Book Review: The Mystic Wolves by Belinda Boring

The Mystic Wolves  is the first book in the aptly named Mystic Wolves series. It can be classified mostly as paranormal romance as there were enough heated gazes, sordid caresses and looks of longing to make you want to take a cold shower.
Interestingly enough this story has nothing to do with boy meets girl like so many other paranormal romances currently on the market. In fact, the Mystic Wolves are a well established pack, settled in a sleepy town and ruled by a charming and confident alpha known as Mason. Already tethered to his proposed mate, Darcy, it was refreshing to see an established relationship without the need for a lot of back story or those awkward "I'm attracted to you but can't tell you because I want to be ridiculously mysterious" moments. That is not to say that there wasn't a lot of self-doubt between the mated pair.
The novel begins with a tragic event, the death of a beloved pack mate that sets a range of events in motion. What was originally classed as a possible accident soon becomes clear to the alpha as something more. His pack and those that he loves are under threat and with a strong alliance with the local vampire king, Mason believes that he can protect Darcy from the same fate as his sister.
But can all the vampires be trusted? Are Mason and Darcy merely pawns in a game much bigger than are capable of playing?
Truthfully, I struggled with a few sections of this novel - mostly the sweet and sentimental alpha and the overly affectionate relationship he shares with Darcy. I'm all for a bit of sexual teasing but honestly, these two werewolves were at it constantly with absolutely zero follow through. I found that the sexual nature of their interaction was often inappropriate and unnecessary - a derailment from the importance of the actual story, especially after recent deaths and moments of intense despair.
What I did like was the sub-plot when it wasn't focused on Darcy and Mason's foreplay. I enjoyed the moments of action, the shape shifting and the conveyed emotions both in character speech and action. The last few chapters were compelling and an appropriate climax to an otherwise mostly sedate story. Imagery was sufficient and the lead into another novel was a hanging promise but not exactly stirring.
I will happily rate this novel two and half fangs out of five. It was enjoyable but it wasn't as gripping as I might have liked.

Synopsis:

What would you do if a simple errand takes a deadly twist, turning you from cautious prey to dangerous predator?
Someone is trying to send a deadly message to Mason, arranging the deaths of those he loves and it puts the entire pack and Alpha on high alert. Darcy understands the primal instincts driving her beloved Mason's commands. With the help of those he sets as protectors, she learns about herself and the things she'll need to help support her Alpha and pack. When events turn dire however, one truth offers her strength - once given, oaths are unbreakable ... even if it means risking it all.