Awakened by the Moon

By L.P. Dover

~* Sizzling attraction meets pulse-pounding danger in this world of smoldering shifters created by New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, L.P. Dover. The last installment in the Royal Shifters series. *~*

After months of searching, the missing royals have been tracked to the mountainous hills of South Dakota. As Micah Lyall picks up their scent, he can't miss the intermingled smells of the Black Hills pack.

At first glance, they seem to be living together peacefully. Raelynn is all smiles about her upcoming mating to alpha Soren Blackridge. Yet unease raises Micah’s hackles when he begins to sense a shadow of danger casting its evil gloom over the pack. He’s felt this darkness before, and it brings back memories he doesn’t even remember.

To complicate matters further, mating signs are pointing him straight to Raelynn. It’s up to Micah to break the spell and make the beautiful royal see who she truly belongs with. But how can he take that risk knowing Soren’s pack surrounds them, and the vindictive alpha will never let Raelynn go without a fight?

• Language: English
• Publisher: L.P. Dover
• Release date: Mar 21, 2022
• ISBN: 9781005956547

L.P. Dover

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author L. P. Dover is a southern belle living in North Carolina with her husband and two beautiful girls. Everything’s sweeter in the South has always been her mantra and she lives by it, whether it’s with her writing or in her everyday life. Maybe that’s why she’s seriously addicted to chocolate.Dover has written countless novels in several different genres, including a children’s book with her daughter. Her favorite to write is romantic suspense, but she’s also found a passion in romantic comedy. She loves to make people laugh which is why you’ll never see her without a smile on her face.

Book preview

1

MICAH

Trying to find three royals who want to stay hidden is a lot harder than I thought. For months, I’ve scouted national parks, forests, and any place I can think of that would be perfect for a wolf to hide. I keep hoping I’ll find myself in the right place at the right time, but so far, no luck. So, after searching through Montana, Idaho, Washington, and Oregon, I figured I’d head south to northern California to visit Chase Maheegan and his Timberwolf pack before I traveled back toward the east through Nevada and Utah. As soon as I see the sign for the Timberwolf Winery up ahead, I slow down and make my turn. The road is about a half-mile long, winding through Chase’s award-winning vineyards until you arrive at the Timberwolf Winery and Bistro. Just past the restaurant and up on the hill is Chase’s house, overlooking it all.

I pull up into the circular driveway just as Chase strolls out onto the front porch, dressed as usual in a pair of slacks and a nice shirt with his ash-colored hair perfectly coifed. A beautiful blonde with striking blue eyes follows him out and I can only assume it’s Kara, who I’ve been informed is his mate. I’ve never met the infamous Kara Channon, but I heard all about how she used to be my older brother’s lover a couple of centuries ago and how she wanted revenge on him. She lost the battle and paid for her sins, and in the process, found her true mate with Maheegan. It’s crazy how things work out.

Shaking his head, Chase grins when I get out of my car. What the hell, man? What are you doing here?

He extends his hand, and I shake it before pulling him into a hug. I was in the area. Is it all right if I crash here tonight?

Chase slaps my shoulder. Of course.

My eyes turn to Kara, and I can sense a hint of nervousness inside of her. She’s taller than any other female I know, but she also has on a pair of high heels with her jeans and mint-colored sweater. Chase slides his arm around her waist. Micah, I’d like you to meet my soon-to-be mate.

I hold out my hand. I heard everything about you. I got an earful last night when I called to check in on my brothers.

Kara groans and shakes my hand firmly. I promise I’m not as bad as you’ve heard. At least, not anymore.

Chuckling, I release her hand. I know. You’re all good.

Chase nods toward the inside of the house. Come on in. Do you want something to drink?

Of course. I follow them into the kitchen. Chase pours Kara a glass of wine and grabs a couple of beers from the refrigerator.

Any luck finding the others? he asks, handing me a beer.

I take a swig. No. I’ve been looking for months now.

Furrowing her brows, Kara glances back and forth between Chase and me. Searching for who?

For the first time since the search began, I can feel the tiredness in my bones. Three royals from the Royal pack. After being attacked all those years ago, we split ways for a while. I kept in touch with them, but not long ago, they disappeared. Chase’s head jerks toward Kara, his eyes serious as he stares at her. Am I missing something? But then it hits me. They can hear each other’s thoughts.

Chase sets his beer down and holds up a hand. You’re going to want to hear this, Micah.

I turn my attention to Kara. Is there something you know?

Kara shrugs. I’m not sure, but I did see three royals when I was in South Dakota. Do you think it could be the ones you’re looking for?

Heart racing, I step toward her. This is the best news I’ve heard in a long time. Tell me everything. Where exactly were you? Did you talk to them?

She reaches into her back pocket and pulls out her phone. It was October, just four months ago.

Kara scrolls through pictures on her phone until she finds what she’s looking for and then hands her cell to me. There are tons of pictures. Some are of the cabin she stayed in, and the rest are photos of mountains. Then, at the end of the album is a picture of three white wolves. A bush is in the way, concealing parts of them, but I can tell it’s three royal wolves.

Kara leans closer so she can see what I’m looking at. I was staying at a cabin in the Black Hills of South Dakota. I know it’s not a popular place for wolf packs, so I didn’t think I’d run into anyone there.

Over my shoulder, Chase peers down at the phone. What are the odds of that? Did you talk to them, Kara?

I stare at her, and she shakes her head. They had their energy hidden. I was doing the same when I came upon them, so they didn’t see me. I hid and watched, wondering who they could be, but I never approached them. It’s been so long since I saw another royal.

Was it just the one day you saw them? I ask.

No. I saw them the entire week. There were two females and one male. Now I wish I would’ve spoken to them.

Handing Kara back her phone, I grin with unabashed excitement. That’s exactly who I’m looking for; one male and two females. I finally have hope, and it feels damn good. Thank you, Kara. Hopefully, they’re still there.

Kara beams. Glad I could help. I hope you find them.

After finishing off my beer, I pat Chase’s shoulder. I know I asked to stay the night, but I think I should get back on the road.

Chase takes my bottle and tosses it in the trash. I understand, brother. We’ll walk you out.

They follow me out onto the porch, and I rush down to my car. I have a twenty-two-hour drive ahead of me. Before getting in, I turn back to Chase and Kara. Thanks again, you two.

Chase nods. Anytime. Be safe, my friend.

Once in the car, I press on the gas and stop at the top of the road before turning onto the main highway. After sending a quick text to Zayne and Sebastian to let them know I have a lead, I end up calling Colin. I kept in touch with Stark every now and again, but Colin was the one who spoke to him last.

Hey, man. How’s it going? Colin answers.

Pulling out onto the road, I begin the long journey. Well, a few weeks ago, I’d say pretty shitty, but now I have a lead. I stopped in to visit Maheegan, and it just so happens that Kara saw three white wolves in South Dakota four months ago. It has to be Stark, Dany, and Rae. Do you think they’ll still be there?

Colin blows out a breath. Possibly. You might as well check it out. Do you want me to go with you?

No. You’re busy with Kami and juggling both of your work schedules. I got this.

All right, man. If you change your mind, let me know. And don’t forget to keep me posted.

I will. Talk to you soon. We hang up, and I plug the Black Hills into my GPS. I have a long drive ahead of me.

2

RAELYNN

It’s early afternoon on a snowy day in Silver Springs, South Dakota. You’d think a small town wouldn’t be exciting, but it totally is. Most jobs I take are in the bigger cities of South Dakota. Luckily, I scored one around my sleepy little town this time. Being a private investigator is exciting at times, and it can also be heart-wrenching. However, today, there is no crying to be done by my client. Amanda’s anger is so palpable it’s as if I can see it spreading out from her body. She knows exactly what we’re going to find when we get to our destination. I saw her husband’s Ford Explorer at his girlfriend’s house just ten minutes ago. Amanda wants to see the cocksucker’s betrayal with her own eyes. It’s why she hired me.

We pull down the street to the girlfriend’s house, and Amanda sucks in a breath the second she sees her husband’s SUV. I drive by and park at the end of the road while Amanda fumes beside me. She hasn’t attempted to jump out, but I’m ready to grab her if need be. Catching your significant other with someone else can cause people to do crazy, impulsive things. I don’t envy human relationships at all. One of the reasons I love being a wolf and finding my true mate is that he’ll always be loyal and faithful to me. I don’t have to worry about him sneaking off to be with someone else.

Amanda turns away toward the window, and I can see her reflection in the glass. I felt stupid for even hiring a PI. I thought I was just being paranoid, but with my husband having to go out of town all the time, it struck me as odd.

I’m sorry, Amanda. I wish you didn’t have to see this.

She angrily wipes away her tears and looks at me with sad, chocolate-brown eyes that match the color of her long, silky hair. No, I need to. I have to see the traitorous son of a bitch myself. Amanda is a beautiful and down-to-earth woman that I’ve gotten to know well over the past few weeks. I don’t see how her husband could ever want to cheat on her. Amanda glares at the house and huffs. Who is she, Raelynn?

It didn’t take long to dig up the information on her husband’s mistress. Her name is Olivia Jansen. She’s twenty-five years old and just moved to town from Brookings. No kids, and she cuts hair for a living.

Amanda scoffs. That’s why I don’t know her. Her jaw tenses so hard I can hear her teeth grind. She’s ten fucking years younger than me.

Wolves don’t age the way humans do, so ten years is nothing in the shifter world. But, with humans, it can make a huge difference. In Amanda’s case, I think she looks fantastic at thirty-five. Hell, I’m thirty-five in human years but I still resemble a woman in her mid-twenties. I won’t look like I’m in my thirties until I’m over a century old.

Amanda’s a nurse who takes excellent care of her body. Of course, I’m assuming her long work hours might have something to do with her husband cheating, but that’s not an excuse.

Amanda leans her head back against the seat. "Tell me about your love life, she says to me. I need to hear something good."

I feel bad saying how amazing my life is, considering the situation we’re in. It honestly and truly is. I look over at her, and she smiles.

Go on. I promise I won’t be too envious.

Well, I begin, I moved to South Dakota back in October. I’ve made a lot of new friends, and it’s been great.

Her gaze lands on my hand. I’m assuming no husband?

I shake my head. No husband.

She lifts her curious eyes to mine. That’s shocking considering you’re gorgeous. I’d give anything to have your silky blonde hair and stunning blue eyes. Guys probably literally fall at your feet.

Definitely not, I say, laughing. The guy I’m dating wouldn’t like that too much. He’s the Chief of Police at the Silver Springs PD.

Amanda sighs. I bet that has its perks. Does he ever help you on your jobs?

Sometimes, I confess. If I have to go into a shady part of town, Soren likes to be with me to make sure I’m protected. Even though I can protect myself.

Amanda’s eyes sadden when she focuses on her husband’s car. I’d hold onto that one if I were you.

I plan on it.

His name is Soren Blackridge, alpha of the Black Hills pack and my soon-to-be mate when I decide to complete the bond. For years, Stark, Dany, and I traveled around the United States, trying to keep our royal heritage a secret. It’s dangerous to be an unmated royal female right now. Hell, it always has been. Now that I’ve found my mate, it’s a relief to be able to settle down finally. Stark has been mine and Dany’s protector, and I’ve hated being a burden to him all these years even though he never made me feel as such. I’m just happy to have a family now, a place where I belong. It was meant for me to find Soren.

The door to the house opens, and Amanda jumps to attention, her lethal gaze on the darkened doorway. When her husband walks out, I’m prepared to grab her arm to keep her in the car, but she doesn’t move. Instead, she clenches her fists and looks away.

Please take me home, Raelynn.

Slowly, I pull away and drive down the street. In the rearview mirror, I watch Amanda’s husband kiss Olivia and walk down to his SUV. I’d give anything to grab him by the balls and sling him across the yard. Slimy bastard. Are you going to be okay?

She nods but keeps her eyes on the road. Yes. I’m not going to let my husband drag me down any longer. He’ll get what he deserves.

We arrive at her house, and she gets out. Amanda, I want you to call me if you need me.

Amanda leans her elbows inside of the door. I’ll be fine. Thanks for everything.

She runs into the house, and before I can even back out of the driveway, I watch her toss her husband’s things into the front yard. Shirts, shoes, pants, and even a lamp fly out into the pile. By the time he gets home from work, the snow will have ruined everything. Amanda is furious now, but sooner or later, she’ll feel the pain of his betrayal. They have ten years of marriage that just got decimated in a single act. My heart hurts for her.

It only takes a few minutes to get home, and my phone rings the second I shut off my car. A smile lights up my face when I see Soren’s name. Hello, hello, I answer.

Do you need me to kick that husband’s ass?

Laughing, I walk over to my porch swing and sit down. I can handle that myself if it comes down to it. There wasn’t even a confrontation. I dropped Amanda off at home, and she went straight to throwing her husband’s things out into the yard.

Serves him right. Soren chuckles. So, question … are we going out to dinner tonight or staying in?

Oh, I totally forgot something, I say sheepishly. "I promised Dany we’d watch a couple of episodes of Outlander tonight. It’s kind of a girls’ night kind of thing."

Soren laughs again. Okay, I understand. We have been spending a lot of time together. You two have fun. I’ll stop by later tonight to tuck you in. Does that sound good?

Sounds perfect. See you then. We hang up, and I smile. It’s going to be a fantastic night.

3

MICAH

I’ve been in South Dakota for two days, but the cabin Kara rented months ago wasn’t available until today. I had to stay two hours away, which put me in an area where it wasn’t safe to shift. There were too many other homes around. However, I did sneak out for a run, but I didn’t sense any wolves nearby. It’s probably because I wasn’t in the heart of the Black Hills mountains like I am now. I pull up to the cabin Kara stayed in, and it’s utterly alone in the woods with no other house for miles. When I get out, I take in a deep breath, hoping I can smell something, but of course, there’s nothing.

After grabbing my bag out of the trunk, I head inside and put my things in the bedroom. The sun has already set, and when I look out the window, the snow gives the land a magical glow. I pull out my phone and call Chase’s number. There has to be more Kara can tell me.

What’s up, Lyall? You in South Dakota yet? asks Chase when he answers the phone.

I am. I was hoping to talk to Kara. She close by?

Yeah, she’s right here. He hands her the phone, and she clears her throat.

Hi, Micah.

Hey. I’m here at the cabin. I was hoping you might have more to tell me that you weren’t able to tell me before.

Um, let’s see, she says, drawing out the words. I know I saw them north of the cabin when I’d go out for my runs.

What about the time of day? I ask.

Good question. It was always around eight o’clock in the evening.

It was just about that time. Thanks, Kara. I made it here just in time then. It’s closing in on eight now.

Good luck, Micah.

I say good-bye to both Chase and Kara and hang up. A part of me wants to be optimistic about finding the other royals, but it was four months ago. I know for a fact that Stark never liked to stay in the same place for long.

Stepping out onto the back porch, I take off my clothes and shift midair as I jump off the deck. The snow crunches underneath my paws, and behind me, there’s a trail of my large prints. Judging by the forest and the smells, it doesn’t seem like there’s been a human around in a long time. Especially the farther north I get. Slowing my pace, I look around at my surroundings and hide my presence. It’s been a long time since Stark has seen me, and I don’t want to startle him or the women if they’re around.

I sniff