This is a shifter world with a very interesting twist to the Mating of shifters. ... The book follows these guys from birth until they are thirty, so you get to see them at all stages of their life and relationship. I liked that. I also liked that their romance didn't evolve until later than you would expect. Before that they were truly just best friends although they definitely always had that bond. I also really enjoyed the fact that Jonah never knew that Zev and Pup were the same creature. Yes, he has a bond with the wolf too who's been with him throughout his life. It was a good read. I could feel the bond between the two guys and as they began to decline, I really worried for them. I loved the mystery of why Jonah is the way that he is... a bit stronger than he should be as a human and he always has a sense when Zev is around. The twist with Zev being as strong as he was and a great Alpha for his pack made him a great hero. You got to see him strong and dominate with them, but then got to see his soft, mushy side with Jonah. But I truly loved that both guys are really VERY strong. It was an interesting read and I definitely enjoyed it.

Cardeno did it again, another brilliant book I couldn't put down. ... For Zev, the future Alpha and leader of the pack, was never about finding a mate it was about timing to let everyone know he found his mate when he was a little over 1 year old, and that said true mate was a boy name Jonah. A lot of things had to happen before Zev can introduce Jonah as his mate. A long time spend apart from each other that only hurts them both every day. Secrets, some that are kept to protect the ones they love. Some, that they didn't even know existed. And Zev and Jonah, GOD! they are hot together!!! ... I can't wait to read book II, Cardeno got me hooked again.

I started this book last night and was awake way past my bedtime because I just could not put it down. The meeting between Jonah and Zev as toddler and pup had to be one of the sweetest beginnings I have ever read. Their courtship, which neither realized was happening, was endearing and drew me into the the story so quickly I couldn't believe how quickly I cared about these two people. I always know it's a good book when I find myself talking to the characters. I was so frustrated with what the separation was doing to both Zev and Jonah that I was yelling, "Just tell him already" a couple of different times. A very unique premise and a story that was wonderful and sexy to read.

The fact that we get to see them grow up together; it was just precious and enthralling and like an inner tube ride down a long and winding river on a warm day with a great breeze. You just know this is a once in a lifetime journey you are never going to forget. ... Some authors I just connect with immediately and this is one of those authors. Wake Me Up Inside is about the "who" not the what or the why or the how. A wonderful story that should be savored like the best chocolate. There is no better place to lose yourself for a few hours than in this author's fine words!