Often, when one reads an explicit anthology, the works
within have one of two options: steamy sex scenes or good
writing with interesting characters and a plot. Upon the
first explosive scene of Chanku Spirit by
Kate Douglas, I feared that plot and characters
would be of little import. Instead, all three works were
well-written, with characters a reader would enjoy reading
about and plot development that served as far more than
interesting venues for sex. Not only were the intimate
scenes intricate, they served for a higher purpose within
each story.
Chanku Spirit tells the tale of shapeshifters
on a journey for truth about their origins and a compulsion
they cannot resist; what begins as a spiritual quest
quickly becomes a race for the life of one of their
companions. Douglas has written other Chanku stories and
this one is an excellent representation that makes one want
to read more about these sensual shapeshifters.
Running Wild presents the dilemma one female
werewolf, Deanna, has when she wonders if a stressful
situation has encouraged her to desire the only male
werewolf in the vicinity, or if fate has placed her in the
path of her mate.
Finally, Heart of the Wildcat demonstrates a
similar situation with an entirely different spin, as
Kathryn Dayton discovers what it means to be a female
shifter in a race of mostly males.
Fierce and feral in their passion and unquenchable in
their lust, these men seek to fulfill every woman's most
carnal desires. 'Chanku Spirit' by Kate Douglas - In a
quest to learn more about their sensual shapeshifter
history, Anton travels to Florida with Stefan, his lover,
and Matt, one of the newest Chanku. There they find the
goddess who gives their erotic birthright meaning, but
only Matt is powerful enough to discover the amazing
secrets this mystical woman possesses. 'Running Wild' by
Kathleen Dante - Graeme Luger has finally found a woman
who shares his werewolf heritage and his desire for savage
sexual pleasure, but the unexpected arrival of his cousin
threatens his newfound passion. Now he must fight to keep
his lover and the wanton bliss they share with each
other. 'Heart of the Wildcat' by Devyn Quinn - As one of
the last members of a vanishing tribe of shapeshifters,
Joseph Clawfoot lives alone but longs for a mate. When he
saves ecologist Kathryn Dayton from certain death, he
wonders whether this ethereal beauty can embrace his
primal past and join him in an exotic encounter of
forbidden ecstasy.