Review: 4.5 Star Night Owl Reviews Top Pick
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 12 26, 2011
(4.5 Star Top Pick review: This book review was written by Talina Perkins for Night Owl Reviews)PLOT:Destined Mate was a sensual feel good read despite the tension filled confrontations between the werewolves and vampires. The connection between the two main characters ignited the moment both met up after ninety years of separation. Given the amount of time apart I really thought they would have a harder time reconnecting, yet in this novella I saw how true love can really stand the test of time. Cliche maybe, but it worked for Knox and Angela's story. Another theme that stood out to me was the heroes ability to grow past his strong prejudice towards vampires. True, he had good reason to hold a passionate grudge against the species, but when his human lover is attacked, turned and then leaves him because she can not bring herself to be in his presence for what she is, he learns one can not be judged by what they are. I found this lesson the be a great example and reminder of how I can better myself and this is why I enjoy this genre so much. The sense of family and belonging brought the plot together and was topped off with the reunion of to lovers, two hearts, and two destined mates. The story was beautifully wrapped up by the end and made me want to look up more stories from author Katie Reus!SETTING:Destined Mate takes place on the expansive property of the most powerful Alpha werewolf in the United States.CHARACTERS:Once human and now a vampire, Angela flees Alpha werewolf Knox's side in fear he would hate her-as he hated all vampires-for what she had become against her will. I found her to be a strong heroine and she demonstrates this with her determination to save a friend in need even if it means stepping into hot water to do so. She brings to the story a passion for life and ultimately a passion to recapture what she at first refused to acknowledge and what her heart truly wanted-love and acceptance from the one and only man that could give it to her. And Knox is definitely a perfect match. He knew exactly what she needed and how to guide Angela towards admitting to herself it was okay to let down her guards and attempt to rekindle their once untamable passion for one another. He was the right amount of protectiveness and dark sexiness to equal a hot alpha hero!LAST THOUGHTS:I look forward to another Katie Reus Nocturne Cravings novella! She brought my attention to Harlequin's paranormal Ebook series and I will be sure to keep up with all her upcoming releases. I loved her smooth story telling and ability to weave a tale of danger and sensual passion!