In an interesting, and somewhat unexpected, deviation from what I expected to happen next in this series, this volume actually has Malcolm, the father of the mini bear-clan, find a mate. So far only his sons were so lucky and I loved the surprise. At the same time, the overall story is developed further as we find out more about the mysterious wood elves and their dark plans.

Malcolm is the quintessential Alpha, but, being a bear, he is more open about showing his affection than, say, Maverick, Alpha of the wolf shifter pack. It was great fun to have Malcolm realize not only that he is gay (after having had and raised seven sons), but also that he has a mate, since the woman who bore his sons was not. Fate, however, doesn't make it easy for him to keep his mate, but, luckily, Malcolm is up to the challenge.

Luke, a wood elf on the run because he doesn't want the evil elf leader to have his baby son (from an arranged union), is in more trouble than he can handle on his own. While he doesn't want to burden anyone else with his problems, it is a good thing Malcolm and his sons are both determined and strong enough to help him. Luke still suffers a lot, but at least he stands a chance now.

Like the other books, this volume is a fun, light read. Lots of adventure, hot loving and family antics give it the typical 'bear pack atmosphere' of the recent books. I look forward to the next one! ( )

Nice to see Malcolm mating at last, and a new young one added to the family, but what is with the backwards Wood Elves? With a few exceptions, they all seem kind of crazy... ( )

4.5 stars ( )