Joyfully Jay
As I am writing this review, I am realizing this book has a bit of a Romeo and Juliet feel. Two lovers from opposite worlds with families that hate one another, destined to be together despite their differences and the disapproval of others. It is subtle, but definitely there as we explore the worlds of both vampires and shifters in this story. I just love that combination, and author Cardeno C does a great job creating this world where the two exist as enemies. ... It was an interesting take on these two paranormal groups and one that was well developed. But the highlight of this story for me is Ethan and Miguel. I just adored both of them. Ethan is a force to be reckoned with. Despite being small and sick and much younger than Miguel, he has determination and passion for what he believes. Once Ethan realizes Miguel is his mate, he doesn't hesitate one moment in his conviction that they are meant to be together. He is willing to give up his old life and march himself right into Miguel's, despite Miguel's bewilderment at this force of nature. ....I just adored Ethan. Despite being small and young, he is brave and committed and full of determination. I found him incredibly endearing and couldn't help but root for him. Miguel is also a great character. He is the fiercest of all the vampires, old and powerful and dangerous. But he treats Ethan with such care and love right from the start. He is sort of bewildered at first at this little shifter who has claimed him, which is kind of adorable. But he quickly realizes that Ethan is right, that they are meant to be together, and Miguel would do anything to protect his mate. I love that Miguel doesn't suddenly become this perfect hero upon meeting Ethan, however. Yes, we see that he is a good guy, willing to do anything for Ethan and even to help Ethan's pack. But he is still violent, dangerous, and scary to everyone else. Crossing Miguel will get you killed, especially if you threaten Ethan. He is sort of that ultimate romantic fantasy bad boy, wild and dangerous to everyone else and sweet and romantic to the one he loves. So I just adored this story of star-crossed lovers, vampire and shifter who somehow make it work. Author Cardeno C drew me right into this world and I couldn't put the book down. It is romantic and sweet and incredibly sexy, with really wonderful characters who I just adored. I definitely highly recommend it. ... This book is part of the Mates series, but it is designed to stand completely alone. I didn't read the first book and had no trouble following along here. It is a shared world more than a traditional series, and if there was any overlap at all in plot or characters, it was nothing I noticed or that affected my enjoyment of the story.
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