Review: A New Alpha in Town

@aj_marcus Hardwood Shifters is more than sexy m/m paranormal romance
A New Alpha in Town by A.J. Marcus
My rating: 3.5 of 5 stars

Tanner is the catalyst to start a much needed group to defend shifters who only want to be left alone. After reading the third book in this series, Breaking the Ice, I had to come back and read the first two books in the series. This series is a one pleasure packed story after another. Each story can be read as a standalone. It is better to read them in the order to see the full picture in the order the Mr. Marcus designed.

Why do I like this story? I enjoy the characters. Mr. Marcus creates characters who are relate-able even if they can go furry. He clearly depicts a group of people who are being singled out for genocide. How is this acceptable? Through the characters Tanner and Van, the reader sees how much shifters have in common with humans. Although, this little valley the shifters take refuge in seems more like an Amish community than today's twenty-first century.

This first book does a good job of setting up the plot and building the world. The reader is treated to a taste of fear, hope, determination and love. Because what paranormal romance doesn't have some sexy shenanigans? Tanner's werewolf seems like an unlikely pairing with Van's bear. Tanner is what Van needs and has been looking for in a mate. I like how this story develops on several levels. There is the issue with shifter-killers, shifter isolation which lowers the ability for more mates and the need to come together as a community larger than a little village. Mr. Marcus weaves a magical tale. Hardwood Shifter series is recommended for m/m romance readers who enjoy a bit of paranormal and suspense.

* Provided by Manic Readers