Ruin (Kindred: The Fated 2) by Donna Grant-a review

RUIN (Kindred: The Fated 2) by Donna Grant -a review

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Google Play / Apple /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 2, 2023

Love…against all odds.

Banished by his father and laird, Rory Sutherland does what he swore he’d never do—return to Scotland. But a dangerous threat has risen, and it’s turned its gaze to his beloved home. He risks everything to find the witch who can stop the growing menace. Asa’s power and beauty excites him. Her allure seduces him. She’s his match in every way. And nothing will ever be the same after being touched by her magic.

For Asa, being a witch has been a blessing and a curse. For every good thing in her life, the tragedy that follows has been crushing. She’s rudderless, adrift without a plan. Until a dark, sexy Highlander crosses her path with a dire warning. She’s being hunted by a dark force that intends to use her powerful bloodline. Bound to Rory by their quest and Fate, a passion ignites that consumes them. Against all odds they found each other, but they need to survive the coming war…or be ruined.

••••••••

REVIEW: RUIN is the second instalment in Donna Grant’s adult KINDRED: THE FATED erotic, historical, paranormal / fantasy romance series set in the author’s World of the Kindred. This is Norse witch Asa, and Highlander Rory Sutherland. RUIN can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous storyline is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Rory and Asa) RUIN follows the building romance and relationship between Norse witch Asa, and Highlander Rory Sutherland. Norse witch Asa left her homeland of Norway seven years earlier in the search for something more, a search that took her to Scotland where she would find a family, a family that The Coven would destroy. Hoping someday to return to Norway to find her younger sister Lissa, Asa would come upon an injured Highlander, sent to warn Asa about an impending war. Viking Hosvir Ivarsson, and a powerful witch hunt for the bones of the first witch, and Asa is a direct descendant of the witch in question. With Rory by her side, and the help of another powerful witch and warlock, Asa would face down the danger, a danger too familiar to our story line heroine. What ensues is the building relationship and quick proclamation of love between Asa and Rory, and the potential fall-out as Rory is severely injured trying to protect the woman he loves.

The relationship between Rory and Asa is predicated on a warning. Asa’s sister Lissa has sent Rory to warn our heroine about the witch and men coming to claim our story line heroine. Rory is determined to protect Asa with his life, a life he is willing to sacrifice for the woman he loves. Asa is a powerful healer, and is gifted with the ability to speak to animals but never expected to fall for the injured Highlander.Something about Rory drew Asa like a moth to a flame, a flame that could easily be doused with the swing of a sword. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate.

The secondary and supporting characters are limited. We are introduced to Armir, Jarin and Helena, Elin (Rage 1), as well as Hosvir Ivarsson, and his witch Dagny. The requisite evil has many faces.

RUIN is a quick read; a fast paced story of betrayal and vengeance, obsession and greed, acceptance and love. The premise is intriguing and entertaining; the romance is swift and seductive; the characters are powerful and determined.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one RAGE

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Donna Grant is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the sizzling Dark King series featuring dragons, immortal Highlanders, and the Fae.

She was born and raised in Texas but loves to travel. Her adventures have taken her throughout the United States as well as to Jamaica, Mexico, and Scotland. Growing up on the Texas/Louisiana border, Donna’s Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding.

Despite deadlines and voracious reading, Donna still manages to keep up with her two children, four cats, and one long haired Chihuahua.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | NEWSLETTER SIGNUP / TUMBLR / PINTEREST / GOODREADS

Share

SHOULDER THE SKYE (Skye Druids 2) by Donna Grant-Review & Excerpt

SHOULDER THE SKYE (Skye Druids 2) by Donna Grant-Review and Excerpt

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Tantor / Google Play / Apple /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 4, 2023

Passion will test the boundaries of life and death.

Bronwyn Stewart knows heartache. Death and danger have haunted her every step, but she’s prepared for what’s hunting her. Or as prepared as she can be. There’s only one outcome—and she’s ready for it. But a wickedly handsome Druid from her past returns and refuses to let her face the oncoming battle alone. He stirs something long buried within her. For the first time in years, a spark ignites within her that soon turns into a blaze that can’t be extinguished.

Forced to leave his beloved isle years ago to protect his family, Elias MacLean fears he’ll never see his home again. But Fate has other ideas. When a mission leads him back to Skye to investigate a rash of Druid murders, he finds another mystery to unravel—that of a gorgeous, reclusive drough. With foes lurking around every corner and an undeniable hunger that grows with every kiss, Elias risks it all for the woman he’s fallen for. Together they unleash an all-consuming passion that won’t be denied.

•••••••

REVIEW:SHOULDER THE SKYE is the second instalment in Donna Grant’s contemporary, adult SKYE DRUIDS paranormal/fantasy romance series-a spin off from the author’s REAPER series which in turn is a spin off from the author’s many interconnected series and stories. This is Druids Elias MacLean, and drough Bronwyn Stewart’s story line. SHOULDER THE SKYE should not be read as a stand alone- I recommend reading DARK ALPHA’S COMMAND (Reaper 15) for back story and cohesion as many of the events of the current time line are as of a direct result of the events in Dark Alpha’s Command. Several characters from the other series including Reaper Balladyn and Druid Rhona (Dark Alpha’s Command) and some of the original Dragon Kings and Reaper characters appear as secondary and supporting characters.

SOME BACKGROUND: Months earlier, betrayal and vengeance forced a take-over of power on the Isle of Skye but someone or something is killing the Druids, not only on the Isle of Skye, but around the world including Edinburgh Scotland. With the focus on the death of the Druids on the Isle of Skye, Balladyn and Rhona (Dark Alpha’s Command/Reaper 15) begin an investigation that reveals a danger targeting the Druids and the MacLean family, in particular.

Told from third person perspective SHOULDER THE SKYE follows numerous interconnected and soon to be connected pathways as the Druids on the Isle of Skye search for the truth behind a magical and powerful mist that is targeting and killing their own. Elias MacLean is a member of a group known as the Knights but Elias has been accused of several murders, murder he knowns nothing about but Elias’ return to the Isle of Skye comes with the darkened memories of the past including the memory of a young woman bullied by the others at school. Bronwyn Stewart is a drough, a Druid who has turned to the dark side, a Druid who has been targeted for who she is, and what she knows, but a Druid who has been forced into a position from which she cannot escape. Protecting Bronwyn has become paramount in the eyes of Elias MacLean such that Elias is pulled into the world that is threatening to take down our story line heroine. What ensues is the building relationship between Bronwyn and Elias, as the danger to everyone is expanding and growing throughout the world.

Meanwhile, the death and destruction of the Druids is mounting, and no one is safe from the impending wrath. Someone is controlling the mist, the Droughs, the Druids, and amassing another group of Druid Others, such that their power and magic is pulled towards the Isle of Skye.

The relationship between Elias and Bronwyn begins by accident as Elias has claimed himself guardian and protector of a woman who has been targeted by a number of people.Elias himself has been accused of several murders around the world, and for his own protection, he has taken up residence with our story line heroine but Bronwyn is much more than she appears to be-her power and abilities are unlike anything Elias and the Knights have ever seen. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

Once again, there is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters many of whom cross over from the author’s numerous interconnected series including Druids, Reapers and Dragons. We are reintroduced to the TruthSeeker Esther and her mate Nikolai (Heat/Dark Kings 12); Elias’ siblings Elodie and Scott, Edie and Trevor; Rhona and Balladyn, as well as the Knights: Sabryn, Carlyle, and Finn, as well as Bronwyn’s sister Beth. The requisite evil has many faces.

SHOULDER THE SKYE is another complex, detailed and multi-layered story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, madness and murder, magic and the supernatural. The premise is intricate and intriguing; the romance is seductive; the diverse characters are magical, powerful and determined.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one IRON EMBER

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Bronwyn hated when she had to make a trip into town. She parked and shut off the engine to the old SUV, but she didn’t get out. She watched the rain pelt the windshield until it completely distorted the outside world.
She felt like the glass. Bombarded. Flooded. Engulfed. She stared at the building before her. The only place within miles to get grocery items. It also doubled as a post office. The co-op didn’t have much of a variety but made up for it by stocking a little of everything.
Bronwyn drew in a deep breath as she steeled herself. Maybe she’d get lucky and there wouldn’t be many inside. The longer she waited, the more she tried to talk herself into coming back another time.
“For fuck’s sake. I’m an adult,” she mumbled and shoved open the vehicle door.
It creaked loudly, metal rubbing against metal. As soon as she stepped out, the rain drenched her. Bronwyn pulled up the hood to her raincoat and slammed the door closed. She walked toward the door, her Wellies splashing in the puddles.
A small bell chimed when she walked into the co-op. Almost immediately, her gaze landed on four people toward the back. They didn’t look her way, but they didn’t need to in order for her to recognize them. The fight or flight response wavered as she contemplated leaving. It was the sound of the cash register drawer closing that drew her attention. Her gaze met the pale green eyes of the cashier, Kirsi.
They had never been enemies, but Bronwyn wouldn’t call her a friend either. Kirsi thanked the customers who had just paid, but her eyes never left Bronwyn. No way Bronwyn was going to leave now. She shoved back the hood of her coat. She lifted her chin and grabbed a basket as she started down the aisle.
She pulled out her mobile phone and opened it to the list. Coming into town for necessities was always the worst days for Bronwyn. She was determined to buy enough that she wouldn’t have to come for at least a month. It made her contemplate having deliveries again, but that meant spending extra, and she was stretching money as far as she could at the moment.
The only way to make things better would be if she could disappear altogether. Unfortunately, that wasn’t an option. Well, it was, but she couldn’t do that quite yet. So, that left her right back in her current predicament. The despised errand day.
It wasn’t as if she particularly liked food. She’d be fine not eating, if it was an option. Sadly, it wasn’t. Food was there to keep her alive. Nothing more. Nothing less. She didn’t understand people who called themselves foodies. What even was that? She certainly didn’t understand those who loved to cook.
Bronwyn gathered the items she needed and moved to the next aisle. She inwardly berated herself for not paying attention to others and ending up on the aisle with the group she’d seen when she first entered. There was no escape either, because Sarah, the leader of the pack had caught sight of her.
“Well, well, well,” Sarah said as she put back the can she’d been looking at. “What do we have here?”
“A drowned rat,” Lizzie said with a snooty laugh.
Sarah grinned, her malicious intent clear. “A drowned rat indeed. Bronwyn, you look worse for wear. I mean, that hair. Really.”
Bronwyn felt her wet hair sticking to the sides of her damp face. She fought the urge not to reach up and shove it away. Sarah was a bully. Had been since they were children. And she hadn’t grown out of it in the years since. Nor had the others who ran around with her.
Bronwyn usually ignored the snippy comments. Normally, people left her alone for the most part. They were afraid of her. But not Sarah and her crowd. Bronwyn hated that people crossed the street to get away from her. Though, she could do without Sarah. Maybe it was time to put a little fear in her old frenemy.
The bell over the door dinged as someone entered the building. Bronwyn kept her gaze on Sarah as she closed the distance between them. The fear that flashed on Sarah’s face almost made Bronwyn smile. That was always the case when someone stood up to a bully.
“You have something to say about my hair?” Bronwyn asked her in a soft voice.
Sarah swallowed nervously and tried to back up, but the shelves and her friends blocked her way. “It’s…it’s wet.”
“Very perceptive.” Bronwyn looked her over slowly. “Perhaps I should say something about you. I know just the words.”
“No need.”
The fear that rolled off Sarah was palpable. Bronwyn held Sarah’s gaze as she muttered something unintelligible and walked away. When Bronwyn blew out a breath only to discover other customers staring at her. As soon as she met their gazes, they hurriedly looked away partly in fear and partly in disgust.
All but one person, that is.
The man stood on the next aisle watching her over the short shelves. He shoved his wet, dark blond hair away from his face. A thick lock fell back over his forehead. But it was his bright blue eyes that held her entranced, utterly enthralled. It felt as if he saw through all her defense straight to her soul—all her secrets laid bare.
He didn’t stare at her with contempt or quickly lower his eyes, hoping that she didn’t notice him. No, he looked at her. Unable to help herself, she studied him, noting the handsome face and square jaw dusted with a shadow of a beard that made him even more appealing. His eyes crinkled in the corners, and she realized that his lips had curved up in a smile. That’s when she noticed his mouth. Surely a man shouldn’t have such full lips, lips that made her think of his mouth against hers. Slow, wet kisses.
And deep, scorching, hungry kisses.
Her heart pounded, her breaths came faster, harsher, and her blood heated. Desire. Sizzling, brazen, beautiful desire.
It had been so long since she had experienced it. The dull memories of the past couldn’t compare to the spine-tingling intensity that found her now. She pulled her eyes from his mouth and found herself caught in his gaze again. It was a mistake, but even as she realized it, she couldn’t stop herself from drowning in the incredible blue shade.
Time paused. The world ceased. It was only her.
And him.

 

Donna Grant is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the sizzling Dark King series featuring dragons, immortal Highlanders, and the Fae.

She was born and raised in Texas but loves to travel. Her adventures have taken her throughout the United States as well as to Jamaica, Mexico, and Scotland. Growing up on the Texas/Louisiana border, Donna’s Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding.

Despite deadlines and voracious reading, Donna still manages to keep up with her two children, four cats, and one long haired Chihuahua.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | NEWSLETTER SIGNUP / TUMBLR / PINTEREST / GOODREADS

Share

Dark Alpha’s Fury (Reaper 16) by Donna Grant-Review tour

Dark Alpha’s Fury (Reaper 16) by Donna Grant-Review Tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Google Play /Apple / Signed Paper /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 7, 2023

There is no escaping the Reapers—or me. If you succumb to evil, you will be judged. And we will come for you . . .

I’ve known the torment of being trapped, of battling monsters—both outside and within. But I’ve also known the peace and completeness of holding the one I was meant for in my arms. Unfortunately, she’s not intended for me. I am destined for one thing and one thing only: eradicating the evil that plagues our world. Once I deal with my nemesis, maybe I can finally rest. Even if it means my soul being reaped by the strong, beautiful, and utterly captivating woman who makes my heart beat like no other. But I’m not sure even that is possible. Because I am no longer merely a Fae. I am something else altogether.

••••

REVIEW: DARK ALPHA’S FURY is the sixteenth and final instalment in Donna Grant’s contemporary, adult REAPER paranormal, fantasy romance series -a spin off from the author’s Dark Kings series, which is a spinoff from Donna Grant’s DARK WARRIOR series which in turn is a spin off from the author’s DARK SWORD series- all set in the Highlands of Scotland. This is Light Fae Xaneth and Reaper Aisling’s story line. DARK ALPHA’S FURY can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary but I recommend reading the series in order for back story and cohesion as there is a continuing premise throughout. Xaneth is Queen Usaeil’s nephew, and his story begins in the Dark Kings series.

SOME BACKGROUND: The Reapers (believed to be a folk lore amongst the Fae) are a group of Dark and Light Fae who have been betrayed by someone in their past life, selected by Death (aka Erith), on their own deathbed, to do her bidding-Death is the judge and jury; the Reapers are the executioners. The Reapers are not harbingers of death, but are tasked with destroying the Light and Dark Fae who have crossed a line from which there is no return. All Reapers must follow two rules: never to fall in love; and never to reveal their existence to anyone but a group known as the Others, have declared themselves the rulers of the Fae, and their next ‘mission’ is to take down the Reapers, having failed to destroy the Dark Kings.

NOTE: If you have not read any of the previous story lines or series, there may be spoilers in my review.

Told from several third person perspectives including Xaneth and Aisling DARK ALPHA’S FURY focuses on the search for the Light Fae Xaneth. Xaneth, nephew of Dark Fae Queen Usaeil, has been missing for months, a prisoner of his aunt who had Xaneth tortured from within. Upon the death of Usaeil, and Xaneth’s escape, our hero has been a one-man assassin, searching for evil in the wake of Lena and the Fae Others battling for ultimate control. Lena, the leader of the Others, has the ability to absorb magic from anyone using the magic near or in her presence, and as such as set her sights on the Fae, and ultimately the Reapers and the Dragon Kings. Xaneth is determined to take down Lena and the Others but refuses any help from the woman with whom he has fallen in love. Aisling has been searching for months for our story line hero. Their connection is soul deep but Xaneth struggles with what he has become, a beast he no longer recognizes, a beast that has the ability to destroy that which he deems to be evil. Aisling refuses to let Xaneth fight the Others on his own, and with the help of the Reapers sets into motion a plan to beat Lena at her own game. What ensues is the building relationship between Aisling and Xaneth, as our couple place themselves in the direct line of fire in an effort to dismantle the Others, and take down the woman in charge.

The relationship between Xaneth and Aisling has been building throughout both the Dark Kings, and the Reapers series. Usaeil, in an effort to kill her entire family, imprisoned Xaneth, leaving him alone, lost in his own mind. Months of torture and unaware of the how or why, Xaneth would eventually escape, knowing he was no longer the man or the Fae he once was but has become something more, with the ability to detect and ‘smell’ evil. Aisling has been searching for Xaneth on her own, with the permission of Erith, forgoing her duties as a member of the Reapers. When the Dragon Kings were unable to locate or rescue Xaneth, Aisling knew she would be the only one to locate the man with whom she was falling in love. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate.

There is a large ensemble cast of powerful, colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters including most of the previous couples introduced in the Reapers series, as well as Ulrik, King of the Silver Dragons, and Guy, King of the Red Dragons; Death aka Erith and her mate Cael, and Lena, the leader of the Others.

DARK ALPHA’S FURY is a detailed, complex and satisfying conclusion to Donna Grant’s REAPER series but the author has revealed the characters will continue to appear in the new spin-offs including the DRAGON KINGS and the SKYE DRUIDS series. The fast paced premise is action packed, heart breaking and emotional; the romance is seductive but struggles in the face of fear and misunderstanding; the characters are charismatic and determined.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Dark Alpha’s Claim
Dark Alpha’s Embrace
Dark Alpha’s Demand
Dark Alpha’s Lover
Dark Alpha’s Night
Dark Alpha’s Hunger
Dark Alpha’s Redemption
Dark Alpha’s Temptation
Dark Alpha’s Caress
Dark Alpha’s Obsession
Dark Alpha’s Need
Dark Alpha’s Silent Night
Dark Alpha’s Passion
Dark Alpha’s Command

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Donna Grant is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the sizzling Dark King series featuring dragons, immortal Highlanders, and the Fae.

She was born and raised in Texas but loves to travel. Her adventures have taken her throughout the United States as well as to Jamaica, Mexico, and Scotland. Growing up on the Texas/Louisiana border, Donna’s Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding.

Despite deadlines and voracious reading, Donna still manages to keep up with her two children, four cats, and one long haired Chihuahua.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | NEWSLETTER SIGNUP / TUMBLR / PINTEREST / GOODREADS

Share

DRAGON LOVER (Dragon Kings 5) by Donna Grant-review tour

DRAGON LOVER (Dragon Kings 5) by Donna Grant-review tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 10, 2023

Can she learn to love the man—as well as the dragon within?

Sensual. Clever. Daring. There’s only one thing Kendrick yearns for—peace that has eluded the Dragon Kings. Zora may have been made in the image of Earth, but it’s a far cry from home. For too long the Kings have been on the defensive, betrayed time and again. When Kendrick has an opportunity to stop a foe, he takes it. Except he isn’t the only one tracking it. Soon, he finds himself face-to-face with an exquisite swordswoman who holds him enthralled…and sparks passion within his cold heart.

As an Asavori Ranger, Esha has dedicated her life to protecting her people. She trains relentlessly to become one of their best warriors, forsaking everything else. When a treacherous new enemy invades their lands, she vows to destroy it. Esha’s rash decision has her crossing paths with that of a mysterious, handsome outsider. He’s trouble the Rangers don’t need, but she can’t walk away. He awakens desires long buried and dreams neglected. The temptation of their forbidden union is more than she can resist. She’s soon walking a treacherous path—one that could be the downfall for them both.

••••••

REVIEW: DRAGON LOVER is the fifth instalment in Donna Grant’s adult DRAGON KINGS paranormal/fantasy romance series-a spin off from the author’s Dark Kings series. This is Sienna Dragon King Kendrick, and Elf/Asavori Ranger Esha’s story line. DRAGON LOVER can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading the series in order for back story and cohesion as there is an ongoing premise throughout including the search for a missing King.

SOME BACKGROUND: For tens of thousands of years the Dragons have lived and ruled on Earth but a war between the dragons and humans forced the Dragon Kings to send the other dragons through a portal into an unknown world. Fast forward to present day, the portal has been revealed, and the Dragon Kings have been reunited in Zora, with their family and kin, but a new war is on the horizon between the Dragons, the Divine and the people of Stonemore.

Told from third person perspective DRAGON LOVER follows the building relationship between Sienna Dragon King Kendrick, and Elf/Asavori Ranger Esha. Dragon King Kendrick has crossed the boundary between the land of the dragons known as Idrias aka Zora, and the land of the elves known as Shecrish in his search for a common enemy, a powerful creature that kills and destroys without ever being seen. Meeting Elf Ranger Esha brings Kendrick up close and personal with his future, his mate, but Kendrick’s appearance in Shecrish marks the beginning of a divide between factions of elves, a divide that is a prelude to war. When Esha’s sister Savita, an elven Reader who can ‘read the runes’ reveals death and danger are in their future, Esha must come to terms with who she is and what she wants going forward. The dragons are perceived as a threat to the elves, and the people in charge are willing to kill to protect their power.

Meanwhile, Kendrick finds a friend in Dain, a Dark Elf who is able to gather information when and where no one else can. With the ability to ‘ride the shadows’ Dain, along with Kendrick and Esha traverse deep underground where the darkness hides another dangerous foe.

The relationship between Kendrick and Esha is one of immediate attraction but as a Ranger Esha has sworn a vow to never marry or fall in love. Kendrick knows Esha is his fated mate but remaining with the woman he loves means placing her in the direct line of fire. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

The secondary and supporting characters include Con and Rhi, Vaughn and Eurwen, as well as the introduction of Elven Reader Savita and Dark Elf Dain.

DRAGON LOVER is a story of power and political control, family and relationships, acceptance and love. The premise is entertaining and enthralling; the romance is seductive and fated; the characters are energetic and dynamic.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Dragon Revealed
Dragon Mine
Dragon Unbound
Dragon Eternal

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

Donna Grant is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the sizzling Dark King series featuring dragons, immortal Highlanders, and the Fae.

She was born and raised in Texas but loves to travel. Her adventures have taken her throughout the United States as well as to Jamaica, Mexico, and Scotland. Growing up on the Texas/Louisiana border, Donna’s Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding.

Despite deadlines and voracious reading, Donna still manages to keep up with her two children, four cats, and one long haired Chihuahua.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | NEWSLETTER SIGNUP / TUMBLR / PINTEREST / GOODREADS

Share

A Warrior for Christmas by Donna Grant-review & excerpt tour

A WARRIOR FOR CHRISTMAS (Dark Warriors 10) by Donna Grant -review and excerpt tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play / Apple /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 6, 2022

New York Times bestselling author Donna Grant returns to her beloved Dark Warriors series with sixteen all-new short stories featuring the cherished characters you’ve been missing.

Defenders against evil. Bound by the gods. The Dark Warriors fought their battle from ancient Scotland to the modern world—where love set them free…

Now, with the past evil behind them and things quieter than they remember in ages, they can celebrate the holidays—and each other—with tradition, love, and fun.

Just days away from the winter solstice, Christmas, and Boxing Day, the Warriors and Druids of MacLeod castle come together once more to give thanks for the family they’ve made and the hardships they’ve overcome. But returning brings back so many memories, and each couple in residence finds themselves lost in reminiscences—and one another.

Tonight is about each other. Tomorrow, they will honor the ties they have forged and the life they have built as a group, putting the past behind them and looking to the future. No matter what it holds.

**Each captivating tale in this enchanting novella is followed by a mouthwatering recipe sure to make your holiday celebrations as festive, fun, and full of cheer as those at MacLeod Castle. Bon appétit and slàinte!

••••••••••

REVIEW:  A WARRIOR FOR CHRISTMAS by Donna Grant is a contemporary, adult, erotic, romance holiday novella found in the author’s Dark Warriors series, the merging of her Dark Sword/Dark Warriors series, a part of Donna’s Dark Worlds, fast forwarded to the twenty-first century.

Told from several first person perspectives A WARRIOR FOR CHRISTMAS is a collection of short stories focusing on a few hours in the life of the Druids and Warriors previously featured in the author’s Dark Sword/Dark Warriors series.With the approach of the Winter Solstice and Christmas, the MacLeod Castle in busy preparing with the holiday festivities but there is always the threat of evil biding its’ time, and an invitation extended to a former foe brings with it the possibility of painful memories. As each couple reminisce about what was and what will be, the reader is given a quick glimpse at some of our favorite couples from stories past.

Donna Grant includes a recipe at the end of each chapter; easy, simple and delicious sounding cocktails and hors D’oeuvres for the holiday season.

A WARRIOR FOR CHRISTMAS is a fast paced collection of story shorts. A wonderfully fun and steamy reunion with limited conflict but for the anticipatory appearance of a broken soul, perfect for the fans of Donna Grant’s DARK WORLDS.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

They’ve had over four hundred Yules together, but still she thinks . . .
“I have all I need with you.”You gave me my life back. Before you, I merely existed.We lost our clan—our blooded family. But in turn, we found another. No’ just Warriors, but Druids of incredible strength and power.“Thank you.”
“For what?”
He caressed her face. “For knowing when I need a break. For giving me reasons to smile and laugh. And love.”

Hayden was soaked in the blood of his enemies, and nothing ever washed that away. But love had conquered his anger and hate.

“You’re the reason I’m the man I am,” he whispered.
She cupped his face, her eyes soft and full of love. “You were already a good man, my love. But we make a great team. Individually, we are strong. Together, however, we’re formidable.”

“Oh, sweetheart.” Her eyes glistened with unshed tears. “The thing is, everything is already perfect. Because you’re here with me. You’re all I need.”
He brushed a tear from her cheek. “Everything I do is for you.”
“I love you so much that it sometimes feels as if my heart is about to burst,” she said as more tears fell.

“I love you.”
“I love you more.”
“I love you most.”
She turned her head and met his gaze. “Forever and always.”

 


 

Donna Grant is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the sizzling Dark King series featuring dragons, immortal Highlanders, and the Fae.

She was born and raised in Texas but loves to travel. Her adventures have taken her throughout the United States as well as to Jamaica, Mexico, and Scotland. Growing up on the Texas/Louisiana border, Donna’s Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding.

Despite deadlines and voracious reading, Donna still manages to keep up with her two children, cats and dogs.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | NEWSLETTER SIGNUP / TUMBLR / PINTEREST / GOODREADS

Share

Rage (Kindred: The Fated 1) by Donna Grant-Review & Excerpt

Rage (Kindred: The Fated 1) by Donna Grant-a Review & Excerpt

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Google Play /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date

Elin feels as if she’s been in the fight of her life forever. She lost her mother to prejudice and misunderstanding and her sister to the Coven, not to mention her home and the freedom to use her magic without consequence. But she finally feels as if she has found a place to at least rest—that is if she can remain hidden.

When a mysterious illness befalls his clan, taking many lives, Rob Mackenzie finally goes to check on the person squatting in the cottage on his family’s land. He hopes to find help. He doesn’t expect the most enchanting and enigmatic woman he’s ever seen or the way she makes him feel—the passions she rouses. But it’s clear she has secrets, and earning her trust may be the toughest battle of his life.

When the truth comes to light that a witch has been targeting the Mackenzie clan, Elin can’t remain sequestered. She knows she can help, and some things are more important—especially when they include saving the man she has quickly come to love. But it means revealing her secret to him and those who have hunted her kind for eons. Those who see anything they don’t understand as evil. Still, Elin hasn’t been able to safeguard those she’s loved in the past. She has to at least try to save Rob and his family.

Even if it means her end.

••••

REVIEW: RAGE is the first instalment in Donna Grant’s adult KINDRED: THE FATED erotic, historical, paranormal / fantasy romance series set in the author’s World of the Kindred. This is witch Elin, and Highlander Rob MacKenzie.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Elin and Rob) RAGE follows the building relationship and romance between Elin, a powerful witch, and Highlander Rob MacKenzie. The MacKenzie Clan has been cursed, and Rob’s extended family is quickly dying. Discovering someone living in the cottage on his family’s land, Rob will come face to face with his future in the guise of Elin, a young woman who is about to save the lives of the people he loves but Elin is not as she appears to be, Elin is a witch, in hiding and on the run from the people hunting her down.When Elin discovers the truth behind the ‘curse’ against the MacKenzie Clan, Elin must reveal her existence for the world to see. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Elin and Rob, and the potential fall-out as Elin must face down another witch who is unable to control her powers.

The relationship between Elin and Rob begins trepidatiously. Elin is in hiding and wants nothing to do with our story line hero.Fearing for her life, Elin goes on the run hoping for some direction from the powers in her life. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top sexually graphic language and text.

We are introduced to Rob’s brother and clan laird Donald, as well as Asrail, a tree nymph that gives our heroine help and advise, and Marcia, a young witch promised to our story line hero.

RAGE is a story of power and magic, betrayal and vengeance, secrets and lies, love and understanding. The fast paced premise is intriguing and captivating; the romance is seductive; the characters are magical, mysterious and determined.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Elin inhaled deeply as she lifted her face to the morning sun. She smiled and looked around at the glen. She had attempted to make other places her home before she found this one, but none had worked out. She felt a soft pang in her heart when she thought of the island she had found before. She had loved it there, but her past had caught up with her all too soon.
Now, Elin was nestled deep in the Scottish Highlands, far from anyone. It was a full day’s walk to the nearest village and castle, and she kept far from it. Everything she needed was around her. She’d made sure of that.
She looked down at the bow in her hand and smiled ruefully. The first time she had tried to fire the weapon, it had been disastrous. Though she kept at it until she became proficient. It had been over a year since she’d used magic, and only then because she hadn’t been able to fix the roof of the cottage herself.
Elin turned to look at her home. When she came across the abandoned cottage, she had been desperate for shelter from a brutal winter storm. Once the weather cleared, she finally got a good look at the structure and found that it was in decent shape, other than the roof. She’d tried to repair it herself, but she lacked the basic skills and the knowledge. After a month of travel, she was exhausted. She wanted a place to rest and needed somewhere to relax. The cottage had only been meant for a brief respite during the winter, so she’d decided to use the spell to mend the roof.
The cottage had proven a good choice. The glen it was situated in offered the solace and isolation she yearned for. She had been content here. Happier than she had been in some time. Elin’s mood dampened as she thought of her island. So much of her life had been spent hiding from the Coven. The band of witches had wanted to annihilate anyone who stood in their way—and they’d nearly done just that. Elin had thought she could set aside her past as a witch and lead a normal life. She’d thought she could pretend that she didn’t have magic and get involved in a community. She had been wrong.
So very, very wrong.
She gripped her bow and adjusted the quiver of arrows on her back. Her gaze slid to the trees around her. She thought of Asrail. The once-queen of the Gira had been her closest friend. Elin didn’t know what had become of the tree nymphs since the battle with the Coven. The Gira mostly kept to themselves. They looked like trees, their skin and hair just like bark, so they disguised themselves in forests where they could lure others with whispers.
The Gira were still out there, but Elin hadn’t seen or heard any since the battle that had destroyed the Coven. During that battle, Elin had joined a band of Witch Hunters and the legendary Varroki warriors to defeat the Coven. That’s where she’d learned that there were more than tree nymphs out there. There were snow and water nymphs, as well.
The cry of a falcon drew her attention skyward. Elin watched the bird through the branches of the tree. She was free now—well, as free as she could be. She needed to remind herself of that often. She wasn’t exactly hiding anymore, but she hadn’t made herself known either. Not a bad compromise.
She had thought that not using her magic would be all she needed to start fresh with a new life. She’d learned the foolishness of that quickly enough. The Coven’s sweep across Britain had left a lasting mark on everyone and everything. Those without magic were wary of any newcomers. They were superstitious, bigoted. Disdainful of anything they didn’t understand—as well as suspicious of anyone new.
Still, Elin had slowly made friends on the beautiful island. Up until a little girl had become ill. Many used herbs to help the sick, but she had been the newest member of the community. So, when the child recovered fully after Elin’s help, they’d immediately begun calling her a witch.
Which, she was.
Elin had tried to ignore it, but the locals became increasingly hostile. In the end, she’d snuck away during the night, thus beginning the six-month journey, moving around until she’d stumbled upon her cottage. She liked it there. A lot. She didn’t want to leave, but she knew it was only a matter of time before she would have no other choice. Until then, however, she would enjoy her home.
Elin walked to the river and knelt beside it. She put a hand in the cold water that ran off the nearby mountains. The fish were plentiful, and she had become adept at catching them. Between the fish and her use of the bow, she didn’t lack for meat. When the temperatures began to warm, and the snow started to melt, she discovered the array of greens and berries, as well. There was, in fact, no need for her to go to the village. Although she had gone once.
They’d thought she was a traveler, so no one paid her any heed when she bought what she needed and returned to the cottage. Other than that one visit to the village, she hadn’t encountered anyone. That wasn’t to say she hadn’t heard the voices of those nearby. Fortunately, though, no one ventured her way.
Elin drank deeply from the river before flicking water from her hand. Then she got to her feet and turned to retrace her steps to the cottage. The nicker of a horse froze her in her tracks. Her head whipped around to the ridge above, where a lone man sat atop a steed.
She remained hidden behind a tree. The figure was just a dark outline, too far away for her to see where he looked, but she wasn’t going to take any chances. Her heart thudded in her chest as she silently prayed he would move away. Seconds passed as she waited for him to decide. The horse’s head bobbed up and down, seeming almost as impatient as she for the man to ride away. Then, the animal began to walk down to the glen.
“Nay,” Elin whispered.
She glanced at her cottage. Smoke curled in a thin, gray ribbon from the chimney. She would never make it inside without being seen by the rider, who was now headed straight for her home. No one had bothered her in months. Why was he here? What did this man want? Maybe if she remained hidden, he would leave, thinking he’d missed the occupant.
Her gaze left him long enough to sweep the area to see if there were more men, but it seemed to be only him. She slid her gaze back to him. He rode past her, allowing her a glimpse. His light brown hair was loose about his shoulders, with a strip of leather holding back the top half from his face. His tartan was dark green, navy blue, black, red, and white, and the sword strapped across his back wasn’t there for show. She caught a glimpse of his boots. Worn but well made, proving he wasn’t some peasant who held onto his family’s weapon.
He grasped the reins loosely but confidently. The horse was well cared for and was, by all appearances, a pricey steed. A person could tell a lot from how someone cared for their animals. Her gaze lifted to the man’s face. She managed to get a brief peek of his profile and saw that his gaze swept the area but returned again and again to the cottage.
Elin knew the Mackenzie clan controlled this land. Since the cottage had been abandoned, she had hoped that no one would mind if she used it for a bit. The problem was, she hadn’t moved on as she’d told herself she would—as she should have two months ago. The area was beautiful, the game plentiful, and it was isolated. It had everything she needed. Why couldn’t people just leave her alone?
The man pulled gently on the reins to halt the animal as they reached the cottage. He didn’t ride up to the door. Instead, he stopped with room enough to give him a good view of the front and sides.
“Hello?” he called in a deep voice.
Elin’s fingers dug into the bark of the tree. She almost wished she was a Gira so she could disappear against the bark and keep the man from finding her. No one would. But she wasn’t a tree nymph. She was a witch. Her kind had been hunted for generations, and it wouldn’t stop because people were afraid of anything they didn’t understand. They never stopped to consider if she was doing good with her magic or not. The simple fact that she had it was enough to condemn her.
The man swung his muscular leg over the horse and dismounted quietly. He gave the animal a pat on the side of the neck as he studied the cottage. The horse didn’t budge from its spot.
“Anyone home?” he asked louder.
Elin glanced around her. She could make a run for it, but he would likely hear. The only option she had was to remain hidden behind the tree and hope the man left quickly. All she needed was enough time to gather her meager belongings and head out. The thought made her heartsick, but what else could she do?
“I mean no harm.”
She could hear his brogue now. Elin slipped slowly around the tree to hide herself better. If he turned around, she didn’t want him to catch sight of her. She briefly thought of using a spell to conceal herself, but she had sworn off any and all magic. How could she live a normal life if she kept falling back to using her abilities anytime things became difficult? She squeezed her eyes closed and pressed her forehead against the bark.
She had gotten lax. Too many months without anyone coming her way had given her the illusion that she could live her life unbothered. She was beginning to think there wasn’t a place for her anywhere.
And though she hated to admit it, she understood why the Coven had fought for power. If they had won, no witch would ever be hunted again. Her life would’ve been much different if that had happened. She could’ve lived anywhere, done anything.
Now, she yearned for a quiet life all to herself.
One she wouldn’t get. She swallowed and peeked around the tree to see what her visitor was doing, but she didn’t see him. All she saw was his horse, munching lazily on some grass. Worry shot through her. She hastily scanned the cottage. The door was closed. Wouldn’t he have left it open had he entered? Maybe he went around the back? Off to the side? What about the other?
But everywhere she looked, she came up empty.
“I hope you’re no’ hiding from me, lass.”
The voice behind her startled Elin. Her heart jumped into her throat. She spun around, her foot slipping between two roots as her ankle twisted in her rush to get away. She felt herself falling. Her gaze locked with blue eyes, and her brain froze. She waited to feel her back slam into the earth. Instead, a strong arm caught her and held her steady.
“You were hiding,” he said with a slight frown.
Elin jerked out of his arms and backed away from him. His sword was still sheathed, but she had felt the strength in him. He could draw it and have the blade at her throat in seconds. Did she use her bow? No, he could knock it away easily enough. That meant she had to resort to magic. No. No, she couldn’t. She had promised herself that she was finished with it.
He held up his hands before him. “Easy, lass.” He spoke as if he were talking to someone with an addled mind.
She ignored him and went through her options. She could run. She knew the area. But how far would she get before he caught up with her on his horse? Too quickly for it to make a difference. She needed him gone so she could sneak away. Again. Was that her life now? Slinking away before they could come for her as they had her mother?
“I’m no’ going to harm you,” he said slowly, calmly.
Elin almost laughed. She wasn’t going to fall for that ploy. He might only be one man, but he could still catch her.
Unless I use magic.
She clenched her teeth as the idea resurfaced. Come what may, she would no longer use her knowledge of herbs to help anyone but herself. And she certainly wouldn’t do magic.
Her mother had sacrificed herself to save Elin and her sister. Avis was dead now, having joined the Coven. Elin was on her own. As she had always been. As she always would be.
The man’s blue eyes were penetrating and entirely too intelligent. It was as if they had a light all their own. He watched her, never taking his gaze from her face. Instinctively, her magic rose, telling her that he wouldn’t harm her.
It was a gift her mother had told her would protect her. It had saved Elin’s life on many occasions. But that didn’t mean she would set aside the fear that clung to her like a spider’s web.
“I’m Rob. Who might you be?”
“Let me leave. Pretend you never saw me,” she blurted then inwardly winced, wishing she had thought of something better to say, something that would indeed convince him to leave her alone.
His brows snapped together. “A Sassenach?”
Elin glanced to the side. She could make it to the river. It was deep there, but it was her only chance.

Donna Grant is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the sizzling Dark King series featuring dragons, immortal Highlanders, and the Fae.

She was born and raised in Texas but loves to travel. Her adventures have taken her throughout the United States as well as to Jamaica, Mexico, and Scotland. Growing up on the Texas/Louisiana border, Donna’s Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding.

Despite deadlines and voracious reading, Donna still manages to keep up with her two children, four cats, and one long haired Chihuahua.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | NEWSLETTER SIGNUP / TUMBLR / PINTEREST / GOODREADS

Share
Share

Iron Ember (Skye Druids 1) by Donna Grant-review tour

Iron Ember (Skye Druids 1) by Donna Grant-review tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play / Apple /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 11, 2022

Skye isn’t just an island. It’s a home. A refuge. But not to Elodie MacLean. Not anymore. Tragedy tore her world apart and then took the one thing she felt made her whole. She vowed she’d never return, but that’s exactly where she ends up. Now, surrounded by the ghosts of her past, Elodie must navigate her version of Hell and try to make peace with herself and her family. But someone or something doesn’t want her on Skye, and she finds herself attacked—and this time not by her personal demons.

Scott Ryan has a mission: uncover who has been killing Druids and why. When his quest takes him to the beautiful Isle of Skye, he doesn’t think anything could captivate him more than the land itself—until he lays eyes on the breathtaking and confident beauty his leader sent him to find. However, it’s clear that she has trust issues, and he can’t reveal his plans—at least, not yet. But he’s always been sure of his ability to sway a person, and she’s a challenge he’s more than happy to accept, especially when he finds he will do anything to protect her.

With so much history and so many secrets, victory is anything but guaranteed for the couple and their allies. And the forces at work, those who wish to rule the Scottish isle and all those who reside there, have a plan that nobody will see coming.

•••••••

REVIEW:: IRON EMBER is the first instalment in Donna Grant’s contemporary, adult SKYE DRUIDS paranormal/fantasy romance series-a spin off from the author’s REAPER series which in turn is a spin off from the author’s many interconnected series and stories. This is Druids Elodie MacLean and Druid Scott Ryan’s story line. IRON EMBER should not be read as a stand alone- I recommend reading DARK ALPHA’S COMMAND (Reaper 15) for back story and cohesion as many of the events of the current story line are as of a direct result of the events in Dark Alpha’s Command. Several characters from the other series including Reaper Balladyn and Druid Rhona (Dark Alpha’s Command) and some of the original Dark Warriors / Dark Sword characters appear as secondary and supporting characters.

SOME BACKGROUND: Months earlier, betrayal and vengeance forced a take-over of power on the Isle of Skye but someone or something is killing the Druids, not only on the Isle of Skye, but around the world including Edinburgh Scotland. With the focus on the death of the Druids on the Isle of Skye, Balladyn and Rhona begin an investigation that reveals a danger targeting the Druids and the MacLean family, in particular.

Told from third person perspective IRON EMBER follows Elodie MacLean’s return to the Isle of Skye. Fifteen years earlier Elodie’s life spiralled out of control, and our heroine found herself acting out and misbehaving in a manner that labelled her persona non grata on the Isle of Skye. Having lived in Edinburgh for a number of years, her return to the Isle of Skye to face the demons from her past finds Elodie coming face to face with her future in the guise of Druid Scott Ryan but Scott has a secret, a secret that may push Elodie out of his life, a life that may no longer be under his control. Estranged from her family, Elodie struggles in the wake the loss of her magic, and the memory of what may or may not have happened. As the attacks against Elodie, and the Druids on the Isle of Skye increase, the past resurfaces revealing the truth about what happened and why. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Scott and Elodie, and the potential fall-out as Scott’s lies of omission threaten our heroine, and a predator demanding revenge focuses their energy of the Isle of Skye.

The relationship between Scott and Elodie begins when Scott, and his best friend Filip offer to help with repairs on Elodie MacLean’s family cottage. Remaining empty for close to fifteen years, the cottage is in disarray, having fallen behind in upkeep and love. As Scott and Elodie’s attraction to one another turns into something more, Elodie finds herself facing secrets, lies and betrayal at the hands of the man with whom she is falling in love, and the family with whom she is no longer close. The $ex scenes are limited but intimate and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters many of whom cross over from the author’s numerous interconnected series including warriors, Druids, Reapers and Dragons. We are introduced to Scott’s friend Filip, their ‘mentor and leader’ Georgiana, as well as Elodie’s siblings Edie and Elias.

IRON EMBER is a detailed and complex story that continues to build upon the events of Dark Alpha’s Command. Balladyn’s mate Rhona is the new leader of the Druids on the Isle of Skye, having won by default in the face of deception and betrayal by the former people in charge. The premise is intriguing and entertaining; the romance is passionate and captivating; the characters are energetic and charismatic.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Chapter OneShe was back.
It was the last place she wanted to be but the only place she had to run to.
Elodie threw open the curtains. Dust danced in the air, the sunlight catching it. She stared out the dirty window to the sea beyond. Skye. The home she’d proclaimed she would never leave because she loved it so fiercely.
It was also the place she had sworn to never return to.
And yet, here she was.
“Bloody hell,” she murmured as she turned her back to the window and looked over what remained of the furniture from her parents’ cottage.
Her gaze slid to the hearth where echoes of children’s laughter clung to the stones. Her mother had made the best hot cocoa. After playing for hours outside in the winter, Elodie, her elder sister, Edie, and her brother, Elias, would sit before the fire with steaming cups of cocoa and her grandmother’s strawberry scones.
Elodie squeezed her eyes shut. She wanted to hold onto the lighthearted memories, but the other ones were always on their heels—the ones that had altered all their lives, throwing them into chaos.
She blew out a breath and focused on the clutter and mess before her. The dust was so thick that she knew she would end up with respiratory problems for days if she didn’t take precautions. And it wasn’t as if she could use magic to prevent it.
Returning to Skye was like walking through one of Dante’s nine circles of Hell. Elodie didn’t know how she would survive being back on the island. If only she’d had somewhere else to go. Anywhere else. If she still believed, she would think Skye had interfered and brought her back.
“If that’s the case, then my magic wouldn’t be gone, now would it?”
It was hard not to be bitter and angry about her life. She owned her decisions, but she had been on a different path. Then, everything had imploded with the force of a nuclear explosion.
When she looked around after, everyone just went about their lives as if her family hadn’t been rocked to its core. As if she and her siblings hadn’t had their blinders ripped off with such force that it’d changed all three of them in one heartbeat—their innocence gone in the blink of an eye.
Corann had tried to help, but the old Druid hadn’t been able to reach any of them. And Elias had left. Elodie still hadn’t forgiven him for leaving her and Edie to navigate the churning waters of their society. Elodie might have been the youngest, but she was the one who’d ended up taking care of Edie. Her sister had the kind, gentle spirit of their mother. Elodie had lashed out and turned to drinking and drugs, but Edie had gone into herself.
Elodie walked through the main area of the cottage and past the kitchen to the hallway. Pictures of their family still hung on the walls. Snapshots of a happy life that had hidden the rot beneath. She stopped at one where Edie smiled brightly with a cake and lit candles before her. Maybe Elodie hadn’t been the one to take care of Edie. They had leaned on each other, clinging to one another and struggling to keep their heads above water. It was only because of her sister that Elodie hadn’t sunk too deeply into the hard life. She’d known she had to be there for Edie. And in the end, they’d kept each other afloat.
Until Elodie hadn’t been able to stay another minute on Skye.
Fifteen years. It seemed like a lifetime, but it was much too soon to be back. Nothing would keep her on Skye longer than necessary this time. Not her sister. Nothing. Skye had annihilated her family. It had destroyed her. How Edie could remain on the isle was a mystery. And Elias? All Elodie could hope for was that her brother had found some semblance of happiness. They all deserved it.
Elodie forced herself to walk to each room, but she couldn’t manage to go inside her parents’. She stood before the closed door as screams and shouts from that horrible day filled her head. Elodie backed away and turned on her heel. How in the world would she stay in the cottage? Sleep just feet from where it’d all happened.
“I can’t,” she stated with a shake of her head.
Elodie grabbed her purse and the single bag that held her measly belongings and started for the door. Then she remembered why she was on Skye.
“Fuck!” she yelled and fought the sudden urge to release the scream of frustration that welled up.
She wasn’t a crier, but everyone had their breaking point. She forced the tears back and dropped her bags. The only way to get on with her life was to take her sister’s offer. All Elodie had to do was clean up the cottage so they could sell it. It was a good deal. Elodie had the place to herself instead of sleeping on the sofa at Edie’s crowded house with her sister’s kids and husband. And all without having to pay any sort of rent.
Since Elodie was homeless and jobless and had less than two hundred pounds to her name, it really was a blessing. At least she’d thought that until she arrived on Skye. Even driving around the island had made her chest constrict. Her anxiety rose with every mile. Then she’d arrived at the cottage. It had taken Elodie half an hour to work up the courage to actually walk inside.
“Maybe I deserve this torture,” she said aloud. “I didn’t exactly live a good life.”
This was supposed to be her chance to start over. To travel the path she’d been on before she got derailed.
“Fine. Let’s do this.”
She opened the door, then went to all the windows and opened them despite the frigid temperatures and the threat of rain. The dust had to go somewhere, and the sooner she got it out of the house, the better. Elodie started in the bedroom she had once shared with her sister. She carefully folded the bed linens from each twin bed and dumped them outside. Thankfully, Edie had given her fresh sheets, pillows, and blankets.
Next, she found an old towel and used some cleaner to wipe down the walls and window, sweeping the cobwebs from the corners before vacuuming the carpet. Only then did she bring in her bag and purse.
Elodie wiped her face with her arm and made her way to the main area. Someone had placed sheets over the furniture. She slowly and carefully folded them, but there was so much dust that some still escaped. The pile joined the bed linens outside. On her way back inside, she smiled as she saw the dust wafting out the windows. Hopefully, most of it would land outside instead of back in the house.
The smallish living area didn’t take long to wipe down. The windows would take more than one cleaning. She didn’t want to touch the outside yet. That was a whole other matter entirely. Her first priority was to get the inside clean enough that she could locate any repairs that needed to be addressed. Only after she did that would she tackle the outside.
The old cottage was too quiet. Elodie pulled out her phone and put on her favorite playlist as she went back to cleaning. She kept moving, which helped to keep her warm. There was a brief shower, but she didn’t bother closing the windows. The house needed to be aired out to get rid of the musty smell. She suddenly froze, the hairs on the back of her neck lifting. Slowly, she straightened from scrubbing the bathroom counter and looked at the doorway. No one was there. At least no one she could see.
A chill raced down her spine. With the sponge still in her gloved hands, she walked into the hallway. She glanced at her parents’ room, then looked the other way. Elodie slowly made her way to the kitchen. Her gaze landed on a tall, gorgeous man with black and silver hair, standing next to a pretty female with red hair.
The man was a Fae. It seemed there was no escaping them anywhere, but they hadn’t been allowed on Skye in decades. At least as far as she knew. What was he doing back?
“Hi,” the woman said.
Elodie swung her gaze to the female. She looked close to Elodie’s age, and something about her seemed familiar.
“You don’t remember me, do you?” the woman asked with a smile.
Elodie shook her head. It was unnerving that people already knew she was on the isle. Worse that they remembered her when she had done everything to forget Skye and everyone on it. “I don’t.”
“You’ve been gone awhile. I’m Rhona.”
In an instant, Elodie remembered Rhona and her cousin, Sorcha. They used to come over occasionally. She had always liked both girls. Elodie glanced at the floor, slightly embarrassed for the harsh welcome she had given them. “Of course.”
Rhona looked at the man beside her, love shining in her eyes. “This is Balladyn.”
“A Fae,” Elodie said before she could stop herself.
Balladyn inclined his head of long hair. His eyes were silver, but she saw a ring of red around them. “Reaper, actually.” His voice had an Irish lilt.
Reaper. Elodie wasn’t sure what that meant.
“We wanted to welcome you back and see if you needed anything,” Rhona said.
Elodie shifted her feet nervously. Did they know she’d lost her magic? “That wasn’t necessary.”
“You’re one of us,” Rhona said with a soft look. “We look after our own.”
Resentment threatened to choke Elodie, and she had to remind herself that she shouldn’t direct her anger at Rhona. She hadn’t been any older than Elodie back then. Corann was a different matter. “Corann sent you?”
A frown moved over Rhona’s face so quickly that Elodie almost missed it. “We lost Corann. I’ve taken his place.”
“Oh.” Damn. She should’ve had Edie bring her up to date on things. Then again, Elodie hadn’t wanted to talk to any Druids, so she had made sure not to take an interest in anything. “Honestly, I won’t be here long. As soon as I get the place fixed up and sold, I’m leaving.”
Rhona’s green eyes narrowed slightly. “That’s a pity. We could use you.”
No one ever had use for her. Elodie glanced at Balladyn to see that the Reaper’s gaze hadn’t moved from her. It was unnerving to have him watch her in such a way, and yet she didn’t feel threatened. “It’s for the best.”
“Why don’t you come for tea later this week? We can catch up,” Rhona said.
Elodie’s plan to keep to herself was rapidly disintegrating. She liked Rhona—or at least the person she had once been. It wasn’t in Elodie’s nature to be outright rude, but Rhona would likely ask questions that Elodie wasn’t prepared to answer. And she was tired of lying. “I’m no–”
“Please don’t decline. Think it over.” Rhona smiled. “Please.”
Well, bugger it. “I’ll consider it.”
Rhona’s smile was huge. “Great. And if you need any help, we can get this place together quickly.”
The offer was so tempting that Elodie nearly took it. If they did, she could leave Skye that much quicker. However, if she agreed to Rhona’s offer, it would inevitably lead to those pesky questions she was intent on dodging. “Thanks, but I’ve already made good headway today.”
“At the very least, let me fix the leaking roof,” Balladyn said.
Her gaze snapped to him. The roof was leaking? She glanced around but didn’t hear any dripping. Then a drop landed on top of her head. This might be a bigger project than she’d thought. She faced him and forced her tight lips into a smile as her stomach churned with anxiety. “I would appreciate that.”
“It’s done,” he said with a bow of his head.
“Thank you.”
Rhona flashed another smile. “It’s good to have you back. I hope you’ll consider the tea.”
Elodie held her smile until the two of them suddenly disappeared. She blinked and frowned. Balladyn must have teleported them out. At least the leak was fixed. She looked up at the ceiling and spotted the water damage.
“I’m going to be here forever,” she grumbled. 


 

Donna Grant is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the sizzling Dark King series featuring dragons, immortal Highlanders, and the Fae.

She was born and raised in Texas but loves to travel. Her adventures have taken her throughout the United States as well as to Jamaica, Mexico, and Scotland. Growing up on the Texas/Louisiana border, Donna’s Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding.

Despite deadlines and voracious reading, Donna still manages to keep up with her two children, four cats, and one long haired Chihuahua.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | NEWSLETTER SIGNUP / TUMBLR / PINTEREST / GOODREADS

Share

Dark Alpha’s Command (Reaper 15) by Donna Grant-review & excerpt

Dark Alpha’s Command (Reaper 15) by Donna Grant-a review & excerpt

 

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play /Apple/

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date: September 6, 2022

There is no escaping a Reaper. I am an elite assassin, part of a brotherhood that only answers to Death. And when Death says your time is up, I’m coming for you…

I’ve been a part of so many different worlds I’m not sure who I am or where I fit in anymore. Honestly, with everything I’ve been through, being called across realms and encountering the beautiful Druid who instantly captures my attention—and my heart—shouldn’t have surprised me. But it did. Not as much as discovering how it feels to brush against her magic, however. Now, we must navigate these new waters and fight against our latest threat, hoping that our combined power and that of our allies is enough to defeat our foe. Because the Fae Others want to end the Reapers and take over the realm, and their leader is one of the most formidable enemies we’ve ever faced. The battle won’t be easy, but with this strong, resilient mortal by my side and some help from our friends, it’s a fight I’m more than willing to enter—as long as it means she’s by my side. Forever.

•••••

REVIEW: DARK ALPHA’S COMMAND is the fifteenth instalment in Donna Grant’s contemporary, adult REAPER paranormal, fantasy romance series -a spin off from the author’s Dark Kings series, which is a spinoff from Donna Grant’s DARK WARRIOR series which in turn is a spin off from the author’s DARK SWORD series- all set in the Highlands of Scotland. This is the new head of the Skye Druids Rhona, and Reaper Balladyn’s story line. DARK ALPHA’S COMMAND can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary but I recommend reading the series in order for back story and cohesion as there is a continuing premise throughout. Balladyn’s story begins in the Dark Kings series.

SOME BACKGROUND: The Reapers (believed to be a folk lore amongst the Fae) are a group of Dark and Light Fae, selected by Death (aka Erith), on their own deathbed, to do her bidding-Death is the judge and jury; the Reapers are the executioners. The Reapers are not harbingers of death, but are tasked with destroying the Light and Dark Fae who have crossed a line from which there is no return. All Reapers must follow two rules: never to fall in love; and never to reveal their existence to anyone but a group known as the Others, have declared themselves the rulers of the Fae, and their next ‘mission’ is to take down the Reapers, having failed to destroy the Dark Kings.

Told from several third person perspectives including Rhona and Balladyn DARK ALPHA’S COMMAND sees former Light turned Dark Fae turned Reaper Balladyn get his own happily ever after. Someone or something is calling Balladyn to the Isle of Skye, and upon his arrival he finds Rhona, a mortally wounded Druid, and with his own magic begins the healing process for the woman with whom he will fall in love. Rhona is the new head of the Skye Druids, and as such is facing a potential back lash from those who do not want to see her succeed but the attack against Rhona may have come from another direction, the Fae Others, a group of six Fae lead by Lena, a Dark Fae hoping to rid the world of the Reapers, The Dragon Kings, and most especially, the humans. With the arrival of the Druids from the MacLeod Castle (Dark Sword), and the help of the Reapers, Rhona and Balladyn begin to ferret out who may be responsible for the attack on Rhona but quickly discover there may be a dark mole hidden amongst one of their own. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Rhona and Balladyn, and the potential fall-out as The Others take aim, beginning with our story line couple.

Meanwhile Reaper Aisling continues to search for the illusive and tortured Xaneth. For years former Queen of the Light/Dark Usaeil imprisoned and tortured her nephew Xaneth, and upon his escape became something else, hunting the evil taking aim at the people he once loved.

The relationship between Rhona and Balladyn is one of immediate attraction, pulled together by an unknown force but an attraction Balladyn struggles to accept. As a Reaper, Balladyn must obey the command of Death aka Erith but the woman with whom he is falling in love cannot leave the Isle of Skye, for it is the home of the Skye Druid and our story line heroine. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters from all of the author’s interconnected series including Dark Warrior, Dark Sword, Dark Kings, and Dragon Kings. As the introductory story line to the author’s new SKYE DRUIDS spin off, DARK ALPHA’S COMMAND sets up the background and conflict facing the Druids of the Isle of Skye.

DARK ALPHA’S COMMAND is a story of betrayal, obsession and vengeance, power and control, magic, partnerships and love. The premise is captivating and intriguing; the romance is seductive; the characters are energetic, powerful and charismatic.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Dark Alpha’s Claim
Dark Alpha’s Embrace
Dark Alpha’s Demand
Dark Alpha’s Lover
Dark Alpha’s Night
Dark Alpha’s Hunger
Dark Alpha’s Redemption
Dark Alpha’s Temptation
Dark Alpha’s Caress
Dark Alpha’s Obsession
Dark Alpha’s Need
Dark Alpha’s Silent Night
Dark Alpha’s Passion

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

 

 

Death’s RealmBalladyn’s eyes snapped open, his heart racing as he gasped for breath. The yawning, opaque terror occurred abruptly, like a hard punch to the gut. Only one thought went through his head: find it.
Without hesitation, he teleported to the Fae doorway. Just before he stepped through, he remembered his vow to Death. Balladyn clenched his jaw at the physical pain that gripped him when he halted. He needed to find Erith and tell her what was happening. But the thought of wasting that time when he could be searching for whatever called to him made him want to bellow with annoyance.
He was being pulled in two.
“Balladyn.”
Erith’s calm voice reached him. He turned his head to the goddess and stared into her lavender eyes.
She looked him over before lifting her chin, a small frown puckering her forehead. “What is it?”
“I…don’t…know,” he managed to get out. The alarm and distress were so boundless he could barely speak. He braced his hands on either side of the doorway. It was the only way to stop himself from just walking through—and hopefully ending the torment that had him in its merciless grip.
Erith nodded to someone on Balladyn’s other side. He didn’t bother to look. It was most likely her consort, Cael. Balladyn dropped his chin to his chest. He had to go. He needed to leave.
Right that instant. If he didn’t…
“You want to leave.”
It wasn’t a question. “I have to,” he ground out. His body shook as he fought to remain where he was. Every second was excruciating. If he left, the agony would end. He didn’t know how he knew that, only that the knowledge was there.
“Tell me what’s happening.”
He squeezed his eyes shut. The words stuck in his throat as the pain intensified. The compulsion to find whatever called to him across the realms was too great to resist. He parted his lips, wanting to tell Erith what he felt, but he couldn’t. Balladyn pushed away from the doorway and started to walk through it.
“Wait,” Death commanded in a sharp tone.
Her order froze him immediately. The ensuing deluge of despair made him throw back his head and bellow. He had to get…fek. He had no idea where he needed to go, only that he had to go. Immediately.
“Follow him. Don’t let him out of your sight,” he heard Erith say. Then, “Go, Balladyn.”
The instant she released him, he was through the doorway. He let whatever pulled him determine his course. He was mildly startled to find himself not just on Earth but in Belfast. He paused long enough to orient himself in the narrow, old-town street. The night was cold and rainy. Lights strung over the road and suspended from each building lit the area and reflected in the puddles on the ground as locals and tourists rushed to get out of the rain.
Balladyn didn’t look behind him to see who followed. All that mattered was locating who or what had reached through time and space to him. His head snapped to the right when he felt the sharp tug again. He strode down the street until he came to a narrow alley. He heard nothing over the steady beat of the rain. When he turned to go down the lane, he felt a hand on his shoulder.
“This could be a trap,” Eoghan cautioned.
Balladyn looked into the molten, silver eyes of the Reaper who led their team. “I have to.”
Eoghan released him and nodded, letting Balladyn know without words that his team was there and would watch his back.
Balladyn blinked the rain from his eyes and started walking. With every step, something urged him to hurry. He was running by the time he reached the end where it opened to a small area. He slid to a stop and let his gaze scan the space. It was dark and quiet. Nothing stirred. Then he smelled it—blood.
The sound of a slight cough reached him. His head swung to the side, and he made out the shape of someone on the ground. Balladyn rushed over. The instant he knelt and saw the red hair, his breath caught. He found himself staring into the beautiful face of Rhona, the head of the Skye Druids.
“What the hell?” Bradach asked in a shocked whisper.
Balladyn glanced down at Rhona’s body and found her hands clutching her abdomen, blood running quickly through her fingers. Her heartbeat was faint, her breathing shallow. She wouldn’t live much longer. Certainly not long enough for him to get her anywhere that someone could help her.
Another bellow rose within him. He didn’t know what Rhona was doing in Ireland or what had happened to her, but he couldn’t let her die. Not like this.
“Rhona? Open your eyes,” he begged. “Look at me.”
But she didn’t move. Suddenly, he remembered reading about some ancient magic in one of the books in his library. Without hesitation, the words he had read filled his mind. The magic sprang forth and wrapped around Rhona.
“What the hell did you just do?” Ruarc demanded.
Balladyn lifted Rhona in his arms. “I have a library of books. I made use of some ancient knowledge in one. This won’t last long. She’s lost too much blood. We have to get her to safety.”
“She could be a trap for us. I hate to say it, but the Six could’ve learned of our connection to Skye through Sorcha and me,” Cathal said.
Rordan grunted. “Not only is Rhona Sorcha’s cousin, but she’s also the leader of the Druids.”
“We’ll find our answers later,” Eoghan said. “Cathal, fill Erith in on everything and return with Sorcha. Dubhan and Bradach, you two take a look around. See if you can spot any of the Fae Others, the Six, or their soldiers. The rest of us are going to Skye.”
Balladyn didn’t wait for Eoghan to finish speaking before teleporting inside Rhona’s cottage. It was dark inside, but he saw well enough to make his way down the hall to her bedroom. He gently laid her on the bed. When he stepped back and saw the blood on his arms, his heart clutched painfully.
“What now?” Rordan asked.
Balladyn turned his head to Eoghan. “We need Druids.”
“Can we trust them?” Ruarc questioned.
Eoghan blew out a breath as he flipped on the light in the room. “We don’t have a choice. Rhona needs their healing.”
No sooner had he spoken the words than Cathal arrived with Sorcha. Tears welled in her eyes the minute the Druid spotted Rhona on the bed. “I’ll get the others,” Sorcha said and turned to her mate.
The urgency driving Balladyn had stopped when he found Rhona. He didn’t know if she had called to him or if it had been something else. As far as he knew, no one could penetrate time and space to reach a Fae other than Death. Not even someone as powerful as Rhi could do that. So how had the message reached him?
“The Druids aren’t going to be happy to see all of us,” Eoghan pointed out. “We need to remain veiled.”
Ruarc grimaced. “Should we even stay?”
“I’m not leaving her,” Balladyn stated.
Eoghan quickly said, “None of us is. We need to know what happened.”
They could only get answers through Rhona, and only if the Druid lived. Balladyn kept his gaze on her hands. There was more blood than he’d initially realized. It soaked her wet clothes. The magic he used had paused it, but he had no idea how long that would last. The Druids needed to get there. Soon.

 

Donna Grant is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the sizzling Dark King series featuring dragons, immortal Highlanders, and the Fae.

She was born and raised in Texas but loves to travel. Her adventures have taken her throughout the United States as well as to Jamaica, Mexico, and Scotland. Growing up on the Texas/Louisiana border, Donna’s Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding.

Despite deadlines and voracious reading, Donna still manages to keep up with her two children, four cats, and one long haired Chihuahua.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | NEWSLETTER SIGNUP / TUMBLR / PINTEREST / GOODREADS

Share