Review: A Wolf in Gucci Loafers
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 04 16, 2014
Life is hard when you are a cross-species breed; even if you have everything money can buy, escaping the feeling of not belonging in either world is disheartening. Lindsey Vanessen, of 'The Wolf in Gucci Loafers', knows all too well how that feels. Born of a human mother and a werewolf father, try as he may, Lindsey can't seem to find his place; he's too strong and aggressive for a human and too weak to be a proper wolf. Lindsey's predicament leaves him lonely and despondent, thinking he'll never have someone who will love him.Lindsey is beautiful, charming, rich, kind-hearted, generous, and gay. He's also a walking contradiction. On one hand, he's gorgeous, almost fragile to look at, but on the other hand he's a powerhouse inside, having the strength and skill to defend himself in almost any situation Being half-human and half-wolf, but in essence neither, is heartbreaking at best. The wolf pack begrudgingly accepts him, but they aren't fond of him being gay; if humans knew he was a werewolf, they would be terrified; he'd be in danger as well as the rest of his pack. He thinks he's doomed to live his life alone, stranded between two worlds; that is, until he meets Seth Zakowsy, his dream man. Instead of being elated, Lindsey keeps warning himself not to get involved, fearing that it will turn out badly, just like with all the other humans he's dated. In spite of himself, they do become involved and Lindsey is elated when he realizes that his aggressive side doesn't scare Seth away. Their future lies in in Seth's hands, depending on what he can and can't accept, and how far is he willing to go to be with Lindsey.Seth is puzzled but entranced by Lindsey from the beginning. On one hand, his silk scarves and darlings every other sentence puts him off, yet he intuitively senses capability under that pretty mask, which entices his base desires, making him want Lindsey more than he's ever wanted anyone before. When he sees how athletic Lindsey is playing polo, it's caution be damned, he knows he has to have this man. The closer he gets to Lindsey, the more he discovers what a complex, fascinating man he truly is; but what really seals the deal, is Lindsey's lasciviousness in bed. He's the man Seth never thought he'd find, yet he comes in a surprising package. Even with their common interests, there are still lots of issues to be dealt with, like Seth's distain for wealthy people and his always wanting to be on top, in and out of bed. Lindsey challenges many of Seth's preconceived notions and turns his world upside down. It's a lot for someone to comprehend when things aren't anything like you thought they were. It takes a big man to absorb this kind of shock and come out of it right side up, but Seth proves that he's got what it takes.Besides being a love story, it's also one with lots of lessons in it; lessons about strength, trust, not jumping to conclusions, and lots more. It's a roller-coaster ride for two completely different personalities, who are faced with seemingly insurmountable problems, causing them and me, a great deal of angst and heartache; but,  needing to be together so much that they just have to work it out. I loved the book and believe that lots more of you will too. Fans of the first book, if you loved Lindsey in volume one of the series, you'll love him even more in this one. I highly recommend this story to everyone, even if you don't think you like werewolves and shape-shifters, but want to read about two strong, determined men who fall madly in love and have to figure out how to overcome obstacles placed between them. It's also a great read if you happen to like werewolves, shape-shifters, paranormal happenings, suspense, intrigue, and good triumphing over evil. Thank you, Tara, for giving Lindsey his richly deserved happy ending.