Kontra's Menagerie Series by Charlie Richards

On the road: Breaking down was the best thing to ever happen to him. Mutegi Atieno is shocked to discover the man stranded on the side of the road in a broken down truck is his mate. When his first assumption is proved incorrect and he learns the woman and baby with Ben Moore are not his wife and daughter, Mutegi realizes he actually has a shot at claiming the human. But first Mutegi and his friends need to save the trio from Ben’s sister’s sadistic ex-husband. It was a difficult task... moreOn the road: Breaking down was the best thing to ever happen to him. Mutegi Atieno is shocked to discover the man stranded on the side of the road in a broken down truck is his mate. When his first assumption is proved incorrect and he learns the woman and baby with Ben Moore are not his wife and daughter, Mutegi realizes he actually has a shot at claiming the human. But first Mutegi and his friends need to save the trio from Ben’s sister’s sadistic ex-husband. It was a difficult task. The man had already chased Ben and Cassie across three states in an attempt to steal his daughter back, ignoring the court’s ruling that had deemed him unfit. If Mutegi manages to find a way to save the siblings from the madman, can he also figure out how to tell his human mate that he’s a shifter? less

Detective Catlin Hill doesn't understand the instant, possessive attraction he feels for the slender John Doe in the hospital bed. But the minute those scared baby blues meet his, Catlin lets his protective instincts rule him. The guy has amnesia, and it’s only from a conditioned response that Catlin confirms his name is Gallo Ricci. After passing the case to a fellow detective, he takes the victim home with him and gives in to lust... moreDetective Catlin Hill doesn't understand the instant, possessive attraction he feels for the slender John Doe in the hospital bed. But the minute those scared baby blues meet his, Catlin lets his protective instincts rule him. The guy has amnesia, and it’s only from a conditioned response that Catlin confirms his name is Gallo Ricci. After passing the case to a fellow detective, he takes the victim home with him and gives in to lust. For some reason, it doesn’t even faze Catlin when his new lover turns into a horse in his living room. When a group of guys drop by and start talking about mates and centuries of living together, Gallo has a panic attack, proving his past abuse won’t allow him to take charge enough to claim Catlin. Is their relationship doomed from the start? And what's tough enough to take down a shifter and leave him in the hospital? less

On the road: A picture could be worth a thousand words, or it could be his salvation. The haunting eyes in the picture capture Caleb Belikov’s attention, and he knows he has to confirm whether the white buffalo is really just an animal, or a shifter trapped at a zoo near Albuquerque. Caleb talks his alpha and a few friends into accompanying him and discovers not only is the buffalo a shifter, but he’s his mate... moreOn the road: A picture could be worth a thousand words, or it could be his salvation. The haunting eyes in the picture capture Caleb Belikov’s attention, and he knows he has to confirm whether the white buffalo is really just an animal, or a shifter trapped at a zoo near Albuquerque. Caleb talks his alpha and a few friends into accompanying him and discovers not only is the buffalo a shifter, but he’s his mate. But rescuing Emmett will put the lives of innocents in danger, creating a whole new set of problems. Can Caleb and his friends figure out how to keep everyone safe from a blackmailing alpha? less

When Eli escorts an injured shifter to Stone Ridge territory for medical treatment, he arrives in town suffering from motion sickness. The last thing he wants is to meet his mate while praying to the procelain god, but that's exactly what happens. To make matters worse, being ill messes up Eli's senses and he doesn't recognize the cute sub as his mate right away, sending the other man running... moreWhen Eli escorts an injured shifter to Stone Ridge territory for medical treatment, he arrives in town suffering from motion sickness. The last thing he wants is to meet his mate while praying to the procelain god, but that's exactly what happens. To make matters worse, being ill messes up Eli's senses and he doesn't recognize the cute sub as his mate right away, sending the other man running. When Eli catches up with Sam, it doesn't take him long to realize the wolf shifter has been burned badly in a past relationship. Can he figure out a way to earn Sam's trust? Or will his mate run a second time? less

On the road: Sometimes the 8-legged freaks are the good guys. Haben Bello heads for Kansas to help his old friend, Wes. The human attorney deals with child custody in shifter-human cases, protecting shifter secrets. Wes needs help uncovering the true motives behind a young boy’s mother who suddenly wants custody after she’d given up all rights to him twelve years before. When Haben meets the boy’s human foster father, Lou Reynolds, he realizes the man is his mate... moreOn the road: Sometimes the 8-legged freaks are the good guys. Haben Bello heads for Kansas to help his old friend, Wes. The human attorney deals with child custody in shifter-human cases, protecting shifter secrets. Wes needs help uncovering the true motives behind a young boy’s mother who suddenly wants custody after she’d given up all rights to him twelve years before. When Haben meets the boy’s human foster father, Lou Reynolds, he realizes the man is his mate. Lou is still coming to grips with the fact that shifters exist. It’s one thing for his son to be able to turn into a lion, but a spider? Lou may be able to accept Haben the man, but can he learn how to accept Haben the tarantula? And what about when Haben’s job in town is done and he decides to move on? Lou has a son and can’t just up and leave to join Haben on his nomadic travels. Can Lou trust Haben’s insistence that he’s willing to turn his life upside down, adopt a lion shifter cub, and settle down after nearly one hundred years of freedom? less

Yuma Batacan didn’t mean to reveal that he was a penguin shifter to the human, Hunter Driscoll. But between the pain caused by a gunshot wound, the disorientation of waking in a strange place, and the thrilling scent that told him the human was his mate, Yuma couldn’t find it in him to stop the change. Now he has to convince the abused and injured human that he isn’t some kind of monster. And Yuma has to do it quick, before Hunter’s attackers come back to finish him off.

Out on the Road: Misunderstandings can happen even when no words are exchanged. That doesn’t mean it has to be the end. It’s taken over a week for Terence Williams to heal from defending his friends against an alpha lion shifter. Although he’d lost the fight, badly, Terence was saved by his mate. Unfortunately, Terence’s mate didn’t stick around to enjoy the victory, and Terence wants to know why... moreOut on the Road: Misunderstandings can happen even when no words are exchanged. That doesn’t mean it has to be the end. It’s taken over a week for Terence Williams to heal from defending his friends against an alpha lion shifter. Although he’d lost the fight, badly, Terence was saved by his mate. Unfortunately, Terence’s mate didn’t stick around to enjoy the victory, and Terence wants to know why. While Terence heals, his friends are out searching for the mysterious black lion shifter who’d saved him. When they find him, it doesn’t take long for the male to exert dominance and claim Terence. He discovers a problem pretty quickly. Perrin has never been part of the human world. He’d lived his entire life as a scientific lab rat until escaping eight months before. Living on the run, Perrin stays mostly as a lion, roaming from place to place. He doesn’t know anything about shifters or mates. Just when Terence manages to convince Perrin to come live and build a relationship with him under Kontra’s protection, the local lion pride beta, Patrick, arrives. He claims Perrin is now the lion pride’s alpha since he’d killed the old one while saving Terence. Can Terence help Perrin adapt? Or will Perrin return to the simpler life of a wild lion? less

On the Road: They say what you’re missing is always found in the last place you look. Sometimes, you find it when you’re not looking at all. Kontra Belikov has been searching for his mate, Tim Laurent, for nearly sixty years, ever since he missed his chance by giving the just-of-age teen time to experience life. While heading back to his gang, he’s surprised, but grateful, to discover Tim in a small town... moreOn the Road: They say what you’re missing is always found in the last place you look. Sometimes, you find it when you’re not looking at all. Kontra Belikov has been searching for his mate, Tim Laurent, for nearly sixty years, ever since he missed his chance by giving the just-of-age teen time to experience life. While heading back to his gang, he’s surprised, but grateful, to discover Tim in a small town. When Kontra pursues Tim, their chemistry is explosive, but right after, Tim pushes him away. Tim doesn’t believe they’re mates and feels guilty accepting affection since his lover of almost twenty years passed away just six months before. Frustrated, Kontra gives Tim his space, all the while vowing to get through to his mate. Space, once again, seems to be a mistake when the next morning, Kontra discovers Tim has been kidnapped. Can Kontra rescue Tim, find out why his mate’s old flock is trying to keep them apart, and convince Tim they are meant to be together? less

On the Road: Sometimes, the shy quiet type, really aren’t shy or quiet at all. Payson thought he’d found his mate once, but had been wrong. With his senses screwed up by scientist’s experiments, he no longer trusts them. He sleeps with any nice smelling, willing male—and some females—hoping his hyena will want to keep one of them. He’s shocked and delighted when he and his animal are in agreement over one sexy, nerdy human—Land Zimmerman... moreOn the Road: Sometimes, the shy quiet type, really aren’t shy or quiet at all. Payson thought he’d found his mate once, but had been wrong. With his senses screwed up by scientist’s experiments, he no longer trusts them. He sleeps with any nice smelling, willing male—and some females—hoping his hyena will want to keep one of them. He’s shocked and delighted when he and his animal are in agreement over one sexy, nerdy human—Land Zimmerman. The sex is fantastic, Land’s shy virgin playfulness even better, and Payson gives in to his hyena’s urge to mark Land. The next morning, things heat up, and not in a good way. Payson’s jealous hyena attacks a fellow pack-member standing a little too close to Land. Can Payson convince his skittish human that he’s not as crazy as he seems? less

On the Road: Breaking a curse has never been so much fun… Vail Tamang is a playboy. He’s never claimed to be anything else. What he does claim is that he doesn’t want a mate. The truth is a little more sinister. When he scents Draven Mansetti, Tim’s half-vampire, half-warlock mentor, he realizes his worst fear has come true. Draven is his mate. Vail tries to avoid the man, but Draven manages to track him down anyway. He’s left with no choice and shares a family secret... moreOn the Road: Breaking a curse has never been so much fun… Vail Tamang is a playboy. He’s never claimed to be anything else. What he does claim is that he doesn’t want a mate. The truth is a little more sinister. When he scents Draven Mansetti, Tim’s half-vampire, half-warlock mentor, he realizes his worst fear has come true. Draven is his mate. Vail tries to avoid the man, but Draven manages to track him down anyway. He’s left with no choice and shares a family secret. His family line is cursed. Can Draven convince Vail that some curses can be broken? Or will Vail walk away before giving them a chance? less

On the Road: Life is full of compromises, but the best ones allow you to end up in a better place than where you started. When Adam Kingston decides to enjoy a cat nap in tiger form, he never thought he’d be woken by the cries of young moose shifters, nor did he expect to need to save them from a douchy wolf shifter and his buddies. The day takes a turn for the better when he’s pleasantly surprised to discover the moose’s brother, Noah Oleander, is his mate... moreOn the Road: Life is full of compromises, but the best ones allow you to end up in a better place than where you started. When Adam Kingston decides to enjoy a cat nap in tiger form, he never thought he’d be woken by the cries of young moose shifters, nor did he expect to need to save them from a douchy wolf shifter and his buddies. The day takes a turn for the better when he’s pleasantly surprised to discover the moose’s brother, Noah Oleander, is his mate. Except Noah is in the closet, is the legal guardian for his two siblings, and is on the run for attacking his alpha’s son. Can Adam get Noah to stick around long enough to find a way to help him? Or, will Noah decide it’s easier to grab his siblings and keep on running? less

On the Road: Finding love can make even a little dirt and sweat okay. Rueben Malone travels to a small town in Oregon, searching for his missing brother, Ricky. Since the police don’t have any leads, he thinks it’ll be difficult. Instead, Rueben finds Ricky holed up in the same motel as him, held by a group of men hiding…something. Rueben knows his brother has crazy conspiracy ideas and wants nothing to do with them... moreOn the Road: Finding love can make even a little dirt and sweat okay. Rueben Malone travels to a small town in Oregon, searching for his missing brother, Ricky. Since the police don’t have any leads, he thinks it’ll be difficult. Instead, Rueben finds Ricky holed up in the same motel as him, held by a group of men hiding…something. Rueben knows his brother has crazy conspiracy ideas and wants nothing to do with them. Once he’s confirmed that Ricky’s life isn’t threatened, he decides his trip shouldn’t be wasted, and seduces the sexy, slender blond, Lamar Jaworski. Rueben suddenly finds himself ensconced in his brother’s conspiracy world. When Lamar, the one man who should be trying to help him understand, disappears, will Rueben take the opportunity to run? less

On the Road: To combine two lives, first one must understand the components of each. When Ryan Carpenter realizes the scientists he works for are torturing sentient beings, he feels the need for penance in the form of helping the shifters free their comrades. To that end, Ryan heads to Oregon to offer aide in shutting down one of the scientist’s training facilities and freeing any captive shifters... moreOn the Road: To combine two lives, first one must understand the components of each. When Ryan Carpenter realizes the scientists he works for are torturing sentient beings, he feels the need for penance in the form of helping the shifters free their comrades. To that end, Ryan heads to Oregon to offer aide in shutting down one of the scientist’s training facilities and freeing any captive shifters. He’s unprepared for one of the men, Sam Abbott, a Texas longhorn bull shifter, to express an attraction to him. Unfortunately, Ryan has secrets of his own, and knows if he becomes involved with Sam, a shifter, his own transgressions against Sam’s kind would eventually come out, destroying anything they might have built. Walking away—especially for the good of everyone—should be easy, right? less

On the Road: When a meddling interloper stops a mating, Fate decides to give someone a second chance. Aaric Tamang lost his chance at bonding with his mate almost seventy years ago. Because his family line had been under a curse, he’d walked away from the woman Fate chose for him rather than put her in danger. Now, decades later, the curse has been broken, but since his mate had been human, meeting up with her was impossible... moreOn the Road: When a meddling interloper stops a mating, Fate decides to give someone a second chance. Aaric Tamang lost his chance at bonding with his mate almost seventy years ago. Because his family line had been under a curse, he’d walked away from the woman Fate chose for him rather than put her in danger. Now, decades later, the curse has been broken, but since his mate had been human, meeting up with her was impossible. Then why does the scent of a male wolf shifter catch his attention like no man ever has before? Crain Ponders claims they’re mates, but that can’t be right, can it? less

On the Road: Sometimes family makes decisions for you…and you just have to roll with the punches. Richard Ponders joins the Tamang wolf pack when his younger brother, Crain, mates with one of its members. When the pack gathers to celebrate passing the alpha mantle from father to son, naming Abbott Tamang as alpha, Richard discovers his mate is part of the Tamang pack, too … and it’s the new alpha... moreOn the Road: Sometimes family makes decisions for you…and you just have to roll with the punches. Richard Ponders joins the Tamang wolf pack when his younger brother, Crain, mates with one of its members. When the pack gathers to celebrate passing the alpha mantle from father to son, naming Abbott Tamang as alpha, Richard discovers his mate is part of the Tamang pack, too … and it’s the new alpha. Sensing unrest in the pack, Richard decides allowing the pack to settle is the safest thing for everyone. Unfortunately, the choice is taken from him when Crain asks him to come over and discuss more changes in pack dynamics, bringing him face to face with Abbott. Now, not only will Richard be fighting for a position in his new pack, he needs to fight for the trust of a man he’s been hiding from for weeks. Can he and Abbott come to terms? Or will the unrest in their pack tear them apart? less

As an orphan, Chip had never really had a home or even much to call his own. After being adopted, he'd hoped he'd found acceptance. Unfortunately, a year later, he shifted into his bobcat for the first time and his new parents had thought him possessed. Forced to run, Chip lived mostly as an animal for decades. Having grown up alone in foster care, it hadn't been much different and he hadn't thought it too bad...until the day he'd been captured and tortured by scientists... moreAs an orphan, Chip had never really had a home or even much to call his own. After being adopted, he'd hoped he'd found acceptance. Unfortunately, a year later, he shifted into his bobcat for the first time and his new parents had thought him possessed. Forced to run, Chip lived mostly as an animal for decades. Having grown up alone in foster care, it hadn't been much different and he hadn't thought it too bad...until the day he'd been captured and tortured by scientists. Rescued by Kontra and his gang, Chip finally sees the light at the end of the long, lonely tunnel of his life. Scarred, malnourished, and suffering from panic attacks, Chip struggles to get his body and mind back under control. When the gang visits a pride of lion shifters, Chip meets Grimes, who claims they are mates. Can he manage to get past his hang-ups and grab on the happiness Grimes offers him? less

On the Road: Life’s blessings can come in the darkest moments. Enjoying a last hoo-rah before another tough year of college begins, Kai Sudderson and his friends vacation in Kansas. He takes advantage of the secluded pond system behind his rented cabin to go swimming…in his platypus form. Living with his aunt and uncle, Kai had never met anyone else with the ability to turn into an animal. That is, until he gets himself snared in a beaver trap and a penguin shifter rescues him... moreOn the Road: Life’s blessings can come in the darkest moments. Enjoying a last hoo-rah before another tough year of college begins, Kai Sudderson and his friends vacation in Kansas. He takes advantage of the secluded pond system behind his rented cabin to go swimming…in his platypus form. Living with his aunt and uncle, Kai had never met anyone else with the ability to turn into an animal. That is, until he gets himself snared in a beaver trap and a penguin shifter rescues him. Unable to pass up the opportunity for not only knowledge but medical treatment, Kai accompanies his new friend home. There, he meets Dorian Yaris, who—despite being so much older and having such a serious disposition—calls to Kai like no other. When Dorian explains about mates, will Kai consider the bonding thing with someone so obviously different or will he deny everything and return to his former life? less

On the Road: Sometimes intervention comes from the most unexpected places. Having been married at one time, over a century before, Luc Laurent never expects to find another to spend his life with. His confusion is understandable when his son hands him an extra helmet and tells him to hang onto it. Luc understands later that afternoon when he rolls his motorcycle to a stop in front of a fellow shifter’s home and discovers that the shifter’s cousin, Dylan Sudderson, is his mate... moreOn the Road: Sometimes intervention comes from the most unexpected places. Having been married at one time, over a century before, Luc Laurent never expects to find another to spend his life with. His confusion is understandable when his son hands him an extra helmet and tells him to hang onto it. Luc understands later that afternoon when he rolls his motorcycle to a stop in front of a fellow shifter’s home and discovers that the shifter’s cousin, Dylan Sudderson, is his mate. While the fact that his mate can walk only with the aid of crutches concerns Luc, it’s certainly not the deal-breaker Dylan seems to think it is. Luc is far more concerned about the fact that Dylan is human, so very young…and in the closet. While Dylan is more than happy to get physical with Luc behind closed doors, he’s afraid of losing his parents if they find out he’s gay. What will it take to convince Dylan to not only come out of the closet, but accept that Luc shares his spirit with a European Eagle Owl? less

Logan St. Clair made some bad decisions and fell in with the wrong crowd. After believing a fellow wolf shifter’s bigoted opinions, he helps attack their pack’s brand new alpha and alpha-mate…his male alpha-mate. They lose and Logan is exiled. To his shock, Logan is approached by another alpha, Kontra Belikov—a bear shifter who leads a nomadic group of bikers. Even knowing Kontra is mated to a male, the allure of a new pack is too strong, Logan accepts... moreLogan St. Clair made some bad decisions and fell in with the wrong crowd. After believing a fellow wolf shifter’s bigoted opinions, he helps attack their pack’s brand new alpha and alpha-mate…his male alpha-mate. They lose and Logan is exiled. To his shock, Logan is approached by another alpha, Kontra Belikov—a bear shifter who leads a nomadic group of bikers. Even knowing Kontra is mated to a male, the allure of a new pack is too strong, Logan accepts. Most of Kontra’s pack-members are in gay matings, and Logan learns to be polite and accepting of those who are gay, even forming his own opinions. While Logan no longer loathes homosexuals, he never expects to feel attraction to a guy. That’s exactly what happens, however, when he meets Kai’s human friend, Tyson Grubler. He doesn’t understand it and fights it with every fiber of his being. Except, when Logan sees Tyson head into a club bathroom with a stranger, he loses control of his wolf’s possessive instincts. Logan tosses Tyson’s trick out of the stall and sinks his teeth into a very shocked Tyson’s neck. Realizing what he’s done—started the bonding process—Logan flees. Can he come to terms with what his wolf already knows—that Tyson is his mate? less

On the Road: We always find what we’re looking for in the last place we look. At nearly three centuries old, Diego Tamang decides to take a more proactive approach to finding his mate. He walks away from leading his pack, so he can travel with Kontra Belikov and his shifter motorcycle gang. His decision pays off when he walks into a backwater town’s diner and scents his mate, Zachary Young... moreOn the Road: We always find what we’re looking for in the last place we look. At nearly three centuries old, Diego Tamang decides to take a more proactive approach to finding his mate. He walks away from leading his pack, so he can travel with Kontra Belikov and his shifter motorcycle gang. His decision pays off when he walks into a backwater town’s diner and scents his mate, Zachary Young. Quickly making his intentions clear, Diego wonders what will be harder to overcome—Zachary’s young age, or his mother’s clearly displeased attitude. It turns out, neither, for soon Diego discovers that witches may have caused Zachary’s injury, which forces him to use a cane…and Zachary doesn’t know he’s a shifter. Can Diego ease his young lover into the paranormal world while keeping him safe from those that would do him harm? less

Jethro Gunther has been servicing the motorcycles of his old pal’s gang for over a decade. When his buddy brings him a new customer, Wilhelm Smith, Jethro finds himself tempted to give in to his attraction for men for only the second time in his life. The first guy had left Jethro used and rejected, so he’d turned to one night stands with biker bunnies. It was just easier. Wilhelm, however, seems different... moreJethro Gunther has been servicing the motorcycles of his old pal’s gang for over a decade. When his buddy brings him a new customer, Wilhelm Smith, Jethro finds himself tempted to give in to his attraction for men for only the second time in his life. The first guy had left Jethro used and rejected, so he’d turned to one night stands with biker bunnies. It was just easier. Wilhelm, however, seems different. He’s straightforward in his attraction and direct in his desires—he also refuses to be a dirty little secret. One night, Jethro realizes just how different Wilhelm actually is. Shifters are real and Wilhelm is one. Can Jethro accept his new reality and figure out a way to openly incorporate a male partner into his life, or will he miss out on the best thing that could ever happen to him? less

Lord Elron Paxton is a fae prince—one of many. Bored with the never-ending politics of the Fae Court, he takes a dare to enter the human world. Elron gives his bodyguards the slip, finds a fun gay club, and prepares for a night of revelry. Unfortunately, Elron wakes in a dirty room crowded with other men. He finds himself stuck there for days, weighing the pros and cons of revealing his true nature to a number of humans—something against fae law—just to save himself... moreLord Elron Paxton is a fae prince—one of many. Bored with the never-ending politics of the Fae Court, he takes a dare to enter the human world. Elron gives his bodyguards the slip, finds a fun gay club, and prepares for a night of revelry. Unfortunately, Elron wakes in a dirty room crowded with other men. He finds himself stuck there for days, weighing the pros and cons of revealing his true nature to a number of humans—something against fae law—just to save himself. When a crow shifter appears outside the window, Elron hopes he’s found an alternate way of saving not only himself, but those stuck in the room with him—even if they do think he’s nuts for talking to a bird. Can he trust the crow to get help before the men who kidnapped everyone sell them on the black market…or will he have to break fae law to save them, sentencing himself to certain death? Reader Advisory: This tale speaks of past abuse/rape. less

Deter McNellis never thought he’d be a victim—living through kidnapping, rape, and the threat of being sold as a sex slave. Getting rescued is only the beginning of healing. He’s forced to relive the experience over and over in his dreams and when he has to share it with the authorities. To Deter’s shock, he finds himself attracted to one of the deputies helping with the investigation—Marrakesh Anderson... moreDeter McNellis never thought he’d be a victim—living through kidnapping, rape, and the threat of being sold as a sex slave. Getting rescued is only the beginning of healing. He’s forced to relive the experience over and over in his dreams and when he has to share it with the authorities. To Deter’s shock, he finds himself attracted to one of the deputies helping with the investigation—Marrakesh Anderson. The deputy invites him to call him Mac and gives off signals that he’s interested in Deter, too. Deter finds Mac’s clumsy attempts at wooing sort of sweet, and he struggles to overcome his fears so he can spend time with the handsome man. The appearance of the kidnapper’s buyers makes Deter worry he’ll never feel safe. To top it off, Deter discovers Mac is hiding something…something life altering. Can Deter gather enough courage to open himself to a future so full of change, or will his fears send him running? Reader Advisory: This book makes reference to past abuse / rape. less

Rusty Peruke works as a mechanic and is close with his family. His wheelchair bound brother, Korvyn, lives with him, and he sends extra cash home to his parents on a regular basis. When he meets Acheron while the man is at the shop buying a set of fast wheels, Rusty is both excited and concerned—and it’s not because he’s never been with a guy. Acheron is a loner scorpion shifter who hasn’t stayed in one place since he left his family home over eight decades before... moreRusty Peruke works as a mechanic and is close with his family. His wheelchair bound brother, Korvyn, lives with him, and he sends extra cash home to his parents on a regular basis. When he meets Acheron while the man is at the shop buying a set of fast wheels, Rusty is both excited and concerned—and it’s not because he’s never been with a guy. Acheron is a loner scorpion shifter who hasn’t stayed in one place since he left his family home over eight decades before. Rusty has no intention of running out on his family. To him, their needs come first. Can two polar opposites find enough common ground to build a future? Or will assumptions and miscommunications create a wall between them that’s impossible to scale? less

On the Road: When a serious fae warrior stumbles across his soul-mate in a fun-loving, paralyzed human, he discovers the hardest task in his life is learning how to connect. Prudhoe Rison is a specially trained fae enforcer and had been sent to the human realm to search for a missing prince. After completing that task, he should have returned home, but feeling a pull to stay, he’s remained for several weeks... moreOn the Road: When a serious fae warrior stumbles across his soul-mate in a fun-loving, paralyzed human, he discovers the hardest task in his life is learning how to connect. Prudhoe Rison is a specially trained fae enforcer and had been sent to the human realm to search for a missing prince. After completing that task, he should have returned home, but feeling a pull to stay, he’s remained for several weeks. Wandering the town to discover the source of the sensation has proven fruitless…until he drives past the library. The pull he’s been feeling intensifies, and he follows it into the building. There he meets Korvyn Peruke—his paramour—the other half of his soul. Prudhoe is drawn to Korvyn’s friendly disposition and outgoing personality. Even though the human is wheelchair-bound, it doesn’t stop Korvyn from enjoying life. At first, Korvyn doesn’t understand why the serious and handsome Prudhoe is taking an interest in him—until he puts two and two together. A visit from a fae enforcer alerts Prudhoe that people in his own realm are talking about him. It also tells Korvyn—who already knows about paranormals—that Prudhoe is something other. Can Prudhoe keep Korvyn safe when trouble from the fae realm comes calling, or will he have to make the ultimate sacrifice to keep Korvyn safe? less

Pierce Rinkon lives a simple life. Having been born with a learning disorder as well as a disability, he knew he was considered by most to be a little on the dim side. That doesn’t stop him from enjoying his life, though. His work as a receptionist for his small town’s sheriff’s office allows him plenty of interaction with others. For fun, Pierce runs, boxes, and finds men interested in a quick romp. After all, he doesn’t expect anyone to be interested in him long-term... morePierce Rinkon lives a simple life. Having been born with a learning disorder as well as a disability, he knew he was considered by most to be a little on the dim side. That doesn’t stop him from enjoying his life, though. His work as a receptionist for his small town’s sheriff’s office allows him plenty of interaction with others. For fun, Pierce runs, boxes, and finds men interested in a quick romp. After all, he doesn’t expect anyone to be interested in him long-term. While out on a morning run deep in the woods, he spots an old acquaintance—retired deputy Mac. When Pierce heads over to say hi, he watches something crazy happen…an animal changes into a man. As he’s struggling to process what he’s seen, a good-looking dark-haired guy named Daevon makes it plain he’s interested in him. Except, Daevon isn’t human, and he turns into a scary-looking wolverine. On top of that, Pierce discovers Daevon is smart, educated, and is a retired college professor. How could Daevon possibly be interested in a dumb, small-town hick like Pierce? less

When Deacon Ferdmin learns his brother, Daevon, is transitioning into a new life, he decides it’s time to do the same. Plus, as a badger shifter, he’s tired of living in the city. Buying a motorcycle and heading cross-country to meet up with Daevon, Deacon enjoys the change of pace from his prior high-stakes job as a firefighter…until his motorcycle breaks down... moreWhen Deacon Ferdmin learns his brother, Daevon, is transitioning into a new life, he decides it’s time to do the same. Plus, as a badger shifter, he’s tired of living in the city. Buying a motorcycle and heading cross-country to meet up with Daevon, Deacon enjoys the change of pace from his prior high-stakes job as a firefighter…until his motorcycle breaks down. There’s only a couple of mechanic shops in town, and the first one he goes to refuses to service his machine since he’s openly and obviously gay. As angry as it makes Deacon, when he walks into the second shop, he quickly turns grateful. He scents that somewhere within the depths of the dingy space is his mate. However, Deacon also realizes that approaching the man—Axel Spumoni—will take some finesse. Not only has Deacon already experienced discrimination, but he notices Axel is a burn victim. Can Deacon figure out a way to woo his reclusive, wary mate while dealing with the backwater town’s hostility? less

On the Road: On his first ride cross-country, a young moose shifter stumbles upon a mate that he’s not ready for.Ronald Oleander, Ronnie to his friends, has been looking forward to this road trip for months, ever since he’d aced the test for his motorcycle license. With the wind on his face, he follows Noah and Adam—his older brother and his brother’s mate—through winding back roads. Their destination is a small town in Wisconsin where they’re meeting up with Adam’s old biker gang... moreOn the Road: On his first ride cross-country, a young moose shifter stumbles upon a mate that he’s not ready for.Ronald Oleander, Ronnie to his friends, has been looking forward to this road trip for months, ever since he’d aced the test for his motorcycle license. With the wind on his face, he follows Noah and Adam—his older brother and his brother’s mate—through winding back roads. Their destination is a small town in Wisconsin where they’re meeting up with Adam’s old biker gang. Ronnie has been warned the place is homophobic and never to go anywhere alone. Except, when he arrives, the first thing he notices is an enticing smell. Ronnie wanders around the back of the diner to investigate and finds a pair of humans pounding on a smaller guy. Breaking up the fight, he sends the jerks packing. When he focuses on the beaten man, he discovers he’s the source of the smell—and is also not only a shifter, but his mate—Hector Ramirez, an armadillo shifter. At barely twenty-one, Ronnie didn’t expect to find the other half of his soul so soon, and he doesn’t feel ready. Still, he can’t deny his instincts. For better or worse, can Ronnie accept not only a mate but figure out a way to stop the people after him? less

On the Road: When a realtor reviews a home before showing a prospective client, he finds something unexpected.Bruin Rawlins is a musk ox shifter who enjoys his job as a realtor since it allows him to meet so many new people. That increases his opportunity to find his mate-the other half of his soul. Imagine his surprise when it's not a client who turns out to be that special someone, but a beaten, battered human he finds in a home he's checking out... moreOn the Road: When a realtor reviews a home before showing a prospective client, he finds something unexpected.Bruin Rawlins is a musk ox shifter who enjoys his job as a realtor since it allows him to meet so many new people. That increases his opportunity to find his mate-the other half of his soul. Imagine his surprise when it's not a client who turns out to be that special someone, but a beaten, battered human he finds in a home he's checking out. Giving in to his shifter instincts to care for his mate, Bruin takes the man home and, with the help of his brother, treats his injuries. When the human wakes, he panics and runs. To Bruin's embarrassment, it's his mammy who manages to calm him, taking him to call his family and giving Bruin a chance to learn his mate's name-Juan Ramirez. When Juan's relations arrive, other people are with them. Bruin learns that Juan already knows about shifters. Unfortunately, that doesn't mean he's ready to jump in and bond. Can Bruin earn Juan's trust while keeping him safe from whoever had hurt him? less

Able Lieder hasn’t seen his mate in six days, but he can’t do anything about it. He knows the guard—Olson—doesn’t understand why he feels drawn to him, bringing him treats and talking sweetly to him. He can’t explain it to him, either, since the scientists are keeping him in cat form. When Able overhears the scientists talking about an experiment that will surely end his life, he figures he should be grateful Olson isn’t around to see his demise. Except, then Able is rescued... moreAble Lieder hasn’t seen his mate in six days, but he can’t do anything about it. He knows the guard—Olson—doesn’t understand why he feels drawn to him, bringing him treats and talking sweetly to him. He can’t explain it to him, either, since the scientists are keeping him in cat form. When Able overhears the scientists talking about an experiment that will surely end his life, he figures he should be grateful Olson isn’t around to see his demise. Except, then Able is rescued. A group of shifters arrives and frees everyone, led by a grizzly shifter named Kontra Belikov. At first, Able fears that they killed his mate in the process, but Olson is nowhere to be found. With the help of Kontra’s gang, can Able figure out where Olson disappeared to? less

On the Road: On the mend from the biggest mistake of his life, a giant panda shifter is on the cusp of receiving the greatest of gifts... if the man’s mind can be restored.Zhaul had just wanted a night of fun... away from the responsibilities of his panda sleuth. Accepting the offer of a back-room hook-up from the wrong person landed him in a cage as a science experiment. Upon being rescued, Zhaul is devastated to learn that no one in his sleuth had even reported him missing... moreOn the Road: On the mend from the biggest mistake of his life, a giant panda shifter is on the cusp of receiving the greatest of gifts... if the man’s mind can be restored.Zhaul had just wanted a night of fun... away from the responsibilities of his panda sleuth. Accepting the offer of a back-room hook-up from the wrong person landed him in a cage as a science experiment. Upon being rescued, Zhaul is devastated to learn that no one in his sleuth had even reported him missing. Meeting his mate lifts his spirits. Learning that the black bear shifter has been be-spelled by witches, Zhaul thinks perhaps Fate is laughing at him. The alpha of the shifter gang who’d rescued him as well as his mate—Kontra and Tim—assure him that there is a way to break the spell, and they’ll do everything in their power to help him find it. Then he discovers a way to connect with his mate—climbing trees. Can Zhaul discover how to build on that before those who’d held him captive come calling? less

On the Road: Having known who his mate is for over a year and a half, now that he’s free, the brown bear shifter will do anything to win his human’s heart and claim him.Shannon knew it was a mistake. He should have found a better way, a way that didn’t put the remaining members of his sleuth in danger. Except, with his brown bear driving him, he takes advantage of the unguarded phone and calls the very people who’d enslaved them—the witch circle... moreOn the Road: Having known who his mate is for over a year and a half, now that he’s free, the brown bear shifter will do anything to win his human’s heart and claim him.Shannon knew it was a mistake. He should have found a better way, a way that didn’t put the remaining members of his sleuth in danger. Except, with his brown bear driving him, he takes advantage of the unguarded phone and calls the very people who’d enslaved them—the witch circle. To Shannon’s relief, no one is seriously injured in the witches’ attack, and the circle is stopped. On top of that, the women brought Shannon exactly who he’d hoped—Evan Reyes. Shannon had known Evan was his mate the second he’d scented the skinny twink while in the head witch’s kennels. Being be-spelled, Shannon had never been able to do anything about it. Now, he can. Of course, Shannon has a butt-load of restitution to get through first—not to mention having to figure out how to counter the witches’ lies that are filling Evan’s head—but this is his mate. With the help of his sleuth, even though they’re annoyed with him, Shannon can fix everything, can’t he? less

On the Road: Expecting to die in a cage until rescued by demons, a trapped camel shifter finds new hope in a sweet, feisty human.Stuck in camel form, Rudy loses all track of time while held in a small, exotic animal zoo run by a circle of witches. They even saddle him up and use him to give customers rides. When demons wipe out the witches and their acolytes, he’s certain he and the other shifters in the place will be next... moreOn the Road: Expecting to die in a cage until rescued by demons, a trapped camel shifter finds new hope in a sweet, feisty human.Stuck in camel form, Rudy loses all track of time while held in a small, exotic animal zoo run by a circle of witches. They even saddle him up and use him to give customers rides. When demons wipe out the witches and their acolytes, he’s certain he and the other shifters in the place will be next. Instead, the demons free them and take them to a shifter gang deep in the Louisiana bayou.When Rudy and the several others who still can’t shift are ordered to hide from an arriving vehicle, they obey. Curious, he peeks through the trees and watches three figures emerge from a black SUV—two clearly federal agents and one not. As they disappear inside, the most wonderful aroma drifts across Rudy’s senses, and he realizes one of the visitors is his mate. Rudy longs to rush in and discover who, but he forces himself to wait, knowing he should only reveal himself to his one and only.To Rudy’s great relief, the federal agents leave, and their scents don’t interest him. Even in camel form, Rudy makes it known that the visiting human—Gary Badoga—is his mate. Upon learning that Gary’s head has been filled with lies about shifters by witches, can Rudy figure out a way to connect when Gary seems afraid of his animal? less

On the Road: A young Cajun who’s never learned to stand up to his brother gets support and an extra push from the most unexpected of places.Horace Broussard knows he needs to learn how to say no to his brother, Herbert. His older, larger brother always seems to drag him into trouble. Except, the two times he’d gathered the courage, Herbert had explained why it was a bad idea... with his fists and feet. The first time had left him pissing blood for days... moreOn the Road: A young Cajun who’s never learned to stand up to his brother gets support and an extra push from the most unexpected of places.Horace Broussard knows he needs to learn how to say no to his brother, Herbert. His older, larger brother always seems to drag him into trouble. Except, the two times he’d gathered the courage, Herbert had explained why it was a bad idea... with his fists and feet. The first time had left him pissing blood for days. The second time had culminated in a broken wrist. Horace doesn’t say no to his brother anymore, which is how he ends up poaching gators in the swamp... again.When they spot a small pack of wolves running through the cypress trees, Herbert orders that they go after them, claiming a wolf pelt on his floor would be cool.Just like many of Herbert’s bad ideas, Horace ends up in hot water. They’re caught by the owners of the wolves—a fierce biker gang. Except, then something crazy happens. A huge African elephant grabs Horace in its trunk and carries him into the swamp. When other animals arrive and turn into men, he wonders if he’s hit his head and is hallucinating. Can the paranormal be real, and if so, how can he keep this revelation from his dominating brother?Reader Advisory: The first chapter of this tale overlaps with the last chapter in Pursuit by Camelback. less

On the Road: A CIA agent heads to the bayou to question a group of shifters, only to discover a gift from Fate he isn’t sure he can have.Agent Rhone Craigson has known about shifters for nearly a decade. He also knows there’s a group of them currently hiding out in the remote bayous of Louisiana. When several missing persons reports come to Rhone’s attention, all from that area, his curiosity is piqued... along with a healthy dose of concern... moreOn the Road: A CIA agent heads to the bayou to question a group of shifters, only to discover a gift from Fate he isn’t sure he can have.Agent Rhone Craigson has known about shifters for nearly a decade. He also knows there’s a group of them currently hiding out in the remote bayous of Louisiana. When several missing persons reports come to Rhone’s attention, all from that area, his curiosity is piqued... along with a healthy dose of concern. For the safety of, well, everyone, shifters need to stay under the radar.Rhone needs to know if the shifter group is involved in the disappearance of humans in that area. Due to the fact that there’s a mole in the CIA, feeding the military sensitive information, he decides to visit the shifters in person. When Rhone arrives, he finds the group surprisingly welcoming and forthcoming. Joining them for a meal, he spots a cute, dirty-blond-haired twink that causes an unexpected dose of attraction, who’s introduced as Mickey, a meerkat shifter.When Mickey claims they’re mates, Rhone knows that means Mickey expects them to bond and live as a couple. While Rhone can admit that he wouldn’t mind getting to know the little shifter, so much is going on within the agency. Can he discover the mole to ensure Mickey’s safety, or is walking away the safer option? less

On the When a brown bear shifter runs across his mate, he discovers a scarred soul in need of healing. As a brown bear who’s been be-spelled by witches and rescued by horsemen and demons, Madagascar has spent months recovering. He’s bored. When Kontra’s gang gathers the information they need to take out a facility holding and experimenting on shifters, he decides to help them. While there, Madagascar runs across his mate—a wolf shifter working as a janitor... who pulls a gun on them... moreOn the When a brown bear shifter runs across his mate, he discovers a scarred soul in need of healing. As a brown bear who’s been be-spelled by witches and rescued by horsemen and demons, Madagascar has spent months recovering. He’s bored. When Kontra’s gang gathers the information they need to take out a facility holding and experimenting on shifters, he decides to help them. While there, Madagascar runs across his mate—a wolf shifter working as a janitor... who pulls a gun on them. After disarming and securing the man, they learn his name is Ishmael Cartwright, a shifter who’d been kidnapped and sold by a now-deceased councilman gone rogue. The experiments done on Ishmael have left him with little memory of his past, and he believes any recollections of him shifting are delusions brought on by the house fire that left scars on his back. With Ishmael believing the scientists saved him, can Madagascar find some way to break through his conditioning and win his mate? less

On the After a rescued rhino shifter begins building a new life in a small rural town, finding his mate means he’ll need to accept help once again.After being rescued from witches by demons, Aaron finds himself left with a group of biker shifters to be rehabilitated until he regains his ability to shift. Once he does, due to being alone for a long time and being at loose ends, he sticks with the guys until he can figure out his next move... moreOn the After a rescued rhino shifter begins building a new life in a small rural town, finding his mate means he’ll need to accept help once again.After being rescued from witches by demons, Aaron finds himself left with a group of biker shifters to be rehabilitated until he regains his ability to shift. Once he does, due to being alone for a long time and being at loose ends, he sticks with the guys until he can figure out his next move. When the bikers take him into the territory of a wolf shifter pack, he’s surprised to discover them welcoming and friendly. Deciding to take them up on their offer to stick around and build a life, Aaron accepts a part-time volunteer position at Stone Ridge’s firehouse. While there to meet the fire chief, he’s shocked to meet his mate—a human named Thoron Ballaro. Even better, Thoron knows about shifters... sort of. When he and Aaron begin navigating a life together, he learns that Thoron has a six-year-old son... and that Thoron’s ex-wife is an opinionated bigot. Can they figure out a way to keep Thoron’s ex from causing trouble while cementing their life together? less

On the When a bear takes a stroll through the woods, he runs into the greatest gift of his life... or rather, that gift runs into him.Years before, Valentine and the rest of his bear sleuth were captured, tortured, and bespelled by a circle of witches. Even after getting rescued, he still struggles with the aftereffects, and not just because the spells were reinforced with blood magick—demon blood, making them exceptionally difficult to counter... moreOn the When a bear takes a stroll through the woods, he runs into the greatest gift of his life... or rather, that gift runs into him.Years before, Valentine and the rest of his bear sleuth were captured, tortured, and bespelled by a circle of witches. Even after getting rescued, he still struggles with the aftereffects, and not just because the spells were reinforced with blood magick—demon blood, making them exceptionally difficult to counter. Finally, the Horseman of Death appears with the answer.While the removal of the spells is nearly as agonizing and exhausting as having them placed on them in the first place, the sleuth still decides to go for a celebratory run. In his sluggishness, Valentine gets distracted by an enticing aroma and doesn’t move fast enough, getting struck by a logging truck. As he struggles to get away on three limbs, the driver exits the truck, and Valentine is hit by the realization that the human is his mate—Stone, according to the name on his shirt.Even with a newly broken arm, Valentine realizes he just may be having the best and worst day of his life. He’s just met his mate... if he can find Stone, that is. less

On the When a coral snake shifter succumbs to boredom, he learns the value of interaction.Ulkna has spent the last three decades existing in his coral snake form. For most of that time, it was forced on him by witches. After being rescued over a year before, it was just easier. Then Ulkna overhears the shifters he’s staying with talking about something that he’s always enjoyed—horseback riding. So, he shifts.While the guys are surprised, they welcome Ulkna on their Grand Canyon adventure... moreOn the When a coral snake shifter succumbs to boredom, he learns the value of interaction.Ulkna has spent the last three decades existing in his coral snake form. For most of that time, it was forced on him by witches. After being rescued over a year before, it was just easier. Then Ulkna overhears the shifters he’s staying with talking about something that he’s always enjoyed—horseback riding. So, he shifts.While the guys are surprised, they welcome Ulkna on their Grand Canyon adventure. There, he scents something shocking…one of the horses that makes up the string of riding mounts is his mate. Finding him is easy, as Trey recognizes him, too. Getting Trey to leave his job as a trail mount is something else.Can Ulkna overcome his loner tendencies enough to understand the importance of family and its implications on his relationship with Trey? less