I enjoyed the way the author intertwined their lives together, allowing enough leeway for Ethan to be clueless while we readers were seeing what was really happening. I also enjoyed the Dickens-like twist to the story. And the narration of John Solo added to my enjoyment as he gave each of the characters a distinct voice.

This is the first book in the Mates series and is a fun one I like to re-read. Zev is the son of a pack alpha and is supposed to mate with a female wolf. Only, he's finding himself more and more attracted to his best human friend, Jonah. And there's no such thing as a gay shifter. This is a bit different from my usual fare because there wasn't a clear villain or straight plot line. It was more like a peak inside the lives of these two men, which is perfect if that's what you're looking for. I love the two heroes, and I loved reading as they fought (or tugged) on their chemistry and created a bond.

It's like a three-layer cake with icing and sugar sprinkles and cotton candy spun on top: SO DAMN FANCIFUL and SWEET, you just can't stop eating it.

This is a lovely story about how we look at ourselves ... mostly it is a very sweet love story. It is about the choices we make and the opportunities we might never get to experience, depending on those choices. It is about loving yourself and reaching out. I thoroughly enjoyed the story. There were several very funny moments that had me laughing out loud and some that were heart-wrenching. Even with the serious subject matter that is central to the book, the story is thoughtful and has some light-hearted moments. A lovely addition to your holiday reading list.

I recommend this to those who like new and unique shifter stories, those who love their M/M romance with some smoking hot sex scenes, including a first time experience. And, of course, to those who love and follow Cardeno C. You won't be disappointed.