Review: Warm and Wonderful. . . .
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 02 9, 2014
Brian's Mate is a wonderfully paced relationship between Brian and Luke.  Brian is an alpha wolf and knew right away Luke was his mate.  But things aren't always easy in mating a human.  There are doubts but the angst is solved pretty quickly.  I didn't appreciate Luke at first.  He went from this insecure, emotionally strung out, fearful guy, almost an embarrassment. . . But over time, with love and security he grew into a secure mate of an alpha wolf.  The journey wasn't easy, his past experiences shadowed each decision he made.  The story is mainly focused on Luke, after all this book is entitled Brian's Mate.  But Brian is there in the background, giving support, being the backbone that makes Luke's transformation possible.SPOILER:Brian acknowledges Luke is the heart of his pack. . . In front of the other alphas. . . Then gives them advice on how to grow their own packs.  I would have loved to be a fly on the wall, listening in . . . Especially to those alpha's that kicked out the unwanted. . . Always nice to have your poor choices thrown back at you. . . That is if those alpha's did listen and feel some regret.  Too bad that scene wasn't expanded on.  Of course we all know it takes time for some to get over their prejudice.  But at least Luke and Brian's example to the other packs was a step.END  SPOILERThis story was about the growth of a pack from the ground up.  I don't think I've ever read a story quite like it.  So as we view Luke and Brian's relationship we're also watching their pack grow -- who they were, why they joined, just hearing the various stories  of each pack member and what they brought to the whole.  Each individual made the pack what it was.  Their efforts were rewarded and recognized.So then I wonder why Brian's brother doesn't move closer. . .Alpha Brian's personality was pretty constant before and after Luke.  He was always patient, a hard worker, and willing to help those in need.  What I saw in his growth was stepping outside of his boundaries and doing more than donating money to a worthy cause.  Now he gets involved on a personal level.  He went outside his normal alpha wolf tendencies, took a step back, and consulted with his mate, making joint decisions together.  His relationship with Luke made him into a better person, a better alpha, a better wolf.  He grew and matured but his was more subtle.  The end result is that gay men can lead a successful pack and a human mate can make a difference.Brian's Mate is a keeper.  Wonderful book and highly recommended for anyone that loves a m/m shifter story, more focus on the characters, not heavy on the sex, which is alluded to or done off scene, which is a nice break.  So this story may not have heavy sex scenes but that doesn't take away from how caring and loving they are toward each other.  -- Dan's Wife