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Vegas Mates #4
Taking Nicole
The last thing Nicole Demakis remembers was getting in the car with Sarah's kidnapper and driving away. Now she faces the cold hard truth. The kidnapper, an agent of the Council, is her mate. But he refuses to claim her, and the Council may take everything away before she even has a chance to convince him to trust her.
Aaron Katsaros was ordered to deliver Nicole to her grandparents, the Antipas royal wolves. It should've been an easy task. Clean. No hiccups. But this infuriating woman, this wolf, his mate...is one hiccup after another and she's arousing him to the point of pain. With his sister's life hanging in the balance, he refuses to allow his passion to cost him the only family he has left.
Can he find a way to save his mate, or will he be forced to watch another claim the woman he loves?
Aaron Katsaros was ordered to deliver Nicole to her grandparents, the Antipas royal wolves. It should've been an easy task. Clean. No hiccups. But this infuriating woman, this wolf, his mate...is one hiccup after another and she's arousing him to the point of pain. With his sister's life hanging in the balance, he refuses to allow his passion to cost him the only family he has left.
Can he find a way to save his mate, or will he be forced to watch another claim the woman he loves?
180 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 28, 2014
About the author
Krystal Shannan
69 books1,414 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Krystal Shannan lives in a sprawling ranch style home with her husband, teenage son, and two almost teenage daughters. Her home is full of love and laughter and lots of animals. In fact the welcome mat warns visitors that it’s a zoo inside—chickens, rabbits, rats, guinea pigs, dogs and fish! You name it, they’ve probably had it in their home at some point.
Krystal writes stories filled with magick, fantasy, passion, and just enough humor to make you laugh out loud. Join the fun and escape to a whole new world.
Krystal writes stories filled with magick, fantasy, passion, and just enough humor to make you laugh out loud. Join the fun and escape to a whole new world.
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March 17, 2016
Taking Nicole is book four in the Vegas Mates series by Krystal Shannan. This book was generously provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
I am just so glad I have stayed with this series. This one was my favorite so far. Wait, did I say that last time? This one was really intense and I loved the true mate bond that wanted to form between Nicole and Aaron. Nicole is a wolf and Aaron a leopard. Actually, that is a theme throughout this series, crossing boundaries, crossing species lines, breaking down old rules and making new ones.
At the end of the previous book, we saw Nicole Demakis make a huge sacrifice for Sarah’s freedom. But she did it knowing that Aaron was her true mate. She could feel the magick between them immediately. She never thought he would follow through and turn her over to her evil grandparents.
Nicole is from royalty on both sides of her family. Her grandparents want Nicole and her two younger sisters to force them to mate with another royal, one that is not her true mate. The one that she is forced to mate with is chosen by participating in an ancient sadistic mate hunt. Only one man will come out of it alive and she will be forced to bond with him. Her grandparents force Aaron and others in their employ to follow their wishes by keeping a family member of each of theirs as prisoner. If they don’t do as they are told, they will kill the family member.
Aaron Katsaros just has to fight the bond that his leopard wants with the sexy wolf, Nicole. Her grandparents have his sister, the only family he has left. If he doesn’t do as they tell him, they will kill her. But the stronger the bond between he and Nicole gets, the harder it is to deny it. He didn’t want to turn her over to them. He wanted to do something very different to her. But if he didn’t his sister would have been killed, and he as well.
“She had no idea what catnip smelled like, but he was hers for sure.”
“He was just denying the inevitable. They were true mates, destined to spend their lives together. He just needed to accept it.”
“She should be his…was his. But fate had not been kind to them.”
I loved this one as everything that has been brewing throughout the series peaks. But time is against Nicole and Aaron and Nicole all but gives up on help arriving. She would rather die than allow herself to mate with anyone other than her true mate. And that is a choice she will easily make. Will Nicole be denied her chance at happiness with her true mate? As I have said in previous reviews of this series, even though each book is about a different couple, the basic core of the story follows it through so it is best if you read them in order. Everything is pretty much wrapped up at the end of this one but there is one more short book, book five, Unwrapping Tess: Christmas Encounters. I can’t wait.
October 11, 2014
In this fourth installment of the Vegas Mates series, things really heat up! We get a closer look into the life of Sam's sister, Nicole Demakis, who is traveling to Greece to meet with the royal Antipas family, Nicole's estranged grandparents, who are busy planning Nicole's mating ceremony... against her will.
Not one for tradition, Nicole is appalled by her grandparents' barbaric tactics in getting her to Greece, and disgusted by the idea of being mated with a total stranger, especially when she has just met her true match! And as luck would have it, he is the very one charged with making sure she gets to Greece for the ceremony! As the magick between Nicole and Aaron, a leopard shifter, heats up, the pace quickens.
Nicole discovers the true, sinister nature of her grandparents, carefully concealed behind the the grandeur of the royal palace. Nicole and Aaron must hide their feelings, which is becoming increasingly difficult, as each stolen moment causes their bond to intensify. But staying apart is impossible, as Aaron has been assigned to Nicole as her bodyguard! Lives are at stake, and the clock is ticking.
Nicole's troubled family history, hinged on old traditions, continues to burden the wolf packs. The rebellion that started in Las Vegas is advancing, and others have learned of Nicole's capture. With her pack on the alert, and Aaron at her side, will it be enough to save her?
This is the most complex story in the series, so far, with many reveals about the history of the werewolves, the originals, and the council. The book is so well written, that I never felt lost or confused. A fast paced and entertaining addition to the Vegas Mates series, this is one you don't want to miss! But the books should be read in order to best understand these enchanting characters.
Not one for tradition, Nicole is appalled by her grandparents' barbaric tactics in getting her to Greece, and disgusted by the idea of being mated with a total stranger, especially when she has just met her true match! And as luck would have it, he is the very one charged with making sure she gets to Greece for the ceremony! As the magick between Nicole and Aaron, a leopard shifter, heats up, the pace quickens.
Nicole discovers the true, sinister nature of her grandparents, carefully concealed behind the the grandeur of the royal palace. Nicole and Aaron must hide their feelings, which is becoming increasingly difficult, as each stolen moment causes their bond to intensify. But staying apart is impossible, as Aaron has been assigned to Nicole as her bodyguard! Lives are at stake, and the clock is ticking.
Nicole's troubled family history, hinged on old traditions, continues to burden the wolf packs. The rebellion that started in Las Vegas is advancing, and others have learned of Nicole's capture. With her pack on the alert, and Aaron at her side, will it be enough to save her?
This is the most complex story in the series, so far, with many reveals about the history of the werewolves, the originals, and the council. The book is so well written, that I never felt lost or confused. A fast paced and entertaining addition to the Vegas Mates series, this is one you don't want to miss! But the books should be read in order to best understand these enchanting characters.
May 5, 2014
4 1/2 stars
This is the first book in this series that I've read. It's a solid read with a lot of action, some steamy, sizzling chemistry between Nicole and Aaron, who is a mercenary. Aaron is also a shifter and kidnaps Nicole because he really doesn't have a choice - not if he wants his sister to stay alive. The fact that Nicole turns out to be his mate is a serious distraction, but one he cant let stop him from delivering Nicole to her grandparents in Greece. The twists in this one are so curvy and the book is so full of emotions, throw in some hot sex scenes and whew! I'm going to have to go back and read the first three books in this series, just for more sexy shifters. Krystal did a great job with this book, so I'm really looking forward to reading the books that came before this one.
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
This is the first book in this series that I've read. It's a solid read with a lot of action, some steamy, sizzling chemistry between Nicole and Aaron, who is a mercenary. Aaron is also a shifter and kidnaps Nicole because he really doesn't have a choice - not if he wants his sister to stay alive. The fact that Nicole turns out to be his mate is a serious distraction, but one he cant let stop him from delivering Nicole to her grandparents in Greece. The twists in this one are so curvy and the book is so full of emotions, throw in some hot sex scenes and whew! I'm going to have to go back and read the first three books in this series, just for more sexy shifters. Krystal did a great job with this book, so I'm really looking forward to reading the books that came before this one.
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
April 8, 2014
Krystal Shannan does it again; a mesmerizing new Vegas Mates romance that keeps the reader on the edge of their seats. Nicole is kidnapped by an agent of the council and to her surprise he is also her mate but he refuses to claim her and the council may take everything away before she can convince him to trust her. With his sister’s life hanging in the balance, handing Nicole over to her grandparents should have been an easy task for Aaron but this infuriating wolf is one hiccup after another and she’s arousing him to the point of pain.
This fast paced and smooth flowing plot keeps the adrenaline pumping with lots of suspense, drama, action and romance. The author brings this thrilling story to live with vivid descriptions and details that capture the information and the well orchestrated action scenes are believable and make the reader feel as if they are part of the story. The tension builds as the reader awaits to discover Nicole’s fate at the twisted hands of her grandparents and the strong compelling characters are easily related to and grab the reader’s attention from the very beginning.
The chemistry between Nicole and Aaron explodes from the pages and when they finally mate the sex scenes are extremely hot & steamy. But they have a very difficult situation to overcome before they can even think about claiming each other. The author conveys the emotions that these characters go through with such vibrant intensity that the reader can’t help but get caught up in their story and ride out the emotional rollercoaster with them.
I was totally engrossed in the story from the beginning and I couldn’t put it down until I read the very last word. I have followed this series from the beginning and each book just gets better and better. In addition to the captivating characters already involved in this fantastic world, new intriguing characters are introduced and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
This fast paced and smooth flowing plot keeps the adrenaline pumping with lots of suspense, drama, action and romance. The author brings this thrilling story to live with vivid descriptions and details that capture the information and the well orchestrated action scenes are believable and make the reader feel as if they are part of the story. The tension builds as the reader awaits to discover Nicole’s fate at the twisted hands of her grandparents and the strong compelling characters are easily related to and grab the reader’s attention from the very beginning.
The chemistry between Nicole and Aaron explodes from the pages and when they finally mate the sex scenes are extremely hot & steamy. But they have a very difficult situation to overcome before they can even think about claiming each other. The author conveys the emotions that these characters go through with such vibrant intensity that the reader can’t help but get caught up in their story and ride out the emotional rollercoaster with them.
I was totally engrossed in the story from the beginning and I couldn’t put it down until I read the very last word. I have followed this series from the beginning and each book just gets better and better. In addition to the captivating characters already involved in this fantastic world, new intriguing characters are introduced and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
May 2, 2014
Nicole is of a Royal Bloodline and her grandparents are determined to keep the bloodline pure. So they go to extremes to get her to them. They have mages that can trap a shifter in their animal form. They do this to make other family members serve them fearing that if they don't the Royals will kill their loved ones. Aaron is one of these people that is forced to serve. So he forces Nicole to come with him by kidnapping one of her friends and making her trade herself for her friend. He discovers that she is his true mate but he can't let that matter. He has to save his sister.
Nicole goes with Aaron to save her friend. She does not want to go through with a Mate Hunt. Especially when she realizes that Aaron is her Mate. She wants to try to fight and would love for Aaron to recognize her as his mate and fight with her but she may be all alone in this battle.
My opinion: Let me start by saying I love all of Krystal's books that I have read so far and The Vegas Mates series is one of my favorites. I have liked some books better then others. I feel that her books get better and better the more she writes. I was a little disappointed in the lack of sex scenes although there was a lot of sexual tension. I liked the fact that Nicole was more than willing to try to find a way to fight and try to save Aaron's sister but he was willing to let Nicole go even though he still had no way of helping his sister. I think that he led her on a lot with no intentions of following through just to make things easier on him and his sister. While this was understandable, how can you not want to protect your family, he was also putting his one chance at happiness at risk. I definitely enjoyed the book and I highly recommend reading. This whole series would make a great addition to your book library!
'Read and Reviewed by LSK Sweetheart Reviews'
Nicole goes with Aaron to save her friend. She does not want to go through with a Mate Hunt. Especially when she realizes that Aaron is her Mate. She wants to try to fight and would love for Aaron to recognize her as his mate and fight with her but she may be all alone in this battle.
My opinion: Let me start by saying I love all of Krystal's books that I have read so far and The Vegas Mates series is one of my favorites. I have liked some books better then others. I feel that her books get better and better the more she writes. I was a little disappointed in the lack of sex scenes although there was a lot of sexual tension. I liked the fact that Nicole was more than willing to try to find a way to fight and try to save Aaron's sister but he was willing to let Nicole go even though he still had no way of helping his sister. I think that he led her on a lot with no intentions of following through just to make things easier on him and his sister. While this was understandable, how can you not want to protect your family, he was also putting his one chance at happiness at risk. I definitely enjoyed the book and I highly recommend reading. This whole series would make a great addition to your book library!
'Read and Reviewed by LSK Sweetheart Reviews'
April 15, 2014
I received this book from the author.
Nicole Demakis wakes up on a plane when the last thing she remembers is getting into a car.
She finds out that she has been kidnapped and is being taken to her grandparents in Greece. As awful as that is, she figures out that her kidnapper is her mate.
Aaron Katsaros had no choice in kidnapping Nicole for her grandparents. Nicole's grandparents have him between a rock and a hard spot, just like everyone that they have working for them.
Will Nicole go along with her grandparent's plans for her? Will Aaron claim Nicole as his mate?
Nicole Demakis wakes up on a plane when the last thing she remembers is getting into a car.
She finds out that she has been kidnapped and is being taken to her grandparents in Greece. As awful as that is, she figures out that her kidnapper is her mate.
Aaron Katsaros had no choice in kidnapping Nicole for her grandparents. Nicole's grandparents have him between a rock and a hard spot, just like everyone that they have working for them.
Will Nicole go along with her grandparent's plans for her? Will Aaron claim Nicole as his mate?
January 23, 2018
Nicole can't believe her luck. The Mate she has been looking for has finally turned up...but only after she realises he is the one who hurt her friends and has now kidnapped her! He's on the payroll of her odious grandparents and she is not going to go to them meek and mildly! But as she learns more about her big ol' kitty cat of a mate she realises that he is not returning her because he wants to but that he is forced to.
Aaron's leopard is in a huff! Ever since it recognised Nicole as his mate his spirit animal has decided to become aloof due to him going against every fibre of the mate bond and kidnapping and therefore "hurting" his mate. But it's a tough choice, hand over his mate or watch his sister die.
Nicole's grandparents would never win an award, except maybe Most Evil People in Charge. They truly revel in misery of others and have no regard for Nicole or her desires, dreams or even dress! I loved the way she tricked, seduced and otherwise tormented Aaron into trying to free her. She was also suitably horrified when she was made to observe the consequences of her rebellion. Aaron is truly pulled in different directions with a hideous choice.
The whole Hunt is really appalling and the participants are not all clued into what is happening. Fabulous characters and I loves the conclusion. I can't wait to get my teeth into the next book!
Aaron's leopard is in a huff! Ever since it recognised Nicole as his mate his spirit animal has decided to become aloof due to him going against every fibre of the mate bond and kidnapping and therefore "hurting" his mate. But it's a tough choice, hand over his mate or watch his sister die.
Nicole's grandparents would never win an award, except maybe Most Evil People in Charge. They truly revel in misery of others and have no regard for Nicole or her desires, dreams or even dress! I loved the way she tricked, seduced and otherwise tormented Aaron into trying to free her. She was also suitably horrified when she was made to observe the consequences of her rebellion. Aaron is truly pulled in different directions with a hideous choice.
The whole Hunt is really appalling and the participants are not all clued into what is happening. Fabulous characters and I loves the conclusion. I can't wait to get my teeth into the next book!
September 21, 2020
>Book Review – Taking Nicole
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the 4th in the Vegas Mates series and ends in an HEA. I have not read any of the previous books in the series and I felt like I missed out on a lot of this story. The romance may be standalone, but the continuing plot didn’t really make sense without the previous three books. Aaron is a leopard shifter who works for the queen wolf shifter. He kidnaps the queen’s granddaughter, Nicole, in order to force her to marry. One of the issues with this plan is that Aaron and Nicole turn out to be mates.
>There is a lot of sexual tension between Aaron and Nicole, but Aaron choses to protect his sister every time. There is a bizarre and brutal claiming ceremony and the introduction to a hierarchy of shifter gods that must have been explained in previous books. The romance was flat, as the only thing that seemed to be fueling it was destiny, as in they were destined mates. Aaron never seemed to put Nicole first, yet she was willing to die for him.
>This book is appropriate for an adult audience. I am giving this book 3 stars. Even if I had read the first 3 books in this series, the romance in this book was dull.
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the 4th in the Vegas Mates series and ends in an HEA. I have not read any of the previous books in the series and I felt like I missed out on a lot of this story. The romance may be standalone, but the continuing plot didn’t really make sense without the previous three books. Aaron is a leopard shifter who works for the queen wolf shifter. He kidnaps the queen’s granddaughter, Nicole, in order to force her to marry. One of the issues with this plan is that Aaron and Nicole turn out to be mates.
>There is a lot of sexual tension between Aaron and Nicole, but Aaron choses to protect his sister every time. There is a bizarre and brutal claiming ceremony and the introduction to a hierarchy of shifter gods that must have been explained in previous books. The romance was flat, as the only thing that seemed to be fueling it was destiny, as in they were destined mates. Aaron never seemed to put Nicole first, yet she was willing to die for him.
>This book is appropriate for an adult audience. I am giving this book 3 stars. Even if I had read the first 3 books in this series, the romance in this book was dull.
December 5, 2019
I read this book as part of a box set that I own.
When Nicole trades herself to the man who has kidnapped Sarah, she does it having realized that he is her mate. Her mate – a freakin’ cat shifter that works for her grandparents and is delivering her straight into their all-but-loving hands. Not only that, but they will soon hand her off to the victor of a mate fight that will result in the death of all the losing contestants. Perfect, just perfect. When she arrives at her grandparent’s villa and figures out just how f’ed up they really are, she knows she is going to have to figure out how to save not only herself but her mate and all the others trapped in her family’s hell. It would be nice if her mate was willing to help her out a little.
Aaron Katsaros is a leopard shifter who has been blackmailed into doing all kinds of nasty things in order to keep his sister alive. The nastiest one of them all though has to be taking his mate to her grandparents to be given to some stuck up royal as a mate. There doesn’t seem to be any way to stop what is coming, or is there?
When Nicole trades herself to the man who has kidnapped Sarah, she does it having realized that he is her mate. Her mate – a freakin’ cat shifter that works for her grandparents and is delivering her straight into their all-but-loving hands. Not only that, but they will soon hand her off to the victor of a mate fight that will result in the death of all the losing contestants. Perfect, just perfect. When she arrives at her grandparent’s villa and figures out just how f’ed up they really are, she knows she is going to have to figure out how to save not only herself but her mate and all the others trapped in her family’s hell. It would be nice if her mate was willing to help her out a little.
Aaron Katsaros is a leopard shifter who has been blackmailed into doing all kinds of nasty things in order to keep his sister alive. The nastiest one of them all though has to be taking his mate to her grandparents to be given to some stuck up royal as a mate. There doesn’t seem to be any way to stop what is coming, or is there?
June 14, 2020
This was another very enjoyable entry in this exciting series. Nicole and Aaron's story is filled with lots of tension, drama, emotion, action, violence, danger and edge of your seat intensity. I liked both characters. Nicole was free spirited and fierce, while Aaron was so tortured, your heart ached for him. The story was gripping and had no problem keeping me engaged. I highly recommend you read this books in order. Each book does focus on its own couple but there is an overarching story playing out over the course of this series and events that occur along the way that have long lasting ripple effects. So trust me when I say, you will get much more reading pleasure and have a better understanding of things if you start at the beginning and read through. All and all a very good read. Single narration on this book and I thought it was well done. The voice was pleasant and really helped to pull me into the book.
October 2, 2023
This book really calls me to write a review for this book. I love Nicole so much. She is a fighter & never gives up. Aaron on the other hand makes me pull my hair a few times. He is such a damn coward!!
I understand he is in the tight position. He had his sister's safety to think about. But can't he at least support Nicole's decision to fight the winner of the duel?
I just wish Aaron would have a little backbone & fight for Nicole in the end. But it never happened and someone else who actually fought for her. Damn him. His character is really disappointing.
I also wish Nicole at least punished him a little in the end. Makes him grovel a little and earn his place as a mate not just accept him with open arms.
Anyway, I gave this book 5 stars. It’s a good story overall
I understand he is in the tight position. He had his sister's safety to think about. But can't he at least support Nicole's decision to fight the winner of the duel?
I just wish Aaron would have a little backbone & fight for Nicole in the end. But it never happened and someone else who actually fought for her. Damn him. His character is really disappointing.
I also wish Nicole at least punished him a little in the end. Makes him grovel a little and earn his place as a mate not just accept him with open arms.
Anyway, I gave this book 5 stars. It’s a good story overall
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 13, 2019
At first it was just a shitty job he had no choice in doing but it didn't take long 4 him 2 noticed they both were destined mates but unfortunately he had 2 fight it cause of her psycho grandparents. It's good thing that her friend cam through 4 them. I just wish that her body guard didn't die B4 they showed up and saved most of them in pain, etc. It's very good that those assholes got severely punished 4 everything they did and her bitch mom got hers in the end cause of what she did. They finally got 2 b 2gether the way they were always meant 2 b.
May 31, 2020
Another terrific story in this amazing series. Not all families are hugs and kisses.; some have no control over it and others are just plain evil. Learn what happens to our heroine, Nicole, when she's kidnapped by the evil side. To make it worst the one who does their bidding turns out to be her fated mate. They both feel the pull to each other but he won't let it happen. There's a lot happening in between these words I've written, so get this audible or book and walk the path of sorrow, evil, hope, and passion; you won't want to stop till you get to the end.
May 18, 2017
Taking Nicole
Such a good book,you will laugh and cry.The story is great and there is so much action going on.I think there is one of every shifter in this book.Grab a copy you will be sorry if you don't .
Such a good book,you will laugh and cry.The story is great and there is so much action going on.I think there is one of every shifter in this book.Grab a copy you will be sorry if you don't .
July 24, 2023
2.5.....
It was ok.... I wasnt Keen on Mcs if im Honest
It was ok.... I wasnt Keen on Mcs if im Honest
May 28, 2016
Taking Nicole is Book 4 in Krystal Shannans Vegas Mates series.
Nicole Demakis has been kidnapped and on her way back to Greece as per her grandparents orders. The kidnapper is a council agent who happens to be her mate but is refusing to claim her and seems stubborn to follow through with his orders. Can she convince him to work with her and give their future a chance or will the council take everything away from her before she even has a chance?
Aaron Katsaros was ordered to deliver Nicole to her grandparents, the Antipas royal wolves. It should've been an easy task. But this infuriating woman, this wolf, his mate...is not something he anticipate. With his sister's life hanging in the balance, he refuses to allow his passion to cost him the only family he has left, but she is wearing down his resolve and drives his arousal to the point of pain. Can he find a way to save his mate, at no cost to his sister or will he be forced to watch another claim the woman he loves?
I was looking forward to this instalment for many reasons. One being that it is not often my name appears as the headlining and main character of a book, so that was exciting but also because "s@$t is getting real" in the world of the Council and the Royal Families. And especially with the Demakis sisters. We take a deeper look into the Royal Society and its traditions that are hinted at in book 1. And also because this one continues on from the semi cliffhanger from book 3 and I couldn't wait to get stuck into it.
This book is different to the others because it introduces another aspect into the fated mates pairing. We explore loyalties that are already set and we see what happens when the loyalties are tested by being introduced to your enemy that you are fated to, but has been blackmailed into being a mercenary for the family you don't want anything to do with. The poor things try so hard to fight the pull of the mate bond for different reasons and only having it become stronger. I felt so sorry for them both.
This is a very worthwhile and fulfilling instalment that takes us on a very emotional journey from beginning to end, dipping through tradition, obligation, rebellion, sacrifice, and fate.
Nicole Demakis has been kidnapped and on her way back to Greece as per her grandparents orders. The kidnapper is a council agent who happens to be her mate but is refusing to claim her and seems stubborn to follow through with his orders. Can she convince him to work with her and give their future a chance or will the council take everything away from her before she even has a chance?
Aaron Katsaros was ordered to deliver Nicole to her grandparents, the Antipas royal wolves. It should've been an easy task. But this infuriating woman, this wolf, his mate...is not something he anticipate. With his sister's life hanging in the balance, he refuses to allow his passion to cost him the only family he has left, but she is wearing down his resolve and drives his arousal to the point of pain. Can he find a way to save his mate, at no cost to his sister or will he be forced to watch another claim the woman he loves?
I was looking forward to this instalment for many reasons. One being that it is not often my name appears as the headlining and main character of a book, so that was exciting but also because "s@$t is getting real" in the world of the Council and the Royal Families. And especially with the Demakis sisters. We take a deeper look into the Royal Society and its traditions that are hinted at in book 1. And also because this one continues on from the semi cliffhanger from book 3 and I couldn't wait to get stuck into it.
This book is different to the others because it introduces another aspect into the fated mates pairing. We explore loyalties that are already set and we see what happens when the loyalties are tested by being introduced to your enemy that you are fated to, but has been blackmailed into being a mercenary for the family you don't want anything to do with. The poor things try so hard to fight the pull of the mate bond for different reasons and only having it become stronger. I felt so sorry for them both.
This is a very worthwhile and fulfilling instalment that takes us on a very emotional journey from beginning to end, dipping through tradition, obligation, rebellion, sacrifice, and fate.
April 29, 2014
Taking Nicole is the fourth and final book in the Vegas Mates series. It tells the story of Nicole Demakis (werewolf) and Aaron Katsaros (leopard shifter). Aaron was forced to kidnap Nicole and have her delivered to her grandparents in Greece. During the course of the kidnapping it was revealed that Nicole and Aaron were mates, which proved a challenge for Aaron as his purpose for carrying out this nefarious deed was to ensure the safety of his sister who is being held prisoner by Nicole’s grandparents.
Nicole, on realizing who Aaron was tried to get him to see reason and release her, but he was not willing to risk his sister’s life even if it meant losing his mate for all eternity. Nicole feared she would end up like her mother if she were to lose Aaron. The emotional battle that these two were facing as a result was quite intense. The chemistry between these two was quite was quite intense, however, they had quite a number of obstacles to overcome before they could even think of being together.
I loved Nicole, she is a brave and caring person. She was willing to risk all to protect Aaron and the other slaves.
Of all the books in the series I found Taking Nicole to be quite emotional. It was filled with pain, sorrow, hatred, jealousy and humour, so when you begin to read this book be prepared to have all your emotions engaged.
There were some suspenseful moments which had me on the edge of my seat. This was an enjoyable read from beginning to end.
If you love paranormal stories that are short, sweet and spicy then I recommend this book as well as the others in the Vegas Mates series.
Nicole, on realizing who Aaron was tried to get him to see reason and release her, but he was not willing to risk his sister’s life even if it meant losing his mate for all eternity. Nicole feared she would end up like her mother if she were to lose Aaron. The emotional battle that these two were facing as a result was quite intense. The chemistry between these two was quite was quite intense, however, they had quite a number of obstacles to overcome before they could even think of being together.
I loved Nicole, she is a brave and caring person. She was willing to risk all to protect Aaron and the other slaves.
Of all the books in the series I found Taking Nicole to be quite emotional. It was filled with pain, sorrow, hatred, jealousy and humour, so when you begin to read this book be prepared to have all your emotions engaged.
There were some suspenseful moments which had me on the edge of my seat. This was an enjoyable read from beginning to end.
If you love paranormal stories that are short, sweet and spicy then I recommend this book as well as the others in the Vegas Mates series.
August 29, 2016
Aaron is a leopard shifter working for the the Antipas Royals. He is ordered by the matriarch (Nicole's grandmother) to kidnap and return her to Greece in time for their traditional (and barbaric) mating ceremony.
Nicole is against all things tradition from the outset especially as she recognized her true mate being the same person who kidnapped her against her will. But despite this, she decides she will do everything in her power to entice him to bond with her first.
When Aaron volunteered for this assignment, he had no idea his true mate would be the granddaughter of Carlotta Antipas. He tries to ignore the growing bond between them putting as much distance as he can muster despite his constant arousal whenever Nicole is around. But the more time spent together, the deeper the connection.
They have to be careful not to be caught by the Antipas Royals as they have the means and perverse nature to end his life or that are his sister who they have caged, spelled in her animal form. He has conflicting emotions to protect his sister and to protect his one true mate.
I have to say this is probably my favorite of the Vegas Mates books. I love the sassiness and spunk Nicole possesses and the protectiveness Aaron holds towards those he holds dear. He has a hatred towards the Royals and the Council but feels defenseless at stopping the barbaric traditions passed down through the strongest bloodlines. What made me smile though, was Nicole's resolve to stand up for everyone caught in same or similar situations and fight to the death without holding any animosity. A true heroine to the very end.
Great read and was sad it ended!
Nicole is against all things tradition from the outset especially as she recognized her true mate being the same person who kidnapped her against her will. But despite this, she decides she will do everything in her power to entice him to bond with her first.
When Aaron volunteered for this assignment, he had no idea his true mate would be the granddaughter of Carlotta Antipas. He tries to ignore the growing bond between them putting as much distance as he can muster despite his constant arousal whenever Nicole is around. But the more time spent together, the deeper the connection.
They have to be careful not to be caught by the Antipas Royals as they have the means and perverse nature to end his life or that are his sister who they have caged, spelled in her animal form. He has conflicting emotions to protect his sister and to protect his one true mate.
I have to say this is probably my favorite of the Vegas Mates books. I love the sassiness and spunk Nicole possesses and the protectiveness Aaron holds towards those he holds dear. He has a hatred towards the Royals and the Council but feels defenseless at stopping the barbaric traditions passed down through the strongest bloodlines. What made me smile though, was Nicole's resolve to stand up for everyone caught in same or similar situations and fight to the death without holding any animosity. A true heroine to the very end.
Great read and was sad it ended!
April 14, 2015
While I thoroughly enjoyed this addition to this series, I have to say it felt a bit rushes or off from the other books. I did catch some errors in the text, no big deal, but I usually don’t notice that sort of thing. I also must confess that I was a little disappointed that the bad guys didn’t suffer more. I thought they all got off way to easy and much too mercifully in regards to how they had been treating everyone. I guess that is what the good guys do though, but still I wish Nicole could have smack her grandparents once or snapped their necks…
It was interesting chemistry between Nicole and Aaron, not as strong as the others, but still interesting. I enjoyed the parts when Nicole and her wolf were playing with him, trying to get him to lose it. I understand why it was cruel, but still kinda fun. I’m glad they found each other, but still my least favorite couple of the series so far.
I spent much of this book being ticked off at the royal society that Nicole’s grandparents were a part of. I could not believe how depraved and self-righteous these shifter’s attitudes and behaviors were. What asses. Hence my wish for them to suffer a bit more than they did. I thought the resolution of Sam and Nicole’s mother was good and I’m glad that the author went that way. Perhaps a tad anti-climatic after all the buildup, but satisfying.
I enjoyed this series quite a lot. If the last book ever comes out for Nook I will most definitely add it to my collection.
It was interesting chemistry between Nicole and Aaron, not as strong as the others, but still interesting. I enjoyed the parts when Nicole and her wolf were playing with him, trying to get him to lose it. I understand why it was cruel, but still kinda fun. I’m glad they found each other, but still my least favorite couple of the series so far.
I spent much of this book being ticked off at the royal society that Nicole’s grandparents were a part of. I could not believe how depraved and self-righteous these shifter’s attitudes and behaviors were. What asses. Hence my wish for them to suffer a bit more than they did. I thought the resolution of Sam and Nicole’s mother was good and I’m glad that the author went that way. Perhaps a tad anti-climatic after all the buildup, but satisfying.
I enjoyed this series quite a lot. If the last book ever comes out for Nook I will most definitely add it to my collection.
April 10, 2014
This is Nicole Demarkis' story. Nicole is kidnapped from Utah and is being taken to Greece to her evil grandparents (Reginald and Carlotta Antipas) one of the Royals on the Council. Aaron Katsaros is a leopard mercenary who is charged by the grandparents to bring Nicole back to Greece. Amazingly they happen to be each others life mates but can't do anything about it. Aaron 's sister is being held by the grandparents as are so many others, so he has to do whatever they ask or they will kill her. The attraction is so strong between Nicole and Aaron but he fights it because of his sister. There is going to be a fight to the death with four sons of the Royals and the winner gets Nicole and the empty seat on the Council. It's almost like a Roman gladiator fight!
You are going to have to read this book yourself to find out what the outcome is This story gets you so engrossed in it and it engages all your emotions, hatred, hope and happiness. There is a lot of action, suspense, drama, hot and steamy sex and even a little humor and it keeps you on the edge of your seat until the end. I just loved this book and love the series and can't wait for the next one.
You are going to have to read this book yourself to find out what the outcome is This story gets you so engrossed in it and it engages all your emotions, hatred, hope and happiness. There is a lot of action, suspense, drama, hot and steamy sex and even a little humor and it keeps you on the edge of your seat until the end. I just loved this book and love the series and can't wait for the next one.
July 28, 2016
This is the 4th book in the Vegas Mates Series and I absolutely loved how it ended. Nicole and Aaron are mates... but they have so many obstacles to overcome especially with her traditionalist grandparents of "royal" blood. Nicole never thought her grandparents would be so ruthless in their attempt to keep their power. She is disgusted with the treatment of other weres and how they are treated as second class citizens.
Aaron fights his feeling for Nicole as her grandparents would easily kill his sister if he didn't obey. The pace of this book is great. Nicole's mother makes an appearance and finally finds peace from her wolf. The ending is great I am having a hard time not spoiling that but needless to say absolute power corrupts absolutely and those who do wrong get theirs in the end.
Another great read by Krystal Shannan I am sad that this was the last book but it did finish up the story very nicely.
Aaron fights his feeling for Nicole as her grandparents would easily kill his sister if he didn't obey. The pace of this book is great. Nicole's mother makes an appearance and finally finds peace from her wolf. The ending is great I am having a hard time not spoiling that but needless to say absolute power corrupts absolutely and those who do wrong get theirs in the end.
Another great read by Krystal Shannan I am sad that this was the last book but it did finish up the story very nicely.
March 22, 2016
The last thing Nicole Demakis remembers was getting in the car with Sarah's kidnapper and driving away. Now she faces the cold hard truth. The kidnapper, an agent of the Council, is her mate. But he refuses to claim her, and the Council may take everything away before she even has a chance to convince him to trust her. Aaron Katsaros was ordered to deliver Nicole to her grandparents, the Antipas royal wolves. It should've been an easy task. But this infuriating woman, this wolf, his mate...is one problem after another and she's arousing him to the point of pain. With his sister's life hanging in the balance, he refuses to allow his passion to cost him the only family he has left.
This book was everything I wanted and more. Nicole and Aaron are an explosive couple and reading their pain of separation while in the same room was heartbreaking. The overall story line is magnificent and I am deeply anticipating the next book.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book was everything I wanted and more. Nicole and Aaron are an explosive couple and reading their pain of separation while in the same room was heartbreaking. The overall story line is magnificent and I am deeply anticipating the next book.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 31, 2014
This is the last installment of the Vegas Mates series. The book centers on the tortured, hot, almost broken alpha male Aaron and the feisty, beautiful, selfless Nicole. What would you be willing to sacrifice to see the one person you love, your true mate, survive? Thrown together in a battle of archaic laws can true love really win? Be prepared to be taken on an emotional journey, you will laugh, cry, cheer and melt. Read it!! Side note it leaves room for another series to continue hint hint.
April 17, 2014
I love this series and this is the best one yet. What do you do when the choice is between your mate and your sister. Whose life is the one you save? How can your mate forgive you for betraying her and her family? Nicole is a strong character and Aaron is a believable character. They make for great chemistry. This book is full of questions and answers them wonderfully. I did not find myself disbelieving the characters or their reactions. I think that everyone will enjoy this book. I like that the ending opened the series up to possibly more installments.
May 2, 2022
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Book four in the Vegas Mates series follows the characters of Samantha Demakis' younger sister Nicole Demakis, the next in line to take the Demakis council seat in Greece with the exile of her sister, and Aaron Katsaros, the Demakis family's best mercenary who is sent to retrieve her from her pack in America. As soon as they meet, sparks fly and, though Aaron feels the bond between them, he denies his feelings to help his sister. Will fate step in in time, or will they be doomed to live apart forever?
Book four in the Vegas Mates series follows the characters of Samantha Demakis' younger sister Nicole Demakis, the next in line to take the Demakis council seat in Greece with the exile of her sister, and Aaron Katsaros, the Demakis family's best mercenary who is sent to retrieve her from her pack in America. As soon as they meet, sparks fly and, though Aaron feels the bond between them, he denies his feelings to help his sister. Will fate step in in time, or will they be doomed to live apart forever?
July 23, 2014
The first book in this series was a freebie on Amazon that I picked up because I wanted something light and quick. I read it in one sitting and quickly downloaded the rest of the series. This is the 4th book and while it wraps up the initial story arc, it easily sets the stage for more books in this world. I like the heroine, but really wanted to smack the hero for a good 3/4 of this book. You definitely need to read the series in order, but give it a try, you'll like it!
April 15, 2014
Taking Nicole is the fourth book in the Vegas Mates series. Nicole has been kidnapped by her Family. The guy, who is sent to fetch her, is a cat shifter that she learns is her mate. This book is action packed and will have you glued to the pages. If you are looking for a great shifter book, I recommend the Vegas Mate Series.
December 3, 2015
So disappointed in this one- it looked like it would be great. I can't even refer to Aaron as a 'hero', he does absolutely nothing to earn the title- Nicole is the only one with a backbone. I honestly wished she had just cut him off. I understand he was in a tough position, but the author didn't need to make it so contrived.
April 9, 2014
I really enjoy this series. wasn't sure about book when i first started it. You still get background of past couples,family drama, and why the mates can't mate…But love wins out in the end …. ended up enjoy this book very much.
April 2, 2014
Wow! I did NOT want to like Aaron, even while I understood the predicament he was in. I loved Nicole. her grandparents.... not so much. The drama was intense and there were so many things that happened that had me on the edge. I loved this story and the pace!
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