Genres: Paranormal Romance
Published by Kensington
Released on October 25, 2011
This was a nice strong sequel to the first book in the series. There were a few things that make it even more enjoyable. For one, all the set up and introductions to the Dark Protector world have pretty much been established so the story could focus more on the plot and characters. And for another thing, I liked the main characters better. I enjoyed how the story took me further with the main story thread and a few of the other other continuing threads even while placing much of the emphasis on the romance of the new couple.
The story needs to be read in the series order for some of the reasons I presented above- mainly because it picks right up where book one leaves off. You might want to skip this review if you don’t want series spoilers.
In the last book, Cara’s geneticist sister, Emma, has been taken and is on her way to the Kurjan, Franco, who plans to make her his mate. Emma has psychic abilities which make her a potential vampire mate. In her case, its not just any vampire, but the king vampire, Dage. They have seen each other in dreams and visions for a long time. Emma is intrigued by Dage and loves what she sees in her dreams, but she also dreams her own death and the pain it will cause Dage so she doesn’t want to put him through this by becoming his mate not to mention she’s not a huge fan of fate.
Dage rescues Emma and the sparks fly immediately when he informs her of the changes in her life- she’s coming with him and she’s his mate. Dage wants to give Emma time to get used to the idea, but he soon realizes that she’s not planning to adjust to her circumstances; she’s planning to run. He does what any strong, alpha-type would do; he takes away the choice and brands her as his mate. Emma’s plans to escape are forestalled when they discover that someone on the inside has infected Cara, Katie and Lily, one of the vampire prophets. Emma races to find a cure with the help of Dage’s brother Kane and Conn’s mate, Moira. Dage and the others must deal with the war between the vamps and the Kurjans, the demons declaring war, and someone trying to de-throne Dage. It all gets pretty exciting by the end and there is this scene close to the end that was absolutely scorching hot in its intensity between Dage and Emma. He’s not the King for nothing.
With the first book, so much page time was devoted to introductions, but this one just got busy with the plot. Not to say that there was no additional world building. There is the intro of witches and demons to the paranormals. It was a nice active plot, but one that focused on the romance between Dage and Emma too. They are a couple that don’t come together easily or quietly. She comes from the same abusive household as Cara so the baggage is there just in a different way with Emma. Emma thinks she has to shoulder the problems of the world alone and fix everyone. Dage is constantly trying to wrest this responsibility from her and just get her trust him. Needless to say, its quite the battle both inside and outside the bedroom.
As to the other plot, I love how it progresses, but there is a great deal of intrigue involved in it. I think this promises something good for the rest of the series.
This book/series will appeal to those who enjoy steamy paranormal romance.
About Rebecca Zanetti
New York Times bestselling author Rebecca Zanetti has worked as an art curator, Senate aide, lawyer, college professor, and a hearing examiner – only to culminate it all in stories about Alpha males and the women who claim them. She is a member of RWA, has won awards for her works throughout the industry, and has a journalism degree with a poly sci emphasis from Pepperdine University as well as a Juris Doctorate from the University of Idaho.
Growing up amid the glorious backdrops and winter wonderlands of the Pacific Northwest has given Rebecca fantastic scenery and adventures to weave into her stories. She resides in the wild north with her husband, children, and extended family who inspire her every day-or at the very least give her plenty of characters to write about.
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