Heart of the Serpent — N.J. Walters

After being trapped in his animal form for centuries by a curse, freedom is new and almost uncomfortable for shape-shifting warrior Mordecai. He did his time in Hell, and it left a stain on his soul and strained his ties with his fellow warriors.

Jessica enjoyed the easy friendship she had with Mordecai, but he's grown as distant as the stars lately. Still, it's impossible to stay away from him, and she's sure he feels that irresistible pull, too.

Mordecai knows Hades can't get to him physically, but although he might try to deny it, he knows he has a weak spot. Jessica. Worried that Hades could hurt her to get to him, Mordecai's tried to keep his distance, but there's no stopping this kind of connection.

Each book in the Hades' Carnival series is a standalone story that can be enjoyed out of order.
Series Order:
Book #1 Night of the Tiger
Book #2 Mark of the Bear
Book #3 Pride of the Lion
Book #4 Howl of the Wolf
Book #5 Heart of the Serpent
Book #6 Flame of the Phoenix
Book #7 Lure of the Jaguar