3.5 stars. This is the third book in a series about were people who live in our world but are not fully of it. While I could mostly follow along, it was clear that a lot of world building occurred in the first two books that would have helped me understand things earlier and better. The book is in two parts, the first centers on the daughter of the couple from the first book, and the second continues her story along with the story of one of the gods who's understanding of the universe is being challenged.

The heroine of the first book is emotionally weak in a world where strength is most important. She ends up with one of the strongest men in her world, and there is a good deal of no communication about the important things between them. Partly this is because he knows she must make some changes before she can fit into his life. Partly this is because he's the strong silent type and she gives in easily.

I had some issues with how the hero and heroine interact, especially in the second half of the book. He is angry, for understandable reasons, and is not nice to her for some time. She is not very interesting during the second half of the book. Granted she's not the focus, but she just hangs around in a wishy washy manner that didn't want me to spend more time with her. That was surprising as I had come to like her in the first half and had a tearjerk reaction to what happened with her.

The second half focuses more on two males who are angry or pushy. While I wasn't happy with the way Trent behaves towards Aranya, he does end up expressing himself in a deeply emotional and romantic way that somewhat redeems him. The god is likeable except for how he interacts with Fate, where he is focused on domination. Trent is rather dominating as well. And I guess those factors kept me form enjoying the book as much as I might have otherwise.

That being said, it is clear that Aranya's parents' story was very different as her mother is perhaps too strong, and the heroes of the second book seem quite interesting and likeable. So, now I want to go and read those books, as I suspect I will like them better. This book takes place mostly in a world at war (though hidden from humans). This book isn't about the war, though battles do occur. This book is about Trent and Aranya changing, and about changes with the gods.

I received a free copy for review from the author through LibraryThing. ( )

I received this book free through LibraryThing in exchange for my review. I was immediately impressed with the author's ability to explain to new readers the background, characters, and religion of the world she created. I did not read volumes 1-2, so without this help, I couldn't have understood this book at all. The world is very rich and detailed, which I loved and the story is unique. My only complaint is my personal preference for relationships is not one based on an unbalanced power dynamic. In fact, it was so unbalanced I couldn't understand why either of the two main characters had any relationship, except mentor and mentee. However, the author is talented. If you enjoy paranormal suspense and romance, check out this series! ( )

Free book as member of Early Reviewers Group. I enjoyed the book. I haven't decided to purchase the first two books in the series, but I might. This book can be read on its own, but there are several events and referrals that make absolutely no sense without the background material. The paranormal presentation is different from any other series that I've read. I've read more than the average reader. This author does a good job of making the characters unique and the clans a bit different from other books, but the God's remind me of several existing series. If you are looking for a new author and series this book has potential. ( )

First of Spring has a very interesting take on the Lycan folklore and I enjoyed how the author portrayed the characters. Trent and Aryana's relationship can be infuriating at times throughout the story, however, I enjoyed seeing their relationship grow. It was nice not having two characters just fall in love right off the bat. One last thing, I loved the end! Read it and you'll know! Justice!

I received this free copy in exchange for an honest review. ( )

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I enjoyed reading this book even though it started off being confusing because it's the 3rd book of the series, but it didn't take too long to figure it out. The characters were all fully realized and the mythology and society well thought out. Trent is the acting Mikko, or leader of the Order of Rockys, an elite warrior class of Lycans. Aryana is a princess from another pack who is sent to Trent for training. There are plots within plots, and just when you think something will go a certain way, you find out you are wrong. It's intense and very well written with well developed characters. ( )