In Tessa Stone's Chasing Ebony: A Dark Paranormal Romance, a quiet teacher's life takes a thrilling turn when she encounters Tristian, her destined bear shifter mate. This Wintermoon Shorts novella, set within the larger Fated Mates universe, prioritizes intense romance over complex plotting. Tristian, a powerful bear shifter, is instantly captivated by Ebony's scent, claiming her as his despite her initial resistance. Their connection is undeniable, but Ebony must overcome her fear and trust this primal stranger who sweeps her into the supernatural world of Wintermoon. Prepare for a steamy encounter filled with dark themes and undeniable chemistry, a perfect taste of the Wintermoon world. Please note: this story contains content warnings.
Review Chasing Ebony
Chasing Ebony is a delightful romp through the world of Wintermoon, a world I've grown to adore through Tessa Stone's Fated Mates series. While billed as a "short," it packs a satisfying punch of romance, action, and of course, plenty of heat. The story focuses on Tristan, a bear shifter desperate to find his fated mate before hibernation, and Ebony, a human whose life takes an unexpected turn when Tristan declares her his.
What immediately struck me was the instant connection, the classic "love at first sight" scenario, but executed in a way that felt genuine and not cheesy. Tristan's alpha determination to claim Ebony is compelling, even as Ebony's understandable hesitation and apprehension make her a relatable and sympathetic character. Their journey together is the core of the story, a whirlwind of passion and the slow burn of building trust. We see Tristan's protective and caring side emerge as he gently guides Ebony into the world of Wintermoon, showing us a depth of character beyond the initial "alpha" impression.
The world-building is cleverly done, using the short format to focus on the central romance while still giving us glimpses into the broader Wintermoon community and its ongoing conflicts with the "radicals." Returning characters from the Fated Mates series make cameo appearances, providing familiar faces and a sense of continuity for those already invested in the wider narrative. The inclusion of these familiar characters adds a nice touch, enriching the experience for long-time readers, while still allowing newcomers to grasp the essentials.
While the plot is admittedly less complex than the main series, that's precisely the point. Chasing Ebony prioritizes the emotional connection between Tristan and Ebony, allowing their relationship to bloom under the spotlight. The spice level is definitely high—the description isn't exaggerating—but it's integrated seamlessly into the narrative, enhancing the intensity of their connection rather than overshadowing it. This balance keeps things engaging, even for those who might not usually gravitate towards the extreme heat level.
However, it's important to note that the "less plot, more spice" approach might not appeal to all readers. Some might find the plot somewhat thin, focusing primarily on the romance and leaving other aspects underdeveloped. For me, however, this was a welcome change of pace. It's a perfect pick-me-up read for those wanting a quick and satisfying dose of paranormal romance, particularly if you already enjoy the Wintermoon universe. If you're seeking a deeper, more intricate plot, this might not be your ideal choice. But if you're looking for a sizzling hot, heartfelt romance with a touch of action and a dash of intrigue, then Chasing Ebony delivers precisely that. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Wintermoon once again, and I'm eager to see what Tessa Stone brings to us next.
Information
- Dimensions: 5 x 0.37 x 8 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 148
- Publication date: 2024
Preview Book
