astone2292

After reading Running with the Pack numerous times, I finally decided to read the next story in the series. Chris, in the first book, caught my attention numerous times as a villainous character. Utilizing him as a main character through a journal gave me trepidation before committing to a thorough read. This journal dives deep into a young man's flaws in decision-making. It dives further when he realizes those flaws. Diving further, he comes to terms of why he made those choices, and how he can begin the healing process. The author's research is impeccable, and the understanding of depression is something to revere. I loathed the concept of taking the point-of-view of a despicable character from the first story, but the entries turned my opinion quickly and abruptly. Wholesome. While Chris' journey in recovery is filled with self-hate and other psychological conundrums, I can not find a better word to describe this adventure. I personally believe there is no one stronger than someone who has been broken, but then rebuilds themselves. Prior to my former belief written above, Chris is a deserving character who needed to have his story told, even if there are others from the first book who could have theirs told instead. If any RwtP fan hasn't continued the series, you must. This journal is intense, more than I gave it credit for when I viewed the summary page. Like the reviews below, I recommend this story, and I am kicking myself for not starting it sooner.

True, but our heroes want what they want. Perhaps our shadow mage is going to use it for power in another way... Kaplan and Cyrus are forking adorable! Hehe! I'm glad you've claimed this chapter as yours, Patch. If anything more happens when you "go gray," I might start to worry about you. Umm, Philippe? Gonna say it again: I love your comments! Vincent's always been the lonely wanderer, never owning much. Now with a whole city, he's lost and must turn to his friends. Cyrus' panda seems to have turned adventurous as of late. His human mind surely sees how fast he is falling for the attorney, compared to his previous statements.

I wouldn't use the term, "intolerant." More suiting words will come around soon enough... I'm sure this concept of Vincent ridding himself of the territory will become a hot debate in the comment section. I know I'd be looking to get rid of a city if it dropped in my lap. I got books to write, I ain't got time for that!

Vincent stared at the extended manila envelope. The severity of his fight with the Alpha came crashing down. I...I have the territory? Breathing heavier, the mage fluttered his eyes as he tried to understand Bylus’ statement. I now have...all of Mesker Park City. That...dwarfs Owensville! He looked to Mason for guidance but saw that his mate was going through the same emotions. Mace...is scared? I’ve never seen him scared before! I...I don’t want it. I don’t want the territory! No like! No

Thanks, Patch! After a conversation with my newest editor, I'm trying to polish my writing a bit, so I hope this was a little smoother of a chapter compared to others. The goal is to reduce the amount of point-of-view hopping going on. As much as I love cubism and having all of the perspectives, it can throw a lot of readers off. Eventually, all of my previous work will be re-done to mirror this. Glad you liked the chapter

Possibly, but I'm banking on the premise that he's still undergoing a mutation. This might bring further changes, both physically and emotionally.

Essell's going to be making Garjah take plenty of showers then. Now I want more information about the four-arms! I can't wait to see how they conduct debate and handle politics, especially involving Essell. But first, we need chapter 39! Let's learn about vents!

I knew it didn't seem likely for Garjah to stray from the relationship, but I am curious to see what altercation took place. The four-arms race (did I miss a formal name for the species?) tend to be very docile from my perspective, and I may be wrong on that. I can only assume there are other pair-bonded crewmates and a conflict arose. I can't blame Timok for the research he gave Essell. The human did ask for the information. Same boat with @drpaladin. I'm guessing Garjah doesn't need filters for his vents?

Yeah! I wanted them to have a nice "first" date! It's not even noon and Cyn might be ready for a nap. I'm loving those GIFs! I didn't know Cyn had any sass, but I'm glad he does. I'm not sure Shea would take a chance for adventure with his little deer. He took a bathroom break and he found Cyn in a conversation with strangers. The poor guy probably didn't learn about "stranger danger" in school... Oh, that's just wrong... but it's so funny! A deer and a wolf holds hands in a zoo, and the penned animals all think, "What... is happening?"

I'm sure Shea will start making a list. Salad? Check. Ranch dressing? Check. Frittatas? Check. I agree! Arric's not really good at his job... someone should fix that. I'd say it's pretty handy. Could imagine having to deal with tableware possibly having silver in it? I'd almost keep a plastic set in my jacket pocket. Or get really good with chopsticks...

Thank you! I wanted a nice "lull" before things go back to business for our heroes. I think we can assume the lady put two and two together. "Oh, look at Commander Farren getting a promotion! Why is the deer upset when I mentioned Enforcer Thom- oh..."

"Here we are!" Cyn looked up to the sign above the awning. Field to Fork? What is this place Do they bring the food from a farm and put it on a fork? Bound by Shea's hand, the deer followed the lycan inside the small building. When the door opened, the scents nearly overwhelmed Cyn! There's so much going on! I smell coffee, but I can smell some vegetables. Shea led Cyn to a table, passing several glass displays of baked goods that caught the cernunnos' attention. "We'll look at those

"The Voyage" at Holiday World. My best friend had just cracked my fear of roller coasters, so I went on the newest one the park had built. It was all fun and games until the coaster started it's MASSIVE descent, and my teenage body started slipping through the safety bar atop my lap. I gripped onto that bar with my arms, clinging to dear life with shut eyelids until the ride ended. I haven't been on a coaster in nearly fifteen years.

This is true; anything can happen, especially in a paranormal/fantasy story. Everything's been coming at our cast hot and heavy, so I think it's best to take some time to let things cool down a bit. Dave's got no choice! He's the best one to keep tabs on Stacy in case she goes blabbing! Not saying she would, but one of the supernatural community could never be too careful.

A novel idea, but I doubt the couple would want to leave Owensville. A solution will appear in a few chapters time.

It does make a lot of sense, and it would be the easy answer if Ty would be interested...

Hmm, a new option has been put on the comment section's table... I wonder what else y'all can come up with.

Another wonderful analysis, Philippe! Even as the author, I'm just curious as to when the dust will truly settle.

Oh yes. Population numbers haven't been released, but Owensville is looking at a little less than 10,000. Shapeshifter population around 200.

Do we think Vincent can handle territory of his own? Woah, making the EC submit? I think that's a little much, but our heroes will sort out their new mess.

I guess we'll find out what's going to happen in the next chapter! Solid questions for ruling pack land. Ooooh, a centex two-for-one! I thought Elaine would be better than a bunch of boys. I mean, I could go back to 10k word chapters... nah, that was a lot! Thanks for commenting! I loved it! It should have been seen coming a mile away, but everyone just... missed it! I think it's pretty obvious why everyone's hesitant on applause, but Vincent's wolf's reason is a little out of left field. Teehee, I'll never reveal my story-packing secrets! I love a good wow! It was a lot! Guess we'll need to wait until next week! Ha! Thank you so much for commenting! It's Mesker Park City, the metropolitan area north of Owensville. With his circle of friends, Vincent has enough support to sink a battleship.

“Miss Elaine! Lei!” Seeing his parents-by-bond surprised Vincent! I was not expecting them! He stepped backwards to allow the couple to enter. Elaine stooped ever so slightly to give her fellow mage an endearing hug, “Mason gave us a call not too long ago. He’s up to date on everything, but we thought we could offer a hand.” Straightening herself, her eyes naturally rested on the human girl, as the group entered the living room from the kitchen. She is trying her best to appear calm, “Dave,

I'll say wow myself! I love hearing of binge-reads, and I'm glad you're liking the story! What is up with everyone wanting Cyn ro drop his innocence gig and kick some tushie?

Did a reread, and this part has me second-guessing... Is there an angered state the Four Arms possess that Essell didn't know about, and potentially fell into? While Timok is still on my suss list, I'm starting to be concerned for his health. Garjah's timid actions are concerning me. Essell did something, and it wasn't good.

Lots to digest with this chapter! Essell is being very moody, so the bond may not be complete or there may be an unknown human-related mutation between the species. I doubt Garjah would have strayed from their relationship, so Essell might be smelling a co-worker. I'm going to need next week's chapter to come yesterday!