Baby, I'm Howling for You (Alphaville, #1)

by Christine Warren

[Nadz@Totally Addicted to Reading]

Despite my disappointment with Something to Howl About I approached this installment in a positive light. I hoped my tour of Alphaville would prove to be better this time around. As this was full length novel, I was looking forward to improved character development and an exciting and thrilling story. My expectations were met in some regard, however I felt my experience could have been better.

What The Story is About
Baby, I’m Howling for You features Renny Landry and Mick Fischer. Renny, a beta wolf shifter came to Alphaville seeking sanctuary from the coyote shifters who were pursuing her. As Alphaville is a town, which provides sanctuary for troubled shifters she saw it as the one place where she would be safe from the crazy coyote shifter and his minions. Unknown to her, the decision to seek sanctuary in this town would bring her in contact with an alpha wolf shifter who would make it his mission to protect her from the threat posed by her pursuers.
Mick Fischer came to Alphaville eight years ago to escape the pain of his past. However, the pain is as raw today as it was eight years ago and as a result he lived an isolated life. However, when Renny happened upon his property isolation would no longer be an option. His protective nature kicked into gear and his desire to protect a she-wolf in distress became his top priority.

What I liked.
The story started out with a bang. Fast-paced, adrenaline pumping, and it had me on edge of my seat for the whole chapter. Although the pace changed at the end of the first chapter, it did not take away from the story. There were some humorous moments, which made me smile from time to time.

I thought the author did an excellent job with plot thread involving Renny’s stalker. I found this aspect of the story engaging and I kept turning the pages as I had to know the outcome. The coyote shifters were crazy, arrogant and determined which made the threat to Renny serious dangerous.

It was a pleasure watching how the community members welcomed Renny into their fold. Each resident willingly played a part in keeping her safe, which reinforced Renny's belief that she came to the right place.

Renny is a character I enjoyed spending time with as she possessed the qualities of a strong female. Determined, brave, smart, independent and not afraid to stand up and fight her demons.

What I did not like
The attraction between the protagonists was instantaneous, which is a common factor for most books in the PNR genre. Despite the instant attraction Mick fought his feelings for Renny, which proved frustrating for her, as she recognized immediately he was her mate. Then, when she least expected it he mated with her, which confused her. I had a difficult time with this aspect of the story. Mick's actions made it difficult for me to buy into their relationship, which was further compounded by the fact that they never got to know each other, prior to their mating. Mick did not give Renny an option. He claimed and took, what he believed he was entitled to.

Mick is a character I had a hard time getting to know. First, I never got inside his head. Second, I found his actions rude and overbearing. I never got the feeling he loved Renny. It felt as if his need to protect was more from a sense of obligation, and a way of making up for not protecting his first mate.



Conclusion/Recommendation
This was an interesting read, but I felt it could have been better. I enjoyed the time spent with the quirky residents of Alphaville and I am curious to know their story. If you are a fan of the paranormal genre, then you can consider partaking in a journey to Alphaville.

3.5 Stars