When reading a story by an author for the first time, the one thing I look for is how easily the story flows. If the story is choppy and the characters do not seem realistic I tend to quickly skim through the book or not finish it at all. Why waste your time if the story is not going to be as satisfying as the book blurb promised it would be.

So I was very pleased when I started to read Creole Moon. From the first page I was drawn into the story and smiled when the last word was read. Karen Benjamin created characters that were relatable and fun, especially Alisha.  Alisha was a no nonsense; take no prisoners, kick-ass woman who went toe to toe with the Alpha male wolf shifter Lucas Blackmane.

Alisha was a ‘Sosye’ or Wiccan who could project thoughts into others’ minds. She used this skill when she wanted to impress upon Lucas that she was not the one to take lightly. She was also sarcastic and the interaction between her and Lucas was fun to read. I love it when the female lead is not a simpering, helpless character. It is always fun when the hero and heroine have that verbal spark between them.

Lucas Blackmane was an Alpha male Wulfren who is very powerful, and relieved that he has finally found his mate. There was a chance that if his mate was not found and soon, he would become feral and would need to be put down. So imagine his surprise when he realized that this small woman, who had taken down two of his men and demanded to see her brother while threatening to kick his butt, was actually his mate.

The chemistry between Lucas and Alisha sizzled, their conversation at times, especially Alisha’s sarcasm, had me smiling. In fact all the characters the author introduced were endearing in one way or another, except maybe the villain Serpentes.

All in all, I would recommend Creole Moon as a book you should add to your list of books to read this year. Karen Benjamin did an excellent job and I’m sure you will enjoy Creole Moon as much as I did.

-Reviewed by Darcell

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