| Title | : | Alpha (Vanguards, #2) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | 1616501596 |
| ISBN-10 | : | 9781616501594 |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | ebook |
| Number of Pages | : | - |
| Publication | : | First published January 1, 2010 |
Spice has nothing but the clothes on her back when she returns to Chicago. She's looking for a better life, and that means reuniting with her estranged twin sister, Sugar. She isn't thrilled to find out Sugar's boyfriend is a vampire. But then she meets Eric, once the bottle-cap-glasses wearing nerd next door — now grown into the kind of man she'd love to snuggle with on this cold winter night... and he's offered her his room in Sugar's house.
Eric can't believe Spice has returned. He'd given up hope of ever seeing her again, let alone having her stare at him as if he's sex on a stick. But now that all of his fantasies for them are coming true, reality rears her ugly head and Eric must tell Spice his intimate secret; he's actually an Alpha werewolf looking for his mate and he thinks he's found her.
Warning: Graphic sexual content.
Alpha (Vanguards, #2) Reviews
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fun story.
Nice short read. -
Love Annie Nicholas’ series!!! No exception here!
Sugar’s long lost runaway twin sister Spice has returned to Chicago, with a dark past and trust issues and mile-high walls. Chris, Sugar’s best friend and alpha of the combined packs of Chicago has been in love with Spice since he was a teenager. Never thinking he would get a second chance at a mate of his choice, he is afraid to tell her of the many changes he has undergone since she’s been gone, afraid she may run again.
The females in his pack are chomping at the bit for Chris to pick a mate and the year they gave him to adjust is running out. Challenges have begun and the choice of who his mate will be may be out of his hands. Does Spice have what it takes to stay with a werewolf shifter and run the pack with him? Will she be too late for love?
Annie’s werewolves and vampires always draw you in. I read this book in one sitting as it was impossible to put down! I can’t wait to read what happens in the next installment as Katrinas past comes back to haunt her. -
As I was intrigued to know what happened to the Omega’s I quickly went on to the next book in the Vanguard series – THE ALPHA. Erica is learning to deal with all the new responsibilities that have been thrust upon him as well as learning about the old ways of the were and the vamps. If that was not enough his childhood crush has just turned up at the front door and she is looking mighty fine..
Spice is at the end of the line, she wants something more out of life and her last port of call to make this happen is her sister - Sugar. With nothing to lose and her last dollar spent she knocks on Sugar’s door only to find a house full of strangers and even stranger still a now grown up Eric who looks nothing like she imagined he would.
Not believing in a soft touch, she wades right into the houseful of stranger and make herself at home. She has a few surprises to come however for as much as the people she left behind still care for her they have all changed and some are a whole new specie.
Eric has always loved Spice but with time and now new responsibilities he is at a crossroad about how to deal with a pack full of females nipping at his heels and a now grown up Spice who still ring all his bells.
THE ALPHA is such a quick read but has so much packed in. The outcast are no longer babies they are growing and gaining confidence day by day – but it is a struggle and not everything comes easy or without a fight.
Book two while just about the same length as book one veers more towards what happens after “the fight”. The whole team is back and from a few pages in I could see that they are not the same, they are definitely more together and I could see their individual personalities in everything they say or do.
Because so much is packed into these 65 pages not everything worked for me, I really wanted to know more about the werewolf world. The old customs that are the bone of contention and definitely I would have loved to have gotten more scenes with the other members of the household. Hopefully there will be another book that will address some of these niggles that I had with this book.
One again Ms. Nicholas added a romance of sorts to the story line but it was not the focus of this book – Eric is sweet and I can’t imagine any reader not liking him or admire him at the least for how far he has come. Spice on the other hand I didn’t really care for and only because I didn’t get the chance to know her. This was mainly down to the fact that by the time she was introduced into the book she was with Eric soon after.
Daedalus the vamp was really the highlight of this book for me – I love a strong man who not only knows his strength but also knows when to have a laugh. I loved how the author gave insight into the mentor, trainee relationship between Erica and Daedalus – Nice touch I thought.
All in all not a bad series so far. I am not sure if there will be a third book, but I do hope so as I would love to know more about the other outcast and some of their back history as well as I find I like this author style alot.. -
One of the things I love the most about Annie is the unique spin she puts on the rather well-used topic of werewolves. While they are in their human form, they still display some animalistic tendencies that are just really well-written and always so cool to read!
Going along with the whole "let's see how different Annie's werewolves can be" theme is the way in which Eric got his mate, Spice. I mean, sure, a human and a werewolf could make it work, but that's not exactly what happened here and no, I will NOT spoil it for you!
I could not be happier that there are more books in this series!!! -
Sugar´s twin sister Spice turns up at her apartment, in need of family and support. Since the Omega Pack is there, Eric the Alpha recognizes her as his neighbor from childhood, and the old feelings return. This time, they´re reciprocated. At the same time, the new pack wants a mate for their Alpha, and challenges are made. Will Eric get who he wants or does he have to make do with the winner?
Shifter, smut and fluff with a laugh. -
Good, but just missing the depth that flips it over into great. Interesting but kind of shallow?
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I enjoyed this volume even more than the first in the series! It was a fun, frolicky story about the sweet romance between Eric and Spice. Of course, everything is complicated by the fact that Spice has been completely out of their lives for a few years. And also that Eric has since become not only a werewolf, but also the Alpha leader of his pack. It takes Spice awhile to adjust to the new living situation: not only returning to live with Sugar, but also several members of the pack, and her sister's vampire lover. Eric has loved Spice for a long time though, and she is recently grown appreciative not only of his new look and demeanor, but also come to appreciate what a nice guy he truly is. Of course, there are the usual obstacles thrown in their way (their own doubts and misgivings, concerns about Sugar's reaction to them as a couple, the opinions of other housemates, etc); and the not so ordinary obstacles (including a very aggressive female werewolf hell-bent on having Eric as her mate). Luckily, with some committment and hard work from both Eric and Spice, and some amazingly helpful advice and support from family and friends, they are eventually able to overcome all obstacles, and acheive their much deserved happily ever after.
I received a free eBook copy of this title from the author, and have willingly provided an honest review.
This review originally appeared on the So Few Books blog
here. -
In book one of this series we were introduced to Eric. He is the omega werewolf who was whipped into shape, won the challenge, and became alpha of a werewolf pack. Also, introduced was Sugar's twin sister, Spice. She left many years ago and hasn't been seen since. This is their story.
Spice has returned to town. She has escaped from an abusive situation and has nowhere else to go. Spice finds out that her sister is mated to a vampire and their childhood friend has became a drop dead gorgeous guy. Spice and Eric feel an instant attraction. She gives in to those feelings, but Eric is keeping a big secret. Eventually Eric does admit to Spic that he is a werewolf, but this doesn't mean the end to their problems. The female werewolves want Eric and have challenged Spice. How is a human supposed to compete against a werewolf? There is a HEA for Eric and Spice.
This is a short, easy read. There is no cheating, no OW drama (no one Eric was involved with or had feelings for), no angst. This is not your typical PNR as there is very little focus on the shifter aspect of the story. I liked this book. Due to the length of this book there is very little history or character development, but overall, its a good book. -
Book Review: Alpha (Vanguards Book 2)
My Rating: 5 Stars
Author: Annie Nicholas
Publication Date: 3/25/2019
Reviewed by: Tammy Payne- Book Nook Nuts
REVIEW
In this story, we get Sugar's twin sister Spice who has returned home after time away.
She is shocked to find her sister has moved on and found new friends and a man?
What she also finds is Eric the geeky guy who used to follow her sister around living with Sugar now also. Only Spice is seeing Eric in a new light he is no longer geeky, he is actually sexy as sin.
Spice has had a rough time, nothing went her way while she was gone.
Eric may just be the man to turn this wayward sister around. After all, he has always wanted her.
However, he has to explain exactly what changed while she was gone.
Fantastic story... I love the interaction between this couple and of course we get all the characters from book one. And we even get a bit of action with the other females in this story they have literally gone howling mad.
Annie Nicholas -
I’ll say it right up front, this was a shorter, faster read than I was expecting. It may be because a lot of the stage setting was covered in the first book of the series. Also, that this story is mostly focused on what becomes of the crush Eric has always had on Sugar’s twin sister, Spice. I love books in a series because they give me the illusion of getting what I always want: to know what happens after the “happily ever after”. And while Sugar and Daedalus are doing just fine, the Omegas aren’t coping well with running the larger Chicago pack. This is the world Spice inadvertently finds herself in when she comes home to her twin. I loved that this book flipped the expected stereotypes on their heads with which partner has the life experiences. I especially adore the author’s sense of humor. The story is both serious and silly and maintains a good balance of both. I look forward to reading more about the core pack members.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book from the author. -
ALPHA is the second book in the Vanguards series. Though it will stand on its own, I would recommend reading them all and in the order of release.
I loved this short story of acceptance and romance brought from unrequited nerdy adolescence to reunited adults. These paranormals aren’t the usual bunch of top dogs (See what I did there for the werewolves, tee hee hee?) Nope, their story is proof once again that brains can beat brawn and love will trump it all.
I personally have not read the first book in this series, but I have already purchased it and will be devouring it soon. What was I thinking reading Spice without Sugar? I’m already in love with Sugar and Daedalus, from what I’ve gleaned in this book, and can’t wait to enjoy their beginning.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: ALPHA
Series: Vanguards #2
Category /Genre: Paranormal Romance
Recommended for: 18+ due to sexual content
Grammar/editing: A – near perfect
Received from: Annie Nicholas (as an ARC gifted copy) -
This starts with identical twins reunited after a concerning separation. As with all things, the passage of time can bring changes, and not all of them are good. Two sisters need to rediscover each other and other childhood friends also add into their journey. But this scenario takes place within the confines of a newly merged pack standing on the legs of a newly emerging alpha. This rock solid storyline was a breeze to read through. My attention never faltered. The characters easily cemented into my memory and emotionally engaged me. A solution to their present situation could be imagined, yet drawing out the answer page by page was the perfect entertainment I sought. Again, this series did not fail and I can easily recommend! Once again looking forward to more! All my reviews are always voluntarily written.
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Sugar and Spice. . .a wolf that can be oh, so nice!
Sugar has the world at her feet--according to Spice--a boyfriend, friends, a place to call home. Spice takes a page from her twin's book and tries to make a go of it, even tempting an old friend.
Eric--Alpha to a broken pack--needs a bit of Spice in his life, he last saw her when he was the geeky kid next door and she's just what the pack ordered.
This whirlwind romance carries on from Omegas (Book 1) of the Vanguards. It's full of sass, seduction and sisterhood. I found it hard to put down once I really got into it. I was surprised at how Annie Nicholas gave Katrina--a shy and timid Omega--a bit of mystery, I can't wait to see what she does with this little wolf, now that the pack has a heart and soul. . .though I'm left wondering if Sugar will follow in the footsteps of her sister. -
Eric and Spice have one great story to tell. From their years as neighbours when they were kids to him keeping her secret. But he has a secret she doesn't know about....ok two, all right there's more but two big ones...he's always loved her and he's a werewolf - they're pretty big right? Well they're not the only ones he's keeping - and everyone thinks she's the one with secrets worth keeping.
Now she's back in his life she sees him for what a wonderful man he is. Can she fight hee demons and stay?
Ooh I love the way Annie Nicholas writes. The easy way the words flow before my eye's - the way the characters spring to life and beckon me to join them and the way the story unfolds like liquid - it's a joy to read. And I had a wonderful evening immersing myself in the Vanguard second book. -
I do recommend reading the books in order. Spice is the twin of Sugar from the first book and back in town. She is not in a good place and life has been hard. She is shocked by all the changes in her sister's life and in Eric who is her twin's best friend. He is a real man now and one that she is definitely attracted to. He wants her too but has his secrets that make it difficult for them.
I like that the author lets both characters tell the story. It makes it easier to connect to them when you understand their feelings and motivations. The connection between them is very clear and I enjoyed the story. They really have to fight to be together but neither is willing to give up on their love.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received -
Spice's life has fallen apart in Vegas and she is returning to the one person she can trust, her twin Sugar. She may be the direct opposite of her sister but she loves her deeply and when she finds out just who her sister is living with, she is truly worried for Sugar. But before he can raise her concerns she finds herself wrapped up in the drama surrounding the Omegas new reign over the local packs.
Why is the former bland, nerdy Eric setting her girly bits off? Why do he and his friends act so weird around her?
Eric and Spice are a terrific couple. They complement each other and for all Spice's feistiness, she hides a heart of gold and caring personality and a supportive partner. Gimme more! -
A sweet little rom com with no real substance. I got bored and skimmed a bit, but mostly because it rehashed a lot that happened in the previous book. I guess it makes it easier to be read as a standalone, which didn't really bother me.
When I started reading, I didn't think I would like Spice, but she grew on me I wish there was a bit more substance in Eric's want to be with her, but it was more of a crush that never went away, and it just so happened his wolf wanted Spice as a mate. Almost an insta-love.
Given Spice and Sugar are identical twins, and Spice had it rough protecting Sugar growing up, plus her shaded past in Vegas, there was an opening that could have expanded the novel, but it would have taken away from the light and airy romance, so no stars were taken for that. -
Annie Nicholas has the ability to create characters who are realistic, relatable, likeable, and memorable. Her stories are always engaging, and although they're paranormal, they always seem like, just maybe, they could be true.
I like the depiction of Eric as a kind alpha. I love the names of the twins — Sugar and Spice! Spice undergoes significant changes throughout the book and it's encouraging to watch her transform from scared and hurt to loved and loving.
It's a fairly short read, but it doesn't feel rushed or incomplete. There's some tension, but nothing overwhelming. It's enjoyable and I recommend it. -
Adorably Cute
I have enjoyed Ms. Nicholas's writing and the world she creates with each series. This one is no exception. Normally sequels are not as engaging as the first, but such is not the case with Alpha. While Omegas centered on the hand Sugar, Alpha focuses on Eric and the pack. It's a year later and he needs a mate to help center both his wolf and his new pack. While the females are challenging each other, Eric is trying to keep him s place and find a way to not become the prize in the females eyes. He already knows who his mate is, but she's human and isn't pack. Or is she? -
Spice comes home
I hadn’t realised how many of the Vanguard series I’d missed but found out by accident. I now have to catch up!
Sugar’s twin sister Spice has come home to Chicago but finds a lot of changes. For one Sugar is shacking up with a vampire and that doesn’t sit well with her. Then there’s Eric who used to be the nerdy boy next door and is now an absolute hottie! Spice can’t understand what all these other people are doing in Sugar’s house but beggars can’t be choosers. So when Sugar welcomes her with open arms and insists she stays .... well, what’s a girl supposed to do? And, honestly, it had nothing to do with the new, hot Eric! I promise. -
Alpha: Not What You Are Expecting!
Annie Nicholas continues her Vanguards series with book two, Alpha.
Feisty and creative, she pushes us unto her world of other-worldly creatures. A fast and fun read, we watch as Spice finds her way back into chaos she left behind, two years ago. The problem, she has no idea of the changes her sister and her best friend have been through.
Finding what she has been missing will take a loyal step into the unknown!
Can’t wait for the release of book three, Beta! -
Twins Forever
Spice just arrived at the return address on the letter. It's supposed to be her sister Sugar's house. They are identical twins and it's been years since they've seen other. Eric grew up with Sugar and Spice and has always wanted Spice. So now is his chance, but he will she respond when she learns that he is now a werewolf and Alpha of the strongest pack in Chicago? Plus the female wolves in the pack are fighting for seniority to see who will be Eric's mate. Another great book in the Vangards series. -
I really enjoyed all of the sass of Spice. There was just enough back story on Spice without feeling like the story was dragged down. There was plenty of action and unexpected turns. The pack is showing its strength and some if it’s secrets. While this is the second in the series, I didn’t feel like I had to read them in order. I did have a good grasp on all of the players by reading Omega first. I enjoyed the read.
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Better than the first
I loved reading about Eric and Spice.
Eric has always known Spice has always had a tough she'll and a soft heart. Eric has been online with Spice for a long time and now she's back in town. Nothing is going to stop him from claiming her now that Spice finally notices him too. Yeah he may need a shifter mate to stabilize his pack, but he wants to mate for love. -
4.8🌟
A short fun and sexy read with great characters and a struggling pack being helped by a Vampire.
Spice returns to her sisters house in Chicago to find a lot of changes. Sugar isn't quiet and why anymore, she also has a Vampire boyfriend and the need not that lived next to them was now a sexy hunk and a Alpha Werewolf.
