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.

This story is amazing and beautifully told outlining how love is from the heart, regardless of destiny or fate. If you open your mind, you will see YOU control your future, your heart, not pheromones, instincts, or a gut feeling… they have an undeniable chemistry that is HOT. They know what they want and they don't hold back from getting it. Whether it is from human emotions or animal instinct, they are explosive together. Control has an amazing cast of side characters, each one stepping up to the plate when needed. They are supporting and add another level of laughter and humor to the story… If you love shifter stories, you will love this. If you haven't tried one yet, what better place than right here. You could not ask for two better authors to join together, and create a world where, love and commitment, is constantly strived for. Where peace among your peers are held in the highest regard. Where you thrive to keep control your ultimate goal. Whether that control is amongst your people or control in the bedroom, it does not matter. Together they will be unstoppable. You may find that when your heart is involved, control just comes naturally, to the one wielding it, and the one giving it up. Pick your copy up today, read it today, you will be so glad you did.

I would recommend this book to all m/m romance lovers.

Cardeno C has the knack of being able to tell her stories from the heart like no one else can. She puts her characters before her readers, naked and unashamed of who they are,even if they are shy or lacking in some other areas. Sex scenes are abundant in all these novels, but they are well done, intimate, sexy and smoulder like they are supposed to if they are to move the story along. Cardeno uses the conflict between the main two characters to get a rise out of the reader, to make them wonder what will happen next, and book three of the series has done this and so much more.

I enjoyed both of these books for the same reason. They give hope. We all need a good dose of hope, especially during the holidays when depression can take hold of you.