Heart of Darkness (Bound by Magick, #1)

Feb 15, 2013 Ren Thompson rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: paranormal-romance, sexybooktime

I loved the story-line, the chemistry between Meriel and Domenic and the interaction with the other characters. Its different from some of the other PNR stories I've read. There was a lot of give and take between the two main characters. I found the development of their relationship a bit more relatable than some of the stuff that's out there.

I can't stand the term "kick-ass" when describing a strong heroine. Let's just say Meriel doesn't play when it comes to her man. She's strong, determined...more

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Dec 31, 2012 Estara rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Recommended to Estara by: http://dearauthor.com/book-reviews/overall-b-reviews/b-plus-reviews/review-chaos-burning-by-lauren-dane/

Shelves: ebook, read-in-2012

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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Aug 13, 2012 Stephanie rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Decent read, but not as good as some of her other books. *3.75 Stars*

I first have to say that I am a BIG fan of Lauren Dane. I have read several of her books. Her Chase Brother's series is one of the top 3 of the 46 series I have read. That being said, this book fell a little short for me. I suppose I have high expectations because Ms. Dane puts out some quality work. The story line was good. I really liked the characters as well. My biggest problem was that it was VERY repetitive. Here's is an...more

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Jun 20, 2012 Dark Faerie Tales rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: reviewed-by-kristie

Review Courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales

Quick & Dirty: Sexy, sweet and steamy paranormal romance with two very lovable characters, great start up to a new world of witches, but confusing dialogue and a slow start to the real action may turn some readers away.

Opening Sentence: Meriel sat, taking notes as her mother spoke from the head of the table.

The Review:

Meriel Owen is a powerful witch but she has the potential to have a lot more power after she meets her bond-mate. Meriel has no idea that sh...more

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Feb 24, 2012 Candace rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I absolutely LOVE Lauren Dane so was anxiously awaiting this new book and new series. I was not disappointed.

I especially loved how the de la Vega cats and the Cascadia Wolves were mentioned in this book. It wasn't such an involved mention that if you hadn't read those books you would be lost, but for those of us who loved those books it was a nice flashback and a fantastic way to integrate the storylines. Not many authors could do integrate the storylines of three different series as seamlessly...more

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Feb 20, 2012 Joyfully Reviewed rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: joyfully-reviewed-jo

Heart of Darkness is a Joyfully Recommended Read

Meriel Owen is next in line to run Clan Owen and she is also a very talented attorney. One of her main jobs is to keep all threats to Clan Owen either contained somehow or to make them disappear and that is on top of what she does in her legal job. At this point in history, there are many things that are pulling at Meriel. Times are changing again for those with magick and Meriel is determined to find a way to protect not only her people but all wi...more Heart of Darkness is a Joyfully Recommended Read

Meriel Owen is next in line to run Clan Owen and she is also a very talented attorney. One of her main jobs is to keep all threats to Clan Owen either contained somehow or to make them disappear and that is on top of what she does in her legal job. At this point in history, there are many things that are pulling at Meriel. Times are changing again for those with magick and Meriel is determined to find a way to protect not only her people but all witches if she can.

Dominic Bright is not part of any clan and he has a reason to not want to have anything to do with them. However, that didn’t stop him from using the power he has to tap into the Clan Owen power to keep his club safe. Dominic and his partner knew that sooner or later someone from the clan would come knocking on their door. He never expected Meriel or his instant attraction to her.

Meriel went to confront a rouge club owner and instead found her destined soulmate. Meriel can understand Dominic’s hesitation to have anything to do with the entire clan at first and she is more than willing to just let this thing between them go naturally. Dominic wants Meriel like nothing he has ever wanted before and that confuses him. But he is not willing to totally dismiss what she is saying either. As their relationship grows, both Dominic and Meriel learn that a lot of Dominic’s past isn’t what he always thought it was. When the past puts both of them in danger, it’s Meriel and her clan who give both of them the strength and power they need to defeat that threat.

In a time of fast changing reality, two hearts find each other and the love that will let them defeat any challenge. Meriel and Dominic don’t expect the instant passion they find in Heart of Darkness, but are not willing to let it go once found. I have to say that I loved both Meriel and Dominic when I met them. Meriel because she is a modern woman who knows that in order to stay powerful you must change with the times and is willing to drag her clan into the future. Dominic because even with what he grew up knowing, he was more than willing to learn the truth of what Meriel was telling him and learn from some hard truths. I was riveted to Meriel and Dominic’s story from the first page because I could tell there was so much just waiting to be revealed as each page turned. Clan Owen has a new and kicking’ team to help lead it into an unknown and threatening future. I also loved that this series continues and expands the theme of two other much-loved series (de La Vega Cats and Cascadia Wolves) from Lauren. With two strong and loving lead characters, passion, magick and suspense, Heart of Darkness became an instant favorite and earned a space on my keeper shelves. Joyfully Recommended to all paranormal lovers, who want a paranormal that is a little different. I can’t wait for the next book and I bet you will be waiting with me after reading Heart of Darkness.

Reviewed by Jo
For Joyfully Reviewed
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Dec 24, 2011 Cecile rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I am not new to Ms. Dane's work, that I can say. However, what I can't say enough of is how much of a wonderful story teller Ms. Dane is. She is an Ace above the rest and this new series will show you just that. She will cast a spell on you that will make you fall in love with the story she has crafted for you. You will become completely mesmerized by this tale of the world of the witches she has brewed up. This is not your Mama's story of witches... In fact, Ms Lauren makes those stories look l...more I am not new to Ms. Dane's work, that I can say. However, what I can't say enough of is how much of a wonderful story teller Ms. Dane is. She is an Ace above the rest and this new series will show you just that. She will cast a spell on you that will make you fall in love with the story she has crafted for you. You will become completely mesmerized by this tale of the world of the witches she has brewed up. This is not your Mama's story of witches... In fact, Ms Lauren makes those stories look like dust in the wind.

This is a fabulous start to a brand new series and I am fortunate that I got an early peek in that world and believe me..... Now I am going to try to cast my own spell to have the next book in my hands~ right now. It is just that good. I am looking in my scurry bowl.... I will have it one day...................

Let me give you a peek into the world of The Owen Clan... This is a powerful group of witches. But they are not your normal soft, sweet cuddly little witches that only come out for Halloween. Nope, not these women! These women kick some serious ass with just one flick of their finger. I tap on computer keys with my fingertips in hopes of bringing to life what their story did to me, and with one of their fingers they could bring down a few buildings or maybe a city or two if they truly wanted. These women are not just women, they are woven into each other and their mother Earth and they are not a group you want to piss off. Meriel Owen is the daughter to the most powerful witch around the world.... Edwina Owen. Also, better known as The Owen Clan.

Meriel has the weight of the world on her shoulders or should I say she has big shoes to fill. She has been raised all her life to take over the reigns of The Owen Clan when her mother is ready to pass it down to her. Meriel is a phenomenal witch, but what caught my heart is how devoted she is to her clan. It goes beyond that though, because Meriel not only wants to protect the witches within her clan, but she wants to protect, educate and join forces with those that are not in a clan. So, she doesn't just look out for her own.... But for others as well. And let me tell you one thing about Meriel.... You do not want to piss her off or mess with any of her witches. Because when you do.... Ohhhh wow, the fury she would bring down on you - you would not survive. She is a strong woman, independent to the core with her life in front of her... Until one night.... in the Heart of Darkness.... Her life will change... Will it be for the better... or for the worst... Only way to find out... Because that faithful night is when she meets the man that will forever be branded in her heart......

Dominic.... Is a man that not many people have the pleasure of getting to know. He tends to keep to himself, but being the owner of Heart of Darkness kinda puts him out there for all to see. And believe me, I WOULD LOVE TO SEE HIM! He takes pride in what he offers to his clientele. Not only a place to let loose for the evening but also allowing a sense of privacy to those that enter the doors... However, it takes a lot of magick to keep certain doors hidden from the eyes of the humans because his club not only caters to the human world... but also to the Other world. He uses his own magick and some stolen magick to keep that part of the club hidden. Because even though most of the paranormal creatures have come out in the world... some witches are still kind of hiding out... But when a certain clan gets wind of Dominic stealing their magick.... Well, let's just say there is always a price to pay for what you steal and the price Dominic will pay... may cost him more than he bargained for ....

These two people will give you an awesome story; because alone, they are great... but together, they are explosive. To watch what they can do - alone and together... is just spell bonding! But then you factor in their friends and family and this is one kick ass story.

Ms Dane created characters that you will find yourself cheering along, characters that will break your heart and mend it back up with a quick little spell. You will find characters that will make you fall in love and dream of that kind of bond. Characters that you will want to bitch slap into tomorrow. Characters that will simply bring you the best damn story ever!!! Ms. Dane created a story that simply rocked my world. Witches, spells, werewolves, greed, power, and passion are brewing up a storm in this book... and just wait till some of those combine together.... WOW....

Ms Lauren, I commend you on a job very well done. You have pushed all the buttons of a romantic reader, you have triggers all the desires for the paranormal creatures and you have delivered one hellva story! One I cannot wait to watch grown into more stories to come! Believe me, this is a story that you will want to read and maybe even re-rad. It is just that good.... Scratch that... It is just that freaking good! This story will enchant you all the way to the last page....

And just in case you are wondering.... This is book two...

***did you hear my spell working to get book here now... in my hands...***(less)

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Nov 06, 2011 Rhonda rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Heart of Darkness by Lauren Dane
Bound by Magick, book 1

I absolutely loved this book!!!

Lauren Dane has created a story with a lot of the elements I love. A great story / plot, romance, suspense, action, and oh so sexy. Dane puts us in a world where Vampires and Were have come out of the closet… so to speak, but witches still remain a secret. There are different types of witches and the most powerful of them are the council witches especially after they find and bond with their bond-mate. There ar...more Heart of Darkness by Lauren Dane
Bound by Magick, book 1

I absolutely loved this book!!!

Lauren Dane has created a story with a lot of the elements I love. A great story / plot, romance, suspense, action, and oh so sexy. Dane puts us in a world where Vampires and Were have come out of the closet… so to speak, but witches still remain a secret. There are different types of witches and the most powerful of them are the council witches especially after they find and bond with their bond-mate. There are different clans across the country and Clan Owen in Seattle is the focus of our story.

Meriel Owen is sexy, smart, funny, independent, protective, ambitious, confident, and is a kick-ass powerful witch who is next in line to run Clan Owen. Meriel is an attorney, and after finding out that the new club in town Heart of Darkness has been stealing power from Clan Owen’s font to strengthen his wards at the club, she heads to the club to handle the situation with the owner. As she comes face to face with the club owner Dominic Bright, the sparks start to fly… literally. Dominic is a smart businessman, a sharp dresser, a brawler, protective, possessive, and damn sexy! There are some surprises in store as far as Dominic is concerned, some good, some bad. Meriel and Dominic were so much fun to read, the chemistry was great between them and they balanced each other out so nicely. Whatever situations arise, they seem to give each other a different perspective on things instead of seeing things one sided. One of the things I liked most about Dominic was that he has no issues learning new things about his magick, and learning from women. It was fun seeing a woman being the dominant power too.

As the story unfolds there are “stuck” witches causing all sorts of problems. (the stuck witches would be the equivalent of a rogue vampire) Witches across the country are turning up dead or missing. These stuck witches have teamed up with mages and some humans and are siphoning magick from witches for the addiction of the stuck witches. Now they have shown up in Seattle and the Owen Clan must take them out before one of their own gets hurt, or killed.

Let me give props to the great cast of secondary characters as well; Simon, Nell, and Edwina, and Tim, they were a great compliment to the story.

I enjoyed this book so much, in fact it was my first ever Lauren Dane book, and definitely won’t be my last. Lauren Dane has gained a new fan, and I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.(less)

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Dec 09, 2011 Michelle rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I've been a big fan of Lauren Dane's work for a while now. She's great with contemporary, futuristic, paranormal, and erotic romance. I am hoping one day she'll try a historical just so I can read the magic she does in that category. Heart of Darkness was no exception.

Meriel Owen is a strong, independent, sassy witch who knows her place in life and has worked her way to being one of the best in her craft. Dominic is an outsider, not in the witch clan and not used to their way of life. When Meri...more

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Nov 12, 2011 Miss Lane rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Heart of Darkness by Lauren Dane
Bound by Magick, book 1

I absolutely loved this book!!!

Lauren Dane has created a story with a lot of the elements I love. A great story / plot, romance, suspense, action, and oh so sexy. Dane puts us in a world where Vampires and Were have come out of the closet… so to speak, but witches still remain a secret. There are different types of witches and the most powerful of them are the council witches especially after they find and bond with their bond-mate. There ar...more

Heart of Darkness by Lauren Dane
Bound by Magick, book 1

I absolutely loved this book!!!

Lauren Dane has created a story with a lot of the elements I love. A great story / plot, romance, suspense, action, and oh so sexy. Dane puts us in a world where Vampires and Were have come out of the closet… so to speak, but witches still remain a secret. There are different types of witches and the most powerful of them are the council witches especially after they find and bond with their bond-mate. There are different clans across the country and Clan Owen in Seattle is the focus of our story.

Meriel Owen is sexy, smart, funny, independent, protective, ambitious, confident, and is a kick-ass powerful witch who is next in line to run Clan Owen. Meriel is an attorney, and after finding out that the new club in town Heart of Darkness has been stealing power from Clan Owen’s font to strengthen his wards at the club, she heads to the club to handle the situation with the owner. As she comes face to face with the club owner Dominic Bright, the sparks start to fly… literally. Dominic is a smart businessman, a sharp dresser, a brawler, protective, possessive, and damn sexy! There are some surprises in store as far as Dominic is concerned, some good, some bad. Meriel and Dominic were so much fun to read, the chemistry was great between them and they balanced each other out so nicely. Whatever situations arise, they seem to give each other a different perspective on things instead of seeing things one sided. One of the things I liked most about Dominic was that he has no issues learning new things about his magick, and learning from women. It was fun seeing a woman being the dominant power too.

As the story unfolds there are “stuck” witches causing all sorts of problems. (the stuck witches would be the equivalent of a rogue vampire) Witches across the country are turning up dead or missing. These stuck witches have teamed up with Mages and some humans and are siphoning magick from witches for the addiction of the stuck witches. Now they have shown up in Seattle and the Owen Clan must take them out before one of their own gets hurt, or killed.

Let me give props to the great cast of secondary characters as well; Simon, Nell, and Edwina, and Tim, they were a great compliment to the story.

I enjoyed this book so much, in fact it was my first ever Lauren Dane book, and definitely won’t be my last. Lauren Dane has gained a new fan, and I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.

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Jan 16, 2013 Mandi Schreiner rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: pnr

I'm pleasantly surprised by this book - and I say that because it's hard for me to find a new pnr series I can get into. But this one definitely sucked me in. It's refreshing in that the hero and heroine (both witches) are so darn mature. They get thrown together at the beginning of the book as bond-mates (aka lifemates, they must be together)but they calmly asses the situation. They don't freak out or run away. They use their friends, and family and each other for support to get through the bon...more

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Oct 01, 2011 Jess rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: first-reads-goodreads-giveaways, 2011, paranormal-romance

I won this book through the GR's giveaway section. I was really excited to see this one listed as I enjoy Lauren Dane's books.

I found I did have trouble rating this book because there were some things I really liked and then other things I had some issues with. A brief synopsis of the book first, the main characters is a woman named Meriel Owen and she is a witch. Not just any witch but the next in line to control a very large coven. While she is out investigating a possible illegal paranorm clu...more I won this book through the GR's giveaway section. I was really excited to see this one listed as I enjoy Lauren Dane's books.

I found I did have trouble rating this book because there were some things I really liked and then other things I had some issues with. A brief synopsis of the book first, the main characters is a woman named Meriel Owen and she is a witch. Not just any witch but the next in line to control a very large coven. While she is out investigating a possible illegal paranorm club, she meets her bond-mate Dominic. The two are trying to feel eachother out when they are dragged into a war between witches and mages. The mages want more power and are siphoning off from witches that have high amounts of magic. As Meriel gets closer to figuring out who the leader is, she also begins to realize that there is someone following her. Meriel and Dominic must work together to protect the clan and themselves from the mage group.

So one of the things I did like about this book was the world. Some of the supernatural species are "out" and the regular human population know about them. The witches are trying to keep a low profile because of their past history with human's hating them. So everything they do is tempered by not alerting the regular public to their presence. I also liked Meriel and Dominic together, their relationship did happen a little fast but it was believable in the setting of the book. Also, Meriel did delay becoming closer to him for longer than I expected. It was also interesting to watch her giving Dominic magical advice.

One of the things I had a little trouble with was the pace of the book. The initial meeting of Dominic and Meriel happened fairly quickly in the story, but then there was a lot of talking. Actually the majority of the book was talking. There seemed to be a lot more explanation of what could happen as opposed to the reader actually seeing things happen. The book actually had more of a feeling of a regular romance book, and then some random fights would be thrown in here and there. There was also a lot of emphasis on Meriel's relationship with her mom and Dominic's relationship with his friends and his foster father. The last few chapters of the book were action packed and this leads me to hope that the next book in the series will keep up that pace. I'm hoping this book was just a victim of world/character building and since all of that is already established the next book in the series will be more action based and less talking and explanations. So while I will read the next one, I probably won't purchase it for fear of having another chatty and slow storyline.(less)

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Mar 12, 2012 Annie the Destroyer *Leather Lust* rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: pnr, read-in-2012

It has been awhile since I read a Lauren Dane book, so I decided to give this new series a shot. I liked the idea of the Owen clan, where Merial is the second person in charge. It’s her job to find this violator who has been tapping into the Magick source without permission from the clan. It turns out that this person is Dominic Bright, the owner of a club called Heart of Darkness.

I loved both Merial and Dominic together, they had amazing chemistry right from the start. Dane is always good at cr...more

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Jun 11, 2012 Mara rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: pnr

Like many of Lauren Dane's book, this one had some potential: an interesting world, a story that could have been gripping but turned out flat.

The plot completely lacks conflict: it hints at it constantly (clan witch vs outclan, family clashes, bad guys that turn out nearer that thought) and never delivers.

It starts from the beginning: an outclan witch is stealing magic from the clan. Heroine goes to investigate and deliver a warning. You (well I) do expect sparks flying, a hard lesson taught (or...more

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Apr 22, 2012 Ren marked it as own-but-not-read-yet · review of another edition

Shelves: will-continue-read-it, own-paperback, witch-wizard, author-autobuy

My 4ooth review.

Just to make it official, and since Ms Dane said Dominic Bright like Michael "Fassy" Fassbender.

Will write the complete review, of course until I finish reading *duck*

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Aug 06, 2012 Becca Mcclintock rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I loved the story,it grasp me right from the start pulling me in and keeping me wanting more. I love the characters in the book, I like that Meriel is a strong character, she is in control of her own destiny and stands up for herself. Meriel bonds to Dominic a witch who grew up without a clan going against everything she knew. The relationship between Meriel and Dominic is hot and steamy. This book is entertaining and fast paced it pulls you and doesn't let go till the end. I stayed up super lat...more

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Sep 17, 2011 Lady Lioness rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: genre-paranormal-romance, subgenre-witches, read-september-2011

I will likely post a review at my blog closer to time of publication.

Quick note, though, this book works as a stand-alone, but characters from some of Dane's previous books are mentioned in passing, as they are all set in the same world. While not strictly necessary, I recommend you read What Happens In Vegas...After Dark, and the de La Vega Cat books if you have the time and/or money. Failure to do so won't detract from Heart of Darkness, but knowledge of these characters will add an extra lay...more

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Oct 25, 2011 Kelly % Books-n-Kisses rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

My thoughts:
Meriel is a great heroine. She is tough as nails, yet sweet, take her job very serious, yet is always fair and some day will be the leader of her clan. But Meriel is missing something, not something, someone, her bond mate. Without him she will never ascend to the witch she needs to be to lead. Not knowing if her bond-mate will be the love of her life or only a mate to increase her power Meriel has not been a hurry to find him. Until she is told of an intruder in area that is using...more

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Oct 04, 2011 Kendra rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: first-reads

Full review at: http://readersedyn.blogspot.com/

Favorite Dialogue:

“I got her number. She’s a f***ing amateur wearing a costume of a powerful witch. She will not get in because you are mine and that is that. She can’t best me. Not ever. I am badass, Dominic. I know most people don’t know it, but you better believe it. I will tear her apart when I find her. You can bet on that. I. Am. Not. Having. This.”

He exhaled long and hard and took her in.

Magnificent.

Glorious.

Righteous.

“I am stupid in love w...more

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Apr 07, 2012 Kelly rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: physical-books, paranormal-romance, read-in-2012

I have a tendency to love Lauren Dane's characters. She makes them so vibrant and alive that it's easy to fall into their lives and experience all the things they're experiencing. Dominic fell into this category almost immediately. I adored him. I loved how strong he was and how he was willing to take chances on the things that mattered to him. Meriel, on the other hand, was a little harder for me to get a handle on. With all the responsibilities she's preparing to take on, she's a little colder...more I have a tendency to love Lauren Dane's characters. She makes them so vibrant and alive that it's easy to fall into their lives and experience all the things they're experiencing. Dominic fell into this category almost immediately. I adored him. I loved how strong he was and how he was willing to take chances on the things that mattered to him. Meriel, on the other hand, was a little harder for me to get a handle on. With all the responsibilities she's preparing to take on, she's a little colder and more aloof than Dom. Yet, as her story unfolded, she began to show more and more layers. Her relationship with her mother was a slowly unfurling flower. The more we saw of them together, the more levels were uncovered. It was one of the things that both took me by surprise and delighted me to no end.

I also love insta-attraction between two people. Or three people. I'm not picky. I love when characters look at one another and just click. And when they get all growly and possessive (even when they're not werewolves or any other type of shifter)... *swoon*. Dom and Meriel had that. They had the instant attraction. They had the driving urge to get into each others pants. Their powers complimented one another and it was explosive and sexy. Being more versed in what was happening to them, Meriel was able to give Dom the time to understand why he was feeling this way and what it would mean for their future. I admire a girl who can call a halt to a hot and heavy make-out session so that the guy won't have regrets down the line. I also admire someone who is willing to make necessary changes - despite tradition and people being set in their ways - to make things better for her people as a whole.

The world Lauren Dane has created here is big and bold. There are a lot of different players and while it can make things a bit confusing at times it also made it feel like there could be a lot of different stories told. I'm already looking forward to book 2.

-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
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Nov 10, 2011 David Ketelsen rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I received this book from a Goodreads giveaway and it is the first book I've read by Lauren Dane. I've only read about a dozen paranormal romances prior to this but that did give me certain expectations. Namely a female protagonist that was constantly second guessing herself regarding her professional skills and romantic choices.

That's not true here. Meriel is a great heroine with self confidence and verve. She comes across her romantic interest, Dominic, early in the book and makes no bones abo...more

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Oct 03, 2011 Rva Booklover rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I was so excited to win a copy of Lauren Dane’s Heart of Darkness in a GoodReads contest! She is one of my favorite authors. I love the way she builds her characters, and HoD was no exception. Strong hero and shero, great secondary characters, and a strong beginning to a brave, new world.

Meriel Owen is the heir apparent to her Clan of witches. Loved everything about this character. No too stupid moments. She is tough as nails, but not a ballbreaker. She is smart about people, and she seems to ha...more I was so excited to win a copy of Lauren Dane’s Heart of Darkness in a GoodReads contest! She is one of my favorite authors. I love the way she builds her characters, and HoD was no exception. Strong hero and shero, great secondary characters, and a strong beginning to a brave, new world.

Meriel Owen is the heir apparent to her Clan of witches. Loved everything about this character. No too stupid moments. She is tough as nails, but not a ballbreaker. She is smart about people, and she seems to have an instinctive knowledge about how to best handle conflict with the people in her life. Her mother, Edwina, a definite ballbreaker, is the current head of Clan Owen, and is a micro manager times 10. Meriel, we are told and shown, goes along with her mother’s edicts when it suits her and when she absolutely must, but is not above avoiding her mom when direct confrontation is not in Meriel’s best interests.

From the first time we meet Dominic, we learn he is a bad boy, mostly reformed. What a dream hero. He is cocky, self-assured, a little naughty…*sigh*Dominic has come to Seattle to open a nightclub that caters to both human and Other clientele. He “borrows” magic from the Clan font to set up wards at the club. Bad boy. He likes to be in charge, but is smart enough to know when to ask questions, and take direction. He loves that even though Meriel is a strong woman, she lets him open her doors, hold her jacket, etc. because he likes to. But as GQ and urbane as he is, our boy can more than hold his own in a fight. He is the total package.

Meriel, in her official capacity as a lawyer for Clan Owen, confronts Dominic when the fact he is helping himself to the Clan’s magic font comes to light. Meriel, having grown up in the Clan and surrounded by the magical culture, knows immediately that Dominic is her bond mate. Dominic, having been raised by his foster father to distrust all Clan witches, has no knowledge of the bonding phenomenon, but feels the pull to Meriel. As bond mates, their magic is designed to function better together. Despite the threats to her Clan and her personal safety, she refuses to rush Dom into a decision about accepting the bond, even though the strength of their magick would grow exponentially if they were to bond.

There is very little conflict between Meriel and Dominic. The conflict in the story is external in the form of a threat to the Clan, and to other non-affiliated witches. I liked the way Dom and Meriel worked together, letting each take the lead depending on what skills were needed to solve problems or complete tasks. Meriel and Dominic functioned as a team almost from the beginning.

The romance here is so hawt…and so sweet. These two connect and their bond continues to grow. They support each other, defend each other, love each other…Again, they come across as a team. I loved them separately and together.

Secondary characters abound. We get exactly the right amount of information about all of them, as required to further the story. Dominic’s partner, Simon, is next up. I can’t wait to read it!

Heart of Darkness reads as a PNR more than a UF. There is a lot of world building, as we learn the rules of this new venue. The world has enormous potential, as all manner of paranormals inhabit it. I can’t wait to see where the journey takes us. A very enjoyable read!
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Mar 09, 2012 Sarah rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: books-i-own-print, read-in-2012, for-review-read

3.5 Stars

Meriel is a coven witch and has been raised knowing that one day she will take over the role of running the Owen clan from her mother. As the future leader Meriel has to live up to her mother's high expectations of her which she doesn't always find easy and their relationship is quite strained at times. Before she can take over her place at the head of the clan she must become a full council member and she is unable to do that until she has met and joined with her bond-mate.

As they disc...more 3.5 Stars

Meriel is a coven witch and has been raised knowing that one day she will take over the role of running the Owen clan from her mother. As the future leader Meriel has to live up to her mother's high expectations of her which she doesn't always find easy and their relationship is quite strained at times. Before she can take over her place at the head of the clan she must become a full council member and she is unable to do that until she has met and joined with her bond-mate.

As they discover that witches across the country, both coven members and ones that prefer to go it alone, are disappearing Meriel's mother puts her in charge of the investigation. Meriel must find a way to work with other clans and lone witches to find out exactly what is happening and put a stop to it. She has also been given the task of contacting nightclub owner Dominic. It appears he has moved into the area and tapped into the Owen clan's magick without requesting permission and Meriel must get him to either join the clan or disconnect him from their magick supply.

Now I have to admit that I was a bit confused by some of the world building in Heart of Darkness. I'm not 100% sure how the clans share their magic, how bond-mates work and I was left with a few other questions too but I don't know if that is because some of these have been answered in a different series? This is the first book I've read by Lauren Dane and I did wonder if this is a spin off to one of her other series but I can't seem to find any confirmation of that on her website. Possibly because of my confusion I did find the story was a little slow moving at times, I was interested in the world but I seemed to spend a lot of time waiting for something to happen. The book probably could have been trimmed down quite a bit and been made into a much faster read and I think I would have enjoyed it more if it had been.

Having said that I did still enjoy the book. I really liked both of the main characters and I was pleased that they didn't immediately jump into a full on relationship despite the obvious chemistry between them and the fact that they are bond-mates. They took time to get to know each other properly and I enjoyed seeing them spend time together doing the things that normal couples do like going on a dinner date. Meriel is a strong woman who proved over and over again that she will be a force to be reckoned with as leader of the Clan. Dominic was an alpha who likes to be in control but he was also prepared to learn from Meriel where she had so much more magick experience than he did.

I really liked the relationships between Meriel and her best friend Nell and Dominic with his business partner Simon. Simon is a shape shifter and a character I want to see more of so I was pleased to discover the next book in the series is focused on him. Heart of Darkness is the start of a series that has a lot of potential and I'm looking forward to reading Chaos Burning when it releases in the summer. I'll also be checking out some of Lauren Dane's back list when I've reduced my to read pile a bit.(less)

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Apr 06, 2012 Kt from A Book Obsession.. rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Review originally posted on my blog: A Book Obsession..

Meriel has always known her path in life. Raised to be the next leader of a very powerful clan of witches, she has gone through extensive training for the power she will share with her bond mate. As part of her duties, she is sent to investigate a new club that is siphoning magick from her clan's font. Her life takes a turn for the interesting when she finds the club owner, Dominic, and realizes that he is her bond mate. Only he had a very d...more Review originally posted on my blog: A Book Obsession..

Meriel has always known her path in life. Raised to be the next leader of a very powerful clan of witches, she has gone through extensive training for the power she will share with her bond mate. As part of her duties, she is sent to investigate a new club that is siphoning magick from her clan's font. Her life takes a turn for the interesting when she finds the club owner, Dominic, and realizes that he is her bond mate. Only he had a very different upbringing than her and shuns all things clan and authority. As the pair try to work out their differences, magical attacks are happening right and left. And the latest threat will hit closer to home than either of them could have ever realized.

I was really into Heart of Darkness for about the first third to half of the book, but then things just became really redundant, and the book really started to drag. In fact the first part of the book was rather repetitive as well, but still entertaining enough to make me able to over look it. The characters just seemed to keep rehashing the same issues over and over. Meriel is strong and independent, yet will give Dominic the space he needs to come to his own decision. He is anti-clan, but is super sex-charged towards her, so maybe he will overlook his issues. That would have been fine and good if those ideas hadn't of been stated over and over again. It even bled into their sexual relations as we got to hear over and over how he was so hard and rough, but never with hurtful intent. I mean really? Did we really need that distinction made?

Now onto the "big bad" of the story. I had a really hard time seeing the threat in this woman, considering she seemed like a wasted junkie to me. However, I was especially annoyed at Dominic's behavior over the situation. He changed from a strong alpha male, into a little boy whining for his mommy (that he never knew), to the point where he pushes Meriel away. To be honest that conflict was thrown in as an afterthought to add some sexual tension. Also, why would the mother have waited so long to go after Dominic. If she really didn't know he was still alive, then how on earth did she figure it out that many years later? Seemed a little fishy to me.

Perhaps I'm being a little hard on the Heart of Darkness, especially when I look at all of the other positive reviews, but I was just so disappointed after the intriguing start. The world behind it all was quite intriguing, and I loved learning more about the witches and the rules behind it all. That all being said, and despite my issues with Heart of Darkness, I have a feeling I will still give the next installment a chance. It looks like it features Simon, and since he was one of the more intriguing and mysterious characters of this book, I'd love to get to know him a little better. Hopefully things will be a little better the second time around.
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Aug 06, 2012 Lesley (My keeper shelf) rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I love Lauren Dane's Brown Sibling's series which are seriously hot and full of drool worthy alpha males so when I saw that she had another newish paranormal romance series with drool worthy alpha males and witchy magic I knew I had to get reading.

Heart of Darkness wasn't quite what I expected, I was kind of worried the story was all over when Meriel met and fell for her bond mate Dominic pretty much at the start of the book. Thankfully though that was just the start of the real story.

Meriel wa...more

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Jan 22, 2012 Felicia (Ferishia) rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2011-amz-purchases, ebook, fav-author, 02-mrs-sauhcy-minhx, pr-shifter, pr-witch-or-wizard-or-warlock, pr-werewolf, 04-vesta-goddess-of-the-flame, 2012-book-i-read-this-year, kindle-ebook, law-enforcement, romance, series

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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Nov 08, 2011 Van rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: good-reads-first-reads

Won through Goodreads firs read program.

This is the first book that I have read by Lauren Dane. Heart of Darkness is the first book in a brand new series, and I truly enjoyed it. The book follows our main heroine, Meriel Owen who is the next in line to run the Owen witch clan. The book starts out with Meriel’s mother sending her out to investigate a situation in which someone is steal energy from the clan’s source (called the font). The investigation leads her to the Heart of Darkness’s club ow...more

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Jul 20, 2012 Kristen N. rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Praise to Lauren Dane for Heart of Darkness book of Bound by Magick series. Lauren Dane creates a magical world centered mainly around a witch clan called Clan Owen. Heart of Darkness is well written and Lauren Dane does a wonderful job with explaining the difference between magic and magick. In Heart of Darkness true witches are being hunted and disappearing in attacks by mages and turned witches. These attacks not only happen to Clan Owen, but Clan, coven and out clan(not associated with any g...more

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Dec 02, 2011 Bells rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Heart of Darkness focuses around the main character of Meriel Owen who is a witch that has been prepared for as long as she can remember to rule the all important Owen Coven. It's currently ruled by her mother who hasn't always been that maternal to Meriel, but always had her best interests at heart. Meriel has been placed in charge of contacting an outlaw witch that doesn't belong to any coven about taking power from the Owen Coven. Dominic Bright is the outlaw witch and when Meriel meets him f...more Heart of Darkness focuses around the main character of Meriel Owen who is a witch that has been prepared for as long as she can remember to rule the all important Owen Coven. It's currently ruled by her mother who hasn't always been that maternal to Meriel, but always had her best interests at heart. Meriel has been placed in charge of contacting an outlaw witch that doesn't belong to any coven about taking power from the Owen Coven. Dominic Bright is the outlaw witch and when Meriel meets him for the 1st time she is shocked to discover that he is her bond mate, the one witch meant for her. He realizes it as well and together their bond allows their magic to become stronger. They're also strongly attracted to one another and I loved that they didn't deny their feelings at all. They are meant to be together and after a couple of rough moments of Dominic being unsure of what direction he should follow, they are able to move forward.

What I loved most about this book was that Meriel's character was an example of a strong, intelligent woman! She manages to be her own person and make her own decisions even though her mother is kind of a legend in her world. Other authors could learn something about how to write a female character that they can be proud of. Excellent job Lauren Dane! I also liked Dominic's character because he was just as in awe of Meriel as I was. He stood back, watched her and learned so much from her. Another example of great character writing. He was proud of his woman and I couldn't help but smile while reading those scenes. His character was hesitant at first to bond with Meriel and after reading about his upbringing you can certainly understand why. He was taught from a very young age that belonging to a coven was not a good thing, but once he realizes what the coven truly stands for, he becomes a much stronger person. He also teaches Meriel a thing or two when it comes to using her power and there was a mutual respect between the two of them that I felt added strength to their relationship.

Heart of Darkness is the the beginning of a fascinating new world that's full of interesting, strong willed, strong minded characters. The only problem that I had with the book is that it was a little slow for me at the beginning. But it picked up quickly and from that point on I was sucked into the storyline. I'm looking forward to reading more in this new world that she has created that's full of magic and that showcases the magic of her storytelling. (less)

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Nov 29, 2011 Pamela / SpazP rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Originally posted at WickedLilPixie Reviews
What a nice new PNR gem Heart of Darkness is! Meriel Owen is second in head to Clan Owen, and she must visit a newcomer violating Clan rules by tapping in to the Magick source without asking Clan permission first. It turns out that violator is Dominic Bright, a smoking hot owner of the human and supernatural club Heart of Darkness. I adored Mariel right from the start. Because of her status and upbringing in the Clan, she could have come across as a tot...more Originally posted at WickedLilPixie Reviews
What a nice new PNR gem Heart of Darkness is! Meriel Owen is second in head to Clan Owen, and she must visit a newcomer violating Clan rules by tapping in to the Magick source without asking Clan permission first. It turns out that violator is Dominic Bright, a smoking hot owner of the human and supernatural club Heart of Darkness. I adored Mariel right from the start. Because of her status and upbringing in the Clan, she could have come across as a total bitch, but she charmed and flirted with the best of them and showed Dominic she was his match in all ways. She knew when and how to be forceful, yet still playful, too. She was highly intelligent and I just wanted her to really come out on top of this, and maybe wanted to secretly be her too. :P

Once she arrives at Heart of Darkness to reprimand Dominic and sees him across the room: boom. It’s on. Dominic is that fine dominant bad boy variety and from the moment the two characters see one another, the heat simmers. Throw in another very enticing character in to the scene and I was like, “Oh, I love this book.” And what do you know… turns Mariel and Dominic really are more than just simply hot for each other. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about who they were and why, and I enjoyed them learning to give the other one a chance with their trust and hearts.

The world building was quite well done. It was not overly complicated, but had enough oomph and unique twists to the way Magick works to keep it appealing. The supernatural element that brings Meriel and Dominic closer is very interesting, and discovering more about Clan versus un-Clan traditions and practices were well thought out. With this all being said, where Lauren Dane’s extraordinary abilities lie are with her relationship building. The couple could be in outer space, or at Disney World, and she consistently provides two compelling characters that I want to see win each other. She adds very real emotional elements that gave me goose bumps at one point, I just loved the true emotional journey this took me on. Lauren Dane always gives us highly sensual descriptions of her characters, and it will get your heart pumping!

If you are looking for a fast and fun sexy adult read, with endearing main characters very comfortable in their sensuality and a solid paranormal twist, look no further than Heart of Darkness. I will definitely be reading the second book in the series and I think this is a fantastic start to a new Paranormal Romance series. Way to go, Ms. Dane!(less)

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Heart of Darkness (Bound by Magick #1)

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