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The Animal Under the Fur
From award-winning author E. J. Mellow comes an action romance dripping with vengeful delight.
Orphaned on the streets as a baby, Nashville Brown, a.k.a Kill Operative 3, knows better than to rely on anyone. With heightened senses and superhuman strength to survive, she’s been raised as the perfect assassin.
The trick to her success? Keeping everyone, even her best friend, at arm’s length.
Losing his entire family in the span of a year, Carter Smith left his ability to love buried deep in their graves. His only concerns now are completing his missions and effortlessly charming the next temptress to warm his bed.
The key to his accomplishments? Working alone mixed with a Casanova smile.
But when a deadly weapon needs to be stopped from falling into the wrong hands, the lone wolves find themselves thrown into an explosive partnership. Can Carter and 3 lower their guns aimed at one another long enough to succeed, or will their unwillingness to compromise end up destroying more than their perfect records? Whatever their differences, both agree on one thing—in the game of lies and deceit, the line between friend and foe is often blurred by blood splatter.
The Animal Under The Fur is a hate-to-loath-to-love standalone novel filled with savagery, secrets, and enough angst to wrinkle the pages you’ll find gripped in your hands.
Orphaned on the streets as a baby, Nashville Brown, a.k.a Kill Operative 3, knows better than to rely on anyone. With heightened senses and superhuman strength to survive, she’s been raised as the perfect assassin.
The trick to her success? Keeping everyone, even her best friend, at arm’s length.
Losing his entire family in the span of a year, Carter Smith left his ability to love buried deep in their graves. His only concerns now are completing his missions and effortlessly charming the next temptress to warm his bed.
The key to his accomplishments? Working alone mixed with a Casanova smile.
But when a deadly weapon needs to be stopped from falling into the wrong hands, the lone wolves find themselves thrown into an explosive partnership. Can Carter and 3 lower their guns aimed at one another long enough to succeed, or will their unwillingness to compromise end up destroying more than their perfect records? Whatever their differences, both agree on one thing—in the game of lies and deceit, the line between friend and foe is often blurred by blood splatter.
The Animal Under The Fur is a hate-to-loath-to-love standalone novel filled with savagery, secrets, and enough angst to wrinkle the pages you’ll find gripped in your hands.
ebook
First published March 30, 2017
About the author
E.J. Mellow
9 books996 followersE.J. Mellow grew up in a household of artists, surrounded by three sisters who were often found traipsing through the small grove of trees near their home. There they morphed into wolves and wild horses, escaping capture from many foe.
Today, E.J. has taken her imagination to the page where readers have said her "lyrical, vibrant, and imaginative" writing sweeps them into "stunning worlds".
E.J. resides in Colorado with her husband and son.
You can find her on:
Instagram - https://instagram.com/ejmellow
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ejmellow
Twitter - https://twitter.com/EJ_MELLOW
TikTok - https//tiktok.com/@ejmellow@writes
Today, E.J. has taken her imagination to the page where readers have said her "lyrical, vibrant, and imaginative" writing sweeps them into "stunning worlds".
E.J. resides in Colorado with her husband and son.
You can find her on:
Instagram - https://instagram.com/ejmellow
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ejmellow
Twitter - https://twitter.com/EJ_MELLOW
TikTok - https//tiktok.com/@ejmellow@writes
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews
December 13, 2022
i dont really have many thoughts about this one, so i will keep it brief.
this is a wildly imaginative story, no matter how wholly unrealistic it is. its very mr and mrs smith, with a small amount of sci-fi. the romance is good, the action is entertaining, and its a quick and easy story where you can turn your brain off and just enjoy.
so this is a fun one! nothing special, but fun!
↠ 3.5 stars
this is a wildly imaginative story, no matter how wholly unrealistic it is. its very mr and mrs smith, with a small amount of sci-fi. the romance is good, the action is entertaining, and its a quick and easy story where you can turn your brain off and just enjoy.
so this is a fun one! nothing special, but fun!
↠ 3.5 stars
April 14, 2017
I want to start this review by saying my rating and thoughts are completely a matter of personal preference. I went into this book expecting something totally different (Any one who knows me knows my love for In The Company Of Killers. And compared to that series, this just did not live up.) I was expecting something darker and grittier than what it was. So I am sure other people will enjoy this.
But my main issues were:
✱The dialogue to me was cheesy and just not indicative of what paid KILLERS would sound like. I just don't see how a grown man who murders people for a living says things like "oh crap sandwich"? The characters really sounded like children at times. And because of this I just couldn't connect to either of them.
✱The action scenes were not really detailed and at times things were too convenient. I didn't like how some of the scenes just faded to black. When a book is marketed as action packed, I fully expect to read detailed and well written scenes.
✱In all honesty, this to me was like the PG / Disney version of what a contract killer novel should be. Again, this could be because I just kept comparing this to ITCOK, but I felt like this didn't live up to what it could have been.
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But my main issues were:
✱The dialogue to me was cheesy and just not indicative of what paid KILLERS would sound like. I just don't see how a grown man who murders people for a living says things like "oh crap sandwich"? The characters really sounded like children at times. And because of this I just couldn't connect to either of them.
✱The action scenes were not really detailed and at times things were too convenient. I didn't like how some of the scenes just faded to black. When a book is marketed as action packed, I fully expect to read detailed and well written scenes.
✱In all honesty, this to me was like the PG / Disney version of what a contract killer novel should be. Again, this could be because I just kept comparing this to ITCOK, but I felt like this didn't live up to what it could have been.
Find Me On:
Instagram ❤ FB Page ❤ FB Blog ❤ Blog ❤ Twitter
April 4, 2017
I've killed more people more years than I've been alive. And I'm twenty-six.
Clearly, with an opening like that, I was hooked immediately!
I've been wanting to read this since I heard what it was about and saw the GORGEOUS cover, so of course when I got it delivered to my kindle at midnight, I DEVOURED it! And loved every single second of this crazy ride!
"Just so we're clear," she says, her voice barbed wire, "I don't like you. I don't like your methods, and if you get in the way of me completing this mission, I will not hesitate to remove the one thing from your body that I know gives you your sole reason for existing."
I cock a brow. "I'm flattered you're even thinking about my thing, sweetheart."
My head being slammed to the conference table and my arm twisted to a near breaking point catches me off guard.
"And whatever you do," 3 hisses in my ear, her impressively strong grip tightening and making me grunt against the pain. "Do not call me sweetheart, honey, or babe ever again." With a final push, she lets go and stalks from the room.
THOSE TWO! THE BANTER AND HIGH SEXUAL TENSION all throughout the book was killing me! Ahhhh!!
Its in this moment, with her milliseconds away from trying to kill me, that I realize why I found her so intriguing before. Leave it to me to be attracted to the craziest chick in the room.
So this follows Nashville/3 and Carter who are both highly trained assassins, thruster together to complete an extremely important mission. Set in the beautiful Mexico, this story unravels an explosively fast paced, action packed plot, and a scorching, heart bursting romance. I couldn't stop reading!
We stalk each other, two animals in the small apartment.
"You know," he says, "there's other ways to work through issues than with violence."
I clock my head to the side. "But so much less fun."
"And here I thought you were allergic to fun."
"Not this kind," I say before going for his throat, but he knocks away my arm. We trade blow after blow, circling and circling.
It's told in dual POVs, giving readers a chance to explore these complex minds. Both of these characters have a heart breaking past, and I really enjoyed seeing them VERY slowly start to trust one another and open up. These two go head to head more often than not. They absolutely HATE each other, almost from the first moment they meet. Once they meet and the plot starts to unfold, it's extremely addictive and hard to put this one down. I loved their banter and their relationship!! Especially towards the end!! So much amazing, brilliantly done character development!!
"I thought, if life liked to play such violent games, why shouldn't we build a shield from it?"
I can't begin to express how perfectly LAYERED these two are and the sparks that fly when these two meet, my heart was pounding! I was up at bizarre hours of the night reading, because I was so invested in their relationship and needed to know what happened! And Carter? I'm still swooning over him!! A new book boyfriend for sure. While he is a bit of a jerk, particularly in the beginning, I fell for him, hard!
Besides the characters, I loved the plot as well! It's engaging, fast paced, and reminded me so much of James Bond/Nikita type of story. So cool!! And super badass!!! Just what I needed to read! The writing was fantastic, and I can't recommend this one enough!! Absolutely loved every second!! Don't miss out on Carter and Nashvilles story!
All we ever have is the present. The past and future are nothing but intangible stretches in time. One we can't change. The other we can't touch.
Clearly, with an opening like that, I was hooked immediately!
I've been wanting to read this since I heard what it was about and saw the GORGEOUS cover, so of course when I got it delivered to my kindle at midnight, I DEVOURED it! And loved every single second of this crazy ride!
"Just so we're clear," she says, her voice barbed wire, "I don't like you. I don't like your methods, and if you get in the way of me completing this mission, I will not hesitate to remove the one thing from your body that I know gives you your sole reason for existing."
I cock a brow. "I'm flattered you're even thinking about my thing, sweetheart."
My head being slammed to the conference table and my arm twisted to a near breaking point catches me off guard.
"And whatever you do," 3 hisses in my ear, her impressively strong grip tightening and making me grunt against the pain. "Do not call me sweetheart, honey, or babe ever again." With a final push, she lets go and stalks from the room.
THOSE TWO! THE BANTER AND HIGH SEXUAL TENSION all throughout the book was killing me! Ahhhh!!
Its in this moment, with her milliseconds away from trying to kill me, that I realize why I found her so intriguing before. Leave it to me to be attracted to the craziest chick in the room.
So this follows Nashville/3 and Carter who are both highly trained assassins, thruster together to complete an extremely important mission. Set in the beautiful Mexico, this story unravels an explosively fast paced, action packed plot, and a scorching, heart bursting romance. I couldn't stop reading!
We stalk each other, two animals in the small apartment.
"You know," he says, "there's other ways to work through issues than with violence."
I clock my head to the side. "But so much less fun."
"And here I thought you were allergic to fun."
"Not this kind," I say before going for his throat, but he knocks away my arm. We trade blow after blow, circling and circling.
It's told in dual POVs, giving readers a chance to explore these complex minds. Both of these characters have a heart breaking past, and I really enjoyed seeing them VERY slowly start to trust one another and open up. These two go head to head more often than not. They absolutely HATE each other, almost from the first moment they meet. Once they meet and the plot starts to unfold, it's extremely addictive and hard to put this one down. I loved their banter and their relationship!! Especially towards the end!! So much amazing, brilliantly done character development!!
"I thought, if life liked to play such violent games, why shouldn't we build a shield from it?"
I can't begin to express how perfectly LAYERED these two are and the sparks that fly when these two meet, my heart was pounding! I was up at bizarre hours of the night reading, because I was so invested in their relationship and needed to know what happened! And Carter? I'm still swooning over him!! A new book boyfriend for sure. While he is a bit of a jerk, particularly in the beginning, I fell for him, hard!
Besides the characters, I loved the plot as well! It's engaging, fast paced, and reminded me so much of James Bond/Nikita type of story. So cool!! And super badass!!! Just what I needed to read! The writing was fantastic, and I can't recommend this one enough!! Absolutely loved every second!! Don't miss out on Carter and Nashvilles story!
All we ever have is the present. The past and future are nothing but intangible stretches in time. One we can't change. The other we can't touch.
March 30, 2017
BADASS!!!!!!! more words soon!!!!
Review on the blog: http://bit.ly/2omj3pI
Words:
You know those books that make you put them down just to say "are you freaking kidding me" out loud to no one? I said this about 13 times while reading THE ANIMAL UNDER THE FUR because I was constantly in awe over the banter, the characters, the storyline, the world that E.J. Mellow created.
"So I've adapted. Done what the creature I've been born into was made for—I've survived."
3, or Nashville, can kapow, zing, and slash me and I'd still thank her afterwards. She can feed me to the sharks (important to note that I'm deathly afraid of them) and I'd call her iconic for doing so. That's the kind of loyalty I feel for her. She's so badass it's impossible to not be completely enthralled by her character.
"I work in an industry of lies, and even if I didn't, relying on anyone is a fool's mistake..."
Carter Smith is a sleek bad boy with a guarded past that he keeps zipped up tight. He manages to be both frustratingly beautiful and hilarious at the same time. He's used to working alone and isn't looking to back down when 3 shows up, this beautiful specimen who is better at what he's best at. No one, especially Carter Smith, is comfortable with admitting that someone else could outdo them at the one thing they feel in control of.
"Is this the price of learning more about her? A piece of my soul for a piece of hers? At least from what little scraps we each have left."
Let it be known that I would give up bagels from La Bagel Delight, my one true Brooklyn love, to banter with Carter Smith for a day. If that doesn't scream love—pure adoration—for Carter, nothing else will.
"All we ever have is the present. The past and future are nothing but intangible stretches in time. One we can't change. The other we can't touch."
3 and Carter find themselves working side-by-side, a true difficulty when they were both born to be leaders, not teammates. Secrets are unveiled and shit gets crazy. Not ashamed to say I was a sweaty mess reading the last 20% of this book because how could it wrap up!? There was so much happening and my eyes weren't reading fast enough.
THE ANIMAL UNDER THE FUR made an animal out of me. Sizzling romance, suspense and irresistible wit, Mellow introduces you to two edgy characters who will demand your attention. You're looking at an A+ read in all its glory.
Review on the blog: http://bit.ly/2omj3pI
Words:
You know those books that make you put them down just to say "are you freaking kidding me" out loud to no one? I said this about 13 times while reading THE ANIMAL UNDER THE FUR because I was constantly in awe over the banter, the characters, the storyline, the world that E.J. Mellow created.
"So I've adapted. Done what the creature I've been born into was made for—I've survived."
3, or Nashville, can kapow, zing, and slash me and I'd still thank her afterwards. She can feed me to the sharks (important to note that I'm deathly afraid of them) and I'd call her iconic for doing so. That's the kind of loyalty I feel for her. She's so badass it's impossible to not be completely enthralled by her character.
"I work in an industry of lies, and even if I didn't, relying on anyone is a fool's mistake..."
Carter Smith is a sleek bad boy with a guarded past that he keeps zipped up tight. He manages to be both frustratingly beautiful and hilarious at the same time. He's used to working alone and isn't looking to back down when 3 shows up, this beautiful specimen who is better at what he's best at. No one, especially Carter Smith, is comfortable with admitting that someone else could outdo them at the one thing they feel in control of.
"Is this the price of learning more about her? A piece of my soul for a piece of hers? At least from what little scraps we each have left."
Let it be known that I would give up bagels from La Bagel Delight, my one true Brooklyn love, to banter with Carter Smith for a day. If that doesn't scream love—pure adoration—for Carter, nothing else will.
"All we ever have is the present. The past and future are nothing but intangible stretches in time. One we can't change. The other we can't touch."
3 and Carter find themselves working side-by-side, a true difficulty when they were both born to be leaders, not teammates. Secrets are unveiled and shit gets crazy. Not ashamed to say I was a sweaty mess reading the last 20% of this book because how could it wrap up!? There was so much happening and my eyes weren't reading fast enough.
THE ANIMAL UNDER THE FUR made an animal out of me. Sizzling romance, suspense and irresistible wit, Mellow introduces you to two edgy characters who will demand your attention. You're looking at an A+ read in all its glory.
March 30, 2017
"Twisting to look down at me, her blue eyes spark in the night. "Like this, honey." Then replacing her face mask, she flexes one long gloved middle finger my way, before opening her arms and leaping off the ledge.
Disappearing into the night.
Well, fuck me."
Read complete review in The Bibliotheque Blog
What. A. Ride. I must confess, I was instantly drawn to this book because of its title, The Animal under the Fur, but also because it is not often I find a book cover so beautiful and vibrant. I am human after all, and sometimes I can't help being superficial like that... Only with books, I promise. This time around I can only celebrate I let that shallow side of myself take over, because as I was saying earlier this book was a RIDE. The Animal under the Fur is gripping, extremely entertaining, badass and over all, refreshingly good!
It is not often that I get the chance to read about a female lead like Nashville Brown. And this is one of the reasons why not only this book is different from most, but also refreshingly good. After all, it’s not like I read every day about special agents, assassins, and the many different ways to kill the bad guys without leaving a trace. But before diving into more details, badassery and why I developed such girl-crush on Nashville I’d like to talk about the story.
The Animal under the Fur = Action + Romance. That’s not something I usually read about, and let me tell you, after this book this is something I will definitely be looking for. Mellow balanced perfectly the amount of action with the intensity of the romance. While the plot and story line were action packed and kept me as entertained as intrigued, there was always room for character development and the reason why I was here in the first place: the romance.
As every other reader, I have a few tropes that always work for me and despite not being very picky as long as a good love story is on the table, enemies to lovers is something that always excites me. And Nashville and Carter’s relationship was nothing less than exciting. They bounce from instant attraction to hate to loath to be forced to bear with each other to love. I loved the fact that this is a painfully delicious slow burn romance, and I loved even more the fact that both parts truly hated each other but were aware of the strong physical attraction between them. You know nothing builds tension like denial or unaddressed lust.
“It’s in this moment, with her a millisecond away from trying to kill me, that I realize why I found her so intriguing before. Leave it to me to be attracted to the craziest chick in the room.”
While the fast paced story moves forward between mission and mission, I loved that this novel was also strongly character driven. For one, there is the intrigue and all the action that a book about trained assassins involves and at the same time the reader sees how Carter and Nashville go from keeping all these walls up and wanting to tear each other a part in very creative and bloody ways, to eventually crumble to their feelings and protect each other. So, as a good from hate to love romance there are scenes charged with tension that give way to incredibly sweet moments. All mixed with the greatest banter and electrifying chemistry.
This novel is written in alternate pov chapters, and if I had to pick, I’d have to say that Carter’s were my favourite. Actually, all the quotes included in this review are from his chapters. But you know love interests are my biggest weakness.
“All we ever have is the present. The past and future are nothing but intangible stretches in time. One we can’t change. The other we can’t touch.”
The Animal under the Fur is definitely different from any other romance I have ever read. Usually, it’s the lead female the one in need of protection and salvation, and this time around it is him the one that needs to be protected and saved. From her. But the best part is that after all, this is not about who saves who but about allowing to be saved.
Gripping, refreshing, badass and action packed with a dash of supernatural, The Animal under the Fur caught me off guard and surprised me, keeping me engrossed from page one.
*I received a eARC from the author in exchange for an honest review
Disappearing into the night.
Well, fuck me."
Read complete review in The Bibliotheque Blog
What. A. Ride. I must confess, I was instantly drawn to this book because of its title, The Animal under the Fur, but also because it is not often I find a book cover so beautiful and vibrant. I am human after all, and sometimes I can't help being superficial like that... Only with books, I promise. This time around I can only celebrate I let that shallow side of myself take over, because as I was saying earlier this book was a RIDE. The Animal under the Fur is gripping, extremely entertaining, badass and over all, refreshingly good!
It is not often that I get the chance to read about a female lead like Nashville Brown. And this is one of the reasons why not only this book is different from most, but also refreshingly good. After all, it’s not like I read every day about special agents, assassins, and the many different ways to kill the bad guys without leaving a trace. But before diving into more details, badassery and why I developed such girl-crush on Nashville I’d like to talk about the story.
The Animal under the Fur = Action + Romance. That’s not something I usually read about, and let me tell you, after this book this is something I will definitely be looking for. Mellow balanced perfectly the amount of action with the intensity of the romance. While the plot and story line were action packed and kept me as entertained as intrigued, there was always room for character development and the reason why I was here in the first place: the romance.
As every other reader, I have a few tropes that always work for me and despite not being very picky as long as a good love story is on the table, enemies to lovers is something that always excites me. And Nashville and Carter’s relationship was nothing less than exciting. They bounce from instant attraction to hate to loath to be forced to bear with each other to love. I loved the fact that this is a painfully delicious slow burn romance, and I loved even more the fact that both parts truly hated each other but were aware of the strong physical attraction between them. You know nothing builds tension like denial or unaddressed lust.
“It’s in this moment, with her a millisecond away from trying to kill me, that I realize why I found her so intriguing before. Leave it to me to be attracted to the craziest chick in the room.”
While the fast paced story moves forward between mission and mission, I loved that this novel was also strongly character driven. For one, there is the intrigue and all the action that a book about trained assassins involves and at the same time the reader sees how Carter and Nashville go from keeping all these walls up and wanting to tear each other a part in very creative and bloody ways, to eventually crumble to their feelings and protect each other. So, as a good from hate to love romance there are scenes charged with tension that give way to incredibly sweet moments. All mixed with the greatest banter and electrifying chemistry.
This novel is written in alternate pov chapters, and if I had to pick, I’d have to say that Carter’s were my favourite. Actually, all the quotes included in this review are from his chapters. But you know love interests are my biggest weakness.
“All we ever have is the present. The past and future are nothing but intangible stretches in time. One we can’t change. The other we can’t touch.”
The Animal under the Fur is definitely different from any other romance I have ever read. Usually, it’s the lead female the one in need of protection and salvation, and this time around it is him the one that needs to be protected and saved. From her. But the best part is that after all, this is not about who saves who but about allowing to be saved.
Gripping, refreshing, badass and action packed with a dash of supernatural, The Animal under the Fur caught me off guard and surprised me, keeping me engrossed from page one.
*I received a eARC from the author in exchange for an honest review
April 5, 2017
MORE. NEW. ADULT. NOVELS. NOT. CENTERED. AROUND. ROMANCE! I am obsessed with The Animal Under the Fur by E.J. Mellow because it shows characters in their 20’s-30’s going on action packed adventures and suspenseful spy missions without the entire story focusing around a romance. New Adult novels are mostly considered to be love stories, and I am SO glad that Mellows created a spy New Adult novel, especially because it gave me so many Mission Impossible vibes. It completely blew me away from the witty characters to the ever changing story line that left me wondering what was going to happen next. It was everything I wanted and more in a book centered around two secret operatives who hate one another and are forced to go on a dangerous mission together.
My absolute favorite aspect of this novel was Nashville and Carter who both had narratives in this story with distinct voices to differentiate from one another. Nashville had a dry, cold humor shown in her chapters, and I absolutely adored her character. She was never impressed by the men around her and is one of the strongest female leads that I’ve read about in a while, both physically and emotionally. Her character development is so well written and seeing her grow as a person and warm up to the world around her was so fun to read about. Carter, on the other hand, was so suave and the jokes he made just to annoy Nashville were so hilarious. His distinct voice stood out to me more because he was such a stark contrast to Nashville who he butted heads with. Their dynamic was great and I felt their chemistry rolling off the pages whenever they had to work together. Their banter and how well they worked together was what really made this book so well written.
Another aspect of the story that was fascinating were the operative/spy portions of the story that was always the center problem that the characters had to face. The missions Nashville and Carter had to go on around the world were so well thought out and reading their fight scenes were amazing as well. I usually get muddled up when reading fight scenes because the descriptions aren’t well written, but Mellow painted each scene flawlessly when the characters were fighting or planning their missions using epic gadgets to take down the enemy.
Having never read a spy book before, I was obsessed with every detail of this story, especially the entire ordeal of Nashville and Carter who hated each other having to work together on a mission. The twists and turns that unfurled as the book developed were amazing, the plot twists took me off guard, and the characters were so well developed, along with the special abilities that Nashville had. The story’s pace was fleshed out perfectly in order to build suspence and keep me wondering what was going to happen next.
My only complaint about the novel is the use of the words “psycho” and “crazy” that were used as descriptions, at times that could have easily been taken out to not offend readers. I also wished that Nashville’s Mexican heritage was shown more throughtout the novel because she was white washed to be pale and have red hair. It didn’t feel authentic enough to me that she was of Mexican decent when it wasn’t shown in the story.
My absolute favorite aspect of this novel was Nashville and Carter who both had narratives in this story with distinct voices to differentiate from one another. Nashville had a dry, cold humor shown in her chapters, and I absolutely adored her character. She was never impressed by the men around her and is one of the strongest female leads that I’ve read about in a while, both physically and emotionally. Her character development is so well written and seeing her grow as a person and warm up to the world around her was so fun to read about. Carter, on the other hand, was so suave and the jokes he made just to annoy Nashville were so hilarious. His distinct voice stood out to me more because he was such a stark contrast to Nashville who he butted heads with. Their dynamic was great and I felt their chemistry rolling off the pages whenever they had to work together. Their banter and how well they worked together was what really made this book so well written.
Another aspect of the story that was fascinating were the operative/spy portions of the story that was always the center problem that the characters had to face. The missions Nashville and Carter had to go on around the world were so well thought out and reading their fight scenes were amazing as well. I usually get muddled up when reading fight scenes because the descriptions aren’t well written, but Mellow painted each scene flawlessly when the characters were fighting or planning their missions using epic gadgets to take down the enemy.
Having never read a spy book before, I was obsessed with every detail of this story, especially the entire ordeal of Nashville and Carter who hated each other having to work together on a mission. The twists and turns that unfurled as the book developed were amazing, the plot twists took me off guard, and the characters were so well developed, along with the special abilities that Nashville had. The story’s pace was fleshed out perfectly in order to build suspence and keep me wondering what was going to happen next.
My only complaint about the novel is the use of the words “psycho” and “crazy” that were used as descriptions, at times that could have easily been taken out to not offend readers. I also wished that Nashville’s Mexican heritage was shown more throughtout the novel because she was white washed to be pale and have red hair. It didn’t feel authentic enough to me that she was of Mexican decent when it wasn’t shown in the story.
March 30, 2017
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review*
10 A++++++ Stars!!!
I honestly can't even begin to say how much I loved this book!!! I just want to shout-it-out from the top of my lungs how AH-MAZING and brilliant and fan-freakin-tastic this book is! Gahhhhh, just thinking about it, I just want to read it all over again. So good so good so bloody gooood!!!
Nashville (3) go on with your bad-self, she was out-of-this-world kick-ass! She was such a badass, my gosh was she ever! She was so strong and fierce and confident and loyal. I mean don't get me wrong, if you wrong her, boy be prepared to get her wrath. She's a tough cookie, but underneath all that, she's capable of showing her soft side too.
Carter mothereffing Smith, there aren't enough words, I repeat, THERE. ARE. NOT. ENOUGH. WORDS. Oh dear lord did I love you, let me count the ways.....
1. Friend
2. Protector
3. Loyal
4. Funny as hell
5. Cocky
Seriously though, Carter was so much more than-meets-the-eye. He was a man that showed his softer side. He listened and cared and made me love him even more. I couldn't get enough of him. He was mint chocolate chip ice cream, I just wanted to devour him.
"Carter’s heartbeat is a locomotive in my ears, his pheromones blanketing the sheets like an alluring aroma from a lit candle. How long has it been since I’ve enjoyed the touch of another?"
Nashville and Carter's relationship was explosive! Their anything-you-can-do I can do better mentality just kept one another on their toes. They were so hot and spicy and sensational together! They were out-of-this-world perfect for each other! I mean, they complimented one another to a T. Oh my gosh, I LOVED them so much! *heart eyes* for dayyyyyyyys.
I can go on and on about this book. I won't though, because obviously I don't want to give any spoilers away. Just know that this book is fantastic, amazing and outstanding. I 100% recommend this book!!! READ! THIS! BOOK!
EJ Mellow, I applaud you, thank you thank you THANK YOU for giving us Nashville and Carter!!!! The writing was superb and the characters were far and beyond marvelous! This was my first book I've read from you and why that is, I don't even know. You better believe I'll be fixing that. Can't wait to read your other books and read your future books as well.
10 A++++++ Stars!!!
I honestly can't even begin to say how much I loved this book!!! I just want to shout-it-out from the top of my lungs how AH-MAZING and brilliant and fan-freakin-tastic this book is! Gahhhhh, just thinking about it, I just want to read it all over again. So good so good so bloody gooood!!!
Nashville (3) go on with your bad-self, she was out-of-this-world kick-ass! She was such a badass, my gosh was she ever! She was so strong and fierce and confident and loyal. I mean don't get me wrong, if you wrong her, boy be prepared to get her wrath. She's a tough cookie, but underneath all that, she's capable of showing her soft side too.
Carter mothereffing Smith, there aren't enough words, I repeat, THERE. ARE. NOT. ENOUGH. WORDS. Oh dear lord did I love you, let me count the ways.....
1. Friend
2. Protector
3. Loyal
4. Funny as hell
5. Cocky
Seriously though, Carter was so much more than-meets-the-eye. He was a man that showed his softer side. He listened and cared and made me love him even more. I couldn't get enough of him. He was mint chocolate chip ice cream, I just wanted to devour him.
"Carter’s heartbeat is a locomotive in my ears, his pheromones blanketing the sheets like an alluring aroma from a lit candle. How long has it been since I’ve enjoyed the touch of another?"
Nashville and Carter's relationship was explosive! Their anything-you-can-do I can do better mentality just kept one another on their toes. They were so hot and spicy and sensational together! They were out-of-this-world perfect for each other! I mean, they complimented one another to a T. Oh my gosh, I LOVED them so much! *heart eyes* for dayyyyyyyys.
I can go on and on about this book. I won't though, because obviously I don't want to give any spoilers away. Just know that this book is fantastic, amazing and outstanding. I 100% recommend this book!!! READ! THIS! BOOK!
EJ Mellow, I applaud you, thank you thank you THANK YOU for giving us Nashville and Carter!!!! The writing was superb and the characters were far and beyond marvelous! This was my first book I've read from you and why that is, I don't even know. You better believe I'll be fixing that. Can't wait to read your other books and read your future books as well.
March 30, 2017
This was my first book by this author, but I struggled with it. I never really got into the action or suspense and the romance was a little too slow and not developed enough for my taste, though I enjoyed the banter. I hate to say it but I was bored much of the book. I was really hoping for a good romantic suspense but this was only okay in the end.
Full review to come!
Thanks to the author for generously providing me an ARC to review.
Full review to come!
Thanks to the author for generously providing me an ARC to review.
March 30, 2017
A whole lot of badass-ery in this one that I didn't know I needed! I laughed, I gasped, I got all giddy and chewed at my nails the entirety of the book and I just couldn't get enough of Nashville and Carter!
This story follows Nashville Brown, aka K-Op 3, who was abandoned as a little girl and trained to work for SI6 after having been discovered of her A+ genome, a genetic mutation that enhances the senses and strength of a human. She then comes across Mr. Cocky himself, Carter Smith, who works for the COA. After having lost his entire family, he resorts to fulfilling his needs with women and getting shit done. Worlds collide when these two are put together to work on a mission, and the hate between them may be their undoing.
This was my first E.J. Mellow novel and I am definitely continuing to read more from her! I was so easily captivated by the idea of this book and these characters made it all worth while. I loved the intensity of this book and after having read something like this, I am now on the hunt for more!
By far, my favorite part of this book was Carter Smith. While he may be super cocky in his abilities, both in and outside of the bedroom, he attracted me for many reasons! One being how, despite the hatred between the two MCs, Carter showed such a longing and care for Nashville that allowed us to see his vulnerable side. Now, while we don't get to see this for quite a while, I may have just been attracted by his description. HA!
Nashville also stood out to me in this novel because she is just as badass as I would have imagined. Reading about her and these calculated moves left me feeling as if I were watching it unfold right in front of me. E.J. Mellow was able to write these scenes so perfectly, and I respect how much research she must have done for this to flow so smoothly.
Nashville also comes from such a tough beginning and I felt for her on many occasions. I love that we were able to see between her two personas, Nashville and 3. I thought that was such a simple but nice touch as we volleyed between the two and got to also see Nashville's vulnerable side.
I am so glad to have been given the chance to read 'The Animal Under the Fur'!
If you're looking for a hate-to-love story full of explosive, nail-biting action, two sharp-witted MC's, all while admiring some pretty clever and nerdy shirts, then this is your book!
This story follows Nashville Brown, aka K-Op 3, who was abandoned as a little girl and trained to work for SI6 after having been discovered of her A+ genome, a genetic mutation that enhances the senses and strength of a human. She then comes across Mr. Cocky himself, Carter Smith, who works for the COA. After having lost his entire family, he resorts to fulfilling his needs with women and getting shit done. Worlds collide when these two are put together to work on a mission, and the hate between them may be their undoing.
This was my first E.J. Mellow novel and I am definitely continuing to read more from her! I was so easily captivated by the idea of this book and these characters made it all worth while. I loved the intensity of this book and after having read something like this, I am now on the hunt for more!
By far, my favorite part of this book was Carter Smith. While he may be super cocky in his abilities, both in and outside of the bedroom, he attracted me for many reasons! One being how, despite the hatred between the two MCs, Carter showed such a longing and care for Nashville that allowed us to see his vulnerable side. Now, while we don't get to see this for quite a while, I may have just been attracted by his description. HA!
Nashville also stood out to me in this novel because she is just as badass as I would have imagined. Reading about her and these calculated moves left me feeling as if I were watching it unfold right in front of me. E.J. Mellow was able to write these scenes so perfectly, and I respect how much research she must have done for this to flow so smoothly.
Nashville also comes from such a tough beginning and I felt for her on many occasions. I love that we were able to see between her two personas, Nashville and 3. I thought that was such a simple but nice touch as we volleyed between the two and got to also see Nashville's vulnerable side.
I am so glad to have been given the chance to read 'The Animal Under the Fur'!
If you're looking for a hate-to-love story full of explosive, nail-biting action, two sharp-witted MC's, all while admiring some pretty clever and nerdy shirts, then this is your book!
March 31, 2017
IT'S LIVE!!
Nashville and Carter are out in the world and I couldn't be more excited!
WHAT THEY'RE SAYING:
"High-stakes action has never been hotter." - Vilma’s Book Blog
"Sizzling romance, suspense and irresistible wit, Mellow introduces you to two edgy characters who will demand your attention." - Book Baristas
Start reading this new enemies-to-lovers action romance today!
Amazon US
Amazon UK
Amazon CA
Amazon AU
iBooks
Kobo
Nook
Nashville and Carter are out in the world and I couldn't be more excited!
WHAT THEY'RE SAYING:
"High-stakes action has never been hotter." - Vilma’s Book Blog
"Sizzling romance, suspense and irresistible wit, Mellow introduces you to two edgy characters who will demand your attention." - Book Baristas
Start reading this new enemies-to-lovers action romance today!
Amazon US
Amazon UK
Amazon CA
Amazon AU
iBooks
Kobo
Nook
April 4, 2017
*ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review*
This book follows Nashville, an A+ human with enhanced abilities, and Carter, an immediate rival of hers. This was a dual POV story and I loved being in both of their minds. They each had their own voice and I enjoyed ever second of them.
Nashville was incredibly badass and I admired how she didn't shy away from a kill. She knew what was expected of her and she delivered no matter what. I really hope to see more characters like her in the near future. I love it when main characters make me cheer them on as intensely as she did.
Carter is absolutely ridiculous, in the best of ways. It took me a while to put my finger on my opinion of him but eventually, he had me cracking up and ashamed that I ever doubted him.
A couple of negative things I have to say is that as much as I really liked the characters, I lacked a personal connection to any of them. I felt a wall between us and it impacted my reading experience more than I wanted it to. Another thing I have to point out is that I am a grammar Nazi when it comes to novels using my first language as a part of their story: Spanish. It was used in this book but not in the way that made any sense. It wasn't being translated right and it erupted another wall between the characters and me. I just couldn't get past it so I docked a star for it. There were also some plot twists that I saw coming so the shock factor wasn't as great as it could have been.
With that said, I loved how short the chapters were so it turned into a quick read. I also really liked how the story wrapped up in the end.
3.5/5 stars
This book follows Nashville, an A+ human with enhanced abilities, and Carter, an immediate rival of hers. This was a dual POV story and I loved being in both of their minds. They each had their own voice and I enjoyed ever second of them.
Nashville was incredibly badass and I admired how she didn't shy away from a kill. She knew what was expected of her and she delivered no matter what. I really hope to see more characters like her in the near future. I love it when main characters make me cheer them on as intensely as she did.
Carter is absolutely ridiculous, in the best of ways. It took me a while to put my finger on my opinion of him but eventually, he had me cracking up and ashamed that I ever doubted him.
A couple of negative things I have to say is that as much as I really liked the characters, I lacked a personal connection to any of them. I felt a wall between us and it impacted my reading experience more than I wanted it to. Another thing I have to point out is that I am a grammar Nazi when it comes to novels using my first language as a part of their story: Spanish. It was used in this book but not in the way that made any sense. It wasn't being translated right and it erupted another wall between the characters and me. I just couldn't get past it so I docked a star for it. There were also some plot twists that I saw coming so the shock factor wasn't as great as it could have been.
With that said, I loved how short the chapters were so it turned into a quick read. I also really liked how the story wrapped up in the end.
3.5/5 stars
July 27, 2019
I have been in much need of reading a novel as badass as The Animal Under the Fur! I’m so happy E.J. Mellow wrote it, but I’m sad because it was so good that I don’t know what could compare and it put me in a book hangover.
Nashville a.k.a. 3 was abandoned as a child. She grew up training to work with SI6 to be the perfect assassin since she’s an A+, which is a human with heightened senses and abilities. During one of her assignments, she meets Carter, another assassin from a different agency called COA. When they meet, they immediately hate one each other with a passion. What they don’t know is that it was a test to see if they could work on a bigger and harder mission.
I’ve killed more people than years I’ve been alive. And for reference I’m twenty-six.
Even though Nashville intimidated (and scared) me so much, I absolutely loved her! Her character is beyond kickass and full of badassery! She’s had it so rough in life and because of that, she’s so detached from everybody except her roommate and childhood friend. I felt for Nash so many times because she didn’t have a normal upbringing and it obviously affects her and has her vulnerable side. At the same time, she’s so tough and put together that if you don’t glimpse her vulnerable side, you’d think she doesn’t have any humanity in her. That’s what made this character so special to me and intrigued me to no end, especially when Carter is thrown in her life and how she’s suddenly experimenting these feelings she had never known.
Carter’s heartbeat is a locomotive in my ears, his pheromones blanketing the sheets like an alluring aroma from a lit candle. How long as it been since I’ve enjoyed the touch of another? Allowed myself to experience pleasure rather than pain?
I kind of disliked Carter in the beginning. He was cocky as hell, would boast about how good he is at his job and getting any women to sleep with, knows he’s beyond attractive… All these qualities had me eye-rolling so much. BUT! My goodness, did I end up loving this cocky man. He ended up showing this vulnerable side to him that had my heart beating crazy fast. The way he ended up being there for Nashville and caring for her had me melting completely.
Now, these two characters together… Explosion. Fireworks. Steamy as hell. They kept each other on their toes and that’s what made their relationship even more exciting!
Trading hits seems to be our messed-up way to blow off steam, and even though I usually prefer a different, more…grinding way of getting a release, sparring with 3 and having her meet my strength with her own has become a weird sort of foreplay.
While reading the book, I felt like I was watching a movie (that’s a compliment)! All I needed was a huge bag of popcorn and I would have been set. Mellow went into detail with every aspect of the story, especially the action scenes. My fear when reading action books is that they will be brushed off and you can tell the author didn’t really do research. Well, Mellow definitely did and it showed! Those action scenes were the best I’ve read in a long time! They had my heart and pulse racing! It all felt so thrilling!
The Animal Under the Fur is an action-packed, badass, suspenseful, steamy, thrilling story with a hate-to-love and intense romance, and outstanding writing! I need more of E.J. Mellow’s writing and Nashville and Carter!
Nashville a.k.a. 3 was abandoned as a child. She grew up training to work with SI6 to be the perfect assassin since she’s an A+, which is a human with heightened senses and abilities. During one of her assignments, she meets Carter, another assassin from a different agency called COA. When they meet, they immediately hate one each other with a passion. What they don’t know is that it was a test to see if they could work on a bigger and harder mission.
I’ve killed more people than years I’ve been alive. And for reference I’m twenty-six.
Even though Nashville intimidated (and scared) me so much, I absolutely loved her! Her character is beyond kickass and full of badassery! She’s had it so rough in life and because of that, she’s so detached from everybody except her roommate and childhood friend. I felt for Nash so many times because she didn’t have a normal upbringing and it obviously affects her and has her vulnerable side. At the same time, she’s so tough and put together that if you don’t glimpse her vulnerable side, you’d think she doesn’t have any humanity in her. That’s what made this character so special to me and intrigued me to no end, especially when Carter is thrown in her life and how she’s suddenly experimenting these feelings she had never known.
Carter’s heartbeat is a locomotive in my ears, his pheromones blanketing the sheets like an alluring aroma from a lit candle. How long as it been since I’ve enjoyed the touch of another? Allowed myself to experience pleasure rather than pain?
I kind of disliked Carter in the beginning. He was cocky as hell, would boast about how good he is at his job and getting any women to sleep with, knows he’s beyond attractive… All these qualities had me eye-rolling so much. BUT! My goodness, did I end up loving this cocky man. He ended up showing this vulnerable side to him that had my heart beating crazy fast. The way he ended up being there for Nashville and caring for her had me melting completely.
Now, these two characters together… Explosion. Fireworks. Steamy as hell. They kept each other on their toes and that’s what made their relationship even more exciting!
Trading hits seems to be our messed-up way to blow off steam, and even though I usually prefer a different, more…grinding way of getting a release, sparring with 3 and having her meet my strength with her own has become a weird sort of foreplay.
While reading the book, I felt like I was watching a movie (that’s a compliment)! All I needed was a huge bag of popcorn and I would have been set. Mellow went into detail with every aspect of the story, especially the action scenes. My fear when reading action books is that they will be brushed off and you can tell the author didn’t really do research. Well, Mellow definitely did and it showed! Those action scenes were the best I’ve read in a long time! They had my heart and pulse racing! It all felt so thrilling!
The Animal Under the Fur is an action-packed, badass, suspenseful, steamy, thrilling story with a hate-to-love and intense romance, and outstanding writing! I need more of E.J. Mellow’s writing and Nashville and Carter!
August 1, 2019
Awesomeness.
Fiercest characters.
Incountable laughs.
Smartass conversations.
Action-packed scenes.
Amazing plot twists.
Hate-to-love relationships.
And one of the most amazing stories I've read so far this year.
This is what you will encounter in The Animal Under The Fur.
Let's talk about this beauty.
Meet Nashville/3.
One of the most badass female characters you can ever read about. The best OP you will ever find. Deadly, scary, she is the nightmare children pray it's not under their bed.
But she is also an abandoned child, raised in an orphanage with no family at all. No romantic attachments besides work.
Meet Carter.
Ruthless, handsome and playboy. Loves to have fun with girls in bed. Doesn't care about nothing or nodoby else.
But he is also a boy who lost his entire family and decided he would never rely on somebody else.
You can definetly tell these two are destined to cross paths and when they do... let's just say there is not any other relationship based only in hate and disgust towards the other.
And even worse, they have to work together for their agencies in order to find and destroy a weapon that could change the world.
During all the assigment, both Carter and Nashville taunt the other even till the point to wrestle between them. But, of course, there is something else that starts to appear and change their minds. While this happens, we learn so much about the past of both of our characters and why they act the way they do. This also helps the reader to connect with them (I loved them both but sometimes I enjoyed Carter's POVa little more).
For me, this story is awesome. Just by reading the prologue I was already hooked, I wanted to finally know who were this characters that the author has been taunting us for months. And boy, was I surprised. Everything is well narrated, the dialogues are funny and smart at the same time (I was laughing every five minutes that earned some stares from my family) and every chapter ends in a very intriguing way. You don't know what will happen, what will these characters do... and that's why I enjoyed both POV because it helps you to see different aspects of the novel.
To finish this vey long review, my final words are: GO READ IT!!! It's a very fun and entertaining read, full of twists and unexpected thoughts, both badass characters that will go to hell and back and, in the way back, they will find out that there is trust and love in this tained world.
Thank you so much to E.J. Mellow for sending me a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
And thank you for including Spanish words and a beautiful setting like Mexico, my beloved América Latina.
Fiercest characters.
Incountable laughs.
Smartass conversations.
Action-packed scenes.
Amazing plot twists.
Hate-to-love relationships.
And one of the most amazing stories I've read so far this year.
This is what you will encounter in The Animal Under The Fur.
Let's talk about this beauty.
Meet Nashville/3.
One of the most badass female characters you can ever read about. The best OP you will ever find. Deadly, scary, she is the nightmare children pray it's not under their bed.
But she is also an abandoned child, raised in an orphanage with no family at all. No romantic attachments besides work.
Meet Carter.
Ruthless, handsome and playboy. Loves to have fun with girls in bed. Doesn't care about nothing or nodoby else.
But he is also a boy who lost his entire family and decided he would never rely on somebody else.
You can definetly tell these two are destined to cross paths and when they do... let's just say there is not any other relationship based only in hate and disgust towards the other.
And even worse, they have to work together for their agencies in order to find and destroy a weapon that could change the world.
During all the assigment, both Carter and Nashville taunt the other even till the point to wrestle between them. But, of course, there is something else that starts to appear and change their minds. While this happens, we learn so much about the past of both of our characters and why they act the way they do. This also helps the reader to connect with them (I loved them both but sometimes I enjoyed Carter's POVa little more).
For me, this story is awesome. Just by reading the prologue I was already hooked, I wanted to finally know who were this characters that the author has been taunting us for months. And boy, was I surprised. Everything is well narrated, the dialogues are funny and smart at the same time (I was laughing every five minutes that earned some stares from my family) and every chapter ends in a very intriguing way. You don't know what will happen, what will these characters do... and that's why I enjoyed both POV because it helps you to see different aspects of the novel.
To finish this vey long review, my final words are: GO READ IT!!! It's a very fun and entertaining read, full of twists and unexpected thoughts, both badass characters that will go to hell and back and, in the way back, they will find out that there is trust and love in this tained world.
Thank you so much to E.J. Mellow for sending me a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
And thank you for including Spanish words and a beautiful setting like Mexico, my beloved América Latina.
March 29, 2017
Animal Under The Fur
/anəməl/ /ˈəndər/ /T͟Hē,T͟Hə/ /fər/ noun
1. bad-ass, kick-ass
2. your next favorite book
3. a book that you shove someone else’s face for them to read, explanation is optional
Solid 5/5 stars for The Animal Under The Fur. This book screams amazing at every turn of the page, I’m not even exaggerating. It was well though-out and well-plotted. This is the kind of female protagonist I’ve been waiting my whole life. This is the kind of story that I would read over and over. This is the kind of book that will have you raising your hand in prayer, thanking the book gods for its existence. The word bad-ass doesn’t even begin to cover it, it’s bad-ass multiplied to million! Trust me on this, it is not often you come across something this engaging and entertaining, so do yourself a favor and get your copy and read right away. Don’t second guess it, you can thank me later.
The Animal Under The Fur is all I wanted in a book.
Unconventional Romance? Check
Love-Hate relationship? Oh boy, yes!
Funny and Witty banters? This one is brimming with it!
Bad-Ass Female Protagonist? Hell yes! Think how bad-ass Jennifer Garner is in Alias, or Angelina Jolie in Salt, or Scarlet Johansson as Black Widow – that’s Nashville Brown for you guys! All that and so much more. Have I convinced you yet?
Hard-To-Resist Male protagonist? Oh good heavens, you’ll love Carter Smith! I’m talking about a new book boyfriend to swoon over and over. He’ll plague your mind every chance he gets.
The Animal Under The Fur is an action-packed novel, full of wit and amazing twist and turns. It was an intoxicating reading experience if you ask me. The constant change in setting added to the flavor of the book. And did I say it was hard to put down? I read it every chance I get, that’s how gripping it was, that’s how I have become attached to it like my own limb. I was so engrossed reading I almost missed my train stop, twice. This was the first EJ Mellow book I have read and I am so happy I’ve signed up for the book tour – best decision I’ve made! I didn’t read the blurb, to be completely honest it was the cover that made me decide to join the book tour, yes without even knowing what it was about. I’d like to surprise myself like that. Also, there wouldn’t be any preconceived notion or high expectations. It works for me, and I’ve been doing that for quite some time now. Call it love at first sight. The first time I laid my eyes on this cover, I just knew I have to read it as soon as it comes out. And boy, I am not disappointed.
The Animal Under The Fur is begging to be made into a movie. The extensive research made by the author is highly commendable. Also A+ genes, the closest thing to a super hero, what’s cooler than that? I also loved how the author painted her characters. We have 3 or Nashville Brown, who was such a kick-ass! God I love her. I loved how the author made a strong heroine out of Nashville’s character. How she ain’t the usual whiny, insecure, female protagonist we often read in books. This is the kind of character women should be reading these days. And of course, we have Carter Smith, this tall guy with moss green eyes. Can he be any more dreamy? I loved that his character, though not at par with that of Nashville, is also something so enjoyable to read. I loved his sass and quick comebacks. Carter and Nash is definitely the perfect pair! You know how much I love love-hate relationships and banters with palpable sexual tension, goodness, I live for those things! This book is definitely high on that list. In every romance book, I always look forward to the first meeting of the main characters, if it’s meet-cute or just some forgettable, cliche kind. The Animal Under The Fur took the cake on this one, it was definitely not the meet-cute kind, but something more fitting to their characters, and I wouldn’t elaborate on this one, I want you to find it out for yourself! The other characters were very interesting as well, especially Akoni and his cool shirts! I loved Ceci too, kind of reminded me of my best friend as well! I’d love to read more of this “cross-pollination” of K-Ops. Can it be possible to make another story with K-Ops? Hahah I would definitely be the first one in line to read it.
The Animal Under The Fur is a feisty, enjoyable, kick-ass read! You won’t regret picking it up. If you’re someone trying to break free from the norm of Romance books with an insecure girl and all that so 2012 stuff, then you have to get this book. This book offers something fresh and delicious on the table, something you will not definitely pass up. This book is now on my Top Books of 2017 list – it’s that good. Just a reminder though, be wary of your surroundings while reading this book, you might accidentally step on someone’s foot, or bump into another person, or have elevator doors close on your very face, or miss a step and make a total fool of yourself in the process. The above-mentioned may or may not have happened to me while reading it, depends on who’s asking. I won’t bore you with too much blabbering now, go ahead and get this book, we can fangirl later!
/anəməl/ /ˈəndər/ /T͟Hē,T͟Hə/ /fər/ noun
1. bad-ass, kick-ass
2. your next favorite book
3. a book that you shove someone else’s face for them to read, explanation is optional
Solid 5/5 stars for The Animal Under The Fur. This book screams amazing at every turn of the page, I’m not even exaggerating. It was well though-out and well-plotted. This is the kind of female protagonist I’ve been waiting my whole life. This is the kind of story that I would read over and over. This is the kind of book that will have you raising your hand in prayer, thanking the book gods for its existence. The word bad-ass doesn’t even begin to cover it, it’s bad-ass multiplied to million! Trust me on this, it is not often you come across something this engaging and entertaining, so do yourself a favor and get your copy and read right away. Don’t second guess it, you can thank me later.
The Animal Under The Fur is all I wanted in a book.
Unconventional Romance? Check
Love-Hate relationship? Oh boy, yes!
Funny and Witty banters? This one is brimming with it!
Bad-Ass Female Protagonist? Hell yes! Think how bad-ass Jennifer Garner is in Alias, or Angelina Jolie in Salt, or Scarlet Johansson as Black Widow – that’s Nashville Brown for you guys! All that and so much more. Have I convinced you yet?
Hard-To-Resist Male protagonist? Oh good heavens, you’ll love Carter Smith! I’m talking about a new book boyfriend to swoon over and over. He’ll plague your mind every chance he gets.
The Animal Under The Fur is an action-packed novel, full of wit and amazing twist and turns. It was an intoxicating reading experience if you ask me. The constant change in setting added to the flavor of the book. And did I say it was hard to put down? I read it every chance I get, that’s how gripping it was, that’s how I have become attached to it like my own limb. I was so engrossed reading I almost missed my train stop, twice. This was the first EJ Mellow book I have read and I am so happy I’ve signed up for the book tour – best decision I’ve made! I didn’t read the blurb, to be completely honest it was the cover that made me decide to join the book tour, yes without even knowing what it was about. I’d like to surprise myself like that. Also, there wouldn’t be any preconceived notion or high expectations. It works for me, and I’ve been doing that for quite some time now. Call it love at first sight. The first time I laid my eyes on this cover, I just knew I have to read it as soon as it comes out. And boy, I am not disappointed.
The Animal Under The Fur is begging to be made into a movie. The extensive research made by the author is highly commendable. Also A+ genes, the closest thing to a super hero, what’s cooler than that? I also loved how the author painted her characters. We have 3 or Nashville Brown, who was such a kick-ass! God I love her. I loved how the author made a strong heroine out of Nashville’s character. How she ain’t the usual whiny, insecure, female protagonist we often read in books. This is the kind of character women should be reading these days. And of course, we have Carter Smith, this tall guy with moss green eyes. Can he be any more dreamy? I loved that his character, though not at par with that of Nashville, is also something so enjoyable to read. I loved his sass and quick comebacks. Carter and Nash is definitely the perfect pair! You know how much I love love-hate relationships and banters with palpable sexual tension, goodness, I live for those things! This book is definitely high on that list. In every romance book, I always look forward to the first meeting of the main characters, if it’s meet-cute or just some forgettable, cliche kind. The Animal Under The Fur took the cake on this one, it was definitely not the meet-cute kind, but something more fitting to their characters, and I wouldn’t elaborate on this one, I want you to find it out for yourself! The other characters were very interesting as well, especially Akoni and his cool shirts! I loved Ceci too, kind of reminded me of my best friend as well! I’d love to read more of this “cross-pollination” of K-Ops. Can it be possible to make another story with K-Ops? Hahah I would definitely be the first one in line to read it.
The Animal Under The Fur is a feisty, enjoyable, kick-ass read! You won’t regret picking it up. If you’re someone trying to break free from the norm of Romance books with an insecure girl and all that so 2012 stuff, then you have to get this book. This book offers something fresh and delicious on the table, something you will not definitely pass up. This book is now on my Top Books of 2017 list – it’s that good. Just a reminder though, be wary of your surroundings while reading this book, you might accidentally step on someone’s foot, or bump into another person, or have elevator doors close on your very face, or miss a step and make a total fool of yourself in the process. The above-mentioned may or may not have happened to me while reading it, depends on who’s asking. I won’t bore you with too much blabbering now, go ahead and get this book, we can fangirl later!
April 2, 2017
In the Dreamland series the world enchanted, it beckoned you in with its wondrous promise of something more, something otherworldly. In The Animal Under the Fur the beast awed. Earthy, both primitive and refined. Its roar demanded your respect. Its force simultaneously ensnared and enslaved you. Like with any wild animal you encounter, you can't help but admire its beauty and the coiled strength, barely contained, lying in wait just below the surface.
Nashville is a tangle of contradictions, both fierce friend and ferocious enemy, caring and yet closed off, fire and ice, wild but never reckless, senses overloaded with every sight, smell, taste and touch, yet never allowing true sensation to penetrate her well guarded barriers. The woman on the outside drawing you in with her allure while the animal inside would have you fleeing, if only to be able to relish the act of chasing down its prey. I truly couldn't get enough of Nashville. Her uninhibited wildness was a siren song I couldn't turn off.
While Carter proved to be a worthy counterpart, although I think it is impossible to fully match Nashville's brilliance. I was absolutely captivated by their relationship none the less. For their many similarities they also had innate differences that only seemed to make them an even better match for one another. I loved how he got under her skin at every turn, and how elated his dastardly deeds made him. Watching her squirm might have been his favorite past time, and I couldn't get enough.
I'm not quite sure what I enjoyed more, the fighting or loving! They were magnets, both South and North poles, repelling and attracting with equal force. Either way they went that electric, magnetic intensity bewitched.
The calculated plot helped drive this story and its gloriously enigmatic characters along at a steady pace. This story was driven and concise. A story of blood and teeth and survival of the fittest, with some unexpected twists and turns waiting around the bend. Just strap yourself in and enjoy the ride.
I received a copy of this book from the author (*and I bought one because this book is amazeballs*) in exchange for an honest review.
Nashville is a tangle of contradictions, both fierce friend and ferocious enemy, caring and yet closed off, fire and ice, wild but never reckless, senses overloaded with every sight, smell, taste and touch, yet never allowing true sensation to penetrate her well guarded barriers. The woman on the outside drawing you in with her allure while the animal inside would have you fleeing, if only to be able to relish the act of chasing down its prey. I truly couldn't get enough of Nashville. Her uninhibited wildness was a siren song I couldn't turn off.
While Carter proved to be a worthy counterpart, although I think it is impossible to fully match Nashville's brilliance. I was absolutely captivated by their relationship none the less. For their many similarities they also had innate differences that only seemed to make them an even better match for one another. I loved how he got under her skin at every turn, and how elated his dastardly deeds made him. Watching her squirm might have been his favorite past time, and I couldn't get enough.
I'm not quite sure what I enjoyed more, the fighting or loving! They were magnets, both South and North poles, repelling and attracting with equal force. Either way they went that electric, magnetic intensity bewitched.
The calculated plot helped drive this story and its gloriously enigmatic characters along at a steady pace. This story was driven and concise. A story of blood and teeth and survival of the fittest, with some unexpected twists and turns waiting around the bend. Just strap yourself in and enjoy the ride.
I received a copy of this book from the author (*and I bought one because this book is amazeballs*) in exchange for an honest review.
March 26, 2017
"I've killed more people than years I've been alive. And for reference I'm twenty-six."
And thus begins the story of Nashville, a girl abandoned by her parents, found as a baby and trained to work with SI6 as the perfect assassin due to her A+ genome. Enters Carter, coping with the loss of his entire family by immersing himself in women and working for the COA. Hate at first sight, they're unexpectedly thrown together in one of the largest and hardest missions to stop a deadly weapon from getting into the wrong hands. Can they see past the hatred and learn to work together to accomplish this goal? Or will their competitive nature blow up in their face, compromising the mission and getting themselves hurt - in more than one way?
Captured by the very first line, E.J. Mellow captured my attention, threw it into a cage and didn't let it out until I was done with this mission. Each chapter flips between Nashville, 3 (her kill operative name) and Carter. The author builds the characters seamlessly - you really get into Nashville/3's and Carter's head. I truly appreciated that this read as a thriller and the relationships between all the characters grew slowly and not instantly in your face like some romance novels. The snarkiness of both Nashville and Carter and their banter was a joy to witness. (The fact that the word asshat was used - a word I use all too often - made me laugh a lot more than it probably should have.) Nashville and Carter as separate characters are equally fascinating. Together they are a force to be reckoned with, lethal and unstoppable.
Action packed, emotionally driven and full of bad-assery, you will be rooting for them from the very beginning. Highly recommend!
Huge thanks to the author for this advanced copy in return for my honest opinion.
And thus begins the story of Nashville, a girl abandoned by her parents, found as a baby and trained to work with SI6 as the perfect assassin due to her A+ genome. Enters Carter, coping with the loss of his entire family by immersing himself in women and working for the COA. Hate at first sight, they're unexpectedly thrown together in one of the largest and hardest missions to stop a deadly weapon from getting into the wrong hands. Can they see past the hatred and learn to work together to accomplish this goal? Or will their competitive nature blow up in their face, compromising the mission and getting themselves hurt - in more than one way?
Captured by the very first line, E.J. Mellow captured my attention, threw it into a cage and didn't let it out until I was done with this mission. Each chapter flips between Nashville, 3 (her kill operative name) and Carter. The author builds the characters seamlessly - you really get into Nashville/3's and Carter's head. I truly appreciated that this read as a thriller and the relationships between all the characters grew slowly and not instantly in your face like some romance novels. The snarkiness of both Nashville and Carter and their banter was a joy to witness. (The fact that the word asshat was used - a word I use all too often - made me laugh a lot more than it probably should have.) Nashville and Carter as separate characters are equally fascinating. Together they are a force to be reckoned with, lethal and unstoppable.
Action packed, emotionally driven and full of bad-assery, you will be rooting for them from the very beginning. Highly recommend!
Huge thanks to the author for this advanced copy in return for my honest opinion.
March 31, 2017
4.5 stars
The Animal Under the Fur is an addicting, engaging, adventurous read full of action, romance and mystery. In it we follow two characters, 3 aka Nashville, and Carter. Both are secret agents for sister companies who happen to end up on the same mission. When that one goes well, they get aired up again. Through anger and attraction, banter and the urge to kill, they both come together and get to know the person in the skin, the animals they really are.
3 aka Nashville, is seriously badass, witty, intelligent, and vicious. Killing people for a living, it isn't surprising she's cold and doesn't really know how to express her feelings. Unless they're anger/rage and hate. The combination makes her a wonderful agent, always on point and reliable. Even so, she is still compassionate and honest, and also utterly lost. This is a journey for her to find her way. I found her to be a very compelling character, one very likable and also curious. I loved learning more about her with Carter, seeing the little details from his view. It brought to our attention just what Nashville thinks of herself. She is a lovely character, and I wish I could have another book just to have more of her and Carter.
Carter on the other hand, damn. Cold after losing so many people only to be one of the most compassionate characters in the book, he steps into a room and already he has your heart. Witty, full of sexual innuendos, perceptive, and able to admit his faults, he's a character perfect for 3. He is good at his job and he very strongly dislikes being bettered, but he can admit when he's wrong and that makes him a valuable character. Honest and full of life, Carter brings a light to the pages that combat with Nashville's darkness. Carter is a wonderful character to read about!
The plot is pretty great as well, full of mystery and twists that you don't see coming (though a few were predictable). It was a very adventurous, adrenaline filled book that keeps you reading and wanting more! You'll flip through pages likes you're searching for your lost soul, so close and unable to stop until you find it. When you do get to the end however, it will be both satisfying and sad, because it is a lovely end, but unfortunately there is not another book with these characters.
The romance is definitely one of my favorites. I was cheering for it, I tell you no lie. Full of blooming petals and snapshots of different views of the same people, you will really get to know the characters and their lives, their likes and dislikes. You will know right away who will work and who won't, and when that comes together, you will cheer because they deserve to be together Happiness and romance all in one, darkness and light coming together; this is a romance you want to read about!
Overall, the writing is lovely, the plot kept me on the edge of my seat, and the characters stole my heart. Engaging and rich, The Animal Under the Fur is the next must read!
*A huge thanks to the author for providing me with an eARC! This in no way affected my review.
The Animal Under the Fur is an addicting, engaging, adventurous read full of action, romance and mystery. In it we follow two characters, 3 aka Nashville, and Carter. Both are secret agents for sister companies who happen to end up on the same mission. When that one goes well, they get aired up again. Through anger and attraction, banter and the urge to kill, they both come together and get to know the person in the skin, the animals they really are.
3 aka Nashville, is seriously badass, witty, intelligent, and vicious. Killing people for a living, it isn't surprising she's cold and doesn't really know how to express her feelings. Unless they're anger/rage and hate. The combination makes her a wonderful agent, always on point and reliable. Even so, she is still compassionate and honest, and also utterly lost. This is a journey for her to find her way. I found her to be a very compelling character, one very likable and also curious. I loved learning more about her with Carter, seeing the little details from his view. It brought to our attention just what Nashville thinks of herself. She is a lovely character, and I wish I could have another book just to have more of her and Carter.
Carter on the other hand, damn. Cold after losing so many people only to be one of the most compassionate characters in the book, he steps into a room and already he has your heart. Witty, full of sexual innuendos, perceptive, and able to admit his faults, he's a character perfect for 3. He is good at his job and he very strongly dislikes being bettered, but he can admit when he's wrong and that makes him a valuable character. Honest and full of life, Carter brings a light to the pages that combat with Nashville's darkness. Carter is a wonderful character to read about!
The plot is pretty great as well, full of mystery and twists that you don't see coming (though a few were predictable). It was a very adventurous, adrenaline filled book that keeps you reading and wanting more! You'll flip through pages likes you're searching for your lost soul, so close and unable to stop until you find it. When you do get to the end however, it will be both satisfying and sad, because it is a lovely end, but unfortunately there is not another book with these characters.
The romance is definitely one of my favorites. I was cheering for it, I tell you no lie. Full of blooming petals and snapshots of different views of the same people, you will really get to know the characters and their lives, their likes and dislikes. You will know right away who will work and who won't, and when that comes together, you will cheer because they deserve to be together Happiness and romance all in one, darkness and light coming together; this is a romance you want to read about!
Overall, the writing is lovely, the plot kept me on the edge of my seat, and the characters stole my heart. Engaging and rich, The Animal Under the Fur is the next must read!
*A huge thanks to the author for providing me with an eARC! This in no way affected my review.
April 2, 2017
Full review can be found HERE --> https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.* ~Sonal
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.* ~Sonal
March 27, 2017
Mellow has done it again! With writing that truly transports you into another world, characters that make you laugh, cry and swoon, and a plot that will make your heart stop, only to race faster than ever.
Nashville (a.k.a 3) is totally badass!
I totally loved her! It was like reading about two different women, and I loved both of them! Nashville is badass, protective of those she loves (although they are very few), and loyal. She was fun to read about, yet her story broke my heart. Growing up an orphan, mostly alone except for her only friend Ceci, she doesn’t easily let others in.
I am so in love with Carter!
It took one sentence for me to fall in love with him. I don’t know how Mellow does it, but with minimal effort, she can make you love pretty much any character. Carter lost his family and since then, he doesn’t let people in. Like Nashville, he’s totally badass and awesome.
Not only were they totally awesome and really fun to read about, but the character development was also great. Both Nashville and Carter changed a lot through the book, they accepted their flaws, and worked with it. They were also really layered, neither of them was just good or bad, they had their flaws. That’s what made them so relatable and real.
The side characters were also awesome. I loved Ceci, Akoni and Jules, but especially Ceci. Ceci is basically the very opposite of Nashville, and the dynamics between the two of them was just great. It was really fun to read about their very different relationship, to see how Ceci balanced Nashville’s sometimes (okay, often) crazy. I have a weakness for great friendship in books.
This book was intense.
Both Nashville and Carter can best be described as intense. Reading about them was really intense. I don’t think I was able to catch my breath in the day it took to finish reading. The romance was both heart-stopping and swoon-inducing, and some of the scenes between them had me fanning myself.
The writing is out of this world.
I’d like to know what sort of demon Mellow made a deal with to be able to write like this, so I can seek it out for myself. Writing like this is such a rare thing, and I’m grateful to have found it. It’s one thing to write good, but a whole different thing to write like this! Mellow’s writing is pure magic, pulling you in and keeping you there until the book is finished and you realize it was just a book. Leaving you reeling and trying to process what on Earth just happened.
The plot was great!
Considering everything else that was amazing about this book, I’m afraid the plot loses some attention, but it was just as great as the rest of the book. The pacing was as close to perfect as it can get, it was unpredictable and kept me on my toes. The only problem with TAUTF was that it was over way too soon. I wanted to savor it, but it was just impossible to put it down.
Basically, this one is one you don’t want to miss. If there was ever a book you cannot miss, it is this one. With totally badass characters, writing that is out of this world, and a unique, unpredictable plot, The Animal Under the Fur will take you on an emotional roller-coaster like nothing you’ve ever experienced before. So go order your copy now!
Nashville (a.k.a 3) is totally badass!
I totally loved her! It was like reading about two different women, and I loved both of them! Nashville is badass, protective of those she loves (although they are very few), and loyal. She was fun to read about, yet her story broke my heart. Growing up an orphan, mostly alone except for her only friend Ceci, she doesn’t easily let others in.
I am so in love with Carter!
It took one sentence for me to fall in love with him. I don’t know how Mellow does it, but with minimal effort, she can make you love pretty much any character. Carter lost his family and since then, he doesn’t let people in. Like Nashville, he’s totally badass and awesome.
Not only were they totally awesome and really fun to read about, but the character development was also great. Both Nashville and Carter changed a lot through the book, they accepted their flaws, and worked with it. They were also really layered, neither of them was just good or bad, they had their flaws. That’s what made them so relatable and real.
The side characters were also awesome. I loved Ceci, Akoni and Jules, but especially Ceci. Ceci is basically the very opposite of Nashville, and the dynamics between the two of them was just great. It was really fun to read about their very different relationship, to see how Ceci balanced Nashville’s sometimes (okay, often) crazy. I have a weakness for great friendship in books.
This book was intense.
Both Nashville and Carter can best be described as intense. Reading about them was really intense. I don’t think I was able to catch my breath in the day it took to finish reading. The romance was both heart-stopping and swoon-inducing, and some of the scenes between them had me fanning myself.
The writing is out of this world.
I’d like to know what sort of demon Mellow made a deal with to be able to write like this, so I can seek it out for myself. Writing like this is such a rare thing, and I’m grateful to have found it. It’s one thing to write good, but a whole different thing to write like this! Mellow’s writing is pure magic, pulling you in and keeping you there until the book is finished and you realize it was just a book. Leaving you reeling and trying to process what on Earth just happened.
The plot was great!
Considering everything else that was amazing about this book, I’m afraid the plot loses some attention, but it was just as great as the rest of the book. The pacing was as close to perfect as it can get, it was unpredictable and kept me on my toes. The only problem with TAUTF was that it was over way too soon. I wanted to savor it, but it was just impossible to put it down.
Basically, this one is one you don’t want to miss. If there was ever a book you cannot miss, it is this one. With totally badass characters, writing that is out of this world, and a unique, unpredictable plot, The Animal Under the Fur will take you on an emotional roller-coaster like nothing you’ve ever experienced before. So go order your copy now!
January 1, 2018
"Too bad I don't swoon, unless I'm able to kill the man who makes me."The Animal Under the Fur was such a fun read. It's action-packed, sexy and the main characters are ASSASSINS which means we have a badass heroine and an equally badass, swoon-worthy hero.
It's also a hate-to-love romance which happens to be one of my new weaknesses. Cue banter and copious amounts of sexual tension.
I was initially drawn to this book because of the cover - I mean, it is gorgeous - but after reading a brief synopsis I was sold. And when a book starts like this:
"I've killed more people than years I've been alive. And for reference I'm twenty-six."Who could possibly resist? Not me, that's for sure.
August 28, 2017
The Animal Under the Fur…while not issue free…still a mostly likable romance.
⇝Ratings Breakdown⇜
Plot: 3.7/5
Main Characters: 4/5
Secondary Characters: 4/5
The Feels: 4/5
Addictiveness: 3.5/5
Theme or Tone: 3.8/5
Flow (Writing Style): 4/5
Backdrop (World Building): 4/5
Originality: 4/5
Book Cover: 5/5
Ending: 4/5 Cliffhanger: No
Total: 3.7/5 Stars
⇝My Thoughts⇜
This started out feeling cheesy in the beginning, but once I was into the book a little more, it just kind of clicked and felt, Idk, less cheesy, I guess. I actually started to like Nashville & Carter, they do make a good team. The romance between them is a slow-burning one and felt real. I'm actually on the fence about the A+ abilities that the heroine has. They just came off as kind of unbelievable and unfortunately, the story is primarily focused on these abilities.
⇝Will I read more from this Author?⇜ Maybe…
⇝Ratings Breakdown⇜
Plot: 3.7/5
Main Characters: 4/5
Secondary Characters: 4/5
The Feels: 4/5
Addictiveness: 3.5/5
Theme or Tone: 3.8/5
Flow (Writing Style): 4/5
Backdrop (World Building): 4/5
Originality: 4/5
Book Cover: 5/5
Ending: 4/5 Cliffhanger: No
Total: 3.7/5 Stars
⇝My Thoughts⇜
This started out feeling cheesy in the beginning, but once I was into the book a little more, it just kind of clicked and felt, Idk, less cheesy, I guess. I actually started to like Nashville & Carter, they do make a good team. The romance between them is a slow-burning one and felt real. I'm actually on the fence about the A+ abilities that the heroine has. They just came off as kind of unbelievable and unfortunately, the story is primarily focused on these abilities.
⇝Will I read more from this Author?⇜ Maybe…
October 13, 2017
Hmm. This was kind of disappointing. I read this because, after reading The Hating Game, I was looking for another fast paced hate-to-love romance. So I found this hate-to-love NA romance novel, with assassins! Yeah, it was not as fun as I was expecting. I was hoping for more static, more tension, but it was kind of... meh. And what's up with the whole on the side sci-fi thing? I'd give this 2.5 stars, but you know, since Goodreads still hasn't decided to grant us our wishes and half stars are still not a thing (Goodreads, if you're reading this, FIX IT PLEASE), I'll round it up to 3. It was entertaining and I mean it wasn't bad or anything, it just wasn't as exciting as I was hoping it to be. So if anyone has a good recommendation for a hate-to-love romance, similar to The Hating Game, let me know please!
March 31, 2017
TAUF is a really quick paced, contemporary action book. I found it quite refreshing at the beginning as I do not read that many contemporary books anymore, I am more of a fantasy girl :D
Bu that cover is just gorgeous :)
Mellow makes you fall in love with her characters, quickly and there is no way back.
Funny fact: Writing this review from my university library as I have no internet at my house at the moment.
I was really interested to read TAUF and fortunately I was one of the lucky ones who had the chance to read this exciting book before the publication date. We get to meet our two main protagonists, Nashville/3 and Carter early on in the book. Nashville is a super human girl – literally she is amazing -, she is strong, clever, beautiful and really stubborn. She is the top of her field and the best agent MI3 could ever ask for. Carter is that perfect man you would love to wake up next to every morning, just dreamy. I liked his humour especially. He is an agent as well on the top of his field. However, one day on one mission these two meets, and the cauldron help us all hell break loose: D
It takes them weeks to finally manage and not to kill when thinking of that faithful night in China, however, their teams have different ideas. Specifically to put them together for a mission. TAUF was funny and hilarious throughout. I had a smile on my face continuously from reading (I will get crinkles because of this now ).
The side characters were loveable as well, strongly written, which sometimes I miss from books. I loved to meet with them and seeing how the story unfolds around them as well. I enjoyed the character developments, it was really interesting to see what will happen with Nashville and Carter, but it only lasted to halfway through the book. After that it felt a bit repetitive…It was a real love-hate relationship from the start, however, I found that the book was quite predictable throughout and there was not much of a twist, hence the 3.5*.
Altogether, TAUF was an interesting, quick, make-you-feel-good book. I have enjoyed it throughout, however, for me it was not on a level to get a 4*. For that I would have liked a bit more variety, a bit more turns and twists. Everything else was spot on, there was plenty of adventure and excitement in this book. It is definitely one of those books I would pick up when in a reading slump.
Bu that cover is just gorgeous :)
Mellow makes you fall in love with her characters, quickly and there is no way back.
Funny fact: Writing this review from my university library as I have no internet at my house at the moment.
I was really interested to read TAUF and fortunately I was one of the lucky ones who had the chance to read this exciting book before the publication date. We get to meet our two main protagonists, Nashville/3 and Carter early on in the book. Nashville is a super human girl – literally she is amazing -, she is strong, clever, beautiful and really stubborn. She is the top of her field and the best agent MI3 could ever ask for. Carter is that perfect man you would love to wake up next to every morning, just dreamy. I liked his humour especially. He is an agent as well on the top of his field. However, one day on one mission these two meets, and the cauldron help us all hell break loose: D
It takes them weeks to finally manage and not to kill when thinking of that faithful night in China, however, their teams have different ideas. Specifically to put them together for a mission. TAUF was funny and hilarious throughout. I had a smile on my face continuously from reading (I will get crinkles because of this now ).
The side characters were loveable as well, strongly written, which sometimes I miss from books. I loved to meet with them and seeing how the story unfolds around them as well. I enjoyed the character developments, it was really interesting to see what will happen with Nashville and Carter, but it only lasted to halfway through the book. After that it felt a bit repetitive…It was a real love-hate relationship from the start, however, I found that the book was quite predictable throughout and there was not much of a twist, hence the 3.5*.
Altogether, TAUF was an interesting, quick, make-you-feel-good book. I have enjoyed it throughout, however, for me it was not on a level to get a 4*. For that I would have liked a bit more variety, a bit more turns and twists. Everything else was spot on, there was plenty of adventure and excitement in this book. It is definitely one of those books I would pick up when in a reading slump.
March 31, 2017
This review was originally posted on Spinatale Reviews.
The Animal Under The Fur is the spy thriller I never knew I needed. It’s James Bond meets the Black Widow. Even with a high-octane adventure going on, Mellow manages to ground this novel by exposing the human side of Nashville and Carter.
From the moment the reader meets Nashville Brown, I knew I was going to like her. She’s tough and leather-clad but fiercely loyal and loving. I loved seeing her character development throughout the novel. In the afterwards, the author mentions that she consulted a specialist to determine what the psychological effects of the operative lifestyle would be. Her attention to detail truly shows in the way that Nashville is portrayed.
As for Carter, I pretty much hated him at the beginning. Cool, suave, and a little too full of himself, Carter is a modern Bond. While I didn’t warm to the character until about halfway through, I always looked forward to the clashes between him and Nashville. The tension between the two of them kept me engrossed in the story. Mellow’s skill as a writer showed in the way that my feelings toward Carter changed as Nashville’s did. His somewhat deplorable outer layers are slowly peeled away to reveal a deeply damaged but overall good man.
The plot was intricate and engaging. Even though I had suspicions of what would happen, the reality was still enough of a surprise that I remained totally hooked. While the action may have been high-stakes and fantastic, the emotional core of this novel was ultimately very relatable and down to earth. I absolutely loved the detail about the spy work in this book. From stake-outs in the forest for days on end to detailed mission briefings, the details brought this story alive for me. Toward the end, the novel does take on a somewhat more science fiction/fantasy tone. I enjoyed that but I know that some readers may not. There are some more adult scenes but they can be easily skimmed or skipped without missing anything vital to the story.
I enjoyed this book and I would recommend it to anyone looking for either a good spy story or an excellent hate to love romance.
*I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
The Animal Under The Fur is the spy thriller I never knew I needed. It’s James Bond meets the Black Widow. Even with a high-octane adventure going on, Mellow manages to ground this novel by exposing the human side of Nashville and Carter.
From the moment the reader meets Nashville Brown, I knew I was going to like her. She’s tough and leather-clad but fiercely loyal and loving. I loved seeing her character development throughout the novel. In the afterwards, the author mentions that she consulted a specialist to determine what the psychological effects of the operative lifestyle would be. Her attention to detail truly shows in the way that Nashville is portrayed.
As for Carter, I pretty much hated him at the beginning. Cool, suave, and a little too full of himself, Carter is a modern Bond. While I didn’t warm to the character until about halfway through, I always looked forward to the clashes between him and Nashville. The tension between the two of them kept me engrossed in the story. Mellow’s skill as a writer showed in the way that my feelings toward Carter changed as Nashville’s did. His somewhat deplorable outer layers are slowly peeled away to reveal a deeply damaged but overall good man.
The plot was intricate and engaging. Even though I had suspicions of what would happen, the reality was still enough of a surprise that I remained totally hooked. While the action may have been high-stakes and fantastic, the emotional core of this novel was ultimately very relatable and down to earth. I absolutely loved the detail about the spy work in this book. From stake-outs in the forest for days on end to detailed mission briefings, the details brought this story alive for me. Toward the end, the novel does take on a somewhat more science fiction/fantasy tone. I enjoyed that but I know that some readers may not. There are some more adult scenes but they can be easily skimmed or skipped without missing anything vital to the story.
I enjoyed this book and I would recommend it to anyone looking for either a good spy story or an excellent hate to love romance.
*I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
March 30, 2017
I want to thank the author for sending me an early copy of her book for review. You made my day ♥
Fun + Tension + Action + Romance = Perfection.
If you remember only one thing from my review, let it be that!
But truly there is so much more. The Animal under the Fur is a complex mix of spot-on writing, great characters, and original plot. Here’s me, being an excited cheerleader in the background.
I think it’s only fair that we start with the characters. Nashville has to be one of my new favourites:she’s very down to Earth and three dimensional, and truly, she’s quite the woman, tough, brave, fiery, electric and strong. I could go on forever! But Carter is not left for nothing either: he’s an ass (and I love these) and a great narrator, too! The fact that we get to read the story from both their points of view is a great element for me, and I usually really love it - I did, once again.
Taken separately, they’re great. Together, they’re perfect. They’re violent (in different ways), snappy, witty and their dialogues are written to perfection, truly! I want to be friends with both of them (from far away, though).
One thing I absolutely adored was how distinctive their voices were. Even without knowing whose narrator was speaking, I could tell it was either Carter or Nashville. This is great writing.
Another great writing aspect was the character developments. Man, these babies have come a long way by the end of the novel! As it progresses, you can truly feel that the unbreakable agents slowly start to crumble. I loved it.
One last word on characters: I loved Ceci, Akoni and Jules, and I wish I had more of them!
It was so good to be back into reading E. J. Mellow’s writing - it’s so good and addictive! But also warm, like a comfy pj. I loved the descriptions of the different settings, and I could totally feel the scenery around me. The words were great, I loved the dialogues (again), and how witty and sarcastic the characters sounded.
There were twists and turns, and I never knew where I was going, but I couldn’t put the book down for the life of me! (even at work!)
So… yeah. This book was the whole package, really. Great writing, elegant, classy and entertaining, a plot that kept me wondering, with enough frustration to make me restless and wanting more, and a beautiful cast of characters, that will definitely make my favourites’ list.
Kudos Mellow, you’ve done it again!
Fun + Tension + Action + Romance = Perfection.
If you remember only one thing from my review, let it be that!
But truly there is so much more. The Animal under the Fur is a complex mix of spot-on writing, great characters, and original plot. Here’s me, being an excited cheerleader in the background.
I think it’s only fair that we start with the characters. Nashville has to be one of my new favourites:she’s very down to Earth and three dimensional, and truly, she’s quite the woman, tough, brave, fiery, electric and strong. I could go on forever! But Carter is not left for nothing either: he’s an ass (and I love these) and a great narrator, too! The fact that we get to read the story from both their points of view is a great element for me, and I usually really love it - I did, once again.
Taken separately, they’re great. Together, they’re perfect. They’re violent (in different ways), snappy, witty and their dialogues are written to perfection, truly! I want to be friends with both of them (from far away, though).
One thing I absolutely adored was how distinctive their voices were. Even without knowing whose narrator was speaking, I could tell it was either Carter or Nashville. This is great writing.
Another great writing aspect was the character developments. Man, these babies have come a long way by the end of the novel! As it progresses, you can truly feel that the unbreakable agents slowly start to crumble. I loved it.
One last word on characters: I loved Ceci, Akoni and Jules, and I wish I had more of them!
It was so good to be back into reading E. J. Mellow’s writing - it’s so good and addictive! But also warm, like a comfy pj. I loved the descriptions of the different settings, and I could totally feel the scenery around me. The words were great, I loved the dialogues (again), and how witty and sarcastic the characters sounded.
There were twists and turns, and I never knew where I was going, but I couldn’t put the book down for the life of me! (even at work!)
So… yeah. This book was the whole package, really. Great writing, elegant, classy and entertaining, a plot that kept me wondering, with enough frustration to make me restless and wanting more, and a beautiful cast of characters, that will definitely make my favourites’ list.
Kudos Mellow, you’ve done it again!
June 18, 2017
3.5 stars
The Animal Under the Fur was certainly a very intriguing, suspense romance. Despite the action, trauma, and mysteries going on, it retains its light and upbeat tone. The enemies-to-lover romance was super fun, especially the snarky banter going on throughout the book. 3 is very headstrong and temperamental. I loved all her skills and her rationality throughout her missions, even when she's uptight about certain things. Carter is quite open about his, well, open relationships and likes to see the positive side of things, not hesitating in having a little fun on his missions. They're vastly different in how they execute missions, yet find similarities as they're paired to pretend as a married couple for their newest mission.
We switch back-and-forth between Carter and 3's POV, as well as Nashville, 3's more soft and less animalistic side. While the action parts were predictable, the execution - with cool gears, ferocious attacks, and stealthy hideouts - was actually pretty fun. There's also an intriguing addition of 3's special skills, which I found a surprising addition to the storyline. I wish I was more invested in the romance, but it all felt super light. There's a bit of a Mr. and Mrs. Smith vibe in this one, as both characters are antagonistic agents that exchange heated glances and intense chemistry. Light, action-packed, and emotional, The Animal Under the Fur was definitely a fun read, if highly unbelievable. Recommended for contemporary romance readers who want a bit of action to spice up the pages.
The Animal Under the Fur was certainly a very intriguing, suspense romance. Despite the action, trauma, and mysteries going on, it retains its light and upbeat tone. The enemies-to-lover romance was super fun, especially the snarky banter going on throughout the book. 3 is very headstrong and temperamental. I loved all her skills and her rationality throughout her missions, even when she's uptight about certain things. Carter is quite open about his, well, open relationships and likes to see the positive side of things, not hesitating in having a little fun on his missions. They're vastly different in how they execute missions, yet find similarities as they're paired to pretend as a married couple for their newest mission.
We switch back-and-forth between Carter and 3's POV, as well as Nashville, 3's more soft and less animalistic side. While the action parts were predictable, the execution - with cool gears, ferocious attacks, and stealthy hideouts - was actually pretty fun. There's also an intriguing addition of 3's special skills, which I found a surprising addition to the storyline. I wish I was more invested in the romance, but it all felt super light. There's a bit of a Mr. and Mrs. Smith vibe in this one, as both characters are antagonistic agents that exchange heated glances and intense chemistry. Light, action-packed, and emotional, The Animal Under the Fur was definitely a fun read, if highly unbelievable. Recommended for contemporary romance readers who want a bit of action to spice up the pages.
March 30, 2017
This is my first book to read from Ms. Ej. I want to thank her for sending me an eARC of her book for an honest review.
On Nashville:
She doesn't swoon unless she can kill the man that makes her.
- I like how badass 3 is, she is strong, fierce, and at the same time sweet to those people she trusts.
On Carter:
He believes revenge is better served burning.
- I love everything about Carter, his charm, wit, and naughtiness.
First, I was intrigued by the title of this book and second, isn't the cover so gorgeous? I am so happy to receive an eARC.
I was a bit confused at first the way the book started but understood it fully well in the following chapters. The character development was really visible and the plot was great. I love how the book doesn't only focus on the MC (though they narrate the chapters) but it also gave importance to the side characters.
I love how it is not an instant love kind of romance, I also like the love-hate relationship between Nash and Carter. I found their banter funny and witty at the same time, kind of predictable.
I didn't expect this book to be my kind of genre, an action packed novel with a hint of mystery. This book is quite intense I want to devour like I really can't stop reading since I want to know what will happen in the next chapter.
On Nashville:
She doesn't swoon unless she can kill the man that makes her.
- I like how badass 3 is, she is strong, fierce, and at the same time sweet to those people she trusts.
On Carter:
He believes revenge is better served burning.
- I love everything about Carter, his charm, wit, and naughtiness.
First, I was intrigued by the title of this book and second, isn't the cover so gorgeous? I am so happy to receive an eARC.
I was a bit confused at first the way the book started but understood it fully well in the following chapters. The character development was really visible and the plot was great. I love how the book doesn't only focus on the MC (though they narrate the chapters) but it also gave importance to the side characters.
I love how it is not an instant love kind of romance, I also like the love-hate relationship between Nash and Carter. I found their banter funny and witty at the same time, kind of predictable.
I didn't expect this book to be my kind of genre, an action packed novel with a hint of mystery. This book is quite intense I want to devour like I really can't stop reading since I want to know what will happen in the next chapter.
April 6, 2017
4 A+ stars!
I’ve been fighting a reading slump for the past month, so it took me a while to finish this book, but I finally did it!
Anywaay, E.J. Mellow has done it again! Although there were some plot twists that were slightly predictable to me, overall, I really enjoyed the storyline. E.J.'s writing is amazing (no shocker there). 3 aka Nashville and Carter are freaking otp! I love the witty banter between those two. I also love how badass, strong and fierce those two are, and how they are both able to each handle their own.
I highly recommend you check out TAUTF if you’re looking for a book filled with action-packed scenes, witty comebacks, fierce characters and a slow burning romance.
**I was provided an ARC copy of The Animal Under the Fur by the author in exchange for an honest review.**
(P.S. I'll most likely add more to this review within the next few days. I just wanted to post a little something something for now since I finished like 20 minutes ago ^_^)
I’ve been fighting a reading slump for the past month, so it took me a while to finish this book, but I finally did it!
Anywaay, E.J. Mellow has done it again! Although there were some plot twists that were slightly predictable to me, overall, I really enjoyed the storyline. E.J.'s writing is amazing (no shocker there). 3 aka Nashville and Carter are freaking otp! I love the witty banter between those two. I also love how badass, strong and fierce those two are, and how they are both able to each handle their own.
I highly recommend you check out TAUTF if you’re looking for a book filled with action-packed scenes, witty comebacks, fierce characters and a slow burning romance.
**I was provided an ARC copy of The Animal Under the Fur by the author in exchange for an honest review.**
(P.S. I'll most likely add more to this review within the next few days. I just wanted to post a little something something for now since I finished like 20 minutes ago ^_^)
April 9, 2017
went into this thinking it was YA mystery but it was NA romance, so didn't love it
April 15, 2017
Life happened and thus this review got put off for a while and I feel so bad for that because this book was really good!
If you love spy based stories, with a whole lot of twists & turns and romance to boot? You might just love this book.
I'll be honest and say at the 70% mark I got bored and wanted to DNF it, but that was more to do with my low attention span and interest in other books because as soon as I pushed a few pages further I fell back in love and had to know how it ended, and honestly? I couldn't be happier with the ending.
The first thing that enticed me into this story was the hate to love aspect, I'm a sucker for it and it was shown perfectly here! the hate actually lasted quite a while, while something else simmered underneath.
Honestly, I don't know what else to really say other than I really enjoyed this book and think if you enjoy
-Spy Stories
-Romance
-Hate to love
-Sci-Fi elements ( enhanced humans )
-humor
then this book really might be the one for you, and hey! it's a really cheap ebook so why not give it a go.
If you love spy based stories, with a whole lot of twists & turns and romance to boot? You might just love this book.
I'll be honest and say at the 70% mark I got bored and wanted to DNF it, but that was more to do with my low attention span and interest in other books because as soon as I pushed a few pages further I fell back in love and had to know how it ended, and honestly? I couldn't be happier with the ending.
The first thing that enticed me into this story was the hate to love aspect, I'm a sucker for it and it was shown perfectly here! the hate actually lasted quite a while, while something else simmered underneath.
Honestly, I don't know what else to really say other than I really enjoyed this book and think if you enjoy
-Spy Stories
-Romance
-Hate to love
-Sci-Fi elements ( enhanced humans )
-humor
then this book really might be the one for you, and hey! it's a really cheap ebook so why not give it a go.
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