as murdering cults trying to rid the world of halfbreds can be well delivered) but for me? It's just a teeny tiny step too close to the edge.
THAT point aside though, I WILL read the rest of these books. Because now I know what to expect and I can pull my big girl pansts up and deal with it, cos let me tell ya: if this really IS the author's first book?? I can't wait to see what she comes up with next!
Cliif hanger ending, folks! But for Max and Gabe its a HFN ending. I think these guys have got a LOT of poop to get through before they get their HEA!
4 very VERY good stars
* same worded review will appear elsewhere
July 4, 2024
A Howling Good Read
To Hunt A Moonborn Beast
The Lycanthrope Protection Agency Book 1
CJ Ravenna
Werewolves are 'out' in this series of books by CJ Ravenna.
Gabe is a hybrid - half werewolf/half human - who works for the Lycanthrope Protection Agency, finding lost, abused or confused werewolves such as missing teens or those who have gone feral.
On a job with his partner and sometimes-more BFF Zach, they rescue a skinny, feral red werewolf.
That werewolf is Max; he has been tortured by his stepdad Richard who kept him locked away in a pantry, beaten and starving, then sold him to a cult.
A cult that believes the red wolf is special.
It's the same cult, led by John Stone, that killed Gabe's father.
It takes time to secure and bring back the wolf - Max - from the edge, but when his mom Kendra sees the picture of his wolf on the LPA website, Gabe helps return the young man to his human side.
There's obviously a connection between the two, which makes bff Zach jealous, but it takes time for them to find each other.
In between the romance story, we have the evil cult, the found family, the revenge plot and so much more. Ryan is a great character and adds a needed dose of laughter and sweetness.
There's a side character, a victim of the cult, we meet part way through and I did find it unlikely that Gabe and Max appear not to realise she's a weak link in their fight; that she might be untrustworthy.
I liked that a local bar is called The Slaughtered Lamb and is one of the first werewolf-only establishments in the city.
Whilst there are a few technical issues - minor niggles - it's a great start to a series with cracking characters and I definitely want to continue reading.
The novel ends on a minor hook, not cliffhanger, and we get our HFN.
A howling good read.
To Hunt A Moonborn Beast
The Lycanthrope Protection Agency Book 1
CJ Ravenna
Werewolves are 'out' in this series of books by CJ Ravenna.
Gabe is a hybrid - half werewolf/half human - who works for the Lycanthrope Protection Agency, finding lost, abused or confused werewolves such as missing teens or those who have gone feral.
On a job with his partner and sometimes-more BFF Zach, they rescue a skinny, feral red werewolf.
That werewolf is Max; he has been tortured by his stepdad Richard who kept him locked away in a pantry, beaten and starving, then sold him to a cult.
A cult that believes the red wolf is special.
It's the same cult, led by John Stone, that killed Gabe's father.
It takes time to secure and bring back the wolf - Max - from the edge, but when his mom Kendra sees the picture of his wolf on the LPA website, Gabe helps return the young man to his human side.
There's obviously a connection between the two, which makes bff Zach jealous, but it takes time for them to find each other.
In between the romance story, we have the evil cult, the found family, the revenge plot and so much more. Ryan is a great character and adds a needed dose of laughter and sweetness.
There's a side character, a victim of the cult, we meet part way through and I did find it unlikely that Gabe and Max appear not to realise she's a weak link in their fight; that she might be untrustworthy.
I liked that a local bar is called The Slaughtered Lamb and is one of the first werewolf-only establishments in the city.
Whilst there are a few technical issues - minor niggles - it's a great start to a series with cracking characters and I definitely want to continue reading.
The novel ends on a minor hook, not cliffhanger, and we get our HFN.
A howling good read.
July 2, 2024
To Hunt a Moonborn Beast is the first book of the Lycanthrope Protection Agency series by C.J. Ravenna and introduces us to hybrid power couple Max Gallagher and Gabe Reyes. Max has finally escaped from the clutches of his evil stepfather Richard Moray and sadistic leader of the Moonborn cult, John Stone, after more than a year of being tortured for being a hybrid werewolf. He is found by Gabe, a fellow hybrid and survivor of the Moonborn, and offered protection by the Lycanthrope Protection Agency, a group dedicated to protecting werewolves and who have been trying to take down Stone and Moonborn for years. As Gabe and Max grow closer, Richard and Stone enact a plan that will have both Gabe and Max back in their clutches and either dead or without their wolves.
A good start to the series, To Hunt a Moonborn Beast handled the world-building well by doling out the necessary information without long, boring exposition dumps. The relationship between the two main characters was very slow burn but seemed to have a bit of unnecessary drama. They were clearly fated mates and wanted to be with each other but at other times they actively discouraged the relationship for flimsy reasons. There was a slight love triangle which I personally can’t stand and the way the relationships played out on each side gave me a sour taste in my mouth. Gabe was definitely using his friend for easy access to sex and intimacy even though he knew his friend was in love with him. The first three books of the series will focus on Max and Gabe so we will see lots more from them. They ended this book in a committed relationship and I hope we don’t go back and forth in subsequent books. Overall I recommend this book and look forward to seeing how the story plays out in future books.
A good start to the series, To Hunt a Moonborn Beast handled the world-building well by doling out the necessary information without long, boring exposition dumps. The relationship between the two main characters was very slow burn but seemed to have a bit of unnecessary drama. They were clearly fated mates and wanted to be with each other but at other times they actively discouraged the relationship for flimsy reasons. There was a slight love triangle which I personally can’t stand and the way the relationships played out on each side gave me a sour taste in my mouth. Gabe was definitely using his friend for easy access to sex and intimacy even though he knew his friend was in love with him. The first three books of the series will focus on Max and Gabe so we will see lots more from them. They ended this book in a committed relationship and I hope we don’t go back and forth in subsequent books. Overall I recommend this book and look forward to seeing how the story plays out in future books.
May 18, 2023
A great debut!
This book had me turning pages until the end, needing to know the outcome.
I loved the characters from the start, and all of them were very unique in my mind as soon as I met them.
There were some pacing issues, with the story seeming to jump a little, the transitions lacking.
I also found there was a lot of repetition in terms of reactions of the different characters. Many of the characters seemed to react in the same way described with the same language: hands fisted, claws biting in palms… fangs extending and piercing the bottom lip. Etc.
I liked the overall plot but there were a few times that the plot points seemed a little forced, and left me feeling a little frustrated with the characters. Several times throughout the book they’re in mortal peril, and do not beat the bad guy… however they seem to just go about their lives as though it’s no big deal… and don’t seem to dwell on it. However, when the big bad shows up again it’s intense drama and angst over how it’s still a problem. That drew me out of the story a few times. Example: you’re specifically being targeted and hunted by a bad guy but it seems like a great idea to shift and go running through Central Park instead of staying in the safe house?
OVERALL I really enjoyed this book. I love the world building. I LOOOOVEEEE the characters ( and I’m hoping future books in the series will shift focus to some of them so I can get more of them). CJ Ravenna will definitely be on my “to watch” list for the future.
This book had me turning pages until the end, needing to know the outcome.
I loved the characters from the start, and all of them were very unique in my mind as soon as I met them.
There were some pacing issues, with the story seeming to jump a little, the transitions lacking.
I also found there was a lot of repetition in terms of reactions of the different characters. Many of the characters seemed to react in the same way described with the same language: hands fisted, claws biting in palms… fangs extending and piercing the bottom lip. Etc.
I liked the overall plot but there were a few times that the plot points seemed a little forced, and left me feeling a little frustrated with the characters. Several times throughout the book they’re in mortal peril, and do not beat the bad guy… however they seem to just go about their lives as though it’s no big deal… and don’t seem to dwell on it. However, when the big bad shows up again it’s intense drama and angst over how it’s still a problem. That drew me out of the story a few times. Example: you’re specifically being targeted and hunted by a bad guy but it seems like a great idea to shift and go running through Central Park instead of staying in the safe house?
OVERALL I really enjoyed this book. I love the world building. I LOOOOVEEEE the characters ( and I’m hoping future books in the series will shift focus to some of them so I can get more of them). CJ Ravenna will definitely be on my “to watch” list for the future.
March 1, 2025
Random sale on Zon... sure, count me in. What was the result of this lil order? Me finding an amazing book I didn't know existed.
No, seriously, why when we see people talk about wolf shifter books, this series is not part of those top recommendations?
I started this book with 0 expectations, hadn't read the blurb, didn't know the tropes, nothing. I just saw the cover, saw the wolf and that was it. Now, what came next was the real surprise.
This book is part of the Lycanthrope Protection Agency. The first 3 books are about the same couple, and the next 3 are about different couples from the LPA.
As I was saying, I did not know what to expect, but let me tell you, this story is absolutely amazing. It is action-packed, we have wolves, drama, fated mates, and an amazing found family. Ugh, top tier.
Since the first 3 books are from Gabe's and Max's POV, the book ends in a cliffhanger... keep this in mind if you decide to start it.
I loved being in both pov's even tho sometimes it was hard to follow since it didn't say who's next and it is in 3rd person POV. You get used to it after a while, but, again, just to have this in mind.
I don't get why not more people read this book, Max & Gabe are omg couple goals. Them being fated mates only makes things even better. Their love grows so beautifully, so organically. Ahhhh... even if I'm not usually a fan of slow burn. In this book, it was total worth it. This book is totally worth it.
If you like shifter werewolf romances, fated mates & an amazing pack, then this book is for you.
10/10, for sure, highly recommend.
No, seriously, why when we see people talk about wolf shifter books, this series is not part of those top recommendations?
I started this book with 0 expectations, hadn't read the blurb, didn't know the tropes, nothing. I just saw the cover, saw the wolf and that was it. Now, what came next was the real surprise.
This book is part of the Lycanthrope Protection Agency. The first 3 books are about the same couple, and the next 3 are about different couples from the LPA.
As I was saying, I did not know what to expect, but let me tell you, this story is absolutely amazing. It is action-packed, we have wolves, drama, fated mates, and an amazing found family. Ugh, top tier.
Since the first 3 books are from Gabe's and Max's POV, the book ends in a cliffhanger... keep this in mind if you decide to start it.
I loved being in both pov's even tho sometimes it was hard to follow since it didn't say who's next and it is in 3rd person POV. You get used to it after a while, but, again, just to have this in mind.
I don't get why not more people read this book, Max & Gabe are omg couple goals. Them being fated mates only makes things even better. Their love grows so beautifully, so organically. Ahhhh... even if I'm not usually a fan of slow burn. In this book, it was total worth it. This book is totally worth it.
If you like shifter werewolf romances, fated mates & an amazing pack, then this book is for you.
10/10, for sure, highly recommend.
May 16, 2023
It would have been a real blast if the blurb of the book was like the real content shifters, hybrids and humans trying to find a balance and co exist while crazy ocultists bring violence and terror !?!Yes, please, sounds great!I don't mind the slow burn vibe as long as the world building and the plot are really engaging. And here the author managed to deliver a really good storyline with great emotional impact. That's why I am leaving the 3 stars - because of the idea and the way the plot was developed. There where 2 main problems that kept me from connecting to the story. First - the weird triangle between Max, Zach and Gabe definitely ruined my enjoyment and I really struggled to finish the book. Miscommunication is really frustrating and here it reached quite a good level from the very beginning/ Max thought, Zach thought, Gabe thought - omg, please, spare us the agony and just talk!/. Being best friends for so long Zach and Gabe should have been able to clear the air talking with each other and staying only friends if their "benefits" arrangement obviously didn't work out. And when in this real emotional mess was added Max, it got even more tangled. Second - I tried to understand Max as a character but I couldn't. He lacked the fire and backbone I expected and I didn't see the personality growth nor the chemistry in Max and Gabe's relationship when it finally started.
I received reviewer's copy of the book from GRR and this is my unbiased opinion.
I received reviewer's copy of the book from GRR and this is my unbiased opinion.
November 14, 2023
Here’s the thing, the characters don’t really do anything cause there’s not really a plot. Like they react to a bunch of stuff, which is fine but it’s boring. You’d think with them being part of a police-like agency they’d actually do some work, go investigate, the usual copaganda stuff.
Speaking of copaganda, torture. Yea, that’s kinda messed up. Even though they’re werewolves, sticking your hand in someone’s guts is torture. That’s messed up especially from a federal organization.
The age gap is also weird cause it’s not necessary. Max doesn’t need to be 19 dating a 27 year old man, Gabe. That’s weird y’all. Max could’ve been 25 and nothing in the story would’ve changed. It’s just creepy and reeks of groomer. It’s a big part of the story. Even Gabe, thinks his behavior is unprofessional (it is) and inappropriate (it is). Max is literally trying to decide what to do with his life. He and Gabe are in such different stages of life. I’m confused why the author would create main characters with such an inappropriate age gap AND throw on extreme abuse.
Lastly, if you’re going to make racism a huge plot point in your world building at least do some research. You can tell folks have little to no knowledge of the history of racism and genocide because to them it’s all “hate-based.” They don’t understand the systemic and economic aspects of racism. So when they try to recreate it in their stories it’s just this barren facsimile with as much depth as a coin.
Speaking of copaganda, torture. Yea, that’s kinda messed up. Even though they’re werewolves, sticking your hand in someone’s guts is torture. That’s messed up especially from a federal organization.
The age gap is also weird cause it’s not necessary. Max doesn’t need to be 19 dating a 27 year old man, Gabe. That’s weird y’all. Max could’ve been 25 and nothing in the story would’ve changed. It’s just creepy and reeks of groomer. It’s a big part of the story. Even Gabe, thinks his behavior is unprofessional (it is) and inappropriate (it is). Max is literally trying to decide what to do with his life. He and Gabe are in such different stages of life. I’m confused why the author would create main characters with such an inappropriate age gap AND throw on extreme abuse.
Lastly, if you’re going to make racism a huge plot point in your world building at least do some research. You can tell folks have little to no knowledge of the history of racism and genocide because to them it’s all “hate-based.” They don’t understand the systemic and economic aspects of racism. So when they try to recreate it in their stories it’s just this barren facsimile with as much depth as a coin.
July 2, 2024
I actually really like To Hunt a Moon Beast by CJ Ravenna. It was an easy to read book without it being overwhelming. I found the world CJ built to be interesting to say the least. Humans share the world with Werewolves and Wolf-Hybrids. This book comes with some triggers of abuse of character(s), both physical, mental, and psychological. I’m giving this book a 4.5 star rating overall.
The book begins with the main character Max locked in a pantry cupboard, and being abused by his Step-Father Richard. Richard is a pure blooded werewolf with a blood supremacy complex about Hybrid wolves. He believes that all Hybrids should be wiped from the earth because they’re ‘Unpure’. I personally think the man is full of crap, and can go die in a ditch. Max deserves so much more than the abuse his step-father has inflected on him.
Max has a long road to recovery ahead of him, and he will definitely be facing flashbacks for quite some time. But that comes with someone dealing with the level of torture/abuse he has dealt with. Gabe will be a key part in helping him recover. Gabe works for the Lycanthropic Protection Agency (LPA) to help Wolves and Hybrids when they need help or the law is not helping them. He is also trying to stop a cult that hew kidnapped him when he was younger and killed his father. It is up to him and Max to work together on their relationship, and to stop this cult from causing more harm. I also cannot wait to see what happens in the future of this series.
The book begins with the main character Max locked in a pantry cupboard, and being abused by his Step-Father Richard. Richard is a pure blooded werewolf with a blood supremacy complex about Hybrid wolves. He believes that all Hybrids should be wiped from the earth because they’re ‘Unpure’. I personally think the man is full of crap, and can go die in a ditch. Max deserves so much more than the abuse his step-father has inflected on him.
Max has a long road to recovery ahead of him, and he will definitely be facing flashbacks for quite some time. But that comes with someone dealing with the level of torture/abuse he has dealt with. Gabe will be a key part in helping him recover. Gabe works for the Lycanthropic Protection Agency (LPA) to help Wolves and Hybrids when they need help or the law is not helping them. He is also trying to stop a cult that hew kidnapped him when he was younger and killed his father. It is up to him and Max to work together on their relationship, and to stop this cult from causing more harm. I also cannot wait to see what happens in the future of this series.
May 11, 2023
In a world where magic and shifters exist, mixed blood shifters are being killed by a group of radical purists. This was a good story with an interesting premise, but a lot more will he/won't he angst and martyrdom than I usually like. The writing was engaging and the characters were interesting - the MCs back stories and relationships with the other people in the group held a good amount of depth and character development while still focusing on the plot. A couple things that bothered me were the lack of suspicion of a clearly suspicious character - I know trauma does weird things to people, but she was really obvious about not being who she said she was, and these people are supposed to be investigators of some sort. The other thing was the relationship between Zach and Gabe. Not only did it seem like Gabe was using Zach, I felt like Zach (and Ry, for that matter) forgave him much too easily and there didn't seem to be any resentment toward Max, even though Max certainly felt resentment to others! I did really like the SheWolf mythology, and I'd like to know more about the other characters and how they develop. The bad guys in this were actually really, clinically, insane. If they were real people, would be the absolute worst kind of awful. Sadly, I know there /are/ real people who believe and do similar things.
June 11, 2023
To Hunt a Moonborn Beast is the first book in The Lycanthrope Protection Agency series, and it was a story that had me hooked from the start. Although not perfect, it is certainly one that has me wanting more. In fact, I am eager to get my hands on the second book to see what happens to the characters and how the storyline develops.
From the first page, To Hunt a Moonborn Beast had me sucked into the story. I quickly feel for the characters and was happily powering through the pages to see how things developed. Although there were times when I felt like things moved slowly, along with times where I thought the characters were too oblivious to what was happening around them, it was one that kept me hooked and turning the pages. There were plenty of moving parts, and I’m curious to see how each of them develops. I’m also glad that the quasi-love triangle is over with already. I was not invested in it, and it took away from some aspects of the story. I understand why it happened and am curious about how certain characters will grow from it, but it was not my favourite thing – that is why I am glad it is over and eager to see how things develop.
All in all, this was a great start to a series. I have high hopes for how things will develop and am eager to see what comes for each of the characters.
From the first page, To Hunt a Moonborn Beast had me sucked into the story. I quickly feel for the characters and was happily powering through the pages to see how things developed. Although there were times when I felt like things moved slowly, along with times where I thought the characters were too oblivious to what was happening around them, it was one that kept me hooked and turning the pages. There were plenty of moving parts, and I’m curious to see how each of them develops. I’m also glad that the quasi-love triangle is over with already. I was not invested in it, and it took away from some aspects of the story. I understand why it happened and am curious about how certain characters will grow from it, but it was not my favourite thing – that is why I am glad it is over and eager to see how things develop.
All in all, this was a great start to a series. I have high hopes for how things will develop and am eager to see what comes for each of the characters.
April 30, 2023
3.5 rounded up to 4...Good story, really liked the world building, set in NYC where shifters are known, the pack. Our MC's, Max and Gabe both are grieving. Sweet Max is struggling with the aftereffects of horrific abuse by his stepfather, both physical and mental. Please read the content warnings because there's onpage as well as discussion. He's only one misstep from turning feral. Gabe rescues him, bringing him and his mother into the LPA pack. Gabe, grieving over the murder of his father, is consumed with revengance. Neither feel they are deserving of a relationship but are so good together. The mystery/suspense arc involves a purist group killing hybrids. There is a lot going on between that, Max struggling to maintain his humanity, an ancillary relationship drama with Gabe and a friend. For all that the plot seemed to drag in spots but hang with it. I love the She Wolf mythology and how Max fits in with it. CJ gives us a HFN for Max and Gabe as well an interesting twist for the suspense plot line.
April 30, 2023
If I could give half stars then I'd probably go to a 3.5 star rating.
I think that this book has a lot of promise. I really liked Gabe and Max; from the very beginning Max just melted my heart and I was rooting for him and Gabe to finally see what was right in front of them. There was also plenty of action within the book and some twists and turns that I didn't see coming. The secondary characters added a lot to the book - I really felt for Ry in particular! I also want to know more about Ben's backstory and to see what happens next with Zach. The reason I marked this book down is, for me, I wanted just a bit more between Gabe and Max. They were super sweet and it was like a slow burn between them, despite their wolves immediately recognising their mates. I think if there'd been just a bit more steam between them it would have made the build up 100% worth it. As it stands though, this is still a good book. It's well written and (if you've checked the trigger warnings) I'd recommend it to those who like shifter mm romance.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
I think that this book has a lot of promise. I really liked Gabe and Max; from the very beginning Max just melted my heart and I was rooting for him and Gabe to finally see what was right in front of them. There was also plenty of action within the book and some twists and turns that I didn't see coming. The secondary characters added a lot to the book - I really felt for Ry in particular! I also want to know more about Ben's backstory and to see what happens next with Zach. The reason I marked this book down is, for me, I wanted just a bit more between Gabe and Max. They were super sweet and it was like a slow burn between them, despite their wolves immediately recognising their mates. I think if there'd been just a bit more steam between them it would have made the build up 100% worth it. As it stands though, this is still a good book. It's well written and (if you've checked the trigger warnings) I'd recommend it to those who like shifter mm romance.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
May 19, 2023
Max Gallagher learns quickly that being a hybrid werewolf is not good when he is kidnapped by the Moonborn Cult. They consider hybrids to be abominations and the wolf should be removed. The Lycanthrope Protection Agency is trying hard to locate the cult and Gabe Reyes is one of their agents. He finds Max in the park after he manages to escape. Gabe wants to help and so much more but there is no room for love in this fight. Moonborn wants Max back and will do anything to get him.
It is fantastic when a new series begins and it is so captivating. Max and Gabe wanted each other but each was afraid to act. Both men’s pasts had left them with self-worth issues. Not only were they drawn to each other but so were their wolves. In addition to this, there is other unrequited love, a prophesy (or two) lots of action, and some bad guys that are truly evil. While some issues are resolved, we are left with plenty that will be needing resolutions. This series promises to be captivating and compelling. It is great for anyone who enjoys MM paranormal.
It is fantastic when a new series begins and it is so captivating. Max and Gabe wanted each other but each was afraid to act. Both men’s pasts had left them with self-worth issues. Not only were they drawn to each other but so were their wolves. In addition to this, there is other unrequited love, a prophesy (or two) lots of action, and some bad guys that are truly evil. While some issues are resolved, we are left with plenty that will be needing resolutions. This series promises to be captivating and compelling. It is great for anyone who enjoys MM paranormal.
June 11, 2023
3.75 🌟
I was totally onboard for this story and the world building the author did, I liked the whole idea behind the LPA and the werewolf mythology throughout the book. It took me a bit to connect with the MCs but I was pretty invested in Gabe and Max’s relationship by the end and I’m interested to know what’ll happen next!
The reason I ended up knocking so many stars wasn’t the storyline, it was the constant repetition. At times it felt like a new sentence or paragraph was just a slightly different one from right before. This book could have used a quick, hard edit to rein in some of that.
I generally try not to knock on an author’s writing style and I don’t expect perfection, but I found myself pausing and rereading sections over again because I was so confused. My brain couldn’t handle it and I’d sit there thinking “didn’t I just read that?” 😵💫 “am I imagining things?”
Regardless, I’m still planning to read the next book in the series. There’s a cliffhanger and I’m pretty invested in the story 😅
I was totally onboard for this story and the world building the author did, I liked the whole idea behind the LPA and the werewolf mythology throughout the book. It took me a bit to connect with the MCs but I was pretty invested in Gabe and Max’s relationship by the end and I’m interested to know what’ll happen next!
The reason I ended up knocking so many stars wasn’t the storyline, it was the constant repetition. At times it felt like a new sentence or paragraph was just a slightly different one from right before. This book could have used a quick, hard edit to rein in some of that.
I generally try not to knock on an author’s writing style and I don’t expect perfection, but I found myself pausing and rereading sections over again because I was so confused. My brain couldn’t handle it and I’d sit there thinking “didn’t I just read that?” 😵💫 “am I imagining things?”
Regardless, I’m still planning to read the next book in the series. There’s a cliffhanger and I’m pretty invested in the story 😅
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