If you want what I think is Cardeno C‘s specialty, a romance set in the real world, with characters that you can relate to, then this book is a great choice!

Once again Cardeno C. Did an amazing job writing this story

Book 2 in the Mates series, just as quickly devoured by this reader as the first one, tells the story of Ethan Abbatt, a young wolf shifter who can't shift, and Miguel Rodriguez, a centuries old, powerful vampire...Prejudice is explored quite well in this novel, and could be liked to interracial relationships - the comparison is most apt.....The first time mating was super hot, but also extremely emotional, as I've come to expect from this author, and as a reader I will always feel as if the moment is sacred and special. The connection between mates is cemented upon the first love making, and this was no different here. Ethan may have been from a small Georgia town, and he wasn't a learned man, which is expressed in his speech and mannerisms, but he's no dummy. And Miguel, despite being as old as he is, still has things he can learn from Ethan - it's a good thing Miguel is no dummy either, and once he gets over his initial disbelief, he's fiercely protective, something the other vampires and anyone who tries to cross or hurt Ethan should have heeded. I loved how the author explored the meaning of family, and how love is stronger than prejudice. The main villain in this book gets what's coming to him, and all is well that ends well. Honest communication and great dialogue rounded out a super awesome story that I liked almost as much as the first one.

A Shot at Forgiveness is such a sweet tale of mistakes, forgiveness, and moving on. It's a story with a minor focus on bullying and the hurt it causes, but most of all it's a story of healing and love. It's an easy read full of promise for the characters and their future. And I love the interracial aspect. It highlights the beauty in diversity. And what I like most about this novella is that it's a chance at a new beginning for both characters. Mistakes were made. Hurts were harbored for a long time, but forgiveness is always an option. And of course, I love these characters. As always, Cardeno C has a way with characters.

"Every human being is made in the image of God and he makes no mistakes." LOVED Eli as soon as he showed up on the page. He made me laugh so hard I had tears in my eyes. And poor Seth had no idea how to handle it. Eli is young and brash and so eager to experience everything. His personality jumped off the pages and pulled you right in. Seth may have been a little more reserved but he was no less engaging. I loved the way that he tried to guide Eli but never tried to change him. The time that he took to figure out who "he" was, was authentic and believable. The uncertainty that he felt made sense. Watching these two build a friendship and grow together through that relationship was captivating and I could not put this book down. The author took me through the years of their lives and made them so real. One of the most beautiful books I have read, and also one of the funniest. I don't know the last time that I laughed so hard, from one catastrophe to the next. This book has everything you could ask for in a romance and then some. I could not recommend a better read if you are looking for something with a genuine, romantic feel.