My Guardian Gryphon by Krystal Shannan - Review

Title: My Guardian Gryphon (Sanctuary, Texas #5)

Author: Krystal Shannan
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: 300 pages
Publisher: KS Publishing
Release Date: October 25, 2016, 2016
Source: Purchased
Rating: 4
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

A beauty and her beast...

Gretchen has been falling for the Gryphon of Sanctuary a little more each hour she spends in the Castle library. He reads to her, he tells her stories of the real history he lived, and surely he notices her growing affection. Only he hasn't. Or won't. But every moment she doesn't confess her love brings her closer to the doom she fears: the Sisters of the House of Lamidae need her to have a human's baby. And Alek is anything but human...

Alek looks forward to finding Gretchen in the Castle library. Her smile calms his inner beast. Her happiness reminds him there is beauty in a world out to destroy his kind--Others. Supernaturals waiting for a way to leave Earth and return to their world. But Gretchen makes him want to stay.

But Gretchen is off-limits. The House of Lamidae has a present destiny, and his duty is to protect them. Not fall in love.

This was a very intense edition to the Sanctuary, Texas series. I learned a lot about the House of Lamidae, not all of it very good. There are a few people that I look at quite differently after seeing a more 'anything for the greater good' side to them, willing to sacrifice the feelings of one in a grand attempt to move closer to their goals.

Gretchen was a bit of an enigma. She was different than the rest of the House of Lamidae, and it made her intriguing and a little frustrating at the same time. She wants to break the mold and be something different that the rest of her sisters. She wants to find love. But her search causes all sorts of problems.

This is a bit of a dark story. Not everything ends up ice cream and roses. I lost faith in some characters, and I just completely lost others. I will warn you that the ending isn't as hopeful as ones in the previous books. But the tenacity and determination of the citizens of Sanctuary really shine through.

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More Sanctuary, Texas

My Eternal Soldier #3

Mastered: Teagan (Sanctuary, Texas Novella)
My Warrior Wolves #4

To Find a Mate by Camryn Rhys Krystal Shannan ~ Review

Title: To Find a Mate (VonBrandt Family #4)

Author: Camryn Rhys and Krystal Shannan
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: 128 pages
Publisher: Indie
Release Date: April 19, 2016
Source: Review Request
Rating: 3
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

He’s nursing a broken heart, and he’s her first love… she just needs to tell him...

Everyone in Adam VonBrandt’s world seems to have found their mate. Except him. With several families of wolves in town for a moon run, there have never been so many choices. Surely, he can find a mate among all those single women.

Paige Wheeler sees her big, smiling rancher every Friday morning for six years. When her boss gives her one Friday off, she has to find a way to get into the bakery. Doesn’t everyone know she needs to see Adam every week? But when she starts blathering about hallucinating a couple of werewolves, she becomes Adam’s biggest priority. He just has to get his hands on her...

This book got off to a terrific start. I really loved the pull of the bakery and Adam's somewhat clueless state on why he loved it there so much. It was the perfect set-up for everything to come.

Paige was a lot of fun. She was one heck of a baker and had a HUGE crush on Adam - but he didn't know and she liked to keep it that way. But of course, fate has to stick her nose into everyone's lives and mix them up a bit. It's almost too late by the time Adam finally realizes just what Paige may be to him.

In fact, towards the end was the one part that I think was just a little too much. We broke the lore. I don't like it when an author has to break their lore in order to make a story work. The authors did a good job trying to give a reason and adding some genuine confusion on the part of the characters - they don't know why it broke either apparently. But it just seemed like a bit of a cop out.

*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*

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Hunted Wolf by Camryn Rhys and Krystal Shannan ~ Review

Title: Hunted Wolf (Moonbound #8)

Author: Camryn Rhys and Krystal Shannan
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: 177 pages
Publisher: Indie
Release Date: March 29, 2016
Source: Review Request
Rating: 4
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

With plans to kill a psychopath, nothing will stop him.

Not even the magick.

Holding a gun and storming a beach like a courageous soldier is strange territory for Hannah Lee, a quiet Seattle doctor. Stepping foot on that beach changes everything for her. Feeling an undeniable magickal pull, Hannah knows her real mission: find the wolf who sets her heart on fire. She never expected him to come in war paint and Kevlar, wielding an automatic weapon. But Viper has an agenda of his own--despite the attraction he so desperately feels. Will he succumb to the magick or will his vendetta stand in the way of what Fate desires?

Warning: This book actually takes place in the same period of time as book seven, just from a different group's point of view. I didn't realize this at first and was a little confused as I began. This is the story of a black ops wolf team storming the island of a madman - but they have civilians with them. One of these civilians is Hannah - a peaceful wolf that practices medicine.

This opposites attract pairing was amazing! Hannah was very prim, proper, and had a don't kill people attitude. But Viper - just like his name - was a vicious killer with no remorse. I would have never expected things to work out between the two, but by the end of the night I changed my mind. They are one of the most perfect couples I've seen in a paranormal romance.

Hunted Wolf really wraps up this little mini-series of books very nicely. There's room to go if the authors decide to, but I feel like it all ended up where it needed to be for now. My biggest disappointment was what happened after the wrap up. In the end we get to see all the characters again - which is great - but I didn't particularly enjoy how it was done.

*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*

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Moonbound

The Werewolf Cowboy #1

The Werewolf Bodyguard #2

The Werewolf Ranger #3

Chasing a Wolf #4
Seducing a Wolf #5
Saving a Wolf #6
Broken Wolf #7

Broken Wolf by Camryn Rhys and Krystal Shannan ~ Review

Title: Broken Wolf (Moonbound #7)
Author: Camryn Rhys and Krystal Shannan
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: 316 Pages
Publisher: Indie
Release Date: March 29, 2016
Source: Review Request
Rating: 3
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

Paying a debt may cost him his life--or his heart.

When an old friend seeks his help, Russian mercenary Vadik Nabatov doesn't hesitate for a second. After all, he owes Luther his life. But something is off. Luther isn't the same, and even a professional like Vadik might be in over his head. The last thing he needs is to enter into enemy territory with Andrea VonBrandt, who stirs up a desire in him that he thought was long gone.

But sitting back and letting Andrea go into a madman's lair as his submissive and downtrodden slave is asking too much. She can't possible face a crazy billionaire alone. Now, it's up to Vadik to save the woman, so he can save his heart.

I had a hard time getting into Andrea and Vadik's romance. There was just soooo much going on that it seemed to get pushed to the back burner at times. Andrea and Vadik are an unlikely pair - and they are both rather surprised at fate's choice for them. Vadik was a really great character. Just enough bad boy, but still with a heart of gold. Andrea, on the other hand, sort of fades into the background for me.

Their story and undercover operation is brilliant though. So many great things happen as they undergo a transformation into people they could never be - all so they can save the wolves on the island from a madman. There's quite a bit of psychological work at play for this operation, and it was probably my favorite part of the story.

I wish the romance had just been a tad bit "more" somehow though. But the excitement is definitely there and Vadik is a hero you will remember for quite a while.

*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*

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Moonbound

The Werewolf Cowboy #1

The Werewolf Bodyguard #2

The Werewolf Ranger #3

Chasing a Wolf #4
Seducing a Wolf #5
Saving a Wolf #6

Saving a Wolf by Camryn Rhys and Krystal Shannan ~ Review

Title: Saving a Wolf (Moonbound #6)
Author: Camryn Rhys and Krystal Shannan
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: 177 Pages
Publisher: Indie
Release Date: March 29, 2016
Source: Review Request
Rating: 4
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

A battle between loyalty and conscience.

Magick and desire.

Blissfully unaware of the depth of Rossi's organization, Luther Frost has remained loyal to the one man who's always protected him. And needing Rossi to survive becomes his ultimate problem.

When the strong-willed and persuasive Maggie Gallagher convinces him who his boss really is, Luther is torn between his loyalty to the man who keeps him alive and to the woman he desires. Resisting their magick is out of the question, but exposing the dangerous and vengeful Rossi could cost Luther his life. Now it's up to Luther to decide: turn against his boss or turn against his conscience? Only one can win.

I love Maggie! She is exactly like I would want to be in a werewolf military romance story. I loved her attitude, her computer nerdiness, and how she wasn't some drop dead gorgeous blond bombshell. She was just her regular tom-boyish self. Luther was just the right mix of uptight jerkwad and concerned bad boy. Once his eyes are opened about the truth of Rossi's organization, he will have to make quite a lifechanging decision.

There is tons of action in this ad we finally get a glimpse of Rossi's full organization and just how twisted he really is. So much happened in the book and a couple times I did get my wolves mixed up a little bit, but in the long run it was just an excellent addition/continuation to the series. You can just feel how close they are to getting their bad guy - but they just haven't quite gotten there yet.

*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*

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Moonbound

The Werewolf Cowboy #1

The Werewolf Bodyguard #2

The Werewolf Ranger #3

Chasing a Wolf #4
Seducing a Wolf #5

Seducing a Wolf by Camryn Rhys and Krystal Shannan

Title: Seducing a Wolf (Moonbound #5)
Author: Camryn Rhyn and Krystal Shannan
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Romantic Suspense
Length: 158 pages
Publisher: Indie
Release Date: January 27, 2016
Source: Review Request
Rating: 2
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

She's an enigma.

Controlling and driven by day.

Sensual and submissive by night.

And his plan is simple...

Seduce her into submission.

In order to find the crack in an enemy's business, Alejandro Sureda and his pack must find a weakness on the inside. And their rival's beautiful daughter, Juliana, is their greatest shot. But when Alex starts to feel a connection for her, he has a decision to make: protect her from the truth or reveal her father for who he truly is.

This was not my favorite of the series so far. While some very important information is delivered for the overall chase of the bad guys, I just could not get into the romance for anything. The two characters just did not connect in my mind at all. We find out a little bit more about the bad guy and get a little bit closer to finding him. I'm really excited to read book six and find out what will happen next.

But don't let this scare you away from the series - it is an amazing story line with some really great characters - this one just didn't quite stand up to par with it's fellow series-mates.

*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*

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Moonbound Series

The Werewolf Cowboy #1

The Werewolf Bodyguard #2

The Werewolf Ranger #3

Chasing a Wolf #4

Moonbound Series by Camryn Rhys and Krystal Shannan - Series Spotlight

Title: The Werewolf Cowboy (Moonbound #1)

Author: Camryn Rhys and Shannan Krystal

There’s a new threat in town… and she’s sexier and more dangerous than this sheriff can handle.

Small town sheriff, Allan VonBrandt, would like nothing more than to focus only on his work and not on the leggy and irresistible brunette who won’t take no for an answer. But when fate steps in and his inner wolf won’t refuse the magick pull she has on him, Allan must confront his animalistic desires–whether he wants to or not.

Reyna DuBois has never met a man–or wolf–she can’t tame, but Allan just might be the stubborn exception to the rule. Refusing to give up, Reyna enlists the help of her inner wolf to seduce the ever-reluctant sheriff, promising this particular cowboy the ride of his life.

About Camryn Rhys:

Author of hot historical romance with paranormal elements and co-author of the Moonbound series--a spinoff of the VonBrandt Werewolves from Somewhere, TX.

Loves Florentines and lightbulbs. Writes about cowboys who cook and demons who captain airships and werewolves who save the world. Once met Queen Elizabeth. Can swallow a sword. Eats jalepenos by the handful. Former chef, turned writer. Currently living in Canada. Owns a falcon. Not all parts of this bio are equally true.

About Krystal Shannan

Krystal Shannan, also known as Emma Roman, lives in a sprawling ranch style home with her husband, daughter, and a pack of rescue Basset Hounds. She is an advocate for the American Society of Autism and shares the experiences and adventures she’s been through with her daughter whenever she can.

Needless to say, life is never boring when you have an elementary-aged special needs child and half a dozen 4-legged friends roaming the house. They keep her and her husband busy, smiling, and laughing.

Krystal writes magick and Emma doesn’t. If you are looking for leisurely-paced sweet romance, her books are probably not for you. However, for those looking for a story filled with adventure, passion, and just enough humor to make you laugh out loud. Welcome home!

Moonbound Series

The Werewolf Cowboy #1

The Werewolf Bodyguard #2

The Werewolf Ranger #3

Chasing a Wolf #4

Chasing a Wolf by Camryn Rhys and Krystal Shannan

Title: Chasing a Wolf (Moonbound #4)

Author: Camryn Rhys and Krystal Shannan
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: 111 pages
Publisher: Indie
Release Date: January 26, 2016
Source: Review Request
Rating: 4
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

Vegas pack enforcer, Tomás Rivera, will do anything to help the mysterious Citlani find her mother. As the daughter of an unknown mountain pack chief, Tomás finds Lani entrancing and irresistible. As a fire erupts between them, igniting passion and desire, they don't realize that the closer they get to locating Lani's mother the closer they are to danger. With a vindictive traitor on their tail, they must battle their enemies while still fighting for what they discovered along the way---each other.

Very exciting!!! That is the best way to describe this one. We get to meet a very strange mountain tribe with a "sex tent," that leads to a very interesting situation. But one thing leads to another and he's on the run with Lani as they try and track down her mother. Now this will all tie back to the hunt for this bad guy (who has a name now) and this is where we really start to get close - but that's all I'm going to tell you about him.

Tomas and Lani are thrown together rather suddenly, but that happens to werewolves that know immediately when they find their mate. Even though this was rather sudden, Lani and Tomas complimented each other very well. There were some language issues that I could never quite figure out. I believe three were spoken, but I couldn't keep track of who was speaking what and who could understand who through all of it.

This was a very action-packed portion of the series, but that didn't seem to distract from the romance. In this case, it was what really drew them together.

*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*

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Moonbound Series
The Werewolf Cowboy
The Werewolf Bodyguard
The Werewolf Ranger

The Werewolf Ranger by Camryn Rhys and Krystal Shannan ~ Review

Title: The Werewolf Ranger (Moonbound #3)
Author: Camryn Rhys and Krystal Shannan
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: 102 pages
Publisher: Indie
Release Date: January 26, 2016
Source: Review Request
Rating: 3
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

Rainier DuBois leaves a secure life as a leader of the Black Wolves Rangers in order to help his alpha find the source of a reported rash of unbonded wolves. Unbonded wolves are unsafe. They represent a threat to the security of hidden packs all over the world. Rain’s only mission is to lead a new team of enforcers from all over the country into the heart of Mexico to find a madman.

Until he meets Nora Cavanaugh.

With an overbearing father tracking her every step, Nora sees the mission to Mexico as a way to escape Daddy’s grasp. She will do his bidding while she must, but every spare moment will be devoted to chasing away the demons of her last lover. Only when she hooks up with Rain, the familiar edge of magick won’t leave her alone. But Nora can’t afford to indulge that magick, or she will put herself and the mission…and Rain…in horrific danger.

And the search is on for a super awful sick and twisted bad guy. Ya - he sounds like one of the worst I've read about, but we haven't actually met him yet. We heard stories in The Werewolf Bodyguard and got some clues as to where he might be, but now there's a crack team of werewolves off searching for him. Except, two of the just might be a little distracted by the whole mating fever thing.

As much as I enjoyed all the fun places they managed to get some nookie, it really distracted them from their mission. As enforcers for their packs, this seemed to be just a little too unrealistic (even for a werewolf romance) for my taste. It not only distracted them, but it really caused some other issues as well.

Now, don't get me wrong, these two were perfect for each other. Nora has some past issues that cause some more serious issues. But Rainier handles them beautifully and tries his best to sweep in and save the day. It was also a nice chance to get to meet the rest of the team sent to track down the "evil bad man," all of whom play a big part - sometimes the starring role - in the books to come.

While this wasn't my favorite story - I did really enjoy how it moved the series story arc ahead in a very interesting direction.

*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*

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Moonbound Series

The Werewolf Cowboy

The Werewolf Bodyguard

The Werewolf Bodyguard by Camryn Rhys and Krystal Shannan ~ Review

Title: The Werewolf Bodyguard (Moonbound #2)

Author: Camryn Rhys and Krystal Shannan
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: 108 pages
Publisher: Indie
Release Date: January 26, 2016
Source: Review Request
Rating: 5
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

After facing a major blow to her ego, werewolf bodyguard, Aria LeBlanc decides to drown her sorrows in the delectable tastes of renowned chef, Marco DiSanti. But one little taste is not enough–for either of them. As they begin to sample more and more, Aria uncovers the truth about Marco’s past.

As an unbonded and unstable werewolf, Marco worries of getting too close–uncertain of his ability to control himself after shifting. Fearless and courageous, Aria promises to guide him, helping him to confront his past and embrace his future. But can Marco let down his guard and give his body–and soul–to the bodyguard who stole his heart?

My favorite in the series - I just loved Aria and Marco together. They both have their issues, but those issues are make them them so great. Marco is afraid to be intimate and let his wolf out - he thinks he may lose control. Aria is a bit jealous of her friend from book one, and is out on the prowl for a little fix.

Marco is amazingly sensual. As a chef he has learned the value of texure and subtlety.  This carries over into his sexual interactions - whcih are quite unique and sound very exciting. It doesn't hurt that his found sounds delicious too! He may be seductive, but he needs to let go of some things before he can really find happiness. Aria, well, she's something else. She's a little crazy with jealousy, but not in a bad way - and she's being a bit proactive about going out and finding herself a man. Even if it is just for one night.

The Werewolf Bodyguard really opens up the spin off storyline wide open and sets up the whole story arc in a way that you will be sucked into never to return - at least until you finish the series.

*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*

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The Moonbound Series
The Werewolf Cowboy (Moonbound #1)

The Werewolf Cowboy by Camryn Rhys and Krystal Shannan - Review

Title: The Werewolf Cowboy (Moonbound #1, VonBrandt Family #4)

Author: Camryn Rhys and Krystal Shannan
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: 160 pages
Publisher: Indie
Release Date: January 26, 2016
Source: Review Request
Rating: 4
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

There’s a new threat in town… and she’s sexier and more dangerous than this sheriff can handle.

Small town sheriff, Allan VonBrandt, would like nothing more than to focus only on his work and not on the leggy and irresistible brunette who won’t take no for an answer. But when fate steps in and his inner wolf won’t refuse the magick pull she has on him, Allan must confront his animalistic desires–whether he wants to or not.

Reyna DuBois has never met a man–or wolf–she can’t tame, but Allan just might be the stubborn exception to the rule. Refusing to give up, Reyna enlists the help of her inner wolf to seduce the ever-reluctant sheriff, promising this particular cowboy the ride of his life.

Reyna is awesome! I loved her tough girl attitude and her devotion to claiming what's hers once she's found it.That isn't a very easy thing to do when her mate thinks he belongs more in the human world than in the werewolf world. He's determined to make his life outside the pack and deny his inner-wolf.

But Reyna is having none of it. She does anything (and I mean anything) and everything (and I mean everything) to claim him and show him that being a wolf isn't all that bad. Allan VonBrandt is just as stubborn and determined not to meet his fate. Watching these two dance around each other, both determined to have their way, was extremely entertaining.

This is a spin-off of the Van Brandt Family series, and it helps to have read them for a little of the backstory on what is bringing all these wolves together. But, you will easily be caught up and these books will still be very enjoyable if you haven't had a chance to read the other series yet.

*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*

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My Warrior Wolves by Krystal Shannan - Review

Title: My Warrior Wolves (Sanctuary, Texas #4)

Author: Krystal Shannan
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: novel
Publisher: KS Publishing
Release Date: January 5, 2016
Source: Author Request
Rating: 4
Heat Rating: 4
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

Charlotte “Charlie” Mason struggles to put her pack back together after the horrifying loss of her parents. But her Uncle has other plans. Plans to turn the pack over to the one creature who ruined her life. She turns to the mates she sent away to help her salvage not only her broken heart, but what’s left of her family.

Travis and Garrett have been waiting not so patiently for Charlie to call. The mating heat between them is unbearable, but they won’t go back on their word to give her space to grieve. When she finally calls to ask for help, it might be too late. Can they save her from the very people she’s trying to protect? Or will they lose their mate before they’ve had a chance at all?

I really loved this story. Charlie and her boys are going to have to overcome a lot if they are going to be together. Her doubts about them and herself, a pack divided, and a murderous Xerxes with his attention on her. There's a lot going on in this story.

We get plenty of really good romance. Lots of growth in the relationship, which I really love. They are not only facing issues outside of themselves trying to force them apart, but there are some emotional walls that will need to be overcome before they can truly be a fully mated trio. And Charlie - I just adored her!! She was such a geniune character that I totally wish I could be best friends with.

There is also tons of action and we get to see a little of what the folks from Sanctuary are doing in the battle against Xerxes as well. While they may manage to strike a blow against him, there's still a lot more to be done. Great mix of romance with some heart-stopping action for quite the ride.

I think this is my favorite in the series so far!

*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*

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More Sanctuary, Texas

My Eternal Soldier (Sanctuary, Texas #3)

Mastered: Teagan (Sanctuary, Texas Novella)

Mastered: Teagan by Krystal Shannan - Review

Title: Mastered: Teagan (Sanctuary Texas Novella)

Author: Krystal Shannan
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: Novella
Publisher: Indie
Release Date: December 15, 2015
Source: Author Request
Rating: 4
Heat Rating: 4
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

Nobody could fix her or claim her.
She belonged to nobody.
Pain was her game.

Self-deprecating and guilt-ridden she-wolf, Teagan Rourke, has been to hell and back. Now, all she wants is agony to reinforce what she already knows--she doesn't deserve happiness. Frequenting Castle, a local BDSM club, and succumbing to a sadist's wishes is the only "happily ever after" she's looking for. And all the magick in Sanctuary won't change her mind.

But when Teagan gets paired with a new Dom, Finn O’Connor, it seems that all bets are off. The type of pain this sexy and rugged wolf might inflict might be too much for her to endure. Swearing to never open herself up again to the type of suffering that love can cause, Teagan tries to deny the pull she feels for him. But Finn isn't giving up; he's waited too long for a perfect mate like her. It's up to him to show her the light beneath the darkness of her past. Can a little luck of the draw turn into fated magick for Teagan and Finn?

Teagan's viewpoint that pain is the only thing that can make her forget isn't a new one. But Kyrstal Shannan did an amazing job of portraying the utter despair she feels when she doesn't get her dose of physical pain to drown out the emotional.

Having sworn off ever finding love or real pleasure again, she is terrified to realize that she may have found a mate - one that isn't interested in hurting her, but is much more interested in healing her. Their introduction is intense but fast (in the reading sense). But the chemistry is impossible to ignore.

I love that this can be a stand-alone. It is a great way for people to give Sanctuary, TX a try. A nice little sip that will get you addicted to the fast paced writing and great characters of Krystal Shannan.

*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*

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A Wedding in Somewhere by Multiple Authors - Review

Title: A Wedding in Somewhere (Somewhere, TX #3)

Author: Krystal Shannan, Emma Roman, K.C. Klein, Lavender Daye. Jodi Vaughn, R.L. Syme, Becca Boyd
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: Novel
Publisher: ChickTales Ink
Release Date: October 1, 2015
Source: Author Request
Rating: 4
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

Welcome to Somewhere, TX
Five Authors, One Town, No Limits...
Volume 3

From Krystal Shannan/Emma Roman
Paranormal Romance/Contemporary Romance
The Kane-Diaz wedding should go off without a hitch at Saddles for Hope Ranch…

From KC Klein
Contemporary Western Romance

...but Brent Kane Wakes up in jail and in the next cell is Somewhere's Sheriff…

From Lavender Daye
Contemporary Western Romance
...so the town looks to Hart Winston, in the midst of a crisis...

From Jodi Vaughn
Contemporary Western Romance
...and Dr. Candace Roe may have to save a life today…

From R.L. Syme / Becca Boyd
Romantic Suspense
...because Marcus Edison and Tande Walker have a secret that could ruin this wedding...

What a wedding....if it could go wrong, it seemed like is was guaranteed to happen. From dresses and tuxes, to collapsing chairs, and a fire at the venue. Topping it all off, the groom is in jail!!!

There was a ton of humor in this along with some really great romance from a couple that seems just perfect for each other. I loved how each and every little thing was tied together - all the pranks and hijinks that seemed destined to tear our couple apart, only seemed to bring them closer together in the end.

An amazing and fun story - I think the cake was my favorite part. It had me laughing out loud and getting strange looks from the family. Can't wait to read more about Somewhere.

*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*

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To Win a Mate by Krystal Shannan - Review

Title: To Win a Mate (Somewhere, TX: VonBrandt Family #3)

Author: Krystal Shannan
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: 54 pages
Publisher: Indie
Release Date: April 23, 2015
Source: K.S. Publishing
Rating: 3
Heat Rating: 3
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

Jared VonBrandt wasn't looking for a mate, but when the amber-eyed New Orleans beauty, Elise Blanchard is staring at him from a charity auction block, he can't deny his wolf's desire.

He'll win her at any cost.

Elise Blanchard has never met another werewolf. She spends her full-moon nights locked in her apartment, hoping the neighbors don't see her shift.

A twist of fate gives her an opportunity she'll risk everything to claim.

This was a very cute (but very short) novella. Jared is not looking for love or romance we he sets eyes on Elise at an auction. Elise isn't expecting to find someone like her - ever. She thinks she's the only werewolf - I found this to be slightly far fetched, but set up the story in a way that really let Jared and Elise bond quickly. This is an important thing in a short novella.

Short - maybe too short. Things moved super fast and while both characters were cute, I really didn't have a chance to fall in love with them. I liked them, they had depth, and they both grew and developed - I just wanted to feel more from them.

The ending was very sweet and I hope we get a chance to see the couple in the next book. I'd love to get to know them a little better - they sound like they would be a ton of fun.

*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*

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To Save a Mate (VonBrandt Family #1)

To Love a Mate (VonBrandt Family #2)

To Save a Mate and To Love a Mate by Krystal Shannan - Double Review

Title: To Save a Mate (VonBrandt Family #1)
Author: Krystal Shannan
Source: Self-Purchased
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: Novella
Release Date: December 16, 2014
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

Rating - 4
Sexual - 3

A chance he never thought he'd have comes at a price he never wanted her to pay.


What do you do when everything you thought was real turns out to be a lie? How do you pick yourself up and move on? Move past the pain?

Kara McClure is living the perfect life. A great boyfriend, supportive loving parents, and a full ride to John McAdams University on a scholarship. What could go wrong? But something always does. When tragedy hits, you’re supposed to be able to count on those closest to you for support. Kara turns to the love of her life, Vincent Harris, only to find him supporting the nether lips of her sorority sister.

Luke VonBrandt is a business college student with a secret no one can know. When an accident threatens the life of an innocent girl he's secretly loved since high school, he risks everything to give her a second chance on life, even exposing the truth about what he is. The blue-eyed beauty haunts his dreams and her scent is all he can think about.

Luke’s wolf insists he find a way to claim her as his own.

But Kara’s broken heart will fight him every step of the way.

Running over the love of your life is never a good idea. When Luke quite literally runs into Kara - he's forced to take drastic action to save her life. Of course, since he's been in love with her for as long as he can remember, his wolf is quite pleased at the change of events. But Kara (while glad to be alive) isn't so sure she wants to link her life to his forever.

I really liked how Krystal Shannan worked with Kara's emotions. She was traumatized and betrayed - so of course she doesn't want anything to do with anyone!!!  Who would?? I really loved cheering Luke on as he tried to find a way to prove himself to her and show her that he is the perfect man for her.

I also liked that there wasn't a whole lot of "other stuff" going on. We had no ultimate bad guy set out to kill anyone - we had a jerky ex-boyfriend, but I think every girl has one of those. It was all about Luke and Kara - and I totally loved it!

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********************

Title: To Love a Mate (VonBrandt Family #2)

Author: Krystal Shannan

Source: Author Request

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Length: Novella

Release Date: July 14, 2015

Reviewed by: Jasmyn

Rating - 4

Sexual - 3

Can a small-town cowboy win the heart of a woman who doesn’t have one?

Surviving charity functions by day and automatic weapons and death threats by night, Emma Carrington learned to be as hard as the men her daddy hired to protect her. Hell, she even carried a military grade stun gun in her Prada bag and could shoot just as well as any of her ex-military bodyguards if the need arose.

When a failed kidnapping attempt forces her to hide out in Somewhere, Texas, Emma finds herself stranded, floundering through cow patties, and desperate for a car. Who better to “borrow” from than the sexy naked man she sees turn into a wolf and leave his perfectly good pickup truck available for use. It’s not like he can drive it in his current condition, right?

College senior Noah VonBrandt knows the pack law better than anyone —only a bonded mate can know his secret. He watched his brother find the mate of his dreams and he wants the same thing, but you can’t just make the “right” girl appear out of thin air. To his surprise, lightning does strike. When a beautiful blonde woman trespasses on the ranch and sees him transform, he knows he only has two choices —claim her or let the pack erase her memories. But even as Noah fights to save her, Emma’s past is hot on her heels and out for more than memories.

What I loved most about this book was Noah and his total devotion to keeping an innocent woman safe. Even though she discovers his secret when she watches him shift, he will do anything to protect her. And she has a lot to be protected from right now.

Emma can take pretty good care of herself - she has a purse that holds all - and some of that "all" is very deadly. I love that she can take care of herself and her loyalty to those that have treated her well in the past. There was a TON of excitement in this story - much more suspenseful than the first. This was a great change of pace, especially since I read them back to back, but it did take a little from the romance.

I really wish there had been just a tad more of them getting to know each other and falling in love. It all happened so very suddenly at times. However, the ending....OMG the ending!!!! I don't know that it could have been done any better. I fell in love with both of them all over again.

*This book was received in exchange for an honest reivew*

Goodreads

More on Krystal Shannan

Jasmyn's review of Unwrapping Tess (Vegas Mates #5)

Author Interview
Jasmyn's Review of My Eternal Soldier (Sanctuary, Texas #3)

My Eternal Soldier by Krystal Shannan - Review

Title: My Eternal Soldier (Sanctuary, Texas #3)
Author: Krystal Shannan
Source: Author Request
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: Novel
Release Date: June 1, 2015
Reviewed by: Jasmyn

Rating - 4
Sexual - 3

The saga continues with the vampire Eira and an immortal Elvin from the Veil. Join
me in Sanctuary again for an adventure that will knock the breath from your chest, bring tears to your eyes, and keep you turning the pages all night. Its Werewolves, Djinn, Dragons, Vampires, and more!

The last time he saw her, his sword was in her chest.

Inner demons have haunted Killían North since he killed the only woman he ever loved on a battlefield a thousand years ago...at least he thought she’d died. He unexpectedly gets a second chance to win her heart again, if he can just stay alive to do it. Evil lurks around every bend in the road. Magick, romance, and heart-pounding suspense greet them at every turn. But he’s determined to find a happily-ever-after with the woman he loves no matter what.

The last time she saw him, she was dying...

When the werewolf rescue squad Eira Rennir sets off with is ambushed by SECR military forces, she barely makes it away with her life. Willing to do anything to save her friends, Eira agrees to the mysterious destiny in Sanctuary she’s been avoiding for months.

Only with help from Sanctuary, can they find a way to save her friends from the treachery of Xerxes and forge a new destiny with each other in a world that’s been torn apart by hatred and prejudice.

I can't imagine the pain of knowing you killed the one you loved - but having to live with it for a thousand years??? That's gotta do some damage. Killian is going through the motions. They're good motions, but you can tell there's a hollow place inside.

Enter freak chance and accident - and lo and behold but Eira (the long-dead love) turns up alive - sort of. Both are shocked, they're mad at each other for not looking harder, and they are so beyond happy all at the same time. Part of this was great! The emotion was so real - but it was also a little overly dramatic at times. Eira is very upset with Killian for hiding some things from her, and she seems to just suddenly get over it.

While they are trying to sort all this out, some of Eira's friends are fighting for their lives in the hands of the bad guys. The bad guy is super creepy by the way - well done Krystal Shannan. The whole adventure portion of the story was amazing, and it managed to enhance the romance between Eira and Killian instead of taking away from it. There were a few times that the story seemed to jump around a lot or repeat itself a little though.

This is the first in the series that I've read - I'll be going back for more soon! While there is some background that I can tell I missed, it still holds its own in the romance department as a standalone.

*This book was received in exchange for an honest review* 

Goodreads - Amazon - B&N

More on Krystal Shannan

Jasmyn's review of Unwrapping Tess (Vegas Mates #5)

Author Interview

My Eternal Soldier by Krystal Shannan - Release Tour and Giveaway

My Eternal Soldier

Sanctuary, Texas #3

The saga continues with the vampire Eira and an immortal Elvin from the Veil. Join me in Sanctuary again for an adventure that will knock the breath from your chest, bring tears to your eyes, and keep you turning the pages all night. Its Werewolves, Djinn, Dragons, Vampires, and more!

The last time he saw her, his sword was in her chest.

Inner demons have haun
ted Killían North since he killed the only woman he ever loved on a battlefield a thousand years ago...at least he thought she’d died. He unexpectedly gets a second chance to win her heart again, if he can just stay alive to do it. Evil lurks around every bend in the road. Magick, romance, and heart-pounding suspense greet them at every turn. But he’s determined to find a happily-ever-after with the woman he loves no matter what.

The last time she saw him, she was dying...

When the werewolf rescue squad Eira Rennir sets off with is ambushed by SECR military forces, she barely makes it away with her life. Willing to do anything to save her friends, Eira agrees to the mysterious destiny in Sanctuary she’s been avoiding for months.

Only with help from Sanctuary, can they find a way to save her friends from the treachery of Xerxes and forge a new destiny with each other in a world that’s been torn apart by hatred and prejudice.

Releasing Everywhere June 1st, 2015

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Author Bio:

Krystal Shannan goes to sleep every night dreaming of mythical realms with werewolves, vampires, fae, and dragons. Occasional a fabulous, completely human story slips into the mix, but powers and abilities usually crop up without fail, twisting reality into whatever her mind can conceive.

As a child, her parents encouraged her interests in Ancient Greek and Roman mythology and all things historical and magickal. As an adult the interests only grew. She is a child of Neverland and refuses to ever stop believing in fairies.

She is guilty of indulging and being a Buffy the Vampire Slayer groupie as well as an Angel fan. For those of you unfamiliar with the world of Joss Whedon, you are missing out! She also makes sure to watch as many action and adventure movies as possible. The more exciting the better. Yippee-Ki-Yay..... If you don't know the end of that phrase, then you probably don't like the same movies.

She writes stories full of action, snark, magick, and heart-felt emotion. If you are looking for leisurely paced sweet romance, her books are probably not
for you. But, for those looking for a magical ride, filled with adventure, passion, and just a hint of humor. Welcome home.

Krystal Shannan

Putting Magick in Romance one Soul Mate at a Time.

___________________________________

~NEWSLETTER~  

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Release Tour Interview and Giveaway: Unwrapping Tess by Krystal Shannan

Time for a holiday interview with author Krystal Shannon.  I reviewed her latest book, Unwrapping Tess, and loved it!  I jumped at the chance to ask her a little more about the holidays and her newest book.

What is your favorite holiday tradition or memory?

Favorite Holiday tradition is getting the Christmas tree out the day after Thanksgiving and decorating it together as a family. So much fun going through all the ornaments we’ve collected through the years and the history behind them. We always tag our ornaments with the year we got them.

Tess falls in love with the country and wide open spaces, but her sister is a city girl at heart.  If you had to choose just one or the other - which would you choose? 

So hard!!! I think in my heart I would love to live in the country. Life is slower and calmer, but I really do like being close to shopping and groceries when I need them. The traffic in the city drives me bananas and I have been know to cuss like a sailor in the car ---something I’ve had to curb since having a child, did you know they repeat everything you say??? LOL

A lot of people make New Year's resolutions during the holidays.  Do you make one every year?  If you do, what is your's for 2015? 

I try not to make a resolution, instead I look at the accomplishments I made over the past year and think what I can do or how I can achieve more in the year ahead. 

I personally avoid leaving my house whenever possible Black Friday and the following weekend.  I do get on board with cyber Monday from the comfort of my desk chair.  Do you venture into the shopping chaos the weekend after Thanksgiving? 

I have been known to shop on Black Friday, but the last few years I have ordered more and more online to avoid the crazy. So much easier.

Quickfire Questions:

Pumpkin pie or apple? Apple!

Turkey or ham? Ham!

Favorite reindeer? Rudolf

Favorite cookie? Girl Scout Thin Mints!


Title: Unwrapping Tess: Christmas Encounters (Vegas Mates #5)
Author: Krystal Shannan
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Release Date: November 25, 2014

Tess Demakis loves the city life. The noise, the lights, the people. Everything about the rush feels like home. The only thing missing is a spark with any of the pack males. After her and her twin sister's twenty-fifth birthday passes, she'd thought for sure one of the handsome men in her aunt's pack might've been meant for her.

 - No. Such. Luck. -

 Patrick O'Hearn just got back home from a long tour overseas with his SEAL unit. The big grizzly is ready to lie back and enjoy the snowy mountain inn retreat his brother renovated last year, meet his brother's wife and some of her family, enjoy good food, etc. The last thing he ever expected was to find a mate, especially not his sister-in-law.

 Now he can't think of anything but unwrapping the gorgeous sassy blonde and making her his forever.

 - Best. Christmas. Ever. -

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Excerpt from Unwrapping Tess:

Tess turned to see a giant of a man filling the front doorway. His piney scent filled her lungs and her magick prickled with excitement.

“Patrick!” Scott walked to the doorway and embraced the newcomer. Margaret waddled her way over as well and was instantly enveloped into the two grizzly bears’ arms.

“Another bear?” Hallie whispered into her ear.

“I bet it’s his brother,” Tess said.

“Patrick, this is my wife, Margaret. And that crowd of friends in the great room,” Scott gestured to the group, “is part of the Vegas and New York Demakis wolf packs.”

“Good to meet you, Margaret.” Patrick’s voice carried through the room. “Scott can’t ever stop talking about you when I call home.”

Patrick gave Margaret a quick kiss on the forehead and the three of them moved together toward the great room.

“Everyone, this is my brother, Patrick. I didn’t say anything before, because we weren’t sure if he’d get his discharge papers before or after Christmas.” Scott proceeded to introduce him to each person in the room.

Tess followed his every movement and drank in his tantalizing scent. When Scott introduced her, Patrick’s beautiful blue eyes settled on her and all processing capabilities fled her body. All she managed was a squeaked “hi” and a lame wave.

Moisture pooled between her legs and her mouth went dry. Visions of them naked and entwined in sheets danced through her head. OMG! What was wrong with her?

“It’s him,” her wolf whispered.

Author Bio:

Krystal Shannan goes to sleep every night dreaming of mythical realms with werewolves, vampires,
fae, and dragons. Occasional a fabulous, completely human story slips into the mix, but powers and abilities usually crop up without fail, twisting reality into whatever her mind can conceive.

As a child, her parents encouraged her interests in Ancient Greek and Roman mythology and all things historical and magickal. As an adult the interests only grew. She is a child of Neverland and refuses to ever stop believing in fairies.

She is guilty of indulging and being a Buffy the Vampire Slayer groupie as well as an Angel fan. For those of you unfamiliar with the world of Joss Whedon, you are missing out! She also makes sure to watch as many action and adventure movies as possible. The more exciting the better. Yippee-Ki-Yay..... If you don't know the end of that phrase, then you probably don't like the same movies.

She writes stories full of action, snark, magick, and heart-felt emotion. If you are looking for leisurely paced sweet romance, her books are probably not for you. But, for those looking for a magical ride, filled with adventure, passion, and just a hint of humor. Welcome home.

Krystal Shannan

Putting Magick in Romance one Soul Mate at a Time.

___________________________________ 

~NEWSLETTER~ 

 Sign up for newsletter to hear about new releases and giveaways! 

www.krystalshannan.com 

www.theromancetroupe.com 

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