His bear wants her, but she’s running scared from her past. Will he be able to save the woman who’s managed to capture his heart?

Hunter Shaw and his bear lead a tranquil life managing Shaw Cabins with his three siblings on their family mountain. That is until he meets a woman who stirs something in them both, causing Hunter to feel restless in his own skin. His previously content existence now feels lifeless and hollow. Hunter needs more—he needs her.

Naomi Hart recently broke things off with someone and left town. The problem is that her ex didn’t accept. Now she’s in a cabin on a mountain, terrified he’ll find her. When the attractive owner of the cabins, whom she can’t seem to stay away from, offers to protect her, Naomi knows she shouldn’t take him up on it. After all, her ex isn’t exactly human.

As the attraction between Hunter and Naomi grows stronger, her pursuer catches up with her. Hunter understands in order to protect her; he may need to release his bear. But will Naomi accept what he is, or will fear of his family secret push her away?

Titles in the Shaw Clan series include — Protection of a Bear —♥— Devotion of a Bear —♥—

This series is part of the overall Paranormals of Crescent Creek world.

This is an adult 18+ story that contains language, possible violence, and/or sexual situations geared to an adult audience.

Booksprout ARC

Title:  Protection of a Bear
Series:  Shaw Clan #1
Author:  Jennifer Snyder
Published:  July 24, 2023
My Rating:  4.5

Protection of a Bear begins the Shaw Clan series, which is connected to the larger Paranormals of Crescent Creek world.  You don’t need to have read the earlier series to enjoy this one, but I would highly recommend going back, if you can, and discovering some really good Shifter Romances in the rest of this “world.”

Naomi is on the run from her ex-fiancé.  The things she saw him do frightened her into leaving her ring behind and slipping away to start a new life far away from him.  It’s not going to be easy, she’s constantly looking over her shoulder, but everyone needs a break now and then.  She pulls into a very small, quaint town with the thoughts of coffee, food, and a break in mind.  What she’ll eventually find here will change her life forever.

Hunter is one grumpy bear, especially since the beautiful stranger in town has swiped the last vanilla icing with sprinkles donut he grabs every chance he gets.  Perfect, just made this day even better as he leaves without even acknowledging the woman’s offer to share.  That was a mistake, and one his bear lets him know about quite loudly.  Luck will be on Hunter’s side when Naomi makes the decision to stay in town for a bit and rents one of the cabins that he and his brothers own.  Maybe his bear will get its wish after all.

I had a blast in this introduction to the series story.  Hunter is indeed a grumpy bear with a heart of gold, and with his mate right in front of him, well, he’s not about to let any harm come to her.  Naomi is a sweetheart, but not a pushover.  She’s made a mistake, and she’s on the run, but when the time comes to stand beside the man who captured her heart, she doesn’t hesitate.  If you’ve followed any of the earlier series, we run into our favorite quirky lady with the right gift at the right time once again.  And we’ll also meet Hunter’s brothers, and from that introduction, I cannot wait to discover their stories.

If you love a well-written, fast-paced Shifter Romance with characters you’ll enjoy, then picking up this one should be on your to-do list.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or author’s team via Booksprout, and I sincerely thank them for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

Available for the Kindle as this title is currently in KU