Man, do I HATE being a shape-shifting bear. It's ended up costing me My job, family, friends, any chance at true love.... I was once a top cardiologist, until the bottom fell out of my world because of my shifting. I've reached the point where NOTHING could be worse than the hell I'm in now. Or so I thought. I've gone back to the reservation where I grew up to fill in for an old colleague, Helena, at her new clinic. It's the LAST place I want to be, but I'm sure this is also my last chance to find meaning in my life. The other doctor at the clinic, Serena, has become a glimmer of hope, and a fierce ray of light, and lust. I've always avoided workplace romances, but I just can't stop myself from longing for her. She's the most beautiful woman I've ever met, inside and out. One sight or scent of her, and my inner bear is ready to roar. The trouble is, Serena HATES me. And who can blame her? My longing for her is making me act like a bear with a sore head. The more I want her, the further I push her away. I'm literally becoming unbearable ! I wouldn't blame Serena for wanting to run like hell if she ever found out I was a shape-shifter. What classy woman like her would EVER want to get down and dirty with a black bear?! Yet the heart wants what it wants, and the rest of me is pretty full of desire too. Can I find true love at last? Or will Serena fire me from the clinic and I lose her and my career forever? ++ Word Count =16,515 ++ Sensuality Rating Some sensual scenes, thoughts, topics, and language which some readers may find offensive. It is intended for mature audiences. Note to the Reader About Cliff-hangers The Bear Ascending series is made up of 4 books, with a cliff-hanger ending in each of the first three, and a stunning conclusion to the series at the end of the fourth. Readers who are not fond of cliff-hangers can read at their own discretion. About the Author Kelsey Carter is a paranormal romance writer, and the author of the Reconnected series, the Alpha Ascending series, the Hawk Ascending series, the Bear Ascending series, the Justice Ascending series, The Prince Ascending Series, and The Darkest Kisses series. In her spare time, she works with a range of charities, including animal rescue. About the Bear Ascending Series The saga of the Moonbear sisters, their local werewolf pack, and the secrets they all hide continues as Torben Bearhardt, the new doctor on the reservation, starts to face the truth about his past, and his inner powers, with the help of his colleague, the lovely Serena Moonbear. Torben hates being bear. Daring to reveal his true self has always had the most dire consequences. Torben's tragic past and struggles as a shape-shifting bear make him feel as if he'll never find love and happiness. Only by accepting his true nature can he ever free himself, to move on, and to be the lover Serena needs and deserves.