Dark Slayer

Dark #17

by Christine Feehan

After a century of longing, the instinct for survival unites a betrayed woman and a cursed man in this seductive Carpathian novel by #1 New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan.

Ivory Malinov’s only brethren are the wolves. Abandoned by her family, and cast out by everyone she held dear, Ivory has lived centuries without love. She has sustained her sanity by preparing for one purpose—to destroy her greatest enemy. Then she picks up the scent of a man. Her salvation. Her lifemate. The curse of all Carpathian women.

Branded a criminal, Razvan is a dragonseeker borne of a great Carpathian lineage, only to be raised as its most despised captive enemy. Escaping from imprisonment, Razvan now seeks the dawn to end his terrible existence. Instead he has found his deliverance in Ivory, the Dark Slayer. In spirit, in flesh and blood, in love, and in war, Ivory and Razvan are made for each other. For as long as they dare to live.

INCLUDES BONUS CONTENT!

Genres: Paranormal Romance, Paranormal, Romance, Vampires, Fantasy, Dark, Adult

476 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published September 1, 2009

About the author

Christine Feehan is a #1 New York Times bestselling author multiple times over with her portfolio including over 90 published novels, including five series; Dark Series, GhostWalker Series, Leopard Series, Drake Sisters Series, the Sisters of the Heart Series, Shadow Riders and Torpedo Ink. All of her series have hit the #1 spot on the New York Times bestselling list as well. Her debut novel Dark Prince received 3 of the 9 Paranormal Excellence Awards in Romantic Literature (PEARL) in 1999. Since then she has been published by various publishing houses including Leisure Books, Pocket Books, and currently is writing for Berkley/Jove. She also has earned 7 more PEARL awards since Dark Prince.
Her series include:
The Dark Series - https://www.christinefeehan.com/darkb...
The GhostWalker series- https://www.christinefeehan.com/ghost...
The Leopard Series - https://www.christinefeehan.com/leopa...
The Shadow Series- https://www.christinefeehan.com/shado...
Torpedo Ink series- https://www.christinefeehan.com/torpe...




IN HER WORDS:
I've been a writer all of my life -- it is who I am. I write for myself and always have. The ability to create pictures and emotions with words is such a miracle to me. I read everything; I mean everything! All kinds of books, even encyclopedias. I am fascinated by the written word and I love storytellers. It is a great privilege to be counted one myself. (www.christinefeehan.com)

Reviews

[Jessica's Totally Over The Top Book Obsession · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Love Transcends Evil Stars

First read Sept 2012 Reread February 22, 2016
Reread Feb 11 2017 Reread 1/12/2021

*Spoilers*



"I am my father's son. Xavier killed him as well and tried to possess my sister. I would not let him have her. I traded my life for hers and then my soul for my daughter. I have nothing left for you." Those piercing eyes never once left her face, and if there was regret or remorse in his confession, she didn't hear it. He had traded his life and was willing to die this day, as the sun came up, to protect everyone else, Ivory included. "He cannot have you," she said. "I am sorry, but if what you say is true, then I have no choice but to render you unconscious so you do not know the way to my lair."-Razvan and Ivory

OMG I loved Razvan!!!!!! Dark Slayer the 20th book in the Dark series was amazing. I can not believe this is book 20 in this series and I am still lovin' the shit outta this series! So this book picked up right were Dark Curse left off. Ivory Malinov, sister to the 5 evil vampire Malinov brothers who are trying to destroy the prince, did not in fact die like all believed. Though she had her head cut off and was cut into little pieces Mother earth healed her and now she is the Dark Slayer that vampires whisper about. Her only goal in life is to take down the evil that tried to take her life Xavier. And nothing will deter her from her plans, not even Fate, when she comes across her lifemate laying face down in the snow waiting for the dawn to kill him. Isn't it just her luck that he is the grandson of her enemy Xavier.

"Xavier wanted the most horrendous death he could envision for one like me. He had them chop off my head and then cut me to pieces, scattering me across a field so the wolves could consume me. They should have incinerated my heart. I did not have the will to die, not when I needed to see Draven and Xavier gone from this earth."-Ivory



"I would trade everything, even honor, for you. It is the one thing I have kept intact all these long years. I endured much for honor."-Razvan

Razvan was an absolutely epic character. Honor was all Razvan had. He gave up his body to the dark mage, Xavier, to save his sister. Xavier would possessed Razvan's body and do truly heinous things. Those things included impregnating women to feed from the blood of the children of those unions. Then he traded his soul to save his daughter Lara's life. So when he escaped Xavier his plan was to take what little honor he has left and kill himself so his evil grandfather couldn't use him to hurt anyone else. Razvan was one tortured male, but he was never broken. He was a calm and controlled person. A prisoner of his grandfather since he was 14 he knew he couldn't control others but only how he acted. I loved that Razvan was smart and protective, but he was willing to let Ivory lead. Supportive and very open about his feelings, Razvan lived every moment to the fullest. He was brave, but not a warrior. That didn't make him weak he was willing to fight to the death to protect the innocent. He also had this playful boyish way to him that was endearing.

"If you ever betrayed me, I would kill you. I would, Razvan. You have to know that. There would be no forgiveness. I have not trusted another person in centuries. Others do not matter, but you-you would matter."-Ivory



"I am the keeper of your heart," she said, "and I will defend you to the death, Razvan. You are an extraordinary man and I am proud to be your lifemate."-Ivory

Ivory was also a awesome character and a fitting mate for Razvan. She was a warrior woman to her bones. Almost as tortured as Razvan Ivory has lived through hell and came out fighting with everything she has. The pain of knowing her 5 beloved brothers all turned vampire hurt her as much if not more than being chopped into pieces. Ivory was great with weapons and countering spells, but doesn't do well with showing emotions. She was a confidant fighter, but unsure of herself as a woman. A loner, she was very serious and didn't have fun or enjoy life until Razvan. I loved how Razvan brought out her playful side.

"I do not control others, Ivory, only myself. I do what I must, no matter the cost."-Razvan



"You have worn me out, warrior woman." Ivory couldn't help laughing. "If you were truly the greatest man in all the world, you would not be worn out. You would be ready to service my every need." His eyebrow shot up. "I believe that is a challenge." He fastened his mouth to hers as he took her through to the next room where the water spilled out of the rock wall into the smooth basin. "I am more than up for servicing your every need." He whispered the words against her mouth, his tongue flicking over her lips, savoring her taste. "Really? I am not quite as certain." -Razvan and Ivory

Razvan and Ivory have a wonderfully beautiful relationship full of passion, respect and support. I really fell in love with them as a couple and felt like their love story is one of the top ones in the Dark series. I loved their little wolf family too. They were both outcast and looked upon with suspicion. I felt bad for both of them for the way the others Carpathians treated them at times especially Razvan. I loved that Ivory fiercely stuck up for her lifemate. There was a ton of action in this book. Bloody fights with vampires, flesh eating bats, and a evil mage. Gregori had a lot of time in this book and I loved every single minute of my Gregori! Some really big things happen in this book I will hide them behind a spoiler tag because they are big and not everyone wants to know big spoilers. Gregori and Savannah's twin daughters are born, named, and are healthy thanks to Ivory saving them with a counter spell. Lara was hurt bad and had to be turned Carpathian. Also Ivory and Razvan killed Xavier. I loved the parts of the book where Razvan met for the first time or reunited with his daughters Skyler and Lara. I wish Colby could have been there! The part with him and Lara brought tears to my eyes. I did have two things that didn't work for me in this book and that was all the spells and Carpathian language, they get really boring at times and I wish she would just cut it all out. But since is my 4th time rereading the whole series I know it will only get worse lol. I loved Razvan and Ivory so much that even with the spells and gibberish I still give this book 5 Kickass stars!

"It's all right. Really. I'm all right. Nicolas has taken great care of me, and now that you're here with us, and I know you really were trying to get me out of there, everything is all right." "I do not deserve you." Lara smiled. "Neither does Nicolas, but I love him all the same." The smile faded and she looked serious. "I am proud to be your daughter." Nicolas helped Razvan to his feet. "And I, your son." He grinned a little mischievously, something that shocked Ivory as he leaned over to brush a kiss on her cheek. "Hello, Mother."-Lara, Razvan, and Nicolas

[Alex is The Romance Fox · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story will grab you and hold you until the very last page.
The 20th book in Christine Feehan’s incredible Dark Series and one of the saddest I have read so far. But despite the darkness and evil in the world, there’s also light and good…and love!
In Ivory Malinov, the author has created an unforgettable heroine.

Cut into small pieces and left to die in the wilderness, she willed herself to live with only one purpose – to kill her evil enemy. Her life has been one of isolation and loneliness, with wolves as her only companions…the strength and courage she shows is incredible…what she has endured in her life over hundreds of years is unbelievable….

Razvan has been imprisoned his entire life and used unwillingly to torture and destroy his kin and all those he loved. He has been surrounded by evil and has seen and experienced the most despicable and painful actions…

Finally able to escape his torturer, he flees with only one intention…

Rescuing a man near death, she discovers that he’s her lifemate. They are fated to be together.
Razvan & Ivory are now determined to bringing down their mutual enemy, Xavier, the most powerful and evil mage of all time.
Together they will journey towards finding each other and reuniting with their family.

One of the most poignant scenes was when Ivory meets her brothers after so many years. It really touched my heart.

Another thing I enjoyed was meeting up with characters from the previous books that I have grown to love!

The sense of family that the characters from this series have is amazing. The love and loyalty for each other is what makes these stories so unforgettable.

Another great addition to the Carpathian Clan!!!

[Karyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think I've said this for the past 3 Carpathian books I reviewed, but this really is the best Carpathian book so far. Or close to it atleast. Dark Slayer is about Ivory Manilov and Razvan.

Ivory is the sister of the 5 Manilov brothers who purposely turned Vampire because they thought they could rule the world that way. Ivory was tortured and hacked and left for dead by Mikhail's brother Draven and the vampires under Xavier's direction. However mother earth and the wolves saved her and now she slays the undead along with her wolf pack - with no allegiances to the undead, Xavier or the Carpathian race that left her for dead.

The grandson of the evil mage Xavier, Razvan has been in his grandfather's clutches since he was fourteen and has had his body and mind used for crimes against Xavier's enemies. He's lived only with his honour and endured to save those he loves, but now he's giving up.

Many things are thankfully different in this book. The two meet and don't want to be tied to each other because they're both being hunted, but cant abandon the other nonetheless. Ivory is the warrior in this book, while Razvan is more the calming influence with tremendous inner strength (that just sounds corny now, but you know what I mean)
He had learned long ago that he couldn’t control others or events, only his own reaction to what happened...“I do not control others, Ivory, only myself. I do what I must, no matter the cost.”

I can honestly say these are the strongest characters I've come across in anything I've read so far - both mentally and physically these two have endured and have been honed in the fires of hell. They have a single minded determination to accomplish whatever they set their sights on - be it Xavier or ravishing each other. Despite their strengths, they both have vulnerabilities - and it is lovely how they are there for the other at their times of need. At time I thought there was too much of the inner dialogue - with how they didn't deserve each other and how they had found joy and happiness. But considering both their tortured pasts, the gratitude and joy they found in each other did make sense, and it wasn’t so bad to read.

Razvan's lack of ego is refreshing after all the previous Carpathian men and their i'm-the-best-thing-that-ever-happened-to-you attitude. He's happy following Ivory's lead in areas that are her forte, and they support each other as partners. The part where Razvan uses his skill at strategy along with Ivory's abilities and tricks the ancient Carpathians had me laughing for quite a while.

A lot of the old characters are back in this book along with some new ones. We catch up with whats been happening in the other lives and how they're fighting the undead, Xavier and their own extinction with the inability to keep their babies alive. There's also sad re-unions with Razvan meeting his sister Natalya (who I wanted to slap in this book a lot of times) and his daughter Lara and coming to terms with the new knowledge of what Xavier had been using his body for.

Lovely story this. I wondered how the two would meet, how they would reconcile with the Carpathians and whether they would defeat Xavier and where the series will go from this book onwards. Feehan does a almost perfect job on all counts. A lot of things are wrapped up in this book, with enough to keep you waiting for the next book.

Really, this isn't an adequate review. It'll make you laugh, it might make you cry. It'll keep you invested in the lives of these two. So go read the book. (But read some of the previous books first so it makes a lot more sense)

[UniquelyMoi ~ BlithelyBookish · Rating 5 out of 5]

What was I thinking?

I’m a huge Christine Feehan fan. I love her writing, the way she describes emotions, personalities and tortured heroes and heroines. The last several books have focused heavily on the Carpathian’s deep relationship with Mother Earth and I absolutely love that Ms. Feehan can make me feel that same bond through their words and actions. But, the stories had begun to be somewhat predictable (probably because I read the first 19 back to back) and my adoration of the Carpathians began to fade, so much so that I put off reading this book for over a year.

And don’t I just want to kick myself now!

Some of you will understand this, and some of you won’t, but not since Zsadist walked across the pages of Lover Awakened and into my life, have I found such tortured souls as I have in Razvan and Ivory. Their betrayals at the hands of those they loved and trusted, their loneliness, and their uncompromising sense of honor in the face of unimaginable horrors was both heartbreaking and heartwarming – and dare I say it? I believe that in Razvan I might just have found a tortured hero almost as near and dear to me as my beloved Z. And if you don’t know who I’m talking about, you really need to read The Black Dagger Brotherhood series by J.R. Ward. Really!

And Ivory. Wow, what an amazing heroine she turned out to be. She's strong, determined, honorable and one of my all time favorite heroines. And she is probably the only person in the world who could ever relate to Ravan’s suffering and be able to understand his level of self hatred, because she herself has so much of the same emotions. And one of the things I most loved about her, was that we didn’t spend ¾ of the novel hearing about how she didn’t want to be Razvan’s lifemate, that she wanted to be her own woman! How she didn’t need any male, and blah blah blah. She knew that she could be herself and his lifemate. I LOVED that she accepted Razvan for who he was and who he wasn’t, knowing that he accepted her in the very same way.

I don’t think I’ve enjoyed a Carpathian novel this much in a long time. We get to revisit so many of the earlier characters and see how they’ve grown. How much they’ve learned! I laughed, I sighed and I cried like a baby. Dark Slayer has totally rekindled my love of the Carpathian people who continue their struggle to to defend and ensure the existence of their race, and do so while maintaining their honor and not losing their souls to the dark.

[Melindeeloo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dark Slayer twists the series' formula into Something different but something good

Deviating a bit from the normal formula of her other 'Dark' Carpathian books, Feehan's Dark Slayer was a unique entry into the popular long running series and ended up being one of my favorites of Feehan's more recent offerings. Though fans who live for Feehan's uber alpha males may be disappointed, I really liked long time series villain Razvan as he takes a turn in the spotlight. Razvan is no less powerful for being an atypical Capathian, and he is a good fit with his vampire Slaying mate, Ivory Malinov, whose independant streak would be a challenge to even the most domineering and arrogant of the Carpathian males. Both of the starring pair have had enough pain and suffering in their interesting backstories, and in their experiences with family members turning to the darkside, to make them empathetic to the other's struggles and to make them both cherish the gift of a Lifemate.

Other things I really liked: Lots of cameos of old starring pairs are worked in thoughout the story and there are some really cool aspects to Ivory's wolf pack and her magical connection to the wolves. I also liked that Feehan waited longer to consumate the physical part of Razvan and Ivory's pairing, allowing Razvan and Ivory to work through some issues instead of forcing it - and, after a gazillion other books in this series, I had been starting to feel I feel like I had read all of the love scenes many times before, so having less of them here than normal worked better for me and in them Feehan uses a lighter touch with Razvan which made them feel fresher too.

My nits: Yet another chauvinistic stubborn effort to `protect' a `helpless' woman by Gregori. I found his attempt to force Ivory's acceptance of the Carpathians' aid when she had no reason to trust them frustrating - though once Gregori comes to understand Ivory's power, he does give her the respect she deserves and he even gets a few chuckles when other Hunters make the same mistake of underestimating her. I realise that some readers enjoy them, but there are way too many spell-poems for me (I mostly skipped over these and the Carpathian dialog too, I just had to find out what happened next). It also bothered me that Ivory seems a bit diminished when she discovers her feminity - she starts out as a really strong independant character, a true survivor and she is more than competent at slaying ancient vampires and unraveling the evil mega-villain Xavier's spells - and I didn't like that she ends up doubting herself with Razvan. But even with that nit, she is still a great heroine.

So is anyone besides me wondering how long is Feehan going to be able keep this series going? There still several stories I've been waiting for, in this book even more potential leading men hunters are introduced, and I really don't see the overall story arc building up to a big finish. But hey, I'm not the only one still willing to shell out the big bucks and preorder the hardbacks, so who knows - if we're lucky maybe this series will be as immortal as Feehan's Carpathians themselves.

[Carolyn F. · Rating 2 out of 5]

Okay, if she were a real person, I'd strangle Ivory. The scene that really did it for me was the approx. 5 pages of her arguing with everyone about saving some dying babies. "You must save the babies!". Ivory, "Do you really want me to save the babies?" "Yes, save the babies." Ivory, "Really?" UGH!!!!

And then the dirt, how many ways can you describe the deliciously nutritious dirt. About 100 pages it seems. And then when I start liking the main characters, here comes some more dirt!

I usually like Christine Feehan's books, but this one. No.

[Candace · Rating 5 out of 5]

*** January 2012 Review *** 5 Stars ***

Feehan has given us a strong heroine whose life experiences season her to destroy the villain; however, these same experiences do not help our heroine in matters of love.

*** October 2019 Review *** 5 Wolfie Stars ***

There is so much going on in this novel. In most of my notes, Ivory and Razvan are together facing life challenges and fighting against evil. Let's start off with Ivory Malinov. Ivory was cut up into little pieces and left for the wolves to devour. With a strong will to survive and a desire to destroy her worst enemy, Ivory heals with the help of Mother Earth. She is also the sister of the five Malinov brothers, who have turned vampire and joined an evil mage. It is after fighting against a boyhood friend, who turned vampire, that she is traveling home and comes upon a Carpathian man lying facedown in the snow. This man turns out to be of the Dragonseeker lineage and her lifemate.

Razvan is the grandson of the evil mage, Xavier. He has been used by his grandfather to perform heinous acts against innocent women, including his own daughter, aunts and sister. He has been tortured and forced to watch the torture of others. Having escaped Xavier, Razvan's only choice is to meet the sun and end Xavier's control of him. Facedown in the snow, with no strength to go further, he is ready to meet his demise.

Ivory, having come across her lifemate, but not really wanting a man in her life, feels compelled to save him. She knocks him out with a compulsion and transports Razvan to her lair. There she gives him blood and puts them both in the soil. Last, she calls her wolf pack to come lay on their resting place, adding extra protection along with the safe guards she has woven.

Ivory and Razvan, with the wolf pack, rank right up their as one of my favorite Carpathian couples. They have suffered so much and been outcasts. They've learned to survive. Razvan is total zen. He tells Ivory he can't control others but he can control himself. In him, Ivory finds peace and tranquility. Razvan finds an ancient warrior in Ivory. Together, they will face their mutual enemy, Xavier. Though there is plenty of action in this book, it is the characters that attract me the most. We have Gregori, Mikhail, Falcon, Sarah, Gary, Skylar, Natalya, Vikirnoff, Lara and Nicolae to name a few. The plot is familiar, but with the subplots, it keeps the pages turning to the next characters growth developments or the next battle. The description of the wolves and how they travel with Ivory and Razvan is so visual you can actually see them traveling and defending the couple. I love this series and I am looking forward to the next book.

[KatieV · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great addition. I loved both the hero and heroine. Razvan was a particularly interesting hero in that he was greatly tortured, but he dealt with it by becoming very Zen live-in-the-moment instead of by being angry-bitter-guy. A refreshing change.

Also loved that we've been treated to yet another mythology heavy book with lots of beloved characters from prior books. From looking at book descriptions it looks like we're heading back to S. America away from most of the beloved and familiar characters. YMMV, but I'm not all that interested in the Jaguar people. I may skip a few books ahead to more Romanian-centric books and then circle back later.

[*CJ* · Rating 5 out of 5]

So much pain, so much suffering, so much beauty..
"Dark Slayer" is the story of Ivory and Razwan.
Ivory is a huntress, abandoned and betrayed by her family and all those she ever cared about, hacked into pieces and saved by the wolves- she now lives as one with them and slays the evil..
Razwan is the twin to Natalya, father to Lara and many others, possessed by the ultimate evil Xavier for centuries and suffered brutally to protect his family..
When the warrior rescues the dying Dragonseeker, she never expects to meet her mate- or find that someone exists for her after centuries of trauma. But she saves him, and in turn he saves her and her heart, and helps her destroy her nemesis.
This book was simply beautiful. It was heartbreaking to read about what our h and H had to go through, but I loved their sense of righteousness- their drive for helping others and fighting against whats wrong- and overall I was glad they finally found each other.
Happy to know about the updates in the Carpathain world, and Ivory and Razwan were able to help them out, and experience some happiness after all that grief.
Loved the power and strength displayed by our couple amidst of all the distrust, betrayal and sorrow while they fought to save the Carpathian lineage.
Beautiful addition to the series with oodles of angst.
Safe
5/5

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness! I know I say this (almost) after reading every book in this series, but here I go again - Dark Slayer it the BEST of the series so far! It is different from most of the other books, in that we finally get a hero who is powerful and confident, but COMPLETELY without ego! Due to the horrors endured in his life as a prisoner of Xavier, Razvan has a quiet strength, and is definitely the only man who could possibly be a match for Ivory. A former long-time villain and enemy of the Carpathian people (before they understood the truth behind Xavier's treachery,) Razvan is supportive of Ivory and greatly admires her vampire slaying skills. He is easily the least domineering of all Carpathian males so far, and is more than willing to let Ivory take the lead and to learn from her when it comes to fighting the undead.

Ivory, a female Carpahtian and warrior, has also experienced unspeakable barbarity at the hands of Xavier and the brothers who betrayed her. Her nature would never have allow her to cope with Feehan's typical alpha male hero - Razvan is the perfect lifemate for her. If any Carpathian ever had reason to turn to the "darkside" as it were, it would be Razvan and Ivory. They have both endured much pain and suffering, molding them into the strong willed individuals they have now become. Their separate ordeals in life make them that much more grateful to have found each other, and to appreciate the true meaning of being lifemates.

As always, we get a glimpse into the lives of the Carpathians we have come to know and love in the series: the dialogue between Mikhail, leader of the Carpathian people, and his Gregori, "The Dark One", protector of the prince, it truly hilarious at times - especially when Gregori is (unpleasantly) surprised by Razvan. We also see some of our favorites girls: Savannah, who is getting ready to deliver her twins; Syndil, working hard to heal the earth; Natalya, twin sister of Razvan, distraught with the knowledge of what her brother has endured to keep her safe; Lara, daughter of Razvan, who trying to keep Xavier's microbes from killing the Carpathian babies.

Dark Slayer also introduces us to some new ancients, hopefully giving hints as to where the series will go in the future. Andre and Tariq, along with brothers Mataias, Lojos and Tomas, have returned to the Carpathian Mountains at this critical time for the people, to help protect the prince and hopefully hold out against the gathering darkness they all feel without lifemates. As a side note, there is a particularly good scene in Dark Slayer in which Ivory and Razvan teach the ancients a lesson in underestimating their opponents. I don't want to give too much away, but that scene (which also contains powerful Carpathian hunters Nicolae, Vikirnoff and Gregori) is well-written and simply hilarious!

I am enjoying the way Feehan is solving the big issue of the Carpathian people - few children are born, even fewer survive childhood, and fewer yet are female. The creativity she is using in finding a solution to this problem is really interesting. I also loved the creation of Mother Earth as a real character - thinking, feeling, and speaking to her children.

Dark Slayer is the best of the best so far! However, this is not a series you can just jump into at book 20 - you really need to go back and read the rest of the series first. There is a lot of character development and Carpathian history that you really need in order to enjoy this latest book. On the whole, this really is a good series, definitely worth a look if you enjoy paranormal romance.

[CC · Rating 5 out of 5]

At book 20 to say I was shocked to totally LOVE this book is a huge understatement! I am way behind in reviewing the last few in this series, but I needed to do this one first. Never did I think Feehan could make be love the enemy, Razvan. But boy did she ever! Razvan had the worst life ever and yet he was calm, accepting, strong and loyal. He was wonderful to Ivory and she was the same to him. I loved Ivory just as much as Razvan.

There are tons of wonderful reviews about this story so I do not feel the need to go into tons of detail. But I want to say that this book had everything I want in a romance, plus action and intrigue. The overall story arc was moved along in important ways. But Ivory and Razvan were an incredible couple.

Safety gang
Razvan's very evil great uncle(?) used to steal his body to impregnate women and then use the children for blood. He did horrible things in Razvan's body. So Razvan has children. He only remembers one of the mothers and he cared for her in the way he could but it was not love or anything by choice. She was killed of course by the uncle. Please do not allow this aspect to let you miss this book!

[AlwaysV · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five Incomparably Super Amazing Stars! I could go on and on on how much I loved Dark Slayer. It's been one of my All Time favorite books with one of my all time favorite HEA couples.

Ivory was one of my TOP heroines in any books any series. She was incomparable in her conviction of doing what needed to be done. I loved how she taught Razvan not to go after Xavier for revenge, but to make things right. (I should've actually QUOTED her exact words here.) The High Mage Xavier had to die to keep both the Carpathian and the human worlds safe from his abominations. Loved how she refused to die, how she held on to life. She's just blown me away by her determination. The best scene and the one I loved so much in Dark Slayer was when she reversed Xavier's spell to save Gregori & Savannah's twins. I was so mesmerized by Christine Feehan's Superb Writing! I could and have read that scene over & over...

Loved Ivory's Wall of Love, where she honored her beloved Brothers & the De La Cruz Brothers, plus her wolf pack!!

I was also so crazy in love with Razvan. Ivory and Razvan have been one of the Most Gorgeous HEA Couples Ever! Leaving you with one of my favorite quotes from 💕Ivory to Razvan💕:

Dark Slayer: P. 398…

“If things go wrong, and we both know there is every chance they will, this has been the best time of my life. I do not regret one moment with you. You made me feel alive again. You reminded me why I hold my brothers’ memories in my soul. And you gave such a gift of your heart. I want you to know that gift is treasured. I love you without measure.”

[Cori · Rating 1 out of 5]

Oh, the pain. I'm a moron.

A) I know I don't care for vampires and werewolves and all that smut. So why did I bother. Oh yeah, because our library is FREAKING CLOSED and I'm having to read my own pile of unread books LIKE A PEASANT.

B) Look at that cover. In this particular case, you can totally judge a book by its cover and I'm here to give you free, guiltless license to judge to your heart's content.

Dark Slayer is cheap smut rapidly banged out (see what I did there) with little attention to, oh I don't know, a storyline to speak of. The two primary characters find out in the first chapter that they are lifemates. What follows is a repetitious, redundant (see what I did THERE) expository of one another's physical virtues, sometimes in back-to-back paragraphs with thesaurus-esque obnoxiousness.

I was lured in with promises of an action-packed book on true vampire/lycan lore. What I got was synonyms about her ability to take his breath away, metaphors about his body, oh yeah- fight something quick so they have to heal one another and make that disturbingly smutty as well.

This is Twilight for adults. And even then, Twilight for adults you don't like. If you want a legally mean way to say, "I don't care for you as a person" here's a gift idea.

It's not just that I'm biased about vampires and all that junk, the book isn't written well from logistical standpoint. How did the editor miss so many things? I was skimming at the end and still catching stuff. Just a couple things as an example.

One scene stated a master vampire "blew apart the rest of the house." Two pages later, the same vampire "took out the remaining walls." I proceed to squint at the page and flip back to see if I'm misremembering.

The second example is that I have no flipping clue what century it was. It could have been 1776 (it did reference The United States once) or 2020. I just don't know. While all the characters spoke in stiff, archaic language, the author would drop a metaphor in like "tucked under his arm like a football." Or Ivory would spit out a long, drawn out sentence to her "beloved" and then call him a "psycho" or a "weirdo." Also stating something to the effect of "like an olympic diver."

0/5 do not recommend.

I'd rate this book an R for smut, graphic sex, gore and violence, repeated mentions of rape and non-consensual sex, and some mild language.

[Mojca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Centuries ago, a young girl was cut to pieces on a meadow, her remains left to the wolves. The animals, instead of consuming the remains, buried them, and Ivory Malinov was reborn. Now, she’s a slayer of vampires, an ancient warrior with only one goal in life – find and destroy the man who ordered her execution, Xavier, the dark mage. Then she discovers the fickleness of Fate, when she stumbles upon a man lying in the snow and recognizes him as her lifemate…And Xavier’s grandson.

Centuries ago, a young boy gave up his body to save his twin sister. A few decades ago, the same boy, now grown, tortured almost beyond endurance, gave up his soul to protect his daughter. Branded a criminal and the vilest traitor of the Carpathian race, Razvan, wishes for Death to claim him. His escape from his grandfather’s clutches almost accomplishes that feat, he lies in the snow, waiting for the sun to cleanse his soul, when he hears the voice of his lifemate.

Now, these two tortured souls will embark on a journey of soul-searching, forgiveness, and redemption, united in their goal of destroying their enemy, braving suspicion and rumors from the very race they’re trying to save.


This has officially become my favorite book in the Dark/Carpathian series. It was so utterly different from all the other 19 books that I was simply rendered speechless (in a very good way). So what was so different from the other books in this series? The dynamic between the two leads and (almost) complete reversal of roles.
In this one, the female took the lead. Ivory was the experienced, ancient hunter, skilled, resilient, deadly, not needing anyone to stand by her, and Razvan was the one who had to learn from her, without any ego involved. Though he was a fast learned and great at strategy, he saw nothing wrong in learning from a woman, taking his lead from her. He still protected her, but didn’t intrude or order her about. There was no chest-thumping, no He-Man antics, not litanies about women having to stay at home barefoot and pregnant. Razvan was completely accepting of the fact Ivory was better at something than he was and there was absolutely no rancor in him.

That’s what I loved most about Razvan. The fact he was so Zen about everything. He accepted his fate, he was a rock and a fountain of peace despite everything he’s been through, and he was full of acceptance when it came to others’ feelings of animosity around him. He felt he deserved it, so he simply accepted anything that was thrown at him.
And he was Ivory’s rock and haven as well. She just needed his touch (physical or psychic) and she was centered and at peace…She especially needed that peace whenever they came in contact with the aforementioned animosity toward her lifemate. For someone not used to company, preferring to run with her wolves, this chick was always ready to defend her mate.
I absolutely adored these two together, so similar in some traits, and their romance was both sweet and heart-breaking at the same time. And the fact Razvan was the one most open with his feelings was just so super cute.

The Carpathians (with the exception of Gregori and Mikhail) disappointed me in this book. There was absolutely no trace of their fabled "hospitality", and they blatantly went against their own prince when it came to Razvan. I know they were led to believe he was a traitor, but to distrust the word of their own leader and greatest healer was pushing it a bit in my book.

Despite this last fact, and the reversal of roles between Ivory and Razvan, this was yet another classic Feehan with gripping descriptions of the atmosphere and Carpathian environment, wonderful action sequences, creepy villains, and a love-story beyond compare. With his one, I think Christine Feehan surpassed herself for this series.

5 stars. A keeper. Utterly enjoyed it, totally loved it.


P.S. Though the series progresses, I love the fact previous characters always come to visit, and we get tantalizing glimpses into what might (and soon will, I hope) happen next. The prince and his lifemate are expecting again, Gregori and Savannah have had great news (that will stay great thanks to Ivory), the imminent threat of Carpathian extinction is defeated for now (again, thanks to Ivory), and what’s most important for me, Skyler is growing (she was seventeen in this book), which is good news for those, like me, who are looking forward to her and Dimitri’s book.

[Shelleyrae at Book'd Out · Rating 2 out of 5]

I think I will have to admit defeat with the Carpathian series. I want to like them, really I do - the world buiding is fantastic, the premises usually great, sweeping romance, plenty of action - but I just can't because the writing is so repetitive and I end up stalled, rolling my eyes and skimming - which I hate to do.
Every other chapter or so in Dark Slayer the entire story of what happened to Ivory is repeated, and then the story of what happened to Razvan after he is introduced and everytime Razvan thinks about his sister we get the story of why she distrusts him again. There are more incidences where the same story, dialogue or motivation is repeated - no new information, or a new perpective, just repetition and it drove me nuts.
The repetiveness is evident in other books also, as well as the obsession with a 101 ways to describe - in Dark Slayer its dirt - in others its dark eyes, or auburn hair.
I was really hoping that Dark Slayer would be different - the plot certainly is and there are some wonderful moments but I have to give up and accept that I will never be able to see past my irritation to enjoy the series.

[Namita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ivory is probably the best heroine that I've read. I love this book and never mind how many times I read and re-read this book, it never ceases to amaze me!

[MG *Bury Me with My Kindle.. & a REALLY Long Charger* · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

This is the 20th book in the Dark Series by Christine Feehan (although GR lists it as #17 for some reason; it is #20 on Feehan's official website); I had read all of these up to this installment awhile ago, but I hadn't gotten to this one until now. I honestly wasn't sure if I would like this one because it features one of the main "villains" of the stories to-date paired with a character that had yet to really be introduced.

Razvan (twin brother of Natalya who is the subject of Dark Dream) has been tortured by his grandfather, the grand wizard and #1 enemy of the Carpathian race, all of his life. As a child, he pretended to be the more gifted mage so that his sister would not be abused by their grandfather as she was actually more talented spell caster. Xavier imprisoned Razvan and forced him to do his evil bidding in order to protect his loved ones, which included possession of his body so that Xavier could leverage Razvan's attractiveness to mate with women who might provide Xavier with great grandchildren who could possibly be the key to making Xavier immortal which is what he seeks above all else. Thus, many of the evil doings were carried out by Razvan in body, which has led the Carpathians (and even his sister) to view him as beyond redemption.

Ivory Malinov is the youngest of the ancient Malinov family who were considered the 3rd strongest family line among the Carpathian race. This ranking was not satisfactory (specifically, they believed they should be above the Daratrazanoff family who are known as the protectors of the prince, and essentially, the right hand man). Thus Ivory's beloved 5 older brothers turned vampire together and now have their sights firmly set on destroying the Dubrinsky line (the prince and his family). Learning that her brothers betrayed everything they raised her to believe as Carpathians and chose to join forces with the creatures and evil wizard (Xavier) who tortured and marred her beyond recognition has devastated Ivory; thus, she seeks solitude in a secluded and heavily protected location and has not been seen by other Carpathians in centuries. She is known among vampires as the Dark Slayer, though many often believe it to be a myth. On her way back from a hunt, Ivory discovers an emaciated man lying in the middle of an open area near her fortress. She realizes that this is her lifemate, though she has no idea who he is, and she makes the decision to save him despite his wishes to be left for the sun to destroy. Over several weeks, Ivory feeds him and keeps him buried in the purest of the healing soils until he is back to full strength in the hope that he will join with her to destroy her most hated enemy: Xavier. She wants nothing to do with him as a lifemate, and Razvan cannot bind her to him as Xavier (though currently weakened which is how Razvan was finally able to make his escape) has access to Razvan and can possess him at any time. Having a lifemate would mean that he would turn his torturous efforts on her to hurt Razvan as nothing else at this point (after centuries of psychological and physical torture of every possible variety) ever could. Will they be able to destroy the man who has taken so much from both of them, and can they remain in close quarters in the interim without giving into the uncontrollable forces that draw them together? And if they can overcome those obstacles, will the Carpathians ever believe and trust Razvan again?

What I liked:
--- As I alluded to earlier, I wasn't sure I would like Razvan's character at all given what has happened in earlier books, but I ended up sympathizing with his plight, respecting his significant sacrifices to save his loved ones, and seeing him as a hero through Ivory's lens
--- Really good battle scenes and more of the over-arching plot development and reveals
--- Both main characters were significantly flawed (psychologically and physically), yet they found each other genuinely beautiful in both true form and spirit
--- Excellent steamy goodness

What I didn't like as much:
--- Feehan has an AMAZING gift for description and really making the scenes come to life, which is incredible, but sometimes it bogs the book down in terms of the pace --- I found myself skimming a lot of those parts
--- Since very little was known about Ivory Malinov, I was hoping for a lot more information about what happened to her, but there really wasn't much other than to say that she was tortured, cut into pieces, and left to die --- I wanted to know WHY all of that happened --- it didn't seem to make sense that she was targeted --- and where were her beloved brothers and protectors during all of this?
--- The story made Natalya look like an ungrateful and distrusting bitch, which made me unhappy because she is one of my favorite characters and this was not in keeping with how she has been described in previous books --- this is her TWIN BROTHER with whom she has an incredible bond and who gave up literally everything for her --- as soon as she learned these truths, she should have been portrayed as #TeamRaz all the way

Overall, another really good story in this addictive series!

Plot --- 4/5
Main Characters --- 4/5
Supporting Cast --- 4/5
Steam Level --- 3/5
Violence --- several battle scenes with gruesome injuries
Language --- not much
POV --- 3rd

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let's see if I can manage to write a review about this book without spoiling the previous sixteen installments for anyone. Seriously, the best compliment I can give this book is that I'm thankful there are sixteen other books plus three novellas, so maybe it won't be so painful and hard to wait for the new one to come out next year!

For any newcomers to the series, and if you are indeed a newcomer I suggest you get to the library ASAP to rectify the situation, the Dark series is a paranormal romance series about the Carpathians, a race of supernatural tough guys (and ladies) fighting grossly horrible baddies at every turn and trying to save their race from extinction. There are about a million other storylines woven in and, naturally, a love story in every book, and the happily ever afters are the stuff that saccharine headaches are made of; with winter and foul weather days just around the corner I definitely recommend these books as a great way to wait out a blizzard.

This book grabbed me from the word go and absolutely refused to let go. Seriously, I stayed up way too late on the night before the first day of school reading until I literally could not keep my eyes open anymore. So many story arcs from previous books get resolved in this book, and all it did was make me even more excited to see what direction the series is going to go in next. I definitely applaud the author for keeping the series going so strong after so many volumes. I think a lot of other authors would have (and let's face it, have) jumped the shark a long time ago (cough cough Janet Evanovich yeah I went there cough cough.) There's action, suspense, romance (of course,) fear, love, you name it.

Easily my favorite thing about this book was the relationship between and characterization of Ivory and Razvan. Ivory is a truly kick ass lady who absolutely does not accept no for an answer. She is strong and has overcome a truly awful past to become a strong and vibrant power in her own life in the present. Even though she has every right to be rabidly pissed off at the world and everyone in it, she isn't! She goes out of her way to do what's right on a cosmic level, even if that puts her at odds with other people.

Razvan, on the other hand, is a completely chill dude, which is (I'll admit) a departure from the norm for Carpathian novels. Typically Carpathian guys are alpha almost to an annoying degree and toe the line between interesting and "if I knew you in real life I'd punch you in the face." Razvan is completely different- he has a well-defined sense of self and is defintiely no pushover, but he doesn't stomp around and boss people around and brood and do unattractive things like that. Instead, he treats life as an opportunity and seeks to enjoy every minute of it, an attitude which, given the horrific backstory he has to deal with, is indeed remarkable.

I'm really trying to think if there's any criticism I have of this book. Um, it ended too soon? Does that count? If you're into paranormal romance and haven't started this series yet or are interested in exploring what the paranormal romance genre has to offer, do yourself a favor and start with the first book in the series (Dark Prince) and read in series order. As with any series, some are better than others, but I think you'll find you enjoy them as a whole.

Overall Grade: A

Read more reviews at What Book is That?

[Camille-Dhark Nytmhare · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story. I cried at least 3 different times during this book….(okay so it was more like 7 or 8 times). I am no cry baby sissy wuss. It really takes a lot to get me going. But Feehan has managed to tug on my heart strings in what I believe is her best story yet. Razvan turns out to have such moral fortitude. The love that is portrayed between Razvan and Ivory is so deep that it brings tears to the eyes of the secondary characters in the story. The fact that Gregori and Prince Mikhail cried for Razvan and Ivory was a tender moment in the story and made their love believable

Razvan is so playful and mild mannered. He is the epitome of a loveable person. He does not come off as some smoking hot guy, but a pillar of strength to Ivory’s strong characterization. Ivory is the best kick-ass heroine I have come across in a long while. She is smart, loyal, and fierce. The shift in roles between the Hero/heroine was so refreshing. Razvan did not portray the typical Carpathian male and Ivory definitely was not the typical Carpathian female.

I love how the author personifies Mother Earth using language that gives her human-like qualities. The way the author describes how Mother Earth heals is breathtaking. The poems and prayers to Mother Earth are very beautiful and I intend to keep them in my collection of poetry. Feehan draws a vivid picture that makes you want to live in this world. That is until the characters start to fight vampires.

I love the role the Carpathian’s play in the action scenes. The fight scenes kept you on the edge of your seat because the characters did not always have an easy win. Lots of times they got their asses kicked.,which also made for a lot of tension within the novel. The enemy seemed undefeatable. The story moves forward at a very nice pace without too much detail about one scene. There are lots of bloody action sequences. Tension is built constantly and the conflicts in the story are very worrisome. There is a such nice balance of magic, evil, goodness, revelations, devastation, and sex scenes that you are satisfied when the story comes to a great end. Razvan and Ivory get a great and well deserved happily ever after.

Repetition within the story is a little disappointing. Many times the word lifemate was used. It was also redundant to keep talking about how important it was to defeat Xavier. 'You are my life mate' gets a little old after the hundredth time but this is easily overlooked in a great story. At least no one 'shattered into a million pieces', which is also a favorite line of Feehan’s.

This story of redemption is a real tear jerker.

[Penny Watson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark Slayer by Christine Feehan

Wow. Wow. Wow.

In a million gazillion years, I could have never guessed that Christine Feehan would completely, irrevocably, inexplicably, undeniably redeem herself with this beautiful love story. I am in complete shock. This book was wonderful, and....sweet! And, the hero was....a beta male, not an alpha male!!!!! A freakin' Carpathian beta male hero....will wonders never cease??? This is completely unlike any other book in the Dark series, and in my not so humble opinion, one of the best. I LOVE Razvan, the gentle Carpathian hero. I LOVE Ivory, the kick-ass survivor heroine. Their love story is truly beautiful. Feehan has not lost the magic, but she sure as hell is taking a convoluted path with her other violent books.

Finally, the mystery surrounding the constant miscarriages in the Carpathian race is answered. Finally, a solution has been found. And I LOVE the mother earth angle! Feehan outdoes herself in several regards with this book. One is the gorgeous description of the gem cave...it is breathtakingly beautiful. Another is the tension-filled battles, which are at once gory, horrifying, and invigorating. I also love the relationship between Ivory, Razvan, and the Carpathian wolves (that's right! Carpathian wolves!!!! Feehan's creativity knows no bounds!- what a totally cool concept!). I always like the books where she brings back old characters we have grown to love, and the magnificent scene where Savannah's twins must be saved rocks the house. Syndil, Shea, Natalya, and Skyler are fabulous here. Girl power! :)

My only criticism (which is more like a unfulfilled wish) is that I wanted Skyler to have a bigger role in this book. She is my favorite character of this whole series, and I can't wait for her and Dimitri's story.

Well, Holy Guacamole, Christine Feehan just hit one right out of the damned park. I hope and pray this is a kinder, gentler approach to her novels, and that the trend will continue. This book is really wonderful, and I think that Feehan fans everywhere will be overjoyed to read it.
Grade: A

Penelope

[TJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s quite a testament to Ms. Feehan‘s storytelling abilities that even after years away from this series, I was able to pick it up and remember all the characters and how they fit! It is still just as intriguing, unique and creative as I remembered.

I especially enjoyed the story of Rasvan and Ivory. I love how the author so deftly took a character that all thought such an evil villain and turned him into one of the most honorable and beloved characters in the series. And it was completely believable! It is also amazing how Ms. Feehan created the absolute perfect mate for him. They complemented each other like no other characters could have.

I did have to reacquaint myself with the odd, somewhat stodgy voice used, and points are repeated more than necessary but overall, this was top-notch storytelling at its best!

[Loralee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it! I laughed, I cried both in sadness and in happiness. I think this is possibly my favorite in the series now. Ivory and Razvan's story was wonderful, they were perfect for each other. They really were each others soul mate. I loved the quiet strength of Razvan, yet we see such heartache and vulnerability in him at times, because of his past. And Ivory, what a great heroine, she was so strong, and yet really has such vulnerabilities too. It was great how the two of them were each others rocks where it was needed.

I also loved that we get to see other characters from previous books, CF has been doing this more and more in the series. It's really great to see everyone coming together, and working together to fight the evil and fix their problems.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say that this book blew me away. It was totally different from the other books in the Dark series. I just loved the connection between Razvan and Ivory. This was more of a partnership IMO. A bond forged between two people who have experienced so much pain and they found happiness together. I was very pleased with this book.

[Fleur · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another favorite couple. I loved seeing a strong Carpathian female and seeing Razvan stayed true to his Dragonseeker lineage.

[iamGamz · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has my two favorite characters from the Dark universe- so far.

Razvan, long hated as a traitor to his people and assistant to Xavier finally get a chance to tell his story.

He was imprisoned for centuries, sold price of his soul and allowed Xavier to control his body and mind all to protect his sister and his daughter. But no one knew the horrors he was forced to survive. Until now.

Ivory Malinov was long thought dead until now. At the orders of Xavier and Mikhail’s older brother, she was kidnapped by vampires, tortured, literally chopped into pieces and left to die. With the help of wolves and Mother Earth, she was able to survive. It took her centuries to put her body back together. She taught herself to fight back with one goal; killing Xavier.

Ivory and Razvan, two of the most horrifically tortured characters have found each other. They learn to love again and together, they accomplish what all the other Carpathian hunters could not.

I loved Ivory. Her strength, her brashness, her intelligence. She is the strongest of the heroines so far. And that’s saying a lot cause these poor woman have been brutalized in so many ways.

Finding Razvan almost dead, she saves his life and his soul. She takes him into her home and her heart. Finds a way to free him from Xavier and learns to love the man he is, and not judge him on the deeds he was forced to do.

Ivory allowed him to heal. His body, mind and soul. She brought light, warmth and love back into his life. Razvan brought beauty, companionship and love into Ivory’s life. He allowed her to be a beautiful woman again and not just a warrior.

Her self confidence and his humility makes for an odd couple, but they work beautifully together. I love these characters and I am so glad the author saved them for each other.

[Kristina Deluise · Rating 4 out of 5]

ok, this book started out different

had a moment or two of HERE WE GO AGAIN

and then a few chapters that just slowed to a turtle and it took hours to get through

ok, so first she's like oh my life mate i must rescue you and take care of you

then page 24

don't ever say my life mate to me. i am not yours i belong t none one least of allt he grandson of xavier...........

then SHE does the binding spell 118

next few chapters were slower than molases............

then the book picked up and was good.........

[Emerald · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to be honest I never thought Razvan would ever escape Xavier. Then finding out the nice surprise of who the female dark slayer really is. They made a fantastic warrior couple. I would have liked for Razvan to have called on his dragonseeker bloodline to battle Xavier. This was a disappointment for me in the book. Also, to see Razvan be a better experienced warrior. I was also surprised that the other dragonseeker warrior who was Rhinnanon's brother wasn't in this book. All in all great action in the book. I just wanted a bit more.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ivory Malinov was thought dead for centuries, while all five of her brothers chose to become a part of the enemy (vampire), that caused her death. Finding out she is alive only raises suspicions that she may be in league with the last of her brothers. Razvan was a Dragonseeker and everyone knew him to be the worst of traitor’s to the Carpathian people, but after escaping his long captivity by Xavier the most evil Mage anyone had ever know, he was determined to walk into the dawn. The warrior in Ivory couldn’t let the man she found unconscious in the snow face the dawn, especially after realizing that he was her lifemate. As his healing progressed, new information was uncovered that would help Mikhail (Prince of the Carpathian people) and Gregori (their healer) believe that to defeat the Carpathians greatest enemy, they needed the help of this unique couple. Could they be trusted with the fate of the entire species?

Book 20 ….. ai kucak! (oh stars!) I had forgotten in the past several months (while impatiently waiting for this to be published) just how much I enjoy these Carpathian men and women. To be thrown back into it, such a great continuing story, it only took a minute to recall how last Razvan had been portrayed and I wondered for so long, how this character was going to be redeemed enough to be worthy of his own story. I get it now. Both of these characters are strong and they just drew me in. The back story, tragic and pain filled for both, allowed me to see why they desired solitude (and then only each other) but it also showed the strength, courage and patience that they both possess. (As usual) I really enjoyed seeing so many of the other characters from previous books, seeing their continued support and happiness with each of the couples. Not many new characters, a couple of bachelors (I don’t even remember their names). I wish there had been more of a reunion with the DeLaCruz brothers and Ivory - I hope their will be more of this series.

[E. R. · Rating 4 out of 5]

It takes a special author for me to be interested. Christine Feehan is one such author. I've been faithfully following her works, getting my hands on each new book as they become published. It takes time and requires certain conditions for me to read each individual book.

What conditions do I mean by the 'certain conditions'? Let's make this book as an example. When this book came out, I wasn't in the right mood to truly appreciate the book. It took a few years for me to get myself focused on this book to appreciate it.

This is what I thought about the book (not in any particular order):

- Savannah got to me. Not in a good way. Only in that one instant she was annoying. I'm torn between understanding her anguish & just getting annoyed at her reaction in that certain situation. So I was sad that Savannah was put in that "light" when she is one of my adored Carpathian women.

- Natalya also got annoying to me. I can understand her position of not trusting her brother due to their past, but her behavior just annoys me. It's also sad to see her in this "light" when she felt like such a strong woman in her own book.

- In the same vein, Vikirnoff also got annoying. 'Nough said.

- Ivory's loyalty is touching and annoying at the same time. Very admirable of her to be very loyal, but also I find it anoying that she doesn't give a tiny inch in certain situations in which the other person (i.e. Natalya) has a good reason for her own position. Yes, if I was in Ivory's shoes, I would definitely be acting like her. But since I'm just the reader, I can understand both woman's positions, and for me, it is a lose-lose situation.

- Razvan is divine. i didn't appreciate him in previous years (when I first skimmed through the book as well as his cameos in previous books) but now I do. He's just...divine.

- I want another "bromance". There is already one established "bromance" and I want another one.

And that is what I thought about the book.

[Mindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked up the Dark series not too long ago hoping for a change of pace from my usually reality-based reading. The two books I read were a disappointment, if I were to be honest. I quickly tired of the heroine being stubborn and the hero being barbarically dominant. The books I read were early on in the series and I had pretty much decided not to try reading any more after those. But then I read some of Feehan’s Leopard series and really enjoyed those books, so I thought I’d give the Dark series one more chance. I’m glad I did.

At first I was concerned – with Ivory being such a strong female, how was the story not going to decline into the “I’m not going to be with you because I’m an independent woman” theme? But Ivory surprised me with her compassion and her willingness to try something new and foreign. And her reward was a battered but sympathetic and fun-loving man who wasn’t intimidated by her strength. I enjoy books where petty barriers to love are avoided (and a petty barrier, in my opinion, is a woman too insecure in herself to give up a few meaningless freedoms to be with the man she loves; it is also a man who compulsively tries to “protect” a woman from herself); Feehan put real challenges in front of Ivory and Razvan and their relationship was more believable because of it. I plan to give the Dark series another shot and I hope most of the books follow in this one’s footsteps.