⭐⭐⭐⭐
❤️❤️❤️❤️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
A Non-Spoiler Synopsis
You’d think coming out as the first Human-Were hybrid would bring unity amongst the species, but Serena Paris found herself once again the target of the political machinations between the Humans, Weres, and Vampires. Pack-less and unwilling to burden Mercy, her newlywed vampiric best friend, Serena has one option left to turn to.
Koen Alexander is the Alpha of the Northwest pack and is used to strict obedience. Who better to protect Serena than her alpha mate? The public doesn’t need to know that she doesn’t reciprocate the mate bond. And mate or not Koen will do everything in his power to keep her safe.
But the threats surrounding Serena are not only political. Her mysterious past is catching up with her, and Koen may be the key to understanding her origins.
My Thots on the Smut and Vibes of “Mate” by Ali Hazelwood (Light Spoilers Ahead)
Overall, I am very much a fan of Ali Hazelwood. As someone who also is a die-hard romantasy/urban fantasy fan I could not recommend this book more. Like Hazelwood’s other works, “Mate” is full of witty fast paced dialog and toe-curling sexual tension. I actually enjoyed this book more than the first book in this series “Bride”.
I would describe Serena as resourceful, smart, and self-sacrificing. Early on we learn that Serena is suffering from a deadly medical condition that she believes is connected to her half Were half Human biology.
Koen has an abrasive humor that perfectly matches Serena’s and he is set on pushing her away while keeping her safe. One of my favorite literary devices is using a troupe but turning it on its head. Ali Hazelwood does this perfectly with Koen’s covenant. Due to the history of the pack, the Alpha must remain chaste. And while it’s not explicitly said in the book, Koen took on the title of Alpha as a teenager, so I am assuming he is a virgin. It is so common in romantasy that the FMC has some type of title or destiny that requires her to be a virgin (Hello “From Blood and Ash” by Jennifer L. Armentrout. Another fabulous read). I would argue that the default in romance fiction in general is that the FMC is less sexually experienced or a virgin. It is so refreshing to see the MMC as the chaste one.
The sexual tension builds throughout the story, and when Serena discovers that her so called terminal illness is actually her first Heat, Koen can no longer ignore his feelings or leave her in need. *swoons*
This was such a fun and spicy read even if you are not the biggest urban fantasy fan, I still highly recommend this book. The fantastical elements are explained very well, and the focus is on the romance in this one. If you are a fan of forced proximity, “touch her and die”, and fated mates; you’ll enjoy this one!