Running in the Dark

Running in the Dark #1

by Inger Iversen

Known as Trace to his enemies and friends,
this lethal Dhampir leaves no trace of his victims behind.

The life of deadly Russian slayer, Trace, has always revolved around death and preventing humankind from learning about the legendary creatures of the night. But now his position as a Watcher has become a prison, and dealing death for the Nation isn’t as prestigious as he once believed it to be.
College dropout Bessina Darrow has witnessed things she isn’t permitted to see, a simple case of wrong place at the wrong time puts her life in danger. When Bessina becomes his new mark, Trace is prepared to eliminate her—until he discovers a way out for them both.
Protecting Bessina means defying the leaders of the Nation, an act that has them both running for their lives. The more Trace fights to disappear from danger, the more he unravels the secrets surrounding his world of lore—secrets he must unveil to finally save a life, instead of destroy it.

Genres: Paranormal, Paranormal Romance, Fantasy, Vampires, Romance, New Adult, Young Adult

208 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 15, 2014

About the author

Inger Iversen lives in Virginia Beach with her tree-hugging boyfriend Joshua and her overweight lap cat Max. When not reading or writing she spends her time watching reruns of True Blood or killing zombies in Call Of Duty.

Reviews

[Becca · Rating 5 out of 5]

found this rather comical in places and a great romance as well. I have to admit the last portion was a bit of a surprise

[Shubba The Emo Reader]

Really want to read this, but can't seem to find it on amazon :(

[B*tchy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Decent read, but...

While this story had the elements needed, the pacing of the story was very uneven and the characters still felt one-dimensional. This is definitely a story that deserves fleshing out a bit more to reach its full potential.

[Karla Bostic · Rating 5 out of 5]

O M G this book was absolutely fantastic. I don't even know where to begin. It's an easy read. You get lost in the first few pages and don't want to put it down. The characters are so real and vibrant. I love the way they connect with one another. I love how the Author wrote this character as a shy innocent girl and she did such a superb job at it. Every thing that happens in this book is very easy to see it happening in the movie running through your head while reading. I love it when they take the time to explain what is really going on and don't just assume you will know this or that. She takes the time to lay out the plot and the story touches your heart. A forbidden love that starts out with danger and becomes a love story of all time. This particular book is about a woman of color and for her to be so strong sets such a great example. I truly enjoyed the plot and it kept me hooked till the last page. You gotta check this one out.

[Monica · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this young adult read. I thought that the story was interesting, it kept my interest and the characters were scenes were good. I also liked that this book was not like all the young adult/horror books and the vampire lore was slightly different. I was particularly impressed with how well Bessina's past was handled well. There were some things that I didn't like; I wish that Bessina had more conviction and that the characters romance was developed more (it felt like they had nothing in common and they were very contradictory), but the overall story and great "adult scene" scene outweighed any negatives.

Fav character: The beautiful yet deadly Russian assassin Vasily.

I look forward to the next book in the series!

[EbonyMonae · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an great paranormal book. I loved the named Bessina it was different. The story line was good it really drew the reader in. I was just looking for a little bit more for the author some major battle scene or something. I was not expecting for the book to end the way it did. This is my second book by this author. All in all it was well written book and its free on amazon so I recommend for you to read.

Happy Reading!!!!!

[Patricia · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

[K2 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this read. It has a little of everything, yet not all over the place. All of the characters are interesting in some fashion which has Mi looking forward to the next installments. Plus it's a fast read about 200 pages.

[Stephanie (Bookfever) · Rating 3 out of 5]

So first of all I want to thank the author, Inger Iversen for giving me one of her books again. I really appreciate it! This book was really a quick read for me. I finished it in no time (only one day) so yeah, I barely stopped reading. I simply had to finish it. (= a very good thing!)

Running in the Dark is not a conventional paranormal romance novel. Luckily for me I happen to love unconventional relationships. They're the best kind of romance in books I think, personally. And the romance in this book I really liked, which is no surprise when it comes to a book by Inger Iversen.

Trace and Bessina are the two lead characters. I don't know why but I just adore her name! And actually Trace's name too, which is his nickname and not his real name, although that was a nice one too. Anyway... they are two very different people but they fit together so well. And like I said their relationship wasn't conventional at all but they were thrown together and tried to make the best of it. I just loved the attraction between the two. That's one of the most important things in any book that has romance, chemistry.

You might think why didn't you give it a higher rating if you liked it so much? Three stars is not bad at all or anything but if I look at the story in its whole package, I just liked it. Lately I'm very critical with the books I'm reading and the truth is that it was a good story but I have to admit that I have read more amazing books and also some decisions the characters made were a bit perplexing but aside from that I did enjoy this story.

So overall, Running in the Dark by Inger Iversen is a good novel. I liked the characters and the story was pretty dark, just the way I like my books. I'd recommend it to people who love reading about vampires (Inger's vampires are always orginal!) and who like unconventional romances!

Oh and I also read the first chapter for book two which is about Echo and Via and I have to say that I am very intrigued by Echo. I have a feeling that I will like that book a whole lot more from what I read so far and also that cover is to die for!

[Madi ~☆TheBookNerdDiaries☆~]

*I received a review copy from Xpresso Tours in exchange for an honest review and this has in no way affected my review.*

I don't have much to say about this one so here we go...

I feel bad for DNF'ing so early on in the book but there's just no action in this. There was just nothing to make me care anything for the characters or what happened to them. There was no change in tone or really even the pace. It all just felt like one long boring story that nothing happened in. I mean sure, stuff happened. It wasn't just two people sitting around and talking or whatever but it sure felt like it.

Another thing that kind of bugged me was it's similarity to City of Bones. Both start out with a girl who witness some supernatural act of violence thing she shouldn't have and ends up (I am assuming for this book from my knowledge of the summary and what I read.) being a supernatural being/person herself. Then, the girl proceeds to fall in love with the one who did the act (Jace for COB, ?Trace? for this one. Hey, look! They even rhyme!).

Both of these things just didn't work out for me.

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really like the different political groups represented: The Vampire Nation, the Sect, and the Alliance. Bessina is a human pawn in their struggle for power and territory. Trace as a watcher is charged with disposing of Bessina after she witnesses something no human should- vampires. Trace sees something in her and he has a change of heart, letting her go. The vampire higher ups Rhys and Ivan are not happy with him. They try to set him up,but he keeps his eye on Bess to protect her. I loved how gentle and caring Trace is with Bess especially after learning about her past and her father. He is willing to do whatever to keep her safe-even marry her. As luck would have it(which there is definitely more to the story) Bess' father is next on the Vamp Nations "kill list" as the Sect leader. Bess is forced to confront her estranged father and the vamp nation in order for her and Trace to be free of everyone. I can see love blooming between them, forced together for protection and by attraction-I think they have a pretty good chance.

[Boundless Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Paranormal is one of my favorite genres, but lately I must admit I’ve become bored with it and began exploring others. I was becoming tired of the repeated aspects of the genre. This was a surprise and I am glad I choose to read it. First, I love the originality this story offers. Inger Iversen made me love Paranormal Romance again. Thank you for that.

The author’s talent brought the characters of the pages and into my life. I felt I was there, watching the story first hand. I felt everything for the character, including love, and at times, hate. In short, a wonderful read, excellent writing, and story that takes readers into the pages, and the action. I also love the cover. Running in the Dark easily deserves 4 Boundless Stars. 

http://www.boundlessbookreviews.com

https://www.facebook.com/BBReviews

[Meranda Thomas · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ok

Another okay read. This book had some elements of being a great read, but fell flat on its face. Felt like it could have been an action packed angst read but it just couldn't live up to its own hype. The sex scenes were lackluster and I'm sorry but I expect a hell of punch when it comes to steam in a vampire romance read. When I think vampire romance novels, I think you have to make sure you are excellent at world building and character building as well. I just didn't get that from this book. For me the dhampir hero was too young and new to the vampire world. There was absolutely nothing dark, dangerous or 'touch my woman/mate and I will kill you a thousand times over' about the hero. Just wasn't my cup of tea. Again the story had promise but fell way short for me.

[Alexandra · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. Review can be found on *Milky Way of Books*

Even if it weren't for the gorgeous cover (in which you have an amazing model) I would still read the book. Although at first I thought that it had to do only with werewolves, there is a plethora of paranormal creatures in this story. Trace and Bessina try to survive together in a world full of enemies with lots of hidden secrets and sizzling romance.

I liked both of them, but mostly I liked how the heroine was a dark skinned woman. We don't see many of them in both of YA and NA and for that the books wins points.

If you like a paranormal novel for the NA audience then this is for you. :)

[Charmer (Whatcha Reading) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked Bessina and Trace, but I found out while listening to this book that I don't like Russian accents. The narrator was good and his accent was good, but that accent is not for me. Bessina's religious views were interesting. I don't share her views but I know someone who does and from time to time we respectfully have discussions about our views. I want to know more about The Sect and The Vampire Nation. Sounds like that will be interesting. And what was really going on with her mother and father? I will check out the next book. Thanks for the read.
I was given this book for an honest review.

[XxTainaxX Curvy and Nerdy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Watcher falls in love with his mark and it's very interesting to see it happen. I didn't know if I would like the story at first, thinking that it was easy to fall into the stereotypical scenarios for the trope but I was pleasantly surprised. I like the characters. The development was well paced. The loving, well written. Bessina was relatable and Trace was hot. I look forward to reading more about this world that Inger has created.

[EroticaAfterDark (Lilith)]

SAVE $3

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU

[Dalene · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, I would like to thank the author Inger Iversen for giving me this book for an honest review. I enjoyed the book. The world building is nicely done. The story-line is very good. The characters are well developed and written. I look forward to reading more from this author.

[ILoveToRead · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good Read, BUT
This was a sweet BWWM paranormal book about a vampire and the woman he was supposed to kill. Enjoyable read with minor editing errors.

[Jessica · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really liked this book when I started reading. I was surprised at how well written it came across. But then there were parts that seemed to jump around. I had to check a couple of times to make sure that this was in fact a first book in a series. Since there were back story things that just didn't line up or makes sense in terms of the story as a whole. Also, I felt the ending was extremely rushed. I will not be continuing this series.

[Michelle VanDaley · Rating 4 out of 5]

My review is based on the audiobook. I listened to Book 2 before book 1. I really loved how Trace and Bessina's relationship developed through the story. The world this author has created is different than most others out there and I really like that. The narrator was good at bringing the story to life. I am excited to read more from this author

[Kiru Taye · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's been a while since I read a new adult story and this was great, brought alive by the audio narration.

[Da'ad · Rating 2 out of 5]

Started our really interesting and enjoyable but ultimately not as much. Still an OK read in my opinion

[Imani Zoe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It would love to see the book become a series... just sayin'!! xx

[Gia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally posted here on my blog.

If you love the paranormal, or ever wondered what goes on in the vampire underworld that may, or may not exist in real life, then you will enjoy this book.

Now, I am not the biggest vampire-based/concept fan in the world, but I do love strong story and universe structure. At times, I forgot I was even reading a book about vampires, which means the story and characters were so immersive that I didn’t notice and I love that.

Out of everything, the intensity and chemistry between Bessina and Trace is definitely the driving force within this book, never mind the fact that the two of them are running for their lives! XD If I had to put a level or peg their heat meter, I’d say it’s between 3 ½ – 4 out of five.

As a fan of the slow-burning relationships, I was pleasantly surprised with the way Bessina and Trace’s relationship developed. The story timeline of the book is set to take place in a matter of 24 hours (roughly), but the author’s pacing and individual character explanation made it feel longer. The readers get to see both of their perspectives unfold as the story continues, painting clear mental and emotional paths of their journey ahead.

While I enjoyed Bessina’s inquisitive and resilient nature, Trace was the true focus of this book due to his level of character development. I also felt it was because we just hit the surface of Bessina’s character development in this book.

I found that the seriousness of Bessina’s sexual assault and the destructive emotional abuse she endured from her father growing up (both major points) took a back seat in the narrative. Although we deal with quiet a short timeline in the book, it would have been nice if more time were spent on Bessina’s emotional development.

Yes, she discuses things with Trace, but it did not feel as though Bessina truly gets over those key emotional character beats. Instead, it felt as though she swept them under the rug and fell head first into her relationship with Trace.

I’m not saying that their connection wasn’t strong or genuine, but I definitely think her character still needs to face her demons from the past to find true inner peace. I hope to see a greater emotional development from her in the books to follow. I can’t wait for the next book. :-)

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Jules The Book Junkie Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Running in the Dark by Inger Iversen is new adult paranormal fiction. The premise of the story is creative and unique. It is a refreshing, and much needed, new take on paranormal fiction.

Running in the Dark tells the story of Bessina, a 19 year-old girl who is running away from her problems, only to run into more and bigger problems when she witnesses the death/suicide of two vampires.

Iversen has created an interesting world where humans, vampires and half-vampires (dhampir) co-exist but most humans are unaware of the vampires’ existence. Iversen has incorporated paranormal political intrigue into her fictional world as well.

Main character, Bessina, has a dark history that is fully developed. She is a likable, empathetic character. Trace, a dhampir, is something of a grim reaper, albeit an increasingly reluctant one. He’s devastatingly handsome and good at his job. He makes sure that when humans, like Bessina, happen upon a vampire incident, all witnesses are eliminated.

Of course, our hero, Trace, sees something in Bessina that inspires him to be less lethal than usual. Choices like that decide the path of your future. The timeline of the story is very, very short, consequently the plot moves along at a rapid pace. There is a complex mix of people, organizations and issues that determine Bessina and Trace’s fate, but I won’t ruin the fun of the read by including spoilers!

Running in the Dark is an innovative and worthy read, and it is sure to be a hit with fans of paranormal and fantasy fiction.

Thanks to Xpresso Book Tours for the opportunity to read and review. Visit the Book Junkie Reviews blog for more recommendations: https://abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com

[Les Chroniques Aléatoires · Rating 4 out of 5]

Voici un livre qui su me tenir en haleine. Quoique, en haleine, hum… non pas vraiment mais me donner envie d’en savoir plus, ouais !
Ici nous sommes dans un monde où vampires et humains cohabitent difficilement. Et afin de bien gérer la crise, il existe une sorte de « police » des deux mondes : les Sect (la police humaine) et les Vampires Nations (la police vampire). Leur rôle à tous les deux est de s’assurer que l’harmonie (aussi fragile qu’elle soit) reste parfaite.

Dans ce premier tome, nous avons Bessina et Trace. Tous deux appartiennent à ces deux mondes. On dirait même qu’il s’agit d’une version vampire de Roméo et Juliette en moins drama.
J’ai vraiment apprécié l’histoire car c’est sans prise de tête, il est agréable à lire et les scènes de cul sont tellement minimaliste que ça en devient adorable. Et ce qui m’a plu aussi dans le livre, ce sont les prota. AUCUNE PRISE DE TÊTE ! Mon dieu, j’ai pu vivre un jour et demi sans me poser de question sur l’avenir des prota et ce malgré le peu d’élément qu’il y avait sur eux. On les voient évoluer sans précipitation, sans stress. Whoua !

Bessina a vécu quelque chose d’assez dur pour son âge, alors que Trace (aka Nathaniel, Watcher de fonction => céréale killer pour le compte des Vampires Nations), ben il est pour être là. Mais mine de rien, les deux ensemble forme un bon couple et ce que est bien avec eux, c’est que c’est la femme qui dirige ! Oh yeah !
En conclusion, Running in the Dark n’est pas un mauvais livre, au contraire. Par contre, je ne pourrais pas dire que c’est THE book à avoir.
Inger Iversen à un style qui me plait en écriture. Fluide, lisible, intéressant. J’adore. Hâte de voir la suite.

[Allie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review is for the audio version of this book.

Bessena witnesses a Vampire suicide which is overseen by a Watcher named Trace, who is a Dhampir. Watchers jobs are to be sure that there are no witnesses in order to protect the secrecy of vampire existence.

While tracking down Bessena to try to kill her to wipe out any witnesses, which is part of vampire law, Trace and Bessena develop a connection. I am hesitant to go in to any more detail for fear of giving away too much of the plot. There are multiple POV's but it is primarily from Bessena and Trace's POV.

The narration by Kevin Theis and production wasn't my favorite. The background was a little fuzzy but I’ve heard worse, I am just used to a higher quality production. Also the narrator chose to use one voice for anything other than direct quotes. So even if he was narrating Bessena's thoughts he would use the same voice for narrating Trace's thoughts. It just required me to pay close attention to who was "thinking."

I do not think it is worth a credit but I do believe it is worth buying if can get it for a reduced price and if you are interested in stories with a twist on Dhampir and Vampire stories. I do plan on reading more books in this series.

I received this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Angel Hatfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

**I received an ARC of this story in exchange for an honest review**
Vessina was going to her aunt's in Ohio. Vessina had seen two people on fire. She didn't realize they were vampires. Trace's job was death. He could tolerate sunlight even though it was painful and now Vessina had to die for what she had seen. Trace was a watcher. When vampires decided to end their life, a watcher was there to make sure all went as planned and that there were no witnesses. Trace was not a full vampire. His mom was human. Trace was growing tired of his job.

Vessina had been physically and mentally hurt, no one taking her side. Vessina's best friend turned her back on Vessina, but Vessina was strong and walked away to start anew. She was honest, loyal, and true. She did what she had to do and then she met Trace. I loved all of the characters in this story.

I hope to read the next story that I got an except of at the end of this one. The plot and overall story was great. I highly recommend.

[Tasha Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an ARC of this story, in exchange for an honest review.

I gave this book 5 stars. Having never read anything by Inger Iverson, i wasn't sure what to expect as i delved into this story.

As stated in previous reviews, too many paranormal romances books rehash the same plots and leave you bored before you have even started but this, was something different. It was fresh and innovative and invites you get lost in it's pages. It is one of those books that grips you from the very beginning and keeps you enthralled until the very last!

The sizzling chemistry between Trace and Bessina is very hard to resist and keeps you wanting to turn the pages to find out how this unorthodox relationship pans out.
This book is a very well written read that i would recommend to all adult lovers of Paranormal Romance.