Embarking on the expansive genre of paranormal romance, Delta James has penned another intriguing addition with His Determined Mate, a novel that not only promises but delivers a mixture of suspense, passion, and mythical elements bound to captivate readers seeking escapism within the realms of supernatural fiction. As part of her wider series focusing on intricate shifter lore and dynamics, this book stands out for its combination of romance and adventure, woven intricately with the threads of destiny and primal instincts.

At its core, His Determined Mate follows the tumultuous relationship between Lacey, a strong-willed and resilient human, and Thorn, a dominant and enigmatic wolf shifter. Set against the backdrop of a paranormal world carefully crafted by James, the story explores the fiery clashes and intense attractions between two distinctly different characters bound by fate. Like most of James's protagonists, Lacey embodies a refreshing complexity. She is neither docile nor overly compliant, which adds a rich layer of intrigue to her interactions with Thorn, whose alpha demeanor is typical of shifter heroes but rendered with a depth that avoids cliché.

One of the novel’s standout aspects is its portrayal of the shifter universe. James's world-building skills are on full display as she delves into the intricacies of shifter politics, lore, and culture. The level of detail in the descriptions of pack dynamics and the spiritual connections to the moon provides readers with a vivid understanding of the characters' actions and motivations. However, it's not just about the supernatural elements; the environment itself is a character, rich in scenes that paint the wild, untamed landscapes where power plays and passion unfold.

The relationship between Lacey and Thorn is filled with tension and tenderness, both elements captured effectively through James’s writing. Their dialogue sparkles with intensity, and the love scenes are both steamy and substantial, offering more than just physical connection. They underscore the emotional undercurrents and the transformations that both characters undergo throughout the book. James has a knack for balancing the erotic components with the overarching narrative, ensuring that each intimate encounter serves to propel the characters’ development and the plot.

However, while His Determined Mate excels in many aspects typical of the genre, it is not without its detractions. The pacing, at times, seems uneven. The first half of the book, loaded with the anticipation and buildup of Lacey and Thorn's relationship, contrasts starkly with the latter half which appears somewhat rushed, particularly as it approaches the climax and resolution. This disparity might leave some readers feeling as though the conclusion, though satisfying, does not fully capitalize on the novel’s earlier momentum.

Moreover, the narrative sometimes leans heavily on genre tropes, which, while comforting to seasoned readers of paranormal romance, might detract from its originality for those looking for something that breaks molds. The portrayal of the alpha male, for instance, walks a fine line between appealingly authoritative and overly domineering, a nuance that is crucial in modern romance to maintain a balance with the empowered female protagonist.

In terms of additional characters and subplots, James shows skill in creating a colorful supporting cast that enhances the story's layers. From the allies to the antagonists, each character is well-defined and adds to the richness of the tale. The subplots related to pack laws and shifter history offer more than just filler; they complement the main story and lead to a richer understanding of the primary narrative thrust.

In conclusion, His Determined Mate is a robust entry in the paranormal romance genre, offering all the allure of supernatural allure with the comforting heat of a love story destined to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. Delta James has succeeded in creating a vivid world teeming with tension, passion, and transformation. Fans of her previous works will find much to admire here, and newcomers will be tempted to dive deeper into her literary world. Though not without its faults in pacing and originality, the novel is a testament to James's ability to enchant and engage, making His Determined Mate a worthwhile read for anyone intrigued by the dance of dominance and desire set against a backdrop rich in myth and mystery.