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Librarian Note: This is an alternate cover edition of ASIN: B005CRY8NQ. The original cover edition can be found here.

A Daring Rescue Emma Paulsen is a geneticist driven by science. But she's also a psychic, so when a dark, good-hearted vampire frees her from the clutches of the evil Kurjans, she realizes he must be the man who's been haunting her dreams. But with a virus threatening vampires' mates, Emma may discover a whole new meaning of "lovesick".

A Deadly Decision As King of the Realm, Dage Kayrs has learned to practice diplomacy. Still, it's taken three hundred years to find his mate, so he'll stop at nothing to protect her—even if it means turning his back on his own kind...

354 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 25, 2011

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About the author

Rebecca Zanetti

118 books9,909 followers
New York Times, USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Rebecca Zanetti has published more than seventy novels and novellas, which have been translated into several languages, with millions of copies sold world-wide. Her books have received Publisher’s Weekly and Kirkus starred reviews, favorable Washington Post and New York Times Book Reviews, and been included in Amazon best books of the year.

Rebecca has ridden in a locked Chevy trunk, has asked the unfortunate delivery guy to release her from a set of handcuffs, and has discovered the best silver mine shafts in which to bury a body…all in the name of research. Honest.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 639 reviews
Profile Image for Jessica's Totally Over The Top Book Obsession.
1,223 reviews3,672 followers
February 25, 2021
5 Long Live the King Stars

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“Don’t let me fall.” Her breath hitched as she said the words. “Never.”-Emma and Dage

Some Spoilers

First read Dec 15 2014
reread Nov 21 2016
Rereread 2/12/2018
Reread 2/25/2021

“I should have known the Queen of the Realm would be a pain in my ass.”-Dage

Claimed the 2nd book in the Dark Protectors series was as amazing as the first book! This book picks up right where Fated left off. Dage is going after Emma who was kidnapped by the Kurjans. With war looming and virus 27 threatening vampires' mates Emma and Dage have their hands full as they start their life together. I loved this book just as much if not more than the first one. Rebecca Zanetti did a great job of getting me completely connected with this world, these characters, their families, love stories, and lives.

“Not used to the word no?” she asked with a hint of sarcasm. He narrowed his gaze. “Most people wouldn’t dare.” The fact that she’d dared made him harder than he’d been in his long life. The urge to teach her the result of tempting his beast was one he’d satisfy. Without question. “I would think most kings aren’t. However, you are not my king, either by birth or fealty.”-Emma and Dage

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“I’ll give you time, Emma. But if you think I’m letting you go, you’ve misread me.”-Dage

What is sexier than a strong super powerful vampire king ? Nothing!!! Dage was charming, sexy, bossy as only a king can be and super protective. He tried to give Emma space and respect her choices but in the end if her life was in danger Dage is a king use to calling the shots. He had no problem pulling rank on his new queen! Dage has the weight of the world on his shoulders and his pleasure and happiness is his mate. His love for Emma was intense. Emma' a protector. She has protected her sister Cara, her mom, and Janie her whole life. I loved that she wanted to protect the one man that everyone else looks to for protection. Emma was very sassy, independent, and smart. She didn't take orders especially from the king. Emma was the perfect mate for a hard headed king!

“I’m with the man, not the king. The king can kiss my ass.” -Emma

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“Then what? Well ... then I’m going to bend you over this desk and fuck you until you scream my name.” -Dage

Emma and Dage had a very passionate love. They had many battles of the wills because Dage was use to everyone following his every order and Emma doesn't do orders well! Even though they butted heads at times they had a sweet loving relationship. This book has double the action, wars, viruses, and tons of steamy hot sex.... All the favorite characters that I fell in love with in the first book are back in this book, as well as a few new ones. The plot kept me on edge the whole book. The stuff going on with Cara and Talen was ripping my heart out. Janie was cute as ever and I loved getting to know Conn, Kane, and Jase better. Great book for a great series! I can't wait to read Conn and Moria's book.

"He did it for my mate. Eating a virus that might kill him. For my mate." A pebble skipped across the cement when Talen kicked it. "I don't know whether to hug him or punch him in the face." Dage grinned. "Hell. It's Kane. Do both."-Talen and Dage

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Profile Image for Sophia Triad.
2,241 reviews3,738 followers
February 13, 2017
Dage & Emma

The storytelling about the true love between Cara’s older sister and the King of the Realm has started in the previous book.

Emma has been dreaming about Dage for years, while Dage has been dreaming about Emma for centuries. Both of them should have been prepared to accept each other. Unfortunately they have to work on it.

Emma is a strong-minded girl who has been always fought for her independence and for survival. She has always been responsible for her little sister and her little niece’s welfare. The sisters were abused during childhood and they lost their parents very young. Emma has played the role of both their mother and father. Moreover, she is a top scientist, a geneticist who partly blames herself for the worst virus ever discovered against vampire mates. She acts with her brain, not with her heart and she wants to fix anything that she broke by mistake. Consequently, there is no chance that she will submit to the King of the Realm, become his mate and the Queen of the Realm. At least, not without fighting.

Dage is the eldest of the Kayrs. He has watched his parents die when he was in his mid twenties and as a result he became the King of the Realm – a job he did not really wanted. 300 years have passed. Dage has survived a bloody war against Kurjans and a fragile peace between the species. Now a new war is about to start and his fated mate is not willing to join him. Unfortunately, he will have to endure a war in the bedroom as well. Not that he really minds the fighting.

Emma: “You need to listen to me. I don’t want this life- I’m not staying…..After we find a cure for Cara, I’m moving on.”
Dage: “You’re adorable.”


Emma and Dage’s love story will be tangled with the story of the survival of the species. Ruthless Kurjans have started bioterrorism attacks. A new biological weapon, which alters the DNA, transforms shifters to werewolves and vampire mates to humans.

Lots of action,
steamy bedroom scenes,
vampires, werewolves, Kurjans, prophets, demons and witches

After the unbalanced start of book 1, I believe book 2 has given the series the right push to move them forward.
Profile Image for Jen.
1,655 reviews1,156 followers
April 6, 2020
*** 3.5 Stars!!!***

I am finding it really hard to read and concentrate on any books right now with what is going on in the world right now. I am amazed that it has taken me a week to read this book! In no way is it the quality of the story or writing though; it’s simply very hard for me to relax and let my mind fully connect into the world the author has created. In saying that, I am liking this series, I just wish I could give it my 100% attention like it deserves!

I also wish to say to all my Goodreads friends... stay safe and healthy. You all are in my prayers and if anyone of you feels alone and overwhelmed, I am definitely here for you if you need to chat. God Bless you all.❤️
Profile Image for Ꮗ€♫◗☿ ❤️ ilikebooksbest.com ❤️.
2,824 reviews2,622 followers
January 19, 2024
The King and Queen of the vampires!



The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙🖤💚❤️
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙📘📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌍🌎
Character development: 😔😃😤🥰

The heroine: Emma - she is a brilliant geneticist and sister to Emma from Fated in addition to being psychic. She is able to see the future in her visions and has been having visions of Dage for years. With him she sees his past. He is over 350 years old and has been King since his parents died when he was 25. Emma knows that he means for her to be his mate, but she is fiercely independent and will be submissive to no man.

The Hero: Dage - he is King of the vampires and a protector of the Sanguisuga race. The Sanuisuga are at war with the Kurjans, a race of monsters who can’t go out in sun, they have been doing genetic experiments to try to fix the gene that doesn’t allow them to go out in the sun. The Kurjans have also perfected a solution that can turn a Sanuisuga mate back into a human female that can then be mated to a Kurjan. The Kurjans have been systematically trying to find and steal all human females with abilities to mate with and grow their numbers.

The Story: When the Kurjans captured Emma and have her on a helicopter bound for Nunavut in Canada and the evil Kurjan leader named Franco who will make her life miserable, Dage rescues her, but Emma is determined to get back to her own life. Emma ends up working on the virus the Kurjans have created to try to find a cure since some of the females have been infected.

I liked the storylines in this, and the world building is great. There is a growing storyline about little Janie and her dreams, where she meets a boy named Zane that I think will keep being developed until Janie grows up. She is now only 4 years old, so it has a way to go, but it is already getting good. Since the sadistic Kurjan leader's son Kalin expects that Janie will someday be his.

I also really like all the psychic stuff in this series. So many books with psychics have them rarely use their gifts, but these people use the abilities in so many ways, such as in shared dreams, in feeling where other people are, in predicting the future and having visions. Emma even sees visions of her own death. The war is full on in this book and there are lots of skirmishes between the vampires and the Kurjans.

The one thing I don’t really understand is the fact that during the peace time, the Kurjans used that time to make leaps in genetics while the vampires apparently worked on improving their weapon technology because they knew the peace wouldn’t last. However, I don’t see that they have any better weapons than the Kurjans. Though the Kurjans are way ahead of them in genetic engineering.

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Profile Image for Mindy Lou's Book Review.
2,961 reviews780 followers
March 31, 2017
Dage & Emma's Story:

Fun, fast paced PNR series. Great storyline, characters and suspense. Instalove, mates for life, possessive Alphas and grotesque evil foes. There are Vampires, Shifters, witches, Demons and more. This is a continued storyline focusing on a different couple per book.

New characters where introduced and all characters from book 1 returned to book 2. This book had lots of scientific talk that made my eyes cross a little bit but I am loving the story building. A lot of intriguing characters.
Profile Image for Claire.
2,323 reviews737 followers
June 9, 2016
5 - "I'm with the man, not the king. The king can kiss my ass." Stars!

The King and his ‘mate’ are given their story.

I liked Dage in Fated; the guy is dealing with a lot of responsibility, but still manages to keep his sense of humor. Emma is Cara’s sister, who we get to know a little about in book 1 as well. You also get more of an insight into their past with their parents in Claimed, but from Emma’s point of view this time.

Main point for me that I loved, was the verbal sparring between the two of them, Rebecca Zanetti got this aspect of their relationship spot on.

”You’re hurt you need to feed.”
“Feed? You watch too much television, love.”
“You don’t drink blood?”
“Sure, during extreme situations” … “But for dinner I prefer a nice steak with a vintage Cabernet.”




Emma – “I promise I won’t point a gun at you unless I intend to shoot.”

Emma and Dage have history, only it’s not in the normal way that a couple does. I found this aspect and the building of their relationship around it a really nice touch; it gave them a depth so that you didn’t feel like you were reading an ‘insta-love’ type scenario.

”I’ve waited centuries for your touch Emma” … “This isn’t how I pictured it” … “Now step out of the way, love.”



”You’re wearing my colours, love.” … “Soon you’ll be wearing me.”

The chemistry between these two is fiery, because Emma is no push-over and is used to being answerable to no-one, her clashes with Dage in and out of the bedroom are many and varied.

”I won’t take orders from you.”
“Oh love, you misunderstand. It wasn’t the king demanding your obedience” … “it was the man.”
“There’s a difference?”
“Absolutely. The king has rules” …
“The man doesn’t.”




Her concern warmed him throughout, from his toes to his ears – and he’d had no idea he’d been cold. The little scientist cared about him, the man not the leader. He hadn’t realized how much he needed someone to see the man… he’d found his mate.

The development of this series as the books progress is really well handled, there are a lot of characters in each book and you are gradually introduced to them more fully as things progress. The sexual tension that has been simmering between Jordan & Katie since the beginning is starting to sizzle, and I cannot wait to get to their book too see how it actually plays out between them.

However, the relationship that I expect is going to be the one that will make this series is Janie and Zane, bearing in mind Janie is 5 in this book we have a little time to travel and a whole lot of story to get through before we get to them, but the little bits and pieces Rebecca is incorporating into the books as we go are giving me butterflies, which is always a good sign to me as I know my anticipation is building!



As I am sure you have guessed, I have fallen in love with this series, so onto the next book and more sexy Vampire adventures!
Profile Image for Carvanz.
2,335 reviews884 followers
March 24, 2018
I enjoyed this one even more than Fated. More alpha goodness, strong heroine, suspense, action, great secondary characters that add to the story rather than distract and a surprise that I didn’t see coming. There is some push and pull from the heroine but after the first part of the book it wasn’t as much.

I started this book about a year ago and realized it was the second book of a series. I felt a little lost so I shelved it. It helped to have read book one but this could be read alone. Just be prepared for some techie science talk.
So glad I never gave up on this series. I will be moving on to the next book.

Written in dual POV. No cheating. No abuse.
Profile Image for ✰ Liz ✰ .
1,407 reviews1,373 followers
June 28, 2021
“I should have known the Queen of the Realm would be a pain in my ass.”
description

Claimed is the second book in the Dark Protectors Series. A paranormal romance with complex characters and non-stop action, the Dark Protectors Series packs a powerful punch. Emma Paulsen is a scientist who has dedicated her life to science. When her sister has been swept away into a world of vampires, witches, and magic, Emma knows that her place is by her sister's side. Emma is happy to be reunited with her family and there is one protector that seems to has his sights set on Emma. Dage Kayrs is King of the Realm, and he has been waiting for Emma for a long time. When Emma realizes that Dage has every intention of mating her, she knows she has to protect him from herself. As the push and pull begin between the two intensifies, Dage will do whatever it takes to get Emma securely by his side.

description
“I’ll give you time, Emma. But if you think I’m letting you go, you’ve misread me.”
Overall, Claimed will appeal to paranormal romance fans who enjoy alpha males who love their mates and their brothers. I listened to this on audible, and the voice actors really brought this story to life. Rebecca Zanetti is an expert storyteller, and I look forward to more!!!!

🎧This was an audible.com read 🎧

For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:

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description
Profile Image for Lover of Romance.
3,667 reviews1,107 followers
March 17, 2015
Summary
Emma Paulsen is a geneticist, but she also has other psychic gifts, where she can she future events. She has just been kidnapped by Kurjans, who will stop at nothing to destroy everything good, including her sister, and her mate…the King of the Realm, Dage Kayrs. While being transported she finds herself being rescued by the one man who haunts her dreams and visions. But despite her feelings for Dage, she wants her own freedom. She is determined to never be under a mans rule again, or his fist. But she soon learns that Dage is nothing like her father, who was a drunk. But just as Emma and Dage are starting to begin their mating dance, a threat looms over them, a threat that threatens the life of every vampire mate and animal shifter. A virus that the Kurjans have created and released, a virus that if Emma doesn’t find the cure in time, could destroy her sister and her unborn child. But the consequences could tear Dage apart forcing him to choose between his mate and the people he has led for centuries.

The Hero
Dage, has taken the role of a leader well, but all he knows is how to fight. He was trained to be a killer, to protect those under his domain, and despite his position as King, he knows where his true talents lie. He is the oldest of four brothers, brothers that he will do everything in his power to protect no matter the cost. He has been searching for his mate for years, and now he has finally found her and will keep her no matter what. What an alpha male Dage was, but oh how delicious…I could gobble him up. He is a King of vampires and shifters alike, he is commanding, needs to have control, is a true leader that demands respect due him. What I admired about Dage was seeing him unravel trying to work things out with Emma, who is just as stubborn and headstrong as he is. Dage is full of pride and arrogance which tends to get him into trouble especially with his mate, who fights him at every turn.

The Heroine
Emma, is the oldest, and all of her life, she has only known the role of “protector”. Her father was a mean drunk, and would beat them but Emma most especially since she protected her sister Cara. Emma never has let go of that control of a situation, and doesn’t know how to share protective duties. It tends to get her into mischief and all sorts of trouble with Dage. At first she wants her independence and to live her own life, but her heart says differently. She craves Dage, even though she won’t admit it to herself. Emma was a fantastic heroine. Emma is intelligent, sassy, stubborn, and loyal and what a match for Dage. She is no door mat, and despite the abuse she has suffered, fights Dage at every turn, especially when he goes all Neanderthal on her.

Plot and Story Line
Claimed starts off with excitement and I was instantly hooked, I could barely put this one down. I had such a difficult time putting this one aside, and could barely keep myself from getting too excited. I still can’t believe that it took me this long to get back to this series. I read the first book ages ago, when a fellow blogging friend recommended her to me, and I just adore vampire romances, especially this type of vampire romance. When I first started reading this one, it made me want to read the first book again, which I may end up doing soon. However I have decided to carry on with this series. I am hooked completely, and just can’t get enough. Where has this author been my whole life? hehehe. I adore her writing, and she writes with such an intense and you are overcome with a irresistible feeling that you just have to have your Zanetti fix…its like a drug only better, where the only side effect is complete satisfaction and yearning for more of this talent that sweeps you away. If you have yet to read this author, you are missing out. She has a way with creating stories that entice and pull you magically into her stories of danger, passion, and riveting emotion. The plot is pretty intense, and whew what a climax, and all of the relationships between the brothers was entertaining, they do know how to act like a real family–with plenty of broken bones and bloody noses and a teasing that made me reminisce about my own family relationships. The love story is the center theme, but there is plenty more happening surrounding it, that envelops you like a cocoon. There are some pretty steamy scenes here, and boy is there enough sexual tension to level any playing field. A must read for any paranormal romance lover that needs something different but exhilarating.

The Cover
i adore the dramatic colors, with the purple and the yellow. Seeing the overlook beneath the couple, I love the almost kiss look we have…just draws you in from the moment you first see it and the first time I saw it I had a hard time getting back to reality.

Overall View
An engrossing romantic tale of suspense, intrigue, dangerous villains one step ahead of the good guys, a love story that is packed with emotion and sensuality, and a story to entice you for more! CAPTIVATING!
Profile Image for CC.
1,780 reviews238 followers
December 8, 2015
I am going to have a hard time expressing my feelings about this book.

This book is the second in the series and I really do think you need to read the first book, Fated, before starting this one. I believe you will be lost otherwise.

Honestly, after reading the first book I was not really craving this story. I knew the heroine would be a pain in the ass (to put it mildly) and while the hero was likeable, he did not grab my attention in the first book. However with this series, it really is a serial. So in for a penny, in for a pound.

Dage, who is 350 years old, has been dreaming of his mate for 200 years. He has finally found her in the form of the overprotective, brilliant geneticist sister of Talen's mate, Cara, in Fated. Convenient huh? Dage is very powerful, been the king since he was 25, is high handed and arrogant, but not a bad guy.

Emma, a psychic, has been dreaming of Dage for 15 years, but she is only 30 years old. But she has also seen their death so she is pretty reluctant to get involved. Emma is obstinate, arrogant, untrusting, stubborn, smart, mule-headed (are there more acronyms for stubborn?), and loves her sister. I cannot say I hate her, because her terrible childhood made her what she is, and her heart is in the right place, but I do not like her. She actually maked me want to slap her more than one.

I like kickass strong women. But not to the point of being reckless and careless or living in denial. Emma frustrated the hell out of me with her behavior. She took over half the book to admit to feeling anything, other than desire, for Dage, refusing all the while to mate him, but continued to fight him for the rest of the book. Not that he listened! Thank goodness or there would have been no story. She also did things that put her, and therefore others, in danger. All in the name of being the sole protector of her sister. And Cara is in some trouble. There are huge problems brewing in the Rhelm and basically they all start coming to a head. Therein lies the problem. If I want to know what happens to Cara or Janie or Katie, from book one, I have to keep reading. Yuck! I hate being trapped in a serial disguised as a series!

Dage does some things in this book, trying to get control of Emma, that would normally be rage inducing. Like throw the kindle/ipad and DNF the book stuff, but Emma had me so frustrated and mad, I cannot say I blamed him. I actually felt sorry for him! The woman just would not bend at all!

The 3 stars I am willing to give are for the overall story. A lot of stuff happened and most of it pretty big. I have almost no feelings for Emma and Dage, except relief that she is finally accepting of her relationship. If all of the heroines continue to be like this, I will scrap the series or go straight to the end and read Janie's (Cara's 4 year old daughter) story - who is by far the star of the series!

Safety Gang - yes there is a spoiler regarding OW drama

Profile Image for Jacqueline's Reads.
3,023 reviews1,525 followers
August 12, 2018
4 Stars

Claimed is the second book in the Dark Protector series and although each book focuses on a different couple, because each book slowly develops the other characters, you have to read them in order.

This is Emma and Dage’s story. I was interested in Dage because he is king, but Emma’s character isn’t usually my cuppa. She’s the protector of the group and she will always put people above her needs. At times Emma being a martyr was a bit much but I do like that in this series, the Heroes chases after the Heroine.

I liked Claimed more than the first book but I did find the Science talk a bit much at times. I didn’t really care about the chromosomes, how it works and how it didn’t. I sort of started to gloss over the facts.

I did enjoy getting more build up with the other characters and it gets really hooked on the series because you want to know how their story will unfold.

I liked that Cara’s story is very strong in this book and you will see how her and the pregnancy will progress.

A great series that will suck you in. I hope each books get better and better.
Profile Image for Umaiya ❄️Ramblings of a Scattered Mind❄️.
1,128 reviews379 followers
November 29, 2016

2.5 It was okay stars.

I'm thinking this wasn't as bad as the first book but since I can't, for the life me, remember any of it, your guess is as good as mine.

I deducted 0.5 stars cause I didn't connect with the characters and though I kinda liked Dage, some things he did that I abhorred and love or no love, nobody tries that on me.
Now Emma.
So basically with Emma there was nothing new, I can easily replace her with oh so many nameless heroines. In terms of the series, I don't believe she brought anything unique. Even just some awesomesauce badassery could have easily spiced her character up. But alas, she missed the spark.

So I wasn't blown away but I do have some "tingles" of curiosity as to what happens next and so this time round, I think I can continue the series. . .BUT!
I don't want to.
And the list of books I actually do want to read is mile high, so obviously, I'm gonna tackle those first.

Cheerio! ^_^
Profile Image for Luana ☆.
683 reviews152 followers
September 12, 2021
What's up with the heroines in this series? I liked the heroine from the previous book better here but her sister is just the same. I don't mind an alpha female but certain things makes no sense. Like how they put themselves in danger because they want their independence and bla bla bla. I think there's a time and place for everything, even when it comes to verbal fights, and the heroine in this series certainly don't know how to follow and how to fight in the right times. I really hope the heroine in the next books are better.

Another thing I hate in this heroine was the fact that the thinks one thing, acts another and says something completely different. She never says what she really wants or think.

Another thing, the times are all mixed up. First the writer says a week has passed, then she says 12 hours. It really gets on my nerves when the timeliness are all over the place.

I am only glad that the plot was great and it kept the book moving.
Profile Image for Rachael*Caribbean*girl*bibliophile.
2,232 reviews508 followers
August 28, 2018
I enjoyed the plot of this one although the mcs were frustrating. Considering Emma's background I understood her wariness in trusting others but it caused a bit too much problems and lasted too long
Dage's highhanded manner annoyed me, there were a couple of instances where he didn't quite wait for her consent before he did what he felt was necessary so I wasn't his fan
A bit of OW drama, and the fact that Dage has been dreaming of Emma for years but there was no clarification of whether or not those years were celibate was an issue that took me out of the plot and is still weighing on my mind.
Emma's knowledge the lab blowup and her keeping that to herself was just a bit on the TSTL side of the line
But the suspense, new additions to the characters, evolving bad guy activities, mates that are getting some interesting powers and witches were enough to keep me engrossed tll the very last page so I'm moving on to the next.
Profile Image for Jac K.
2,482 reviews449 followers
August 15, 2021
3.45 Stars
Dage and Emma’s story. I liked this one better; it might be because I’m a sucker for OW drama…which I know isn’t for everyone. I knew Emma would be a pain, she’s the sis of the previous h, and hard to take. She is so freaking hard-headed, and a slew of other adjectives. (stubborn, arrogant, etc.) She has a sad story, so I tried to be compassionate, but damn I wanted to tell her to zip it a lot. And, I don’t find it brave to put yourself in a position of danger to “protect” others when they’re then in danger to rescue your stubborn ass. (but she was much smarter & tougher than her sis)

Bottom Line- I liked this one better, but the constant arguing made me skim, so I can’t round up. I liked the story, I just didn’t totally like the mc’s.
Profile Image for Shanna Matheo.
372 reviews38 followers
November 21, 2016
After pretty much loathing the two main characters in the previous book, I went into this one with certain prejudices and expectations, none of which were positive.

description
* KANYE SHRUG *

But to be honest, separately, as individuals Emma and Dage were actually not as annoying as their dimwit sister and caveman brother. Emma was smart, honorable and loyal. She had her reasons for wanting to protect the people she loved and not trusting that task to someone else, but wasn't averse to being set straight and seeing reason. The same went for Dage and there was no doubt in my mind that he loved Emma.

As a couple?

Good lord! I think there were 2 maybe 3 scenes in this whole book when these two were in the same room and not arguing. It. Was. Exhausting. I found myself skimming their scenes to get to the good stuff, which was the development of the overarching story. And it was good. So much so, that I'm prepared to suck it up and grit my teeth through possibly more dimwits & caveman and their constant bickering (Moira and Conn seemed to be gearing up for a good old row all through this book) to continue with this series, because I really want to see how it all plays out.

For now I will concede that although Mrs. Zanetti writes heroes and heroines that I want to slap, the woman does tell a good story.

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Profile Image for *CJ*.
4,965 reviews608 followers
May 23, 2018
"Claimed" is the story of Emma and Dage.

This book starts where "Fated" ended- we know Emma, the scientist and sister to Cara is the mate to King Dage of the vampires.
After the explosion in the last book rocked them to the core-this book has Emma finally being mated to Dage and them facing various issues with Kurjans, demons and other evil creatures who have created a virus to mess with the mated pairs.
What I liked about this book was the continuing story of Janie, Katie, Lily, Cara and other mated females. Also the sex between the main couple was hot AF.
That being said, Im not sure I liked the main couple. The hero was too OTT neanderthal and overpowering, almost always ruling over the heroine's wishes, and though the previous book showed Emma as strong and protective, in this one she was a mere putty in the hands, or should I say to Dage's whims.
The only reason this isnt a 2 star is the small angst in the end, along with Janie's book bits. Other than that, this couple was so not my cup of tea- because the hero didnt listen to any of the heroine's refusals/denials/consent overall.
Safee??????

2.75/5
Profile Image for Emily.
5,810 reviews543 followers
April 26, 2017
Geneticist Emma Paulsen has been on the run since she unveiled the Krujan's, an evil group who are trying to infect women with a virus to unmate them as well as change their genetic makeups. When she is rescued by the man she has spent years dreaming about, she is torn by her visions that show not a happily ever after if she remains by his side.

Emma's sister is infected and with child, she needs her to help find a cure, with this comes trouble as Dage Kayrs, King of the Realm, is determined to mate her. Without revealing her deepest fear, ultimately Emma will have to decide to follow her heart or try to change fate.

What a powerful read, a fantastic sequel to Fated. Loved Dage, you could feel him losing patience with Emma, she is one determined woman and believes in her heart she is protecting him. I have been waiting for this book for months, well worth the wait.
Profile Image for Dali.
2,065 reviews588 followers
April 9, 2020
My super quick review/recap:
➵ Heroine: 4 (Emma super independent and strong)
➵ Sexiness: 5 (Scorching hot)
➵ Feels: 5 (all them: excitement, passion, lots of love and family loyalty)
➵ Plot/Pace: 5 (Absolutely hooking)
➵ Hero: 4 (I guess this is a pattern with the heroes and/or the vampire brothers where they use their attraction with their women in order to get them to acquiesce
➵ Overall rating: 4.6

Amazon -> https://amzn.to/3a22kPf

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Profile Image for AJ.
3,203 reviews1,065 followers
August 30, 2015
4 action-packed, romantic and exciting stars

Book 2 in the Dark Protectors series brings us the story of King of the Realm, Dage, and his long-awaited mate, Emma. Their story was nicely set up in the last book – Fated – and I’m so happy that this one met all of my expectations! It was exciting, romantic and steamy with lots of action and some great progression in the overarching story. All set against an intriguing and continually developing PNR world. I loved it!

Dage is the eldest of a group of vampire brothers that make up the Royal family of vampires, and the greater supernatural world, known as the Realm. Vampires get one fated mate, and Dage knows that Emma is his. Emma is a brilliant scientist who has stumbled into the world of vampires and their sworn enemy, the Kurgens, and spent the last book of the series in hiding and on the run from both races. When she is finally found and taken by the bad guys, and is facing her greatest danger, Dage sweeps in to save the day, ready to claim his Queen at last.

“I’ve waited centuries for your touch, Emma.”

OMG, I love Dage. He reluctantly became King after the death of his parents, and even though he wishes for a normal life, he is determined to rule and bravely fights for his cause. He has waited centuries for his mate, and seeing him with her is absolutely beautiful! He is tender yet possessive (he calls her “love” from their first encounter… awwwww), and is fiercely protective of her, and so open with his feelings and all that he wants with her. Being with her starts to put everything in his life into perspective, even though his stubborn female tests him in ways he could never have anticipated.

“I should have known the Queen of the Realm would be a pain in my ass.”

I really liked Emma. She is strong, brave, and not willing to bend to Dage just because he is the King. She fights for her independence, and is determined to do what she thinks is right. Emma is gifted with dreams that show her both the past and the future. She has been dreaming of Dage for years, just as he has her, so by the time they actually meet their feelings for each other area already strong. The passion between them is explosive, and love quickly follows.

“You’ve never met the king, love.” He nipped her ear and her knees began to tremble. “It’s the man who has you.”

But it’s not an easy ride, for as keen as Dage is to claim Emma and start creating a life together, she won’t give herself to him completely – sure, she has a reason for pushing him away, but I got so frustrated with her, and actually screed at my kindle “just talk to him!!!”. But as frustrating as it is, again, it creates a great dynamic, and I loved the back and forth between them that so easily switches between anger, love and lust.

“I’m with the man, not the king. The king can kiss my ass.”
The king had every intention of kissing her ass, maybe biting it as well.

And it’s all interwoven with huge happenings in the Realm, and together it’s one hell of a ride! The Realm is at war and things are INTENSE! Not only are the Kurgens getting braver with their attacks, but new characters are introduced, new alliances are formed and new enemies are declared. At the same time, the race is on to investigate a virus that is infecting vampire mates, and a number of females are caught up in the unfolding mess (which is where Emma’s genius comes into play). And on top of all of that, somebody on the inside is betraying the King, putting all of those he loves in danger like never before. There are lots of political goings on, but mostly there is action, action, action. And it’s awesome!

There’s great continuation from the previous book, with Talen and Cara’s story progressing, and the rest of the characters introduced in Fated continue to be a part of the action. Jordan and Katie’s story is gaining intensity, and there are a few more romance set ups which look very promising! Little Janie is adorable, and her dream wanderings hinting at more danger and excitement to come. But at the heart of the series is the brothers, and I love the interplay between them. Their banter and fist fights blend well with the genuine love and respect they have for each other, and I adored the scenes where all of the boys were together. I also loved the lead into Conn’s book up next – there’s a great set up there, and I’m so excited to see how that all plays out.

Exciting, romantic and full of awesome paranormal action, this series is building into something really special. I can’t wait to carry on.

4 stars.
Profile Image for Wanda.
253 reviews57 followers
August 7, 2011
I consider myself a HUGE fan of Rebecca Zanetti's "Dark Protector's" series. Which is Fated now Claimed. Before I started blogging, I wasn't a paranormal fan. And now I'm hooked. Not only am I hooked but I'm hooked on this series. Rebecca's books have a little bit of everything. It has Action, Science, Romance and my favorite it's sexy! It's so sexy it's steamy. Though it has sexy and steamy scenes, it's written very tastefully. I love her writing. PERIOD. This series has become one of my favorite series.

"Claimed" practically picked up right away from where "Fated" left off. So that's a good thing. You won't miss any in between scenes. I love when an author picks up where they left off. Claimed is the story of the oldest brother which happens to be the king. His name is Dage and he's one sexy vampire. In fact all the brothers are sexy. If I were one of their mates, I wouldn't let my mate out of my sight. The power they all possess will make any woman fall on her knees (Literally).

Emma is being chased by the Kurjans (Bad guys) but Emma happens to be Dage's mate and their is NO way he's going to let anything happen to her. Not as long as he's alive. Yes in this series vampires can get killed but not by your typical stake through the heart. It's different. And I won't tell you how because I want you to read the book (series). So Dage knows that Emma is his mate but Emma being the independent stubborn woman she is, refuses to submit herself to any man. Even if it's someone as sexy as Dage. And boy is he sexy.

In Claimed, there is a virus threatening all the vampires mates. And when the virus hits Cara, Emma's sister, it gets more personal. So Emma along with Kane (another sexy vampire/brother), they join together and research the virus and work to find a cure. This virus affects only the mates of vampires. Basically what happens is once the vampire brands their mate, they sort of become immortal as well. And what this virus does is, it makes them human again. What's the reason behind the virus, well you have to read the book to find out. So Emma is determined to find a cure to save her sister. But while working on a cure for the virus, Emma is also fighting her desires for Dage. And when you read about them too, you can't help but get a little hot and bothered. It's obvious they have chemistry and it's clear that they're meant for each other. If she just gives in.

Need I say that this book is a Definite Good Choice for Reading? Because it most definitely is!
Profile Image for Mara.
2,517 reviews268 followers
March 21, 2012
I thought Fated was bad, but I could not imagine the sequel was actually worse. This kind of stories are awfully reminiscent of pre-feminism, of a time when a woman "wanted" to be raped/forced/compelled and books told that kind of "truth".

Claimed is boring, at 66% I had skipped most of it already. Dage is the usual Neanderthal man, Emma the supposedly strong woman is really a womanly woman and immediately gives. All her strength and combativeness (she survived the bad guys for months) flee out of the window as soon she sees Dage. Authors should learn that dream relationships (or similar BS) do NOT romance make. These "I love you"'s never rang true at all. You can't expect reader to believe a feeling, you have to show them, let them feel.

They only thing I felt was utter boredom, with a big dose of irritation for these gutless women unworthy of my gender and age. You don't have to be a bitch, but please at least have a will of your own.

There's no action, only one cliché followed by an other (he is a king of course, he locks her in a room and she threatens him with a gun that he - of course - snaps from her... how many time have you read something similar?). Unfortunately this lack isn't balanced by characters' growth or thinking.
Profile Image for T.J. Shaw.
Author 6 books286 followers
November 7, 2013
Since I’m starting to sound like a broken record concerning Rebecca Zanetti’s Dark Protectors series, I’ll most likely make this my last review and just rate the rest as I read them. CLAIMED is my favorite in the series so far. I loved Emma, and Dage is a hero to die for. Ms. Zanetti’s witty dialogue and sense of humor between the characters makes the book a fun, exciting read.

What I truly admire about Ms. Zanetti’s style is that she introduces secondary characters gradually, but integrates them in such a way that by the next book, I’m eager to read more about these well fleshed out personalities. That’s talent, and what a great way to hook the reader on the next book…like me!

CLAIMED, just another great book by a great author.
Profile Image for Madison Warner Fairbanks.
3,265 reviews476 followers
February 13, 2021
Claimed by Rebecca Zanetti
Book 2 of thee Dark Protectors series. Vampire Paranormal romance. Best read as part of the series.
Emma and King Dage are drawn to each other but kind of hate the others attitude. What makes them so important? A title and an education? Their sexual attraction overrides all, of course.
I’m not a fan of the domination that comes from the King. But love the child Janey and her knowing the future and her importance.
Fast moving with several story lines. Lots of sexual domination. The fate of the race is in danger.
Profile Image for Lea Bookjoy.
1,750 reviews87 followers
December 28, 2024
French & English reviews

EDIT RELECTURE : dire que c'est une de mes séries préférées >< Ma première lecture était bof mais les relectures sont bien meilleures =)

Un tome BIEN MEILLEUR que le précédent =D
Je dois avouer qu'après avoir lu premier livre qui ne m'avait pas du tout convaincue, j'avais un peu peur de lire celui-ci et être encore plus déçue ... Et finalement très bonne surprise !!

Ce que j'ai particulièrement aimé :
- les différentes intrigues très complexes avec la guerre (l'histoire du virus est GÉNIALE !!) mais aussi avec le passé d'Emma et les petits aperçus de Zane, Janie et Kalin <3
- les personnages gagnent vraiment en profondeur ici : ils ont leurs propres caractères, leur passé, leur histoire, leur rôle ... Je dois avouer que j'ai beaucoup plus aimé Emma et Dage <3

Ce que j'ai moins aimé :
- toujours l'histoire des compagnes prédestinées ... Ça fait un peu trop poule pondeuse pour moi ><

Bref, un deuxième livre qui rattrape la catastrophe du premier et qui me donne bien envie de lire le prochain surtout que le prochain va nous éclairer sur les sorcières x)


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

EDIT RE-READING : fun thing is that this is one of my favorite series >< My first reading was blah but the re-readings are much better =)

A lot WELL BETTER book than the previous one =D
I must admit that after reading the first book that had not convinced me AT ALL, I was a little afraid to read this one and be even more disappointed ... And finally a very good surprise !!

What I particularly liked :
- the various plots very complex with the war (the history of the virus is GREAT !!) but also with the past of Emma and the small glimpses of Zane, Janie and Kalin <3
- the characters really gain depth here : they have their own personality, their past, their story, their role ... I must admit that I loved Emma and Dage much more <3

What I liked least :
- still the story of predestined mates ... It's a little too laying hen for me ><

In short, a second book that makes me want to read the next one especially since it will be about about the witches x)
Profile Image for Danielle (Danniegurl).
1,943 reviews108 followers
May 12, 2015
This one is about Emma's sister and Dage Talen's brother who happens to be King of the Realm. Which we knew from reading book 1. This one is only slightly better because Dage isn't so....barbaric, Neanderthal with his ways. Don't get me wrong he still is but just not as bad. The whole plot though takes a bit to get through and only at the end does most of the action and resolution happen, which I dislike. Prefer more to happen in the middle but whatever. The virus is still running rampant, and Emma being a scientist and geneticist is set to find out how it works, and how to cure it because several close friends have been infected. This isn't good either and they are on a slow decline. But science takes time and so it's a lot of back and forth to the lab, back and forth with Dage and Emma and her accepting, or not accepting their mating because she foresaw the future, particularly what she thinks is her death. And thus she thinks she needs to protect him. What I don't understand is why she wouldn't tell him, aside from her being afraid he'd keep her out of the lab, why wouldn't she tell him so they could make the appropriate action, little crazy. Overall though it was a decent read. I do want to go on into the series just to see about Janie and Zane, but naturally that will be well into the end of the series.
Profile Image for Севдалина.
840 reviews53 followers
November 9, 2024
Крал Дейдж Кеърс (Вампир) Ема Паулсън (Човешка половинка)

"Пленен" в Читанка

Книгата беше страхотна 5* от мен. Влюбих се в Дейдж, той е толкова могъщ и все пак с огромно сърце, способен да обича като никой друг. Ема на моменти ме дразнеше в опитите си да бъде независима да защитава Кара и Джейни, въпреки, че има кой да ги защитава, но в крайна сметка от нея ще излезе страхотна кралица. Малко мъгляво беше на края и не успях да разбера аджеба излекува ли се Кара или все още е болна, но предполагам, че ще научим в следващата книга. Малко съм недоволна, че следващата е за Макс и някаква друга мацка. Очаквах да е за Кон и Мойра, но ще се въоръжа с търпение. Препоръчвам горещо, на всеки който харесва паранормалните романи. <3
Profile Image for GigiReads.
692 reviews205 followers
June 25, 2021
Heavy on the world building with huge cast of characters. The romance was very much secondary to everything else. There was no romantic tension, no romantic conflict except for the heroine saying it was never going to happen and it happened every time 🙄 Will continue with the series since I was forewarned the first two books were rough.
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