Night Owl Reviews
"Bound by Destiny" is the first book that I have read by Allyson Young. She weaves an intriguing story about fate, misunderstandings and relationships. River is a very appealing heroine. She fears mating and all that she believes about it, yet she moves forward when given no choice. Jett is the stereotypical shifter alpha including having a healthy dose of ignorant arrogance. Ms. Young sets the stage for a complex shifter world with interesting, and sometimes, offensive traditions. The story meanders along as Jett and River get to know each other outside of the mating heat. Of course there's plenty of hot sex, but it's woven into the story. Since this is the first in a series, there a lot of worldbuilding and character introduction. I enjoyed the story very much but was a bit disappointed by the ending. It felt forced and less detailed than the rest of the tale. However, I recommend the book for shifter lovers and will definitely read the next installment. The Story: River believes that mating is akin to slavery and she wants no part of it. However, her mating heat won't let her be. When alpha Jett Reeves arrives from another pack, her fate is sealed. But hot sex isn't enough for her. Rivas wants more. Jett is arrogant and busy keeping his pack safe. He believes that he and River are destined to be together and that should be enough. A near tragedy will bring everything to the tipping point.