My Defender — Alanea Alder

When a mysterious illness begins to sweep through Noctem Falls affecting the children, Eleanor Kimball is called to the city to see if she can determine what is wrong. As a pediatrician Eleanor loves children and desires many of her own, however, after several dating disasters she has not only sworn off men, but has given up her dream of a family, and the promise of a destined mate. After discovering Grant in Noctem Falls she is faced with her own insecurities and finds it hard to believe in his love. Grant Douglas is a man of few words and doesn't do well surrounded by others. He is scared to death of finding a mate. He believes the harshness of his past, where he struggled to survive, didn't cultivate a gentle heart. After a series of terrifying nightmares where his mate is at risk, Grant has decided he doesn't want a mate at all. When he meets Ellie, he realizes there are some things worth fighting for. Even if it means putting himself out there by becoming the Alpha he was born to be and facing the power he desperately tries to hide. As Ellie starts to believe in Grant's love it will take every ounce their combined strength to discover why the shifter children are suddenly falling ill before it's too late.