Misery Lark, the only daughter of the most powerful Vampyre councilman of the Southwest, is an outcast-again. Her days of living in anonymity among the Humans are over: she has been called upon to uphold a historic peacekeeping alliance between the Vampyres and their mortal enemies, the Weres, and she sees little choice but to surrender herself in the exchange-again…

Weres are ruthless and unpredictable, and their Alpha, Lowe Moreland, is no exception. He rules his pack with absolute authority, but not without justice. And, unlike the Vampyre Council, not without feeling. It's clear from the way he tracks Misery's every movement that he doesn't trust her. If only he knew how right he was….

Because Misery has her own reasons to agree to this marriage of convenience, reasons that have nothing to do with politics or alliances, and everything to do with the only thing she's ever cared about. And she is willing to do whatever it takes to get back what's hers, even if it means a life alone in Were territory…alone with the wolf.

“Bride” by Ali Hazelwood is a riveting romance, with a slow burn; but, oh so delicious unfolding of the relationship between Misery and Lowe that develops into a steamy, hot story. From the very first, I found the novel all-encompassing and the voice of Misery compelling and witty. I love the humor and the twisty plot.

One of the other reasons I found the story so compelling is how intriguing the plot is, as you dive into the mystery that Misery is chasing and Lowe ends up involved in as well. And the answers aren't quite what you expect which makes the story even more delicious. The supporting characters are complex and the ending gives such a satisfying ending. I especially like where I can see the room for development of other characters. And the chapter headings written from Lowe's point of view make for the perfect counterpoint to Misery.

If you like spicy romances with intrigue and mystery and a romance that will make your heart race, this is a brilliant paranormal love story. I love the characters, the wit and the intrigue. The narrative is a riveting romance with wonderful depth and an incredible ending that will make you want to read more from this author and her world.

Rating: 5 out of 5 bites ~~ Andrea Rittschof