Dark Affiliations

Helena Hawthorn #5

by May Freighter

Fairy tale endings aren’t real.
Moving in with Lucious was meant to be Helena’s happily ever after. She gave up everything for him, but he’s no longer the same man he used to be. The arrival of two European delegates proves to be more than their strained relationship can handle. One wrong move and the soul-bond they share could become a prison for eternity.

Maya has received orders to return to the Demon Realm. Queen Baal is ready to step down and name a successor, but the princess is nowhere to be found. To bring the princess back before the nobles take matters into their grabby hands, Maya is forced to work with her demon fiancé. With the princess gone, the throne in danger, and an archdemon loose on the realm, Maya and Eirik have to put aside their differences and work together. Easy peasy, right?

Genres: Paranormal, Fantasy

415 pages, Paperback

Published April 11, 2018

About the author

May Freighter is an award-winning, internationally bestselling author from Ireland. She writes Fantasy, Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, and Sci-Fi Mysteries that will keep you entertained, mystified, and hopefully craving more. Currently, she's attempting to parent two little monsters and hasn't slept in over 4 years.

Who needs sleep these days, anyway?

On days when May can join her fictional characters on an adventure, stars must align in the sky and meteors will probably rain down. So keep an eye out.

Her hobbies are photography, drawing, plotting different ways of characters' demise, and picking up toys after her kids. Not exactly in that order, either.

Sign up to May's Urban Fantasy Newsletter and get DESIRED for free here!

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Website: https://mayfreighter.carrd.co/
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/May-Freighter/...
FB page: https://www.facebook.com/authormayfre...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mayfreighter/

*****
HELENA HAWTHORN SERIES:
- Alexander: Memoirs (Prequel)
- Russian Roulette
- Demon Gates
- Crumbling Control
- Desired (Spin-off Novella)
- Alexander: Monochrome Interview
- Fated Origins
- Cherished (Spin-off Novella)
- Dark Affiliations
- Blood Witch
- Twisted Truths
- TBA

*****
ANNALISE STORM CHRONICLES:
- Case: 0
- Case: 1
- Case: 2

*****
EMPIRE OF SHATTERED CROWNS
- Queen of Deception
- Queen of Ashes
- Queen of Hope
- Queen of Hearts
- Queen of Dante
- Queen of Vows
- Queen of Revelations (TBA)
- Queen of Sacrifice (TBA - Final)

Reviews

[Lyn Mckenzie]

I am a big fan of this author's work and I really adore this series!!!! This book did not disappoint!!!

This is a super exciting storyline that leaves you guessing at every corner!!! One of the things that i really loved about this book is how you hear from numerous characters point of view, that way you don't just hear the facts of the story, you hear it from different perspectives, with the emotions and feeling that happen throughout this thrilling and exciting book. This is a story that keeps you guessing!!! It is essential that the previous books in this series are read before this book as it will make so much more sense when reading this book.

I really feel for Helena in this book, she has some real fears about the life that she now finds herself in, she wouldn't change who she loves but didn't realise how things would be. You also can't help but feel for Lucious, he has so many pressures on his shoulders and is unsure of so many things, he wants to keep everyone safe, especially Helena although he still finds it hard to let others in.

I seriously recommend this book and this author, most definitely a must read

[Cath]

This is book five of the Helena Hawthorn series and things should have been getting a bit easier for Helena and Lucious now they have moved in together, into the new vampire council digs, but life is never that easy. The Royals have moved on elsewhere, leaving Lucious and Hans as the only Councilmen in the UK. They need to gather more allies, to get the European delegates to support them and submit to the rule of the council, especially after what happened to many of their numbers under Arthemis and his children, the Royals. Helena finds her stay there not exactly pleasant, as she and her fellow human Perri, find the hounds and other vampires in the mansion are not very nice to them. Lucious suddenly finds himself challenged for his position on the council and must fight an unknown vampire, in a fight to the death, but one in which someone else is clearly orchestrating matters! In the midst of all this, two delegates arrive from Italy, brother and sister, Celia and Ilario Genovese. They want Lucious to come to Italy and sort out an issue they have with some unusual vampire deaths, but also try to get Lucious to pay them attention in return for their influence with other clans in Europe! Lucious is kind of busy with these challenges, which seem to all be combining with other attacks and this unannounced visit. Someone is coordinating all of these incidents and clearly have power and witchcraft, he knows nothing of.

Helena is not enjoying her time in the mansion, especially with Lucious having to spend so much time with the visitors and sending her away when he had his first challenge, without telling her anything. Ilario keeps her company, feeding on her dissatisfaction with Lucious concentrating all his time on the council and his work for them. Helena and Lucious’ relationship is becoming more and more strained and she wonders if becoming soul bound again, was really the right move. She clearly had no idea how much he might change under the pressure of his new responsibilities. He tries to get Alexander to join the council, but he is happier being on the outside and continuing to gather information and keep up a network of spies. Alexander must find out where the secret files are, which hold the list of all vampires in Europe, after Eliza burnt down the former council building destroying the records there. The rest of the records were kept by three different vampires, but it seems this other group already know about them and are looking to get that information from them. Rumours of a new Order, who are seeking information about a dragon for some unknown magical ritual, are worrying to Lucious, as it seems they are willing to pervert the rule of the council and wish to have a new order rule the lives of vampires!

Maya got called back to the Demon Realm by Queen Baal, who ordered her to get Princess Amaenagh back, as she was about to give up her throne! Maya finds the princess has fallen in love with a human called Kyle, who Maya had locked away the Archdemon Tanatos within! Maya herself is still in love with the Hunter Ben, who was her mentor and trainer, until she got pulled into the body of the demon Lazarus, when they had accompanied Helena to the Demon Realm to kill him and free them both. Now she is stuck as a demon, with all of Lazarus’ memories and his position within the demon hierarchy. She has been promised in marriage to another demon, Eirik, but has been allowed thirty years before she will have to do so, allowing her time to be with Ben. But now she needs Eirik’s help to find the princess and get her back to the demon realm as soon as possible! Baal knows she has to give up her throne and very soon, according to the prophecy she has been told of by the Oracle, who has been around for many previous kings and queens of the realm. Big changes are coming and Maya finds herself working closely with Eirik, but nothing turns out quite as she hoped. Nor do matters go much better for Helena and Lucious, as they find themselves pulled into a tricky situation, with Helena beginning to resent Lucious and his new role, whilst he tries to please everyone and finds himself failing at keeping the person he loves safe! Danger seems to be coming from all sides for our favourite characters and there are some very disturbing scenes at the end of this book. Makes me want to read the next book as soon as I can, to see what will happen next. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.

[Linda Levine]

This series has really kept me eager for more. Lucious and Helena have faced so many challenges to be together. They think their path is set now but some have other ideas that can jeopardize their happiness.

I highly recommend the series and you really do need to read each one.

I love how the author keeps surprising us with new twists and challenges. Helena has had to give up a lot to be with Luscious and he in return has made a huge commitment with his new role in vampire society.

The romance feels very real as you get to experience their ups and downs thru both of their points of view. They are such a great couple and really bring out each other's strengths. They also open themselves up to their enemies by being so open with their love.

I enjoy still seeing Maya too and learning about her struggles. She is not with Helena this time around.. She is trying her best to adjust to a very new life as a demon and it brings her a lot of pain. I am hoping she will be back to interact with Helena again. I really like seeing them work together.

I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.

[Emily Pennington]

Helena Hawthorn loved her beautiful new home in the European Council’s castle gifted to them by the Royal Vampires. Her friend, Perri, was also one of the lucky ones allowed to stay there. Helena’s boyfriend, Lucious, came by to escort them to meet guests in the dining room, and she noted that the other vampires still glared at her, not liking humans messing in their affairs. With one of her other friends being a demon, humans didn’t accept her very well either.

Meeting Abigail, Helena and Perri made plans with her to join up in London for some fun. The men were not comfortable, but they agreed since security would be tripled and a personal driver assigned to them.

At the end of the evening, Grim presented Lucious with a challenge card. This was to be a fight to the death for the seat of power as Councilman. Lucious was soul-bonded with Helena – he had to win or lose everything!

Very well written, this book was a wonderful read! The intrigue and suspense keeps the reader enthralled and eager to find out more. Highly recommended.

[SA]

I can continue reading this series forever! So, happiness is a myth and problems continue to haunt Helena and Lucious as a couple as from time to time Lucious feels compelled to prioritize Council business. As new dangers and challenges appear and the relationship starts to crack, will their love be enough to keep them together? Not surprisingly, there are new interesting characters introduced in here which will keep you wanting to know more. I loved how the book proceeded as a compilation of three separate (yet in a strange way connected) movie scenes, one pivoting on Helena and Lucious and the dangers targeting the Council, one on Alexander and Abigail and their mission, and lastly, one centering on Maya and the Demon Dimension. You will be united with each of your favorite characters. And, now I have to wait for the fifth book. That is the only bad news. I absolutely love this series.

[Amy]

The 5th book in the Helena Hawthorn series is my favorite so far. Of course I might say that after each one I've read. But this one really takes the cake. May Freighter has outdone herself. Reading this book was like reading three books at once with all of the different points of view. And all three are fabulous. I don't want to put any spoilers in here (and it's really hard) so let me just say that if you have read the four previous books in the series, then you MUST read this one. You will love it! And now I sit anxiously waiting for the next installment. Oh please, Ms. Freighter, don't make us wait long!

[Lorella Piras]

I'm a huge fan of May Freighter's Helena Hawthorn Series - it's dark but also full of beautiful world-building and memorable characters.

The romance is definitely a big part of the story, but May still somehow manages to weave an exciting story that has so many different facets that the romance doesn't overwhelm the rest of the plot.

The author is successful in building a world of his fantasy, with convincing storyline and matured characters. It's a must read for anyone who still believes in the magic words can create!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kristen Lewendon]

I don’t know that I had an idea where this story was going to take me, but I certainly wasn’t expecting any of what I got out of this book. Filled with lies, double-crosses, and betrayal, this story is pretty much non-stop action from beginning to end. That “good place” I thought Helena and Lucious were in lasted about as long as it took for me to read the title. I hated to see the angst and stress they were dealing with, but my drama-loving heart ate it up. I can’t even begin to guess what they’re going to face next, but I’m dying to find out.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author.

[Mi]

Awesome piece of work. The plot and storyline is pieced together without any cracks or loopholes. The whole book shows the deep and strong emotions that run in the hearts of good or bad. It shows a great adventure ahead. Just don´t forget three boxes of tissues. It is full of excitement and a ride for the unexpected it makes it well known from first page. I wish I could jump into story to help them but it is impossible so I will watch them from side as they do their miracles.

Work of May Freighter is one of best books I had read.

[Caroline Doig]

This is book 5 of The Helena Hawthorn series and it’s a fantastic addition to the series. This is not a standalone you do need to read the other books to understand everything. Helena has given up everything for Lucious but things between them are very strained and it doesn’t look like things will get better sometimes love doesn’t conquer all!. I loved this book there’s action, twists and turns, love and so much more that you won’t be able to put it down, I couldn’t!. A fantastic read and I highly recommend this book it’s definitely well worth the read.

[Alina]

This was an enjoyable read. The pacing was steady and the flow from start to finish was seamless.
The characters are believable and well fleshed out. I enjoyed it tremendously. I just had a few issues with how some characters would communicate with one and other. Secrets are a 'no-no'.
With that being said,I would most certainly of loved for this to of been expanded into another book or two, but it still stands well on its own.

[Cheryl]

Vampires and demons....a fight for power...
I found this an easy read. It flows nicely from one group to another without getting lost.
This is fine as a stand-alone, but it makes you curious as to what happened in the other books. Since I haven’t read them, I certainly will now!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tanya]

it was supposed to be a fairy tale when she moved in with him but it wasn't. she had given up everything for him but it didn't seem to matter to him so when 2 others comes their relationship could be made worse. what is about to happen? will it all work out? find out by reading

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cátia]

And the plot increases the expectation... Helena went from an innocent student girl to a woman lifemated with the vampire Lucious and prepared to face all obstacles ahead. This book is an introduction/ preparation for the one after this, the one where (finally!) Helena will embrace her witch roots! Can't wait to read Blood Witch!

[Raina]

This book just pulls all of my emotions. Another heart wrenching story to an amazing series. Vampires, witches, ghouls, demons and some amazing humans make this an action packed and emotional roller coaster of a story. Death and betrayal are every where. Lots of unexpected twists and a few hot scenes.

I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of the book.

[Suzanne Withers]

An excellent addition to the series as Helena's relationship with Lucious is getting strained and they navigate the many twists and turns they encounter. Maya and Erik also have many hassles to overcome. There is plenty of action and drama throughout this well written story. I enjoyed it immensely.

I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Karen]

I loved this engaging storyline that will keep you riveted to the pages. There is uncertainty, and Helena and Lucious's happiness is threatened, priorities are questionable, action, suspense, multiple POV are written in these pages.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lisa Eiff]

I really enjoyed reading this edition of the Helena Hawthorn series. It's filled with adventure, captivating characters, and interesting supernatural situations all the way through. I'd recommend this book to readers that are fans of paranormal fantasy reads that contain vampires and demons.

[Lucinda]

This was a great book. I really enjoyed it. It is interesting, well written with great characters. The story flows well and the plot is entertaining. I would really recommend this series to all!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tina LeJeune]

Just as the title suggest this was a darker time for Lucious and Helena but I still loved it. The author always delivers tons of action and suspense. I love this series and can’t wait for what’s next.

[Dawn M. Curtis]

The series continues to evolve adding new characters and plot twists as well as our main characters. Still holds your interest and keeps you wanting more!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Hanna Belle]

This series is killing me, I just want Helena to have a happy ending with her true love!! I am so hooked on this series, I keep reading and reading it!

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Pat]

gripping and thrilling, characters were amazing throughout this series. Definitely a page turner with the characters and I would highly recommend this book

[Nadea Croix]

It thought it was exciting and enchanting read, the storyline was well thought out along with some steamy scenarios and hiden secrets as it unfolds, I liked reading it.

[Cathie McManus]

What a great book. Lots of action. The different characters are interwoven. Action, change & hope fill this story. It left me wanting more.

[Melissa (missy)]

This is a exciting story line that leaves you guessing at every corner.
The Characters and world building was very well done

[Silver Surfer]

This is another great book by a fantastic author. Will Lucious and Helena ever aspire to greater things? Have to read on to find out. Roll on book six. Highly recommended.

[Lene Blackthorn]

As I read on , this series is getting better and better. No weaker points in the flow. No decline in the quality level.
This book was as good as the previous ones, and even better.
Helena and Lucious have been already through a lot, fighting for their love and their own place in the world. It seemed that they finally have gotten it right and maybe the HEA was coming fast - but no. New challenges emerged, new hard decisions were to be made. Both of them are fighters, not giving up on those they love, and the romantic bond between them will overcome any obstacle thrown at them - but they have to fight really hard to succeed.
There was lot of action and drama in the book, entangled with the emotional side of the story. I enjoyed both equally, as much as seeing how both protagonists were still able to grow, although the reader is already familiar with them after reading the previous installments.
This world still has much to offer, and with such a twisting storyline, any tale set into this world will be highly intriguing. Great read.

[Nilda Cruz]

Great book like always from a great author like May Freighter. Helena and Lucious are at danger zone again. Now they are living in a castle with the European Council. Can Lucious handle the job of councilman? Will Helena support him. The action, servival, love and friendship continues. This is a have to read. I can not wait to read the next book!!!!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[A_MOTUS]

Messy, savage, powerful! Not long-ago Helena was just a regular uni student, now she is a major player in the supernatural politics. And with her she brings her friends to the key position on first line. Not much to say apart from the fact I can’t wait for blood witch.