What really stood out for me was the connection these two had. I loved feeling that while reading this story. It was so caring and incredibly hot.

Once again a clever story that drew me in and forced me to just keep reading late into the night.

KindleRomance: This touching love story, with a bit of magic and holiday spirit, melted my heart.Karla: Thought provoking, beautiful, touching short! This is a well-crafted, rich, delicate story, which is told in a matter of pages. This author knows how to make good use of his words.  I loved it!

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.

Beans: This novella is spectacular. Shiloh is a beautiful combination of shy and quirky. He struggles to find his way but Travis's calm demeanor and strength are a balm to Shiloh. They are both incredible men and there is passion, humor, love, and and a faith in something amazing. ... Brilliantly written and executed, this is my favorite of Cardeno C's novellas.Nina:  I've read this a couple times now. It keeps getting better. There were so many beautiful, touching moments. I laughed, cried and smiled throughout. ... I loved the messages that are clear and resonant throughout. The sweet, tender and sensitive handling of serious and painful issues. A story of hope, second chances, new beginnings, faith, family, trust and love, so much love. A lot of that love will be yours. This is a holiday story that you will read again every year. I know I will.