This fifth book in the ‘Pack Mates’ series is another great addition to the continuing story of the Smooth Rock Falls pack. The hints about another omega being moved into Alpha Declan and his mate Omega Quinn’s protection have proven to be fact, and with Pierce the tiger omega now on pack lands, things are bound to become even more interesting. And not just because Pierce has brought his own group of four bodyguards and their issues with him, but because there is a kidnapper on the prowl and suddenly both Pierce and Quinn are in danger.

Pierce has been under tiger council protection since they took him away from his family when he was only ten years old. I think that was an utterly cruel thing to do, but I guess they had good intentions. Pierce has suffered loneliness and isolation because of it, so for him, coming to Smooth Rock Falls and gaining at least some personal freedom is a relief. Pack security is tight enough for him to be able to move around a little, and while it helps, lack of personal freedom isn’t his only problem. Having Gavin around all the time may just be a lot more than Pierce is ready to deal with.

Gavin has been in love with Pierce as long as he can remember, but his father didn’t want him to tie himself down, so he ran away to university, breaking Pierce’s heart. He didn’t do himself any favors either, because trying to forget Pierce by sleeping around was no help at all. Now that Gavin is older and makes up his own mind he manages to become one of the bodyguards who moved with Pierce—but the emotional torture isn’t over. Pierce is hesitant, Gavin’s tiger has his own ideas, and the continuing threats to Pierce’s safety are enough to drive Gavin crazy with worry.

If you like main characters who need to deal with their past as well as their own preconceptions and fears before they can become a couple, if you want to see them struggle for understanding themselves and each other, and if you're looking for an emotional read that is sweet, hot, and suspenseful all at the same time, then you will probably enjoy this novella. ( )