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Gray Back Bears #5

Lowlander Silverback

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**Gorilla Shifter Romance – Can be read as a standalone book.**

Marked by a notoriously dangerous leader, Kong is gorilla shifter royalty who is being guarded until he is called to perform his fated duty for his people. That duty? Take over a family group and father the next generation of gorilla shifters. Too bad he has no interest in that future. His eyes and heart have been on a buxom beauty who works at the bar his Lowlander Crew hangs out at. Three years and he’s had to keep his distance to protect her from his guards, but she’s noticed his silent attention, and now she’s showing up in unexpected places, tempting him to break all the rules. And the closer he gets to Layla, the harder it is for him to accept leaving her behind.

Layla Taylor is baffled by the sexy shifter who watches her work. His eyes follow her wherever she goes, but he refuses to talk to her and shuts her down every time she strikes up a conversation. Without his crew around, a chance encounter opens her eyes to Kong’s volatile world, and she realizes the man she’s fallen for is not what he seems. In a love story full of adventure, danger, betrayal, unlikely allies, and heart-pounding romance, Layla will have to decide whether loving Kong is worth risking her life, or walk away and let him fulfill his destiny.

Content Warning: explicit love scenes, naughty language, and piles of sexy shifter secrets.
Adult only bear shifter romance.

222 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 16, 2015

930 people are currently reading
343 people want to read

About the author

T.S. Joyce

160 books3,449 followers
T.S. Joyce is devoted to bringing hot shifter romances to readers. Hungry alpha males are her calling card, and the wilder the men, the more she'll make them pour their hearts out. She werebear swears there'll be no swooning heroines in her books. It takes tough-as-nails women to handle the shifters of Bear Valley.

She lives in a tiny town, outside of a tiny city, and devotes her life to writing big stories. Foodie, bear whisperer, ninja, thief of tiny bottles of awesome smelling hotel shampoo, nap connoisseur, movie fanatic, and zombie slayer, and most of this bio is true.

Bear Shifters? Check
Smoldering Alpha Hotness? Double Check
Sexy Scenes? Fasten up your girdles, ladies and gents, it's gonna to be a wild ride.

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5 stars
2,310 (59%)
4 stars
1,036 (26%)
3 stars
427 (11%)
2 stars
68 (1%)
1 star
10 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 210 reviews
Profile Image for Deserie williams.
606 reviews6 followers
April 3, 2016
Contains spoilers!

I enjoyed this one! Sweet , sexy read. I loved Kong an d Layla!Perfect for each other. Oh Kong and his totured self. Love him. Oh and that ending with the book so beautiful ! I didn't expect to like this this much but I really did:)I might be in a I can tolerate,loving mood though because this wasn't perfect:)

Safety :
Neither are virgins I'm assuming, but nothing is really mentioned! They known each other for 3 years. both were celibate. Although I'm not sure if my GR friends will be ok with this ,but Kong had to sign a contract stating he would remain abstinent! He was forced too,tortured too! So some might get mad because he had to be celibate but I know 100 percent he still would of had he had a choice. The reason for this is because this crazy ass gorilla alpha shifter wanted him to breed a family group and not taint his seed. He doesn't want any of that! He wants only one mate to settle down with but for gorillas it's different they are set to breed lots of women ! this ow causes some trouble but she gets hers! Kong does try and push her away in the beginning for a bit. He has to be cold toward her but it wasn't too bad and he was only trying to protect her! I loved him. I thought he was truly a sweet loving man! I definitely would want to read more about them. I am interested in all the other couples but not sure on safety!
Profile Image for Cheesecake.
2,800 reviews509 followers
May 29, 2020
.
Kong, the guerrilla shifter and Laya, the human.
I have to wonder... what the f*ck are guerrilla shifters doing in Oregon???

...but anyways, Kong is from Oregon (I can't help but snicker again), and hates his life. So he came to Alaska to start a sawmill and get away from the 'family' he hates.

Layla is a bartender at the local pub. She and Kong have been buzzing around each other for 2 years. She thinks he dislikes her for some reason. So she quietly moons over him.

It's a simple tale. Entertaining but not great.
I felt like the author phoned this one in.
The ending was a little too easy.

Saftey is quite good
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Vfields Don't touch my happy! .
3,489 reviews
August 21, 2019
Kong’s story was really sad and kinda too painful for this series. If you’re going to have a heavy story you need to take the time to flush out the story. It was too short. The female was a bit closer to ditzy then T.S. Joyce’s recent female protagonists. Beastson was even cooler and I adore that love didn’t kill his tough weirdness. Because this is heavier than previous installments Willa was a needed breath of fresh air in every scene.
Profile Image for Leiah Cooper.
766 reviews95 followers
March 17, 2016
The Gray Backs are back - well, sorta. While the first four in the series introduced us to the Bears of the Gray Back crew, this one is a whole different bit of monkeyshines.... as in, the story of Kong.

Kong. Silverback Gorilla Shifter and next Breeding Alpha of his clan of silverbacks. But Kong doesn't want a harem. He lived with silverback society all his life, watching as the children, like him, were ignored and unloved. Kong wants something different. He wants a single mate, a chance to raise his children with love and respect. But when you have bodyguards who are instructed to make sure you stay away from temptation, well, getting his hands on the woman he wants is difficult, to say the least.

The Gray Back stories have been rather uneven, and this one moves from the five-stars of Easton's story to a solid three, like Creed's story. The story was uneven, the characters not as well-developed, and the interactions between the heroes felt forced and 'instantaneous' to a level that didn't feel realistic within the world Joyce has designed. It's a shame, as both characters had potential.

On to the next!
Profile Image for Hollie.
1,680 reviews
December 15, 2015
Another nice addition to the series

I have to say, I had huge expectations for Kong. I did like this read, and it was charming like the others but I was left wanting a bit more between the hero and heroine. It felt too "insta-love". I get that they had been watching each other for years, but they seemed to have no conversations, etc. I wanted a bit more foundation with their relationship. They both more or less felt like strangers that were immediately confessing their undying love for one another even though they had very little to do with one another until that point. I'm glad that this, like the others was offered as a kindleunlimited. I will definitely continue this series.

Profile Image for Sarah Shannon.
44 reviews2 followers
September 22, 2015
This was such a nice change of pace. I love the bears, wolves, dragons,etc that you normally read about but a gorilla was so new and different! It quickly hooked me in and I finished in within 1 workout on the elliptical which is a feat as normally I struggle having to do that damn workout. The characters were great and from the glimpses we had from Kong throughout the other books? Well his character just got that much better. He frustrated me yes with his sense of what was "right" or not but over all? Awesome read and I know like all the other books I will be re-reading his for years to come.
Profile Image for Sherrin Alsop.
203 reviews2 followers
September 18, 2015
Loved it

I loved this story. As a matter of fact I've been waiting on it. The main character of this book Kong has been a featured character in these books. Each book telling a bit more of who he Is. It's great to see him finding his mate. While it's a standalone book, I think it's more enriched because I've read about some of the crews prior to this one. Plus it gives all of us the chance to read about what has happened in the life of old friends from earlier books.
3,210 reviews67 followers
January 24, 2022
The H is huge and different, and he has minders. He's ignored the h for years to protect her. He knows she loves him. I loved the sweet h who is much stronger than he knows. She pushed him and was the catalyst that helped him to break free from evil OW. A good mix of silly, angst and gory. Loved it.
Profile Image for Fran Zoch, LSoR.
2,142 reviews13 followers
September 17, 2015
They have watched each other for 3 years , Kong can't be with her but when they both decide to give in and break the rules, people are going to get hurt, and all the crews, and one immortal dragon will do whatever it takes to keep their one Silverback and his mate safe.
Profile Image for Darcy.
14.4k reviews543 followers
January 1, 2019
I loved that Kong was a gorilla shifter and yet he was most at home with the misfit bears of the Gray Back Clan. Kong's history and that of gorilla shifters in general was interesting. I'm glad that he fought and bucked tradition, fighting to be with Layla. I loved how the Gray Back's welcomed both in and the epic battle at the end. Beaston said it best, Chomp, Chomp.
Profile Image for Lorrie.
2,263 reviews28 followers
December 20, 2022
Kong and Layla’s story started out really strong, but fizzled out along the way for me. I wasn’t expecting it to go the way it did. I enjoyed it, just not as much as I expected to. The whole Fiona angle threw me a bit.
Profile Image for Twin Sisters Rockin' Book Reviews.
884 reviews93 followers
September 26, 2015
Overall Rating: 4.5 Rockin’ ★★★★☆

King Kong doesn't have anything on T.S. Joyce's Lowlander Silverback gorilla shifter romance! The author creates an angst filled relationship between the heroine and hero akin to Romeo and Juliet's tale of forbidden love. Kong and Layla have been in love from a distance for over three years. Yearning to connect but circumstances forbid it to occur. Kong is royalty and his path and future is bound to his people's archaic practices. Layla is treading in shark infested waters trying to stay afloat. Her bills are piling up and as much as she works she is still being hounded by the bank for Mac's (her adoptive father of choice) home. The home she grew up in and felt safe in.

When Kong receives the call to return home to fulfill his duties, he is torn from his life and friends he has made in Saratoga. Sacrificing his future with Layla is the only way he knows to keep her safe and alive. Beaston and the Grayback Crew stand ready to help him stay and his life is forever changed. Willa's jokes continue to get better and better and the other crew members bond strengthens to save one of their own, lessons are learned and the future is altered.

Each book released by T.S. Joyce evokes certain emotions and takes me on a journey outside the chaotic daily grind. Kong and Layla's story was beautiful and entertaining. Two lost souls needing each other to complete the other. Don't take my word for it, buy this book and read it!

Lowlander Silverback
T.S. Joyce
Profile Image for ZETTER.
1,157 reviews23 followers
September 19, 2015
Be Mine!!!

Layla Taylor a bartender at Sammy's Bar had a crush on Kong.....the latter was into the former as well but he didn't make a move. Not wanting to let an opportunity passed them by, Layla made the first move. Even though Kong turned her down, Layla wasn't about to give up.

Things for poor Layla went from bad to worse, first Rhett (One of Kong's handlers) was rude to her then she found out that her ill foster father was about to lose his house.

Kong was pushing Layla away in order to protect her even when all he wanted to do was hold her close....Plan a future with her and love her. When Layla found out what Kong really was, she wanted to know him more even if it was for a short time.

It was great when Beaston and Aviana came back, he always knew that Kong had a thing for Layla. So when Kong told Beaston he was leaving, the latter called him out regarding his feelings for Layla.

Once again Beaston proved why I LOVE him so much, he's a beautiful soul who wanna make sure that those close to him are safe. Loved his friendship with Kong. The latter got his HEA.

Love how Damon Daye, the Gray Backs, the Ashe Crew and the Boarlanders fought for Kong and Layla.

Mrs Joyce never cease to amaze me...... Lowlander Silverback was great.....A must read!
3,422 reviews20 followers
September 19, 2015
Kong has always been there in the background. We knew he was not your average bear, but we weren't sure who he was. Layla has been watching him for three years. He watches her when he doesn't think she is looking, but if she looks back he turns away--just not in time to hide the heat. She is confused but determined to make a move no matter the outcome.

There is a lot behind Kong and his people. They aren't human and they are bears. Kong refuses Layla's attempts and shuts her down. But when one of his sidekicks embarrasses her and she gets an upsetting call, he is the one who shows compassion. That one minute of tenderness gives her hope when the rest of her life seems to be in ruin.

Both characters are ones you have to admire, want to live HEA, but Ms Joyce sets up seemingly impossible obstacles. I loved watching the Greybacks step in and try to help. They are so much fun, but despite their dysfunction they are loyal and fearless.

Watch the battle, the growth and the loyalty -- it is a difficult journey but you will love. I did.
Profile Image for Monica.
2,079 reviews
December 27, 2015
I was so waiting to read a story about our Kong. He was so mysterious and we knew what he was cause his name gave it away. His story was really complicated and sad. Poor Layla. Poor Kong for that matter. They had such a hard journey to each other. I was sooo freaking sad for Mac. :( I knew he would pass soon but not like that. Way to make us cry Ms. Joyce! LOL. Man I tell you Kong's people are screwy. Well one particular screw was loose for sure Fiona. Well...she got hers thanks to Damon! My hero! Does anyone else get hot and bothered when that guy shows? Ha. I loved how the Grey Backs had Kong's and Layla's back. Damon especially. I really loved their story. I know this series is wrapping up and its sad cause I loved them all so much. We did get a surprise because although the series is ending soon we get a great surprise in Damon Daye's story soon! I was wondering if he'd get someone special and get to read a story about him. Yea! So excited! Anywho a great read and I laughed and cried as usual. Beaston is the best....love his words!
175 reviews
September 18, 2015
Grab a tissue!

Holy cow, what a book! I've read every book in these series. Thought the Saw Bears series was awesome, then the Graybacks had me crying and sighing! Finally Kong gets his story and what a story it is!

Kong has been in love for three years and can't claim his mate. Because he's expected to be a breeder for his family group! And the female head of his family group is psycho! (No other way to describe her!)

Layla has been in love with Kong for just as long but thinks he doesn't like her because he won't ever talk to her.

This is a story of love, loss, and redemption. I cried a little, laughed a little and was very happy with how everything played out.

Although this is a standalone I urge you to read the whole series starting with Saw Bears, Lumberjack. You will not be disappointed!

T.S. Joyce has another winner on her hands and I can't wait for October and Damon's story!
Profile Image for Samantha.
113 reviews1 follower
September 18, 2015
Awesome! A must read!

I loved it. I've been waiting to read Kong's story and for him to have his own HEA ever since the Grayback Bear series. Kong isn't a bear. He's a gorilla shifter. He's been in love with a human, Layla for 3 years. He has his reasons why he can't make a move .. And man, is it awesome when he finally does. I love Miss Joyce's style of writing. And every book she has written feels different. The characters all have their own personalities and she manages to bring that across to us readers. Sure, the men are all alpha males yet they are all different. I love it. I keep devouring her books .. they are just that good. All just stories about love .. steamy with a lot of wit and humour thrown in. I love getting to know her characters.
Now,I am dying to read Damon Daye's story. The dragon deserves his own mate. I cannot wait for October to come. I. Am. Dying. Here.
1,137 reviews3 followers
September 23, 2015
LOWLANDERS Silverback by T.S.JOYCE

Wow, Kong's story was a emotionally charged book. Adored Layla with her caring about Mac ,worrying about others especially when she learned more about what was going on with Kong who she's cares about deeply. Love the Grayback's crew who were already wonderful friends but back them up cuz to them they both are part of their crazy crew as far as their concerned and aren't about to allow them being hurt by a crazy evil bitch with her own agenda using fear to control those who oppose her plans for herself. Love how that turns out for her. So enjoyed and excited for the next addition which is about that wonderfully portrayed Dragon. So please don't miss out on this TERRIFIC SERIES!!!!!!!
Profile Image for Lolita Nettles.
240 reviews2 followers
September 22, 2015
Kong is king

I have been hoping that Kong would get his own book since we met him with the Ash crew.
He is fierce , loyal and driven. Even under circumstances that other males would have broken and lost it he is still able to make the sacrifice and put everyone above himself. For years he has loved Layla and knows that she is his one true mate and love, but for those like Kong that is a future that is impossible to see when a dark demented head of the family that wants you all for herself.
This book explains so much in the interpersonal reactions and interactions with Kong and the Ashe and grey back crews. You will be hooked from page one!
4 reviews1 follower
September 19, 2015
Awesome

I never write reviews, because I can never express my feelings properly. But this book makes me want to say how great it was. I have read and fallen in love with the Saratoga clans since the first book and was so glad to see Kong get his happy ever after. The story is amazing, it hits home on so many levels and touches your heart throughout. I laughed and cried (mostly cried) at the impossible dreams and fates of Kong and Layla. As always, (and as it should be in life), good triumphs over evil and love wins every time. I can't wait till the next book in October.
Profile Image for Samantha.
334 reviews5 followers
August 30, 2021
Kong & Layla

Its okay to follow your heart. That's a general theme in this author's books, but never more so than in this one. The steadfast confidant of the Gray Backs, fellow shifter Kong, has wished for something he's not. Bartender at Sammy's Bar, Layla, has only had eyes for one person for the past 3 years, the hot and cold Kong. I really love this story and the continuation of the characters in Damon's Mountains.
Profile Image for Tammy Nitschke Sokol.
776 reviews3 followers
September 18, 2015
Awesome!!!!!!

I'm all ready on pins and needles and tender hooks for Damon Dye's story, and I've just read Kongs!!! Ooo Ooo Aah Ahh was awesome!!!! Sweet hot gorilla shifter who lives among bears secretly, and silently loves bartender with everything in him. She also lives him, but gets totally tongue tied around him!! Danger is always lurking nearby to snatch away Kong and kill all their dreams. Find out if they survive intact!!!! Very well worth reading!!!!!
Profile Image for Kimberly Walden.
1,276 reviews8 followers
September 24, 2015
Kong's story finally told!!!

Kindle Unlimited read. Another great story about characters I love. He's the one who always gives love advise but has never loved. She's the bartender she's been pining over. They can't be together...he's forbidden to have any contact with her. Wow I was blown away by Kong's story!! Love how it went and found myself sad, mad, and smiling throughout the book.
909 reviews2 followers
September 28, 2015
Awww what a great read

Loved the story. So glad that Kong got his happily ever after. Layla is his perfect match. Not going to lie the beginning where she was just pinning for him was heartbreaking. The callous attitude and indifference did nothing to dim her feelings. Her strength was admirable. It was hilarious watching the Grey Backs running interference and returning the favor for Kong. Seeing stand up for his mate was like, "Yeeeessssss, about time!" lol. Great job.
Profile Image for Cheril Olmsted.
329 reviews10 followers
September 4, 2025
Lowlander Silverback by T.S Joyce was a quick and sweet read.

Kong is a gorilla shifter who was forced to sign a contact to be the next king of his people. Layla is the human bartender that he is in love with and has been secretly watching for 3 years. After keeping his feelings hidden for so long all it takes is no kiss to throw everything out the window.

Can they make it work, when his people are out to ruin them at every chance??

One click and find out
350 reviews2 followers
September 17, 2015
Kong tops it!

This series is the best. Really love the way the author brings it all together for a great ending, but no hints! First gorilla shifter book I have read but mixed with the Bears it was a hot read. Will the human he has wanted for three years be his or not? Inquiring minds need to know......looking forward to the next one.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 210 reviews

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