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Alpha Girl #5
Alpha Unleashed
Tessa McCaide has had it up to here with supernaturals. Luciana may have failed to steal Tessa’s magic, but she’s just getting started on her crusade for magical domination. If her demonic summoning isn’t stopped, it could mean the end of everything.
Tessa’s allies, including her mate Dastien, are ready to fight, but they’re no match for Luciana’s power. A little help (and ancient Inca mojo) from Tessa’s cousin, Claudia, may give the side of good a chance if she can make it home in time, but stopping the war is no longer an option.
When witches and wolves fight, no one wins. Only time will tell who will still be standing after the last spell is cast.
Tessa’s allies, including her mate Dastien, are ready to fight, but they’re no match for Luciana’s power. A little help (and ancient Inca mojo) from Tessa’s cousin, Claudia, may give the side of good a chance if she can make it home in time, but stopping the war is no longer an option.
When witches and wolves fight, no one wins. Only time will tell who will still be standing after the last spell is cast.
221 pages, Paperback
First published September 22, 2015
651 people are currently reading
2884 people want to read
About the author
Aileen Erin
25 books1,715 followersAileen Erin is half-Irish, half-Mexican and 100% nerd-from Star Wars (prequels don’t count) to Star Trek (TNG FTW), she reads Quenya and some Sindarin, and has a severe fascination with the supernatural. Aileen has a BS in Radio-TV-Film from the University of Texas at Austin, and an MFA in Writing Popular Fiction from Seton Hill University. She lives with her husband, daughter, and mischievous mini bernedoodle in Texas, and spends her days doing her favorite things: reading books, creating worlds, and kicking ass.
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November 10, 2015
Alpha Unleashed is book five and the stunning finale in the Alpha Girl series by Aileen Erin. This book was generously provided to me in exchange for an honest review by NetGalley, Ink Monster, LLC, and by Aileen Erin.
I have been on board with this series from book one, page one. I have watched as Tessa McCaide received the bite that forever changed her life from her soon to be mate, Dastien, struggled to accept who she now was, and to grow and become the woman and alpha mate to Dastien that she is now. Tessa continued to surprise me throughout this series and in this book, she pretty much blew me away.
This book starts out sort of running along the same time line as the previous book, Bruja, while Claudia is traveling in Peru to find what she needs to save her twin brother. Tessa, Dastien and the others are floundering to try to come up with a way to take out Luciana. But before they could come up with a good plan, Luciana made the first shocking move, a move that would change everything.
In their attempts to cover their tracks, the existence of supernaturals are outed to the world. Tessa is chosen as a spokesperson and she desperately tries to convince the human public that they mean no harm to anyone, that they are there to protect them. But again Luciana intervenes and makes it look like they are attacking people.
Tessa spends every waking moment studying books of magic to try to find a way to fight Luciana’s dark magic and the demons she wants to bring forth. She is exhausted and is also fighting with her own visions, trying to control them and use them to help them. Through all of this, the love between she and Dastien grows stronger. I think this is what takes this story from good to great. Dastien is so in love with Tessa and is her strength through everything. And when he speaks French to her, well, I can’t help but to swoon.
“His kisses were addictive. They drowned out all the bad. All the scary. And I had a lot of that going on in my head. But one touch, and I was gone.”
This final book is a crazy ride from the beginning to the end as the Weres, Witches and Fey are all united in their fight against evil. Tessa’s life has been in constant upheaval since she first became part of the supernatural world. Will she and Dastien finally get a chance to enjoy life as mates and live a peaceful existence?
If you haven’t started this series yet, start at the beginning. The books definitely need to be read in order. This is a perfect book and series for young adult supernatural romance lovers. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have.
April 9, 2018
I feel that this series has gone downhill for me and not as exciting as I renember it to be.
September 21, 2015
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads.
ALPHA UNLEASHED tied in well with BRUJA, plus the full moon ceremony was a go and the werewolves outted themselves to humans, so Aileen Erin definitely delivered on her promises. Tessa’s confrontation with Luciana was pretty terrific too. As a result, this book had an end-of-the-series vibe to it even though there was an author’s note promising otherwise, just not soon. All those pros notwithstanding, the five installment journey to get here could have been more proportionate instead of this race to the finish.
Tessa & Dastien finally get with the mating which was behind schedule in my opinion, and I wasn’t crazy about the way it went down. It was the werewolf equivalent of eloping, and after all of this talk about THE ceremony, I kinda felt cheated by the lack thereof. And, all of the “good stuff” happened off scene which was a bummer too, but it’s New Adult, so that quibble wasn’t taken into consideration in my rating. Still, Claudia & Lucas’ HEA was better.
Supes’ first public appearance is a common enough theme in Speculative Fiction, and personally I tend to give this particular thread a pass or a fail based on how well its impact on the world at large is described, and the masses reaction to the news. Erin did ok in both of these areas; however, the crunch to get ‘er all done in one installment took its pound of flesh from this fundamental element as well.
Luciana was the only character that was given enough room to fully do her thing. Her evolution as this series’ villain has been solid throughout, and the author really put the pedal to the metal in this novel; from the trail of carnage that the witch left in her wake, to the traps she set-up for the werewolves, and the unveiling of her ultimate objective. Erin may have teased us with lovemaking, but she swamped us with action!
ALPHA UNLEASHED was a good conclusion to Tessa & Dastien’s story.
ALPHA UNLEASHED tied in well with BRUJA, plus the full moon ceremony was a go and the werewolves outted themselves to humans, so Aileen Erin definitely delivered on her promises. Tessa’s confrontation with Luciana was pretty terrific too. As a result, this book had an end-of-the-series vibe to it even though there was an author’s note promising otherwise, just not soon. All those pros notwithstanding, the five installment journey to get here could have been more proportionate instead of this race to the finish.
Tessa & Dastien finally get with the mating which was behind schedule in my opinion, and I wasn’t crazy about the way it went down. It was the werewolf equivalent of eloping, and after all of this talk about THE ceremony, I kinda felt cheated by the lack thereof. And, all of the “good stuff” happened off scene which was a bummer too, but it’s New Adult, so that quibble wasn’t taken into consideration in my rating. Still, Claudia & Lucas’ HEA was better.
Supes’ first public appearance is a common enough theme in Speculative Fiction, and personally I tend to give this particular thread a pass or a fail based on how well its impact on the world at large is described, and the masses reaction to the news. Erin did ok in both of these areas; however, the crunch to get ‘er all done in one installment took its pound of flesh from this fundamental element as well.
Luciana was the only character that was given enough room to fully do her thing. Her evolution as this series’ villain has been solid throughout, and the author really put the pedal to the metal in this novel; from the trail of carnage that the witch left in her wake, to the traps she set-up for the werewolves, and the unveiling of her ultimate objective. Erin may have teased us with lovemaking, but she swamped us with action!
ALPHA UNLEASHED was a good conclusion to Tessa & Dastien’s story.
January 1, 2016
This whole series had me hooked!!
October 3, 2015
ALPHA UNLEASED starts off taking place during the same timeline as BRUJA as well as after. The flow between the two books was well executed and I liked seeing what was happening at St. Alibe’s while Tessa was gone.
Both Tessa and Dastien have grown as individuals and as a couple. I'm really glad that we got to see them mate, finally. It was a long time coming and when it finally happened I thought it was done well, but wasn't what everyone was expecting.
I thought everything written in the Luciana story line well done. She brought a lot of evil, drama and strife to the series and I loved hating her. The conclusion to her story line was well executed with a ton of action and maddeningly evil and shocking circumstances.
So, ALPHA UNLEASHED was the end of Dastien and Tessa's story and I am a bit sad. I really like them as the main characters, but I thought their story ended in a way that could have ended the series and left everyone happy with its outcome. I didn't think I was going to like Claudia as a main character, but I did and the Alpha girl series has a really great cast of secondary characters so I am sure I will love anything that comes in the future.
* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
September 20, 2015
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a honest review.
I finally feel like I got some closure with this series! It's definitely not the end of the series but everything finally comes to a head in book five and we get some real results!
I honestly love this plot. It's the number one reason that I have read this series. There author does a great job weaving a fun, spunky young adult werewolf book that doesn't fit the mold of every other book out there.
It might seem strange, but I actually like all the "supporting characters" way better than the two main characters, Tessa and Dastien. I think the other characters are what really make this series stand out above others in its genre.
All in all, I'm glad to have gotten a chance to read this book as an advanced reader copy and I'll be sure to keep my eyes out for the next in the series.
I finally feel like I got some closure with this series! It's definitely not the end of the series but everything finally comes to a head in book five and we get some real results!
I honestly love this plot. It's the number one reason that I have read this series. There author does a great job weaving a fun, spunky young adult werewolf book that doesn't fit the mold of every other book out there.
It might seem strange, but I actually like all the "supporting characters" way better than the two main characters, Tessa and Dastien. I think the other characters are what really make this series stand out above others in its genre.
All in all, I'm glad to have gotten a chance to read this book as an advanced reader copy and I'll be sure to keep my eyes out for the next in the series.
October 12, 2015
After failing to steal Tessa and Claudia's power for herself, Luciana has completely lost the plot and in a desperate bid to defeat the werewolves she makes a pact with the devil.
It is up to Tessa and her friends to stop her but when they discover Luciana's plans it becomes a battle not only for the survival of the werewolves and the few remaining good witches, but for all of mankind.
Alpha Unleashed is the final good vs. evil battle in this series and it really rocks. It's one battle after another, all of them leading to the final showdown with Luciana. A great ending to the series.
It is up to Tessa and her friends to stop her but when they discover Luciana's plans it becomes a battle not only for the survival of the werewolves and the few remaining good witches, but for all of mankind.
Alpha Unleashed is the final good vs. evil battle in this series and it really rocks. It's one battle after another, all of them leading to the final showdown with Luciana. A great ending to the series.
September 7, 2015
Oh, I just love this series. Tessa and Dastien are so perfect for each other.
As the final installment of the Alpha Girl series, I wondered how it would end. Perfectly is all I can say. Tessa and Dastien worked hard to save the world and find their happy ending.
After spending so much time with Claudia in Bruja, I missed getting her point of view, but was glad too see her and Lucas.
As the final installment of the Alpha Girl series, I wondered how it would end. Perfectly is all I can say. Tessa and Dastien worked hard to save the world and find their happy ending.
After spending so much time with Claudia in Bruja, I missed getting her point of view, but was glad too see her and Lucas.
November 22, 2021
Dit boek overlapt met deel 4 alleen dan vanuit Tessa haar perspectief. Erg spannend en mooie afsluiting van de serie! Hoewel er aan het einde van het boek staat dat ze terug komen, ik ben benieuwd!
November 14, 2019
Finished about half before I lost interest. Will not continue the series.
October 16, 2015
5 Stars
DESCRIPTION:
Tessa McCaide has had it up to here with supernaturals. Luciana may have failed to steal Tessa’s magic, but she’s just getting started on her crusade for magical domination. If her demonic summoning isn’t stopped, it could mean the end of everything.
Tessa’s allies, including her mate Dastien, are ready to fight, but they’re no match for Luciana’s power. A little help (and ancient Inca mojo) from Tessa’s cousin, Claudia, may give the side of good a chance if she can make it home in time, but stopping the war is no longer an option.
When witches and wolves fight, no one wins. Only time will tell who will still be standing after the last spell is cast.
REVIEW:
I've been following this series from the beginning, so when I saw book five was available, I snatched it up! *squee* Witches, vampires, magic and wolves—not to mention not-stop action—what more could a girl want?
Being part witch, Tess has never had what one would call a normal childhood. Meeting Dastien helped make sense of her chaotic world—even if he accidently turned her into a wolf. As she struggles with the new changes in her life, all Tess wants is a chance to spend time with her mate without someone trying to kill her. The witch, Luciana, hates wolves with a passion and will do whatever is necessary to destroy them, even steal the powers of her fellow witches. Tess barely escaped with her life, but others weren't as lucky. Determined to stop the evil spreading across the country, Tess gathers her friends and allies together, but this time, it might not be enough to save the world if they don't find a way to stop Luciana before she releases hell on earth.
I can't seem to help myself when it comes to this series. I loved the characters and the world building, and each successive book just gets better and better. Tess and her friends were portrayed so realistically, they came alive on the pages. The combination of action and romance, mixed with a few tough choices, kept me turning the pages faster and faster. Aileen Erin didn't pull any punches with her writing or her characters, and I ended up devouring the book in one sitting. Though the book wasn't perfect, the pacing slowing a bit in some spots, it didn't dim my enjoyment at all. I highly recommend reading the series in order or this book might lose some of its sparkle. I look forward to reading more from this series and this author. If you love reading paranormal—new adult—romances, this is the series for you!
Posted from my site: www.StaceyBrutger.com
DESCRIPTION:
Tessa McCaide has had it up to here with supernaturals. Luciana may have failed to steal Tessa’s magic, but she’s just getting started on her crusade for magical domination. If her demonic summoning isn’t stopped, it could mean the end of everything.
Tessa’s allies, including her mate Dastien, are ready to fight, but they’re no match for Luciana’s power. A little help (and ancient Inca mojo) from Tessa’s cousin, Claudia, may give the side of good a chance if she can make it home in time, but stopping the war is no longer an option.
When witches and wolves fight, no one wins. Only time will tell who will still be standing after the last spell is cast.
REVIEW:
I've been following this series from the beginning, so when I saw book five was available, I snatched it up! *squee* Witches, vampires, magic and wolves—not to mention not-stop action—what more could a girl want?
Being part witch, Tess has never had what one would call a normal childhood. Meeting Dastien helped make sense of her chaotic world—even if he accidently turned her into a wolf. As she struggles with the new changes in her life, all Tess wants is a chance to spend time with her mate without someone trying to kill her. The witch, Luciana, hates wolves with a passion and will do whatever is necessary to destroy them, even steal the powers of her fellow witches. Tess barely escaped with her life, but others weren't as lucky. Determined to stop the evil spreading across the country, Tess gathers her friends and allies together, but this time, it might not be enough to save the world if they don't find a way to stop Luciana before she releases hell on earth.
I can't seem to help myself when it comes to this series. I loved the characters and the world building, and each successive book just gets better and better. Tess and her friends were portrayed so realistically, they came alive on the pages. The combination of action and romance, mixed with a few tough choices, kept me turning the pages faster and faster. Aileen Erin didn't pull any punches with her writing or her characters, and I ended up devouring the book in one sitting. Though the book wasn't perfect, the pacing slowing a bit in some spots, it didn't dim my enjoyment at all. I highly recommend reading the series in order or this book might lose some of its sparkle. I look forward to reading more from this series and this author. If you love reading paranormal—new adult—romances, this is the series for you!
Posted from my site: www.StaceyBrutger.com
February 7, 2017
*** I reviewed my personal copy of this book for Wicked Reads***
I have read all the previous books in the Alpha Girl series by Aileen Erin. I have easily grown to appreciate this series and all the characters in this series! Book #5, Alpha Unleashed, switches back to Tessa from book #4, Bruja, which focuses on Claudia and her journey in Peru. Personally, I think if you wanted to you could just skip book #4 unless you're really invested in Claudia's character and want to know more about her. I will say that this last one kind of felt a little anti-climatic compared to what I was expecting. I just felt like everything was finally coming to a head with Luciana and then it was over. However, I did enjoy seeing how Tessa and Dastien's relationship has grown over these past few books, but I wish it didn't feel like they were moving at such a snails pace. I guess I had high expectations and unfortunately this one didn't quite live up to them.
Even after failing to successfully steal Tessa's magic Luciana has not given up and she's just getting started. Luciana's demonic summoning must be stopped or it could be the end for everyone. Tessa and her friends are ready to fight back and with a little help from Claudia, Tessa's cousin, they may just be able to win if she can make it home in time.
All in all, I enjoyed Alpha Unleashed, but I definitely didn't like it as much as I liked Becoming Alpha, book #1, which has been my favorite so far. The past two books just really haven't wowed me much. However, I am slightly curious about the next book, which will feature Meredith and her mate, Donovan. Overall I'd give Alpha Unleashed 3.5 stars ***
I have read all the previous books in the Alpha Girl series by Aileen Erin. I have easily grown to appreciate this series and all the characters in this series! Book #5, Alpha Unleashed, switches back to Tessa from book #4, Bruja, which focuses on Claudia and her journey in Peru. Personally, I think if you wanted to you could just skip book #4 unless you're really invested in Claudia's character and want to know more about her. I will say that this last one kind of felt a little anti-climatic compared to what I was expecting. I just felt like everything was finally coming to a head with Luciana and then it was over. However, I did enjoy seeing how Tessa and Dastien's relationship has grown over these past few books, but I wish it didn't feel like they were moving at such a snails pace. I guess I had high expectations and unfortunately this one didn't quite live up to them.
Even after failing to successfully steal Tessa's magic Luciana has not given up and she's just getting started. Luciana's demonic summoning must be stopped or it could be the end for everyone. Tessa and her friends are ready to fight back and with a little help from Claudia, Tessa's cousin, they may just be able to win if she can make it home in time.
All in all, I enjoyed Alpha Unleashed, but I definitely didn't like it as much as I liked Becoming Alpha, book #1, which has been my favorite so far. The past two books just really haven't wowed me much. However, I am slightly curious about the next book, which will feature Meredith and her mate, Donovan. Overall I'd give Alpha Unleashed 3.5 stars ***
September 22, 2015
I received an ARC through NetGalley.
Alpha Unleashed is very likely my favorite of the series. There's so much happening! The first third or so takes place concurrently with Bruja, so we get to see what was happening back at the compound. Nothing is as it should be. Tessa can't feel some of her packmates in the pack bond anymore, wolves are fighting with each other, and she keeps having these moments where she can't wake up, but isn't exactly having a nightmare. And all of this is happening while Luciana is still out there, plotting who knows what. At least until her entire coven turns up dead, and there's no way to cover that up from the humans.
Alpha Unleashed is really nonstop action and madness. Obviously Luciana is gearing up for something huge, but I honestly didn't expect her to do what she did in order to set that up. It was beyond anything she had done up until that point, and for a moment I honestly thought there'd be a magical solution to it. But then as the story moved forward, it was clear that that was not the case. Tessa, the wolves, witches, and Cosette were not ready for that at all. I still definitely had hope that everything would work out!
I would be really happy with Alpha Unleashed as an ending to this series. Nearly everything was nicely resolved, and what's left open, I could probably live with not knowing (but I do want to know what's up with Cosette?!?!). I'm certainly not opposed to more though!
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
Alpha Unleashed is very likely my favorite of the series. There's so much happening! The first third or so takes place concurrently with Bruja, so we get to see what was happening back at the compound. Nothing is as it should be. Tessa can't feel some of her packmates in the pack bond anymore, wolves are fighting with each other, and she keeps having these moments where she can't wake up, but isn't exactly having a nightmare. And all of this is happening while Luciana is still out there, plotting who knows what. At least until her entire coven turns up dead, and there's no way to cover that up from the humans.
Alpha Unleashed is really nonstop action and madness. Obviously Luciana is gearing up for something huge, but I honestly didn't expect her to do what she did in order to set that up. It was beyond anything she had done up until that point, and for a moment I honestly thought there'd be a magical solution to it. But then as the story moved forward, it was clear that that was not the case. Tessa, the wolves, witches, and Cosette were not ready for that at all. I still definitely had hope that everything would work out!
I would be really happy with Alpha Unleashed as an ending to this series. Nearly everything was nicely resolved, and what's left open, I could probably live with not knowing (but I do want to know what's up with Cosette?!?!). I'm certainly not opposed to more though!
Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.
December 13, 2023
The fifth Alpha Girl book, and the first one I have four stars to. I didn't like this one as much as I liked the other books. And this one was really sad, the saddest of them all. I hope Shattered Pack is better, I just didn't like the way this one went. I was a little worried that this would be a cliffhanger or something, that they wouldn't win, but this is Tessa, I should've believed. A great series, I'm anxiously awaiting for when I can read book 6.
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
That first review I wrote 4 years ago is very vague, so I’ll write my more developed and mature thoughts here:
This was a great book and I quite enjoyed the friendship. One of the best parts of this entire series is the camaraderie and friendship between all my favorite characters. The motel scene from this book is one of my favorites from the series because it’s an example of how fun my favorite werewolves are together. Even in dark times, Tessa and her friends find ways to laugh, and they make me laugh.
As for what I originally wrote, I guess it was pretty sad book, but I was expecting that. Also, I made this book sound pretty bad in my original review - I only wrote negative things. I had fun rereading “Alpha Unleashed,” even if I did remember a lot from it. It’s funny, though, reading all Tessa’s hopes for the future and knowing what the future holds for her.
I’d disregard what I originally wrote because I love this series and this is one of the most action-packed books. If you’ve enjoyed the first four, you’ll enjoy this fifth installment.
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
That first review I wrote 4 years ago is very vague, so I’ll write my more developed and mature thoughts here:
This was a great book and I quite enjoyed the friendship. One of the best parts of this entire series is the camaraderie and friendship between all my favorite characters. The motel scene from this book is one of my favorites from the series because it’s an example of how fun my favorite werewolves are together. Even in dark times, Tessa and her friends find ways to laugh, and they make me laugh.
As for what I originally wrote, I guess it was pretty sad book, but I was expecting that. Also, I made this book sound pretty bad in my original review - I only wrote negative things. I had fun rereading “Alpha Unleashed,” even if I did remember a lot from it. It’s funny, though, reading all Tessa’s hopes for the future and knowing what the future holds for her.
I’d disregard what I originally wrote because I love this series and this is one of the most action-packed books. If you’ve enjoyed the first four, you’ll enjoy this fifth installment.
September 21, 2015
I really do love this series. Tessa and Dastien are trying to figure out what Luciana's end game is. Since her powers were messed with, Tessa hasn't had the visions that she is used to. Now, night terrors, yes she's had those, but she cannot remember them. Tessa's cousin Claudia is trying to free her coven members at the beginning and as it evolves, Tessa realizes she may need more help from her cousin than she realized. Problems come from near and far and it seems that she may have to become the face of the pack.
I love Tessa and Dastien! I was glad to see Claudia's book from Tessa's perspective and see what was going on at home while Claudia was gone. The pack dynamic always intrigues me and I love that Tessa is now surrounded by a family that takes care of her. I literally inhaled this book wanting to see how it unfolded and once the action truly started, it went fast! This whole series has entertained me and I know the author is going to write another series for a while and I cannot wait to read it!
Absolutely a 5/5. Love the series, you should start with book 1 but great series!!
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy of this book (via netgalley). I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
I love Tessa and Dastien! I was glad to see Claudia's book from Tessa's perspective and see what was going on at home while Claudia was gone. The pack dynamic always intrigues me and I love that Tessa is now surrounded by a family that takes care of her. I literally inhaled this book wanting to see how it unfolded and once the action truly started, it went fast! This whole series has entertained me and I know the author is going to write another series for a while and I cannot wait to read it!
Absolutely a 5/5. Love the series, you should start with book 1 but great series!!
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy of this book (via netgalley). I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
October 19, 2015
Overall, not bad. Like the previous books, I was annoyed with the juvenile dialogue (even though she curses like a sailor), but other than that, it was okay.
October 23, 2018
the action in this one .. I swear to god
love it so much
love it so much
September 22, 2023
Worth the wait! Thai is the book that culminates- read the sérienos even when it kills a bit- it culminates here
March 14, 2024
This was such a great sequel, I loved this story after the events of Bruja, and so much happened, and I can't wait to continue on!
February 6, 2025
I think I’m done with the series.
September 24, 2015
Knowing that, as of the current moment, this is where Tessa's story ends is kind of bittersweet. Becoming Alpha was the first review copy of any book I received that I actually really enjoyed, and after two years, it's really wonderful to see how far Tessa and her cohorts have come, but it's also pretty sad - goodbyes suck, especially when they're related to series, and Alpha Girl is a series special to my heart, but I confess, after falling in love with the faultless Bruja, Alpha Unleashed just didn't quite hit the mark. Nevertheless, Erin has written a superb ending to a super awesome series, and I'm so glad I experienced this wonderful series.
In a way, I struggled with Alpha Unleashed in a very unfortunate way, and that's because after reading Bruja and loving absolutely everything about it, I was almost disappointed to be back in Tessa's perspective. Tessa has always been a strong character with gallons of development and personal growth, but where Claudia's personality made every character she encountered shine, Tessa's feels a lot more restricted and her personal relationships feel a lot less explored in comparison, and it hindered my enjoyment. As much as I loved reading Bruja and breaking up the series with a great snippet of a really interesting part of the plot, I think the decision to split the story like so wasn't a sound one. Tessa's perspective was dry and almost none existent in the period of time that Claudia was away; I couldn't help but feel it created an out of sorts feel while reading. I can't say whether I'd recommended reading the novels in order of publication or leaving Bruja until after Alpha Unleashed, but I do know it impacted my personal reading experience, and not entirely in a great way.
What I can't fault is Erin's characters and their relationships with one another. Romantic relationships have always played such a strong part in Alpha Girls's storyline, with wolves and their true mates, and as much as I love Tessa/Dastien, Meredith/Donovan and Claudia/Lucas, the family relationships and friendships are just as super and I love how Erin explores these in every installment. Seeing how far Tessa and Meredith have come from Becoming Alpha, watching how they appreciate and interact with one another and how they mean so much and would do anything for each other is just wonderful, and I think their friendship has been one of the most wonderful things about this series. Tessa's constant contact with her family - her parents and her brother - outside of the compound, and her cousins, Claudia and Raphael, has always been a joy to read. Only too often do characters develop without their parents and family, and seeing how not only Tessa still loves and cares for them the same, but how little things such as settling down for the future, aspirations, and pride can all show development not only through Tessa but through her family and friendships opinions and responses to her actions, and watching them interact has always been something I've adored.
Of course, I can't talk about Alpha Girl and not talk about the romances, and as much as they started off as a tough selling point, I can honestly say I've been won over by each and every one of them. Their depth, their emotion and their honest romantic feelings for each other, how they treat and respect one another, and how both characters in the relationship are treated as equals with each other is just delightful, and I don't think I can fault this. As much as people might have issues with the idea of young marriage, having only one true love, and knowing you've met your mate when you first see them, it's instalove in a super okay way, and I've never had a problem with it.
Alpha Unleashed is the great sequel I expected to have in the series. It tied up a lot of loose ends, all the while still keeping a fair few things open to explore later down the line, something I really appreciate. It'd be interesting to explore more the world Erin has created, more of the Inca's, more vampires and so much more werewolves, and the idea of having more from this world excites me a lot. Sure, the plot was a little jumpy and some little details got lost in transit, but I was 100% absorbed in Tessa's story, and I always have been - it's been intense, it's been full of feelings, it's been sexy and it's been oh so heartbreaking, but I've never once read a novel in this series and thought I didn't want more. Erin is a genius, and I will miss having no more Alpha Girl to look forward to any time soon, but I'll always make a point of reading her work, especially when there's darkness, creepiness and sexy men involved. I'm hooked on hot werewolves, are you ready to be too?
In a way, I struggled with Alpha Unleashed in a very unfortunate way, and that's because after reading Bruja and loving absolutely everything about it, I was almost disappointed to be back in Tessa's perspective. Tessa has always been a strong character with gallons of development and personal growth, but where Claudia's personality made every character she encountered shine, Tessa's feels a lot more restricted and her personal relationships feel a lot less explored in comparison, and it hindered my enjoyment. As much as I loved reading Bruja and breaking up the series with a great snippet of a really interesting part of the plot, I think the decision to split the story like so wasn't a sound one. Tessa's perspective was dry and almost none existent in the period of time that Claudia was away; I couldn't help but feel it created an out of sorts feel while reading. I can't say whether I'd recommended reading the novels in order of publication or leaving Bruja until after Alpha Unleashed, but I do know it impacted my personal reading experience, and not entirely in a great way.
What I can't fault is Erin's characters and their relationships with one another. Romantic relationships have always played such a strong part in Alpha Girls's storyline, with wolves and their true mates, and as much as I love Tessa/Dastien, Meredith/Donovan and Claudia/Lucas, the family relationships and friendships are just as super and I love how Erin explores these in every installment. Seeing how far Tessa and Meredith have come from Becoming Alpha, watching how they appreciate and interact with one another and how they mean so much and would do anything for each other is just wonderful, and I think their friendship has been one of the most wonderful things about this series. Tessa's constant contact with her family - her parents and her brother - outside of the compound, and her cousins, Claudia and Raphael, has always been a joy to read. Only too often do characters develop without their parents and family, and seeing how not only Tessa still loves and cares for them the same, but how little things such as settling down for the future, aspirations, and pride can all show development not only through Tessa but through her family and friendships opinions and responses to her actions, and watching them interact has always been something I've adored.
Of course, I can't talk about Alpha Girl and not talk about the romances, and as much as they started off as a tough selling point, I can honestly say I've been won over by each and every one of them. Their depth, their emotion and their honest romantic feelings for each other, how they treat and respect one another, and how both characters in the relationship are treated as equals with each other is just delightful, and I don't think I can fault this. As much as people might have issues with the idea of young marriage, having only one true love, and knowing you've met your mate when you first see them, it's instalove in a super okay way, and I've never had a problem with it.
Alpha Unleashed is the great sequel I expected to have in the series. It tied up a lot of loose ends, all the while still keeping a fair few things open to explore later down the line, something I really appreciate. It'd be interesting to explore more the world Erin has created, more of the Inca's, more vampires and so much more werewolves, and the idea of having more from this world excites me a lot. Sure, the plot was a little jumpy and some little details got lost in transit, but I was 100% absorbed in Tessa's story, and I always have been - it's been intense, it's been full of feelings, it's been sexy and it's been oh so heartbreaking, but I've never once read a novel in this series and thought I didn't want more. Erin is a genius, and I will miss having no more Alpha Girl to look forward to any time soon, but I'll always make a point of reading her work, especially when there's darkness, creepiness and sexy men involved. I'm hooked on hot werewolves, are you ready to be too?
September 29, 2015
Tessa is still reeling from the events of book 3, where she had her powers stripped and their enemy brought back the dead to fight against the werewolves. Tessa sent her cousin Claudia to Costa Rica as a last ditch effort to find a cure for Claudia's twin brother Raphael before he is consumed by the demon possessing him. Tessa knows she only has a short period of time to get a handle on her powers before something big happens that may just be the end of all that Tessa hold dear.
I love this series, and that is a fact. I also love how the author drops the reader right into the action without recapping the story to fill in the blanks for those who just started the series. This series must be read in order, and this is book 5 so pick up books 1-4 first! I find it really interesting that this story takes place during the same time frame as book 4, which was from Claudia's point of view (FYI book 4 was my absolute favorite in the series, and that is saying a lot given my love for this world created by Aileen). Another thing I find interesting about the series is that the books take place over a few months only. It feels like I have know these characters forever right along with Tessa, but in actuality it has been a short period of time, just a very intense/dangerous set of circumstances that formed a lasting bond. And did I mention my love of books with werewolves and the mate bond? No? Well, that topic is up there with my favorite things ever and this book has plenty of it.
I enjoy Tessa's no holds bar, take no prisoners approach. When she needs to, she stands up for what she believes is right and fights those who are in theory above her in the pack or stronger. She has had so much thrown at her in such a short time yet has never backed down from a challenge. And man, does she ever have a potty mouth which entertains me each time something comes out. She and Dastien together are dreamy and I am so glad that Tessa finally stopped fighting their bond and made them partners in everything. Can I just say that I completely saw it coming when Tessa "volunteered" to give the statement? That was a needed slice of humor in the face of horror. ( I laughed at loud at her comeback about the bestiality question.) I also found her relationship with her new FBI friends to be interesting. I don't agree with Tessa that they will lose interest in her in time and find someone new, which makes me excited for the future and the direction the series could go in... But that could be wishful thinking on my part.
It may feel like I am gushing (which honestly I may be), but I enjoyed this book, this whole series, and everything has been building to this moment for what seems like forever.. My only complaint was that I wish it could be longer just so I could have had more time with the story because getting to the end was bittersweet. The book has the best ending that I could have ever hoped for, the major events that had been runnng throughout the books get wrapped up, almost feeling like this could be the end of the series.Thankfully the author states that this is not the end for these characters, that she will write more, but she is going to be working on a new project. This makes me excited that I can read something new and different by Eileen since I am a fan, but also sad because I love this group of people and couldn't ever imagine not wanting to read another book about any of these characters (especially Cossette and some more Claudia). Even if this was "the end" I would survive because I experienced such a fun, exciting, dangerous and romantic ride provided by the books.
I received this title from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
For more reviews visit my blog at http://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/
I love this series, and that is a fact. I also love how the author drops the reader right into the action without recapping the story to fill in the blanks for those who just started the series. This series must be read in order, and this is book 5 so pick up books 1-4 first! I find it really interesting that this story takes place during the same time frame as book 4, which was from Claudia's point of view (FYI book 4 was my absolute favorite in the series, and that is saying a lot given my love for this world created by Aileen). Another thing I find interesting about the series is that the books take place over a few months only. It feels like I have know these characters forever right along with Tessa, but in actuality it has been a short period of time, just a very intense/dangerous set of circumstances that formed a lasting bond. And did I mention my love of books with werewolves and the mate bond? No? Well, that topic is up there with my favorite things ever and this book has plenty of it.
I enjoy Tessa's no holds bar, take no prisoners approach. When she needs to, she stands up for what she believes is right and fights those who are in theory above her in the pack or stronger. She has had so much thrown at her in such a short time yet has never backed down from a challenge. And man, does she ever have a potty mouth which entertains me each time something comes out. She and Dastien together are dreamy and I am so glad that Tessa finally stopped fighting their bond and made them partners in everything. Can I just say that I completely saw it coming when Tessa "volunteered" to give the statement? That was a needed slice of humor in the face of horror. ( I laughed at loud at her comeback about the bestiality question.) I also found her relationship with her new FBI friends to be interesting. I don't agree with Tessa that they will lose interest in her in time and find someone new, which makes me excited for the future and the direction the series could go in... But that could be wishful thinking on my part.
It may feel like I am gushing (which honestly I may be), but I enjoyed this book, this whole series, and everything has been building to this moment for what seems like forever.. My only complaint was that I wish it could be longer just so I could have had more time with the story because getting to the end was bittersweet. The book has the best ending that I could have ever hoped for, the major events that had been runnng throughout the books get wrapped up, almost feeling like this could be the end of the series.Thankfully the author states that this is not the end for these characters, that she will write more, but she is going to be working on a new project. This makes me excited that I can read something new and different by Eileen since I am a fan, but also sad because I love this group of people and couldn't ever imagine not wanting to read another book about any of these characters (especially Cossette and some more Claudia). Even if this was "the end" I would survive because I experienced such a fun, exciting, dangerous and romantic ride provided by the books.
I received this title from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
For more reviews visit my blog at http://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/
September 13, 2015
http://librarytalker.blogspot.com/201...
Just a few months after becoming a werewolf, Tessa is still figuring out how all her witch/were powers work, but she doesn't have time to keep studying. Luciana, the dark witch of coven Tessa had been chosen to lead, has gone completely demonic and is raising demons everywhere.
There is no more time to waste.
And there is nowhere to hide.
Luciana has even managed to reveal the existence of weres and witches to the human world, so Tessa now has to deal with that, as well.
The world has turned upside-down and Tessa's most recent vision of the future shows only destruction and the death of all she loves.
Now Tessa must find a way to change her visions before Luciana raises the final demons necessary to destroy the world.
Final thoughts: I read through all of the other books (2-4) in an effort to get to this one since it's a NetGalley ARC and hasn't yet been released. Overall, the series was decent. I didn't love everything about all of them and I was not a big fan of the fourth book, which followed Claudia instead of Tessa. However, I still liked most of what I read. I wish we'd had more character development over the series because the action was sometimes overwhelming. The final book seemed to drop in a TON of stuff in an effort to finish out this series quickly and not go to a sixth. Decent read throughout though quite a few typos in the galley that I hope they can clear up in the final publishing.
Rating: 3/5
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
Just a few months after becoming a werewolf, Tessa is still figuring out how all her witch/were powers work, but she doesn't have time to keep studying. Luciana, the dark witch of coven Tessa had been chosen to lead, has gone completely demonic and is raising demons everywhere.
There is no more time to waste.
And there is nowhere to hide.
Luciana has even managed to reveal the existence of weres and witches to the human world, so Tessa now has to deal with that, as well.
The world has turned upside-down and Tessa's most recent vision of the future shows only destruction and the death of all she loves.
Now Tessa must find a way to change her visions before Luciana raises the final demons necessary to destroy the world.
Final thoughts: I read through all of the other books (2-4) in an effort to get to this one since it's a NetGalley ARC and hasn't yet been released. Overall, the series was decent. I didn't love everything about all of them and I was not a big fan of the fourth book, which followed Claudia instead of Tessa. However, I still liked most of what I read. I wish we'd had more character development over the series because the action was sometimes overwhelming. The final book seemed to drop in a TON of stuff in an effort to finish out this series quickly and not go to a sixth. Decent read throughout though quite a few typos in the galley that I hope they can clear up in the final publishing.
Rating: 3/5
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
September 22, 2015
I am such a huge fan of the Alpha girl series. I have read everybook and will happily re-read them all because they are just that good.
I never thought i would like the whole werewolf and witches thing but the authoer manages to make it soo cool to be a wolf. So we are in book 5 and what might be the last in the series..... or is it?
Well the story picks up from where that last alpha book ended. Luciana has retreated after the death of her son and Raphael has been infected by one of Luciana spells. its up to Claudia to go to Peru to find something to help her brother but Tessa fears she might not make it back on time. Worse sill tessa doesnt feel the same after the spell Luciana had done to strip her off her magic. She knows the magic is there but her visions dont seem to be working like they used to. either that or she is scared of what she might see.
Dastien tries to help her to unwind and soon enough she lets the visions take over but she is not happy with what she sees. Luciana is planning something really big and she really has no clue on how to stop it. It is then up to Tessa, dastien and their pack to find a way to stop Luciana and this is in the midst of some PR crises for the Wolves which could very well blow their cover.
A stunning conclusion to the series. I simply devoured this book from the first page to the last!
I never thought i would like the whole werewolf and witches thing but the authoer manages to make it soo cool to be a wolf. So we are in book 5 and what might be the last in the series..... or is it?
Well the story picks up from where that last alpha book ended. Luciana has retreated after the death of her son and Raphael has been infected by one of Luciana spells. its up to Claudia to go to Peru to find something to help her brother but Tessa fears she might not make it back on time. Worse sill tessa doesnt feel the same after the spell Luciana had done to strip her off her magic. She knows the magic is there but her visions dont seem to be working like they used to. either that or she is scared of what she might see.
Dastien tries to help her to unwind and soon enough she lets the visions take over but she is not happy with what she sees. Luciana is planning something really big and she really has no clue on how to stop it. It is then up to Tessa, dastien and their pack to find a way to stop Luciana and this is in the midst of some PR crises for the Wolves which could very well blow their cover.
A stunning conclusion to the series. I simply devoured this book from the first page to the last!
September 25, 2015
I haven't (yet!) had the pleasure of reading the previous four books in The Alpha Girl Series by Aileen Erin but they are all waiting for me on my Kindle for pleasure reading as soon as the time finds me!
It took a quick few chapters to really find myself caught up in the story and feeling like I wasn't missing out on the backstory at all. Ms. Erin did an excellent job of jumping immediately back into action and the thoughts and interactions of her characters carried the story full ahead for me.
I'm not a fan of witches or demons, but when combined with Tessa, Dastien, and the rest of their friends, I am completely impressed with this novel! The writing is fast paced, the action and anticipation is non-stop and the ending was . . . was . . . fanstasmagorical! I'm not certain which words I just combined, but it truly sounds like how I'm feeling at the end of Alpha Unleashed.
I am a huge fangirl after reading Alpha Unleashed, Book #5 in The Alpha Girl Series by Aileen Erin. I'm looking forward to her upcoming Holy Ghost High Series and more in the future in The Alpha Girl Series.
I highly recommend Alpha Unleashed, Book #5 in The Alpha Girl Series by Aileen Erin and give it five demonly hot cups of Room With Books coffee.
© September 24, 2015
Patricia, Room With Books
It took a quick few chapters to really find myself caught up in the story and feeling like I wasn't missing out on the backstory at all. Ms. Erin did an excellent job of jumping immediately back into action and the thoughts and interactions of her characters carried the story full ahead for me.
I'm not a fan of witches or demons, but when combined with Tessa, Dastien, and the rest of their friends, I am completely impressed with this novel! The writing is fast paced, the action and anticipation is non-stop and the ending was . . . was . . . fanstasmagorical! I'm not certain which words I just combined, but it truly sounds like how I'm feeling at the end of Alpha Unleashed.
I am a huge fangirl after reading Alpha Unleashed, Book #5 in The Alpha Girl Series by Aileen Erin. I'm looking forward to her upcoming Holy Ghost High Series and more in the future in The Alpha Girl Series.
I highly recommend Alpha Unleashed, Book #5 in The Alpha Girl Series by Aileen Erin and give it five demonly hot cups of Room With Books coffee.
© September 24, 2015
Patricia, Room With Books
October 3, 2015
I am glad with the way this series ended. It was nice coming back and seeing Tessa and the rest of the wolves and witches finally take down Luciana. The bonding ceremony finally happens, Claudia makes an appearance with her mate Lucas, ties to the wolf were broken and the bad guys were pushed away, and the supernatural community finally gets revealed to the humans and they begin to work together. Basically a lot of things happened in this book and I wouldn't be able to mention all of them without spoiling the whole entire book!
But I was still left with a lot of questions that weren't answered. Like will Adrian and Shane get together? What's the relationship between Cosette and Van, is Cosette someone important to the Fey court? why did Dastien cry that one time , and, will Meredith go live in Ireland with Donovan? Will Tessa and Dastien ever build their dream house? and etc, because I could write a whole essay on the things that still need answers!
At least it won't be the end of the characters and the world. THe author mentioned that it was the end of this series, or arc I guess, but she'll come back and write a new series about Tessa, Dastien, Meredith, Chris and the rest of the crew. I can't wait for the new adventures and problems they will face!
But I was still left with a lot of questions that weren't answered. Like will Adrian and Shane get together? What's the relationship between Cosette and Van, is Cosette someone important to the Fey court? why did Dastien cry that one time , and, will Meredith go live in Ireland with Donovan? Will Tessa and Dastien ever build their dream house? and etc, because I could write a whole essay on the things that still need answers!
At least it won't be the end of the characters and the world. THe author mentioned that it was the end of this series, or arc I guess, but she'll come back and write a new series about Tessa, Dastien, Meredith, Chris and the rest of the crew. I can't wait for the new adventures and problems they will face!
September 24, 2015
I started this book with a certain amount of frustration - I've enjoyed the whole series immensely, but I felt that it was taking a little too long for certain things to happen, and for the whole story to come to a head. Though I expect part of that was just frustration at having to wait for each book to be written and published. I'm not a patient person when it comes to reading, which is why I prefer to find a series already fully-formed before I start reading it. But there are a few authors that I will read as soon as they are published and then wait with baited breath for the next installment.
Alpha Girl is not the end of the series as such - Erin says at the end that there will be more, but it is a satisfyling conclusion to this story arc. And it has an end-of-series feel to it - a shed-load of action and a few loose ends wrapped up with aplomb. Any frustration I felt at the start was soon taken over by a rabid page-turning accompanied by alternating squeeing and snuffling. I love Tessa and all her raggle-taggle magical friends, and I can't get enough of this series. Please, Ms Erin, give Chris a lovely mate and tell us more of those tricksy fey.
Alpha Girl is not the end of the series as such - Erin says at the end that there will be more, but it is a satisfyling conclusion to this story arc. And it has an end-of-series feel to it - a shed-load of action and a few loose ends wrapped up with aplomb. Any frustration I felt at the start was soon taken over by a rabid page-turning accompanied by alternating squeeing and snuffling. I love Tessa and all her raggle-taggle magical friends, and I can't get enough of this series. Please, Ms Erin, give Chris a lovely mate and tell us more of those tricksy fey.
September 23, 2015
I received an copy of Alpha Unleashed in exchanged for an honest review and what a fantastic end to an amazing series! The Alpha Girl series has absolutely everything you could want in a book. There is action, romance, magic and an entire army of amazing characters. The journey Tessa and Dastien have been on is truly astonishing as they have been a completely solid couple despite the trials they have faced. This final book in the current story arc is just full of excitement and had me glued to my Kindle until the early hours of the morning.
Tessa is such a fantastic, strong heroine who displays so much bravery and loyalty its a complete pleasure to read. Aileen Erin is a wonderful author who has managed to capture every characters idiosyncrasies with ease with not a single boring moment in the series.
I have loved these books since Becoming Alpha the first in the series. If you haven't read the previous books I sincerely hope you do so now, and if you have then you must purchase Alpha Unleashed:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Alpha-Unleash...
Tessa is such a fantastic, strong heroine who displays so much bravery and loyalty its a complete pleasure to read. Aileen Erin is a wonderful author who has managed to capture every characters idiosyncrasies with ease with not a single boring moment in the series.
I have loved these books since Becoming Alpha the first in the series. If you haven't read the previous books I sincerely hope you do so now, and if you have then you must purchase Alpha Unleashed:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Alpha-Unleash...
January 9, 2021
Everything’s going so fast! I understand that there’s a lot going n and there’s a lot of urgency in the moment, but just because time is moving quickly in the book doesn’t mean that time needs to move quickly for the reader. The content in this book could have easily been spread out into two or even three sections, and by having all of these events take place in the same book I am left feeling rushed, jumbled, and honestly not appreciating any of it. I’m glad that we finally got Dastien and Tessa mated, because this whole “putting it off and waiting until marriage” thing was driving me bonkers. Figuring out how to use her visions, and then the vision itself? That was intense and I would have appreciated it if there was more time spent with it rather than rushing through to the end of the vision and the end of that plot line how we did.
June 26, 2016
This wasn't a bad series, but it needs better editing and the author needs to keep up with her details. A few examples:
A guard was being placed at Tess's door...the person's name starts out as James and then is Jason all the other times his name is mentioned.
Meredith's name was used instead of one of the two girls being talked about--Imogene and Shannon.
Before going to Peru, Claudia says she hasn't been to her aunt's house before...but she had just been there in the previous book.
(It's been awhile since I read the books, so these are just the ones I remember at the moment.)
(Also, it seems like fanfiction of the Sookie Stackhouse series.)
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