Nightborn

Lords of the Darkyn #1

by Lynn Viehl

The High Lord of the Immortal Darkyn has sent his most trusted warrior, Korvel, to retrieve a coveted scroll that's rumored to contain maps to Templar treasures and the secrets to eternal life. Uniting with Korvel to recover the dangerous artifact is Simone Derien, the daughter of the scroll's guardian, and a woman with many deadly secrets...

Genres: Paranormal Romance, Paranormal, Vampires, Romance, Urban Fantasy, Fantasy, Fiction

312 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published March 6, 2012

About the author

Also see S.L. Viehl, Gena Hale, Jessica Hall. Rebecca Kelly.

She writes mostly novels in a variety of genres and under several pseudonyms. Among them are science fiction (as S. L. Viehl), romantic fiction (as Lynn Viehl, Gena Hale, and Jessica Hall), and Christian fiction (as Rebecca Kelly). She has described herself as primarily a writer of romance: no matter what genre she is working in, an element of romance will always be present.

In what spare time remains she enjoys quilting, reading, cooking, painting, and knitting. She currently lives with her family in Florida.

Reviews

[Ezi Chinny · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been waiting for this story for a long time. In this return to the Darkyn world, King Richard Tremayne sends his seneschal Korvel to retrieve the Scroll of Falkonera. This scroll is a priceless treasure because it supposedly contains details on how to make an exilir that will grant immortality to a mortal.
When he arrives to the destination, he finds the place under attack and rescues a young “nun” named Simone Derien. Together, they set out to retrieve the stolen scroll, with each party having their own directives on what to do once the scroll has been recovered.

When King Richard loses contact with Korvel, he dispatches Gabriel Seran to rescue Korvel. That automatically includes Nicola Jefferson, Gabe’s sykgenis (life companion--see Night Lost), a holy relic recovery expert. We see here that Nic is still struggling with her identity as kyn. She is still recovering from being tortured by a kyn, whereas Gab is still recovering from being tortured by humans. I was disappointed in that she still seemed self absorbed and secretive as I remember. She wasn’t one of my favorite heroines. But I do always enjoy her sarcastic retorts regarding Richard Tremayne.

This book revealed the formation of the obligation and service of Korvel as a seneschal to Richard. It also reveals Korvel’s upbringing as well as Simone’s. They were quite turbulent, so perhaps that is why they bonded so well together. Korvel and Simone’s relationship reminded me a lot of Valentin & Lily’s relationship in Twilight Fall because it seemed the skeletons in Simone’s closet were endless. Once you get a grip on one secret, another revelation occurred, including the relationship between the heroine and the antagonist. Korvel and Simone deserved a chance to be happy after years of being pawns in different people’s schemes. So I was pleased with the ending of this novel.

I wasn’t pleased with Alex Keller showing up to help Korvel with no backup given their prior history. I expected Michael or Phillipe to come with her, just in case something was amiss. I also expected Korvel to be more apologetic to Alex especially now that he has found love, he would be more aware of what he tried to take from Alex. It just seemed odd that Michael didn’t send protection with Alex.

This novel was classic Lynn Viehl. If you have read and enjoyed her previous Darkyn & Kindred novels, then you know what to expect because it is the same formula. Lots of action, a lot of twists and turns, some sex scenes, but ultimately, a satisfying ending.

[Melindeeloo · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars - Nightborn: Lords of the Darkyn ended up as probably my favorite of the Darkyn so far. There is a darkness to Viehl's series that often leaves me with mixed reactions to her books despite the fact that the writing and the characters are so good. There still plenty of death in Nightborn but not as much in the moment torture, just fades to black where we know what's going to happen or the aftermath mentioned here and there. The leading man is Korvel, who was bad-guy-ish in one of the earlier books - under orders from the Darkyn king Richard, Korvl had kept Alex enthralled but ended up falling for her. Korvel's intro here is pretty sympathy stirring and I found it easy to forgive him for past misdeeds once I knew more of his backstory and how important his vows and his honor were to him - and how Richard abused those vows. I really like his heroine, Simone - a lot - she is deadly sweet and awesome and her backstory is just as intriguing as Korvel's and results in some pretty great action scenes.

Even though Lords of the Darkyn is a Darkyn spinoff, Nightborn is really a continuation of the early series, at least character-wise, with some familiar faces: Nicola and Gabe in a supporting role and others from the series - including Alex - turning up here and there. However, it did look like there might not so much of the Brethren this time - which I am totally fine with - and I am intrigued by the Tresora council and the Sentinels - there definitely looks to be more to the devoted servants than their masters realize. Oh, and I had forgotten that the Darkyn started out as Knight's Templar - I have a thing for the Templars.

So I really loved this first Lords of the Darkyn and am looking forward to the next book Nightbreed which supposedly has Thierry's, Jamys, in the lead.

[Francesca the Fierce (Under the Covers Book Blog) · Rating 3 out of 5]

This review was posted at Under The Covers

3.5 Stars

The Darkyn world is a bit dark and seductive. I haven't read anything by Ms. Viehl before but this sounded really good so I had to give it a try. I think the author did a great job at explaining everything in the world that if you haven't read her Darkyn series you could pick this up and understand it.

Not knowing him from the previous series, the hero of this story, Korvel, I think is great. He's caring, first for his duty, which he follows blindly going to retrieve a scroll that holds the secret to immortality, but then he can be so tender with his heroine. Simone, is a tresora, a human servant of the Kyn. She's lived her life in a convent with blind nuns waiting for the day she will have to step up and protect the scroll. The two of them together compliment each other during their search and battles, but they also have great chemistry as a couple!

There were so many twists in this story which were very nice, some unexpected and some a bit predictable. There was plenty of action, which I liked! But I also really enjoyed the secondary characters in the book, I believe they are a previous couple, Gabriel and Nicole. She's soooo much fun! I loved her attitude and personality, I am really looking forward to going back and reading her book. Looking forward to reading more from this author!

*ARC provided by publisher

[Charlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Go pre-order this now. Yes, you, right now. This is vampire romance on steroids riding a Harley, with all the badassery and twice the heart. Fans of the Darkyn will love the reunion with old friends and those new to the series will appreciate the author's deft breadcrumbing to orient readers to who's who without slowing down the high-adrenaline plot. Simone and Korvel remain at the center of the story throughout but the supporting cast and secondary storylines make this novel bigger, faster, stronger. Did I mention the steroids? Go! Buy!

[Zeek · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really cool to come back to this world after a long break. (this one was languishing in my tbr pile for far too long). Im sad she stopped writing in this universe but maybe I'll try her steampunk series after Lords of the Darkyn.

Anyway this story mixes historical with an imagined modern fantasy world, creating a world I cant resist. A little bit vampire romance, but more so magic. So yeah, it's a difficult world to explain.

In the Darkyn world there is a hierarchy
and our hero Korvel is a trusted warrior of the King of the Darkyn (vampires in this world). The King has sent him on assignment to collect a powerful artifact from their time as Knights Templar.

But long ago someone else had been entrusted with protecting it and it will now take both of them to protect the world from what evil can do with the artifact if unleashed.

Simone Derien has mysterious origins and a painful past, but she kicks ass. She's also kind and perfect for Korvel once they finally meet.( And they are not shy about burning up the sheets in the bedroom. no purple prose there!)

She's just certain one or both of them will end up dead before its all over.

The story felt a bit formulaic, but definitely Darkyn formulaic which makes it better than most.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I KNEW I'd love this new series!!

First things first, if you've never read a Darkyn story, or a Kindred story, I don't recommend this series to start off with.

This book has a lot of our old friends Gabriel and Nicola in it - From the book Night Lost (Darkyn #4)

Both Nic and her sassy mouth and her sexy Gabriel were set out in this book to help out Korvel and Simone on their journey to protect "The Scroll" that will give immorality to only the righteous mortals.

First let me explain who Karvel is - we remembered him as the big bad Captain of the Guards to the Kind of the Darkyn's, Richard Tremayne.

Back in the Darkyn series, Karvel was the one that bonded with Alex while she was bonded with Michael, and it screwed things up for them, big time.

But there is another side to Karvel. True Alex broke the bond, but he still had true feelings for her. And he’s still paying for his mistakes.

So in this book, we see him losing his bond to Alex, as his true love needs him more.

So in the beginning of this book, we have Simone, who is Tresori (sworn to serve to the elders of the tresoran council.) So as she is rushing to the chateau, where the scroll is hidden, she smells smoke. The house is on fire. She rushes in, and finds one of the servants dying. She helps him out to the driveway.
Just as she hears his voice.. "Hello, Quatorze." she didn't recognize the man in front of her, but she'd always remember his voice. Pajaro.

Pajaro was one of the many children brought to the chateau, where her father trained them and herself to be the best Tresori's there ever could be. There would be no room for mistakes as she was growing up. For every day since she was old enough, she had faught for her life.

Pajaro was one of the boys who fought with her. He came to her one night and she kicked his ass :) But her father was pretty upset with him. And kicked him out of the chateau. He never forgot that.

He believed all he needed to do was kill her father, Helada , and he would be the next Helada.

Sorry this is hard to explain :)

Meanwhile - Karvel is on a mission from the King to bring him the scroll. So on his way to the chateau, he was ambushed. The assassins came at him with copper knives. As he pulled one out of his leg, the copper broke off.. leaving him poisoned and soon to die.

But he heard the mortals laughing up ahead. When he looked over, he saw they were about to rape and kill a nun of all people!
So Karvel made his way to the men, and knocked them all out.

When the nun was safe, she ran away from him, he followed her. She found her way to a large flower pot, digging through the dirt. She found the sachet that was now empty.. the scroll was gone.

Karvel realized that she was a Terisa.
Knowing he saved her life, and vowing to protect the Kyn's, Simone helped Karvel to the covent where she was staying, and dug out the piece of copper out of his leg. Giving him her own blood, and pretty much saving his life.

K - I'm not sure how to explain this book, to make sense. All I can say is if you're a fan of the Darkyn series, this is a GREAT beginning to a new series (The Lords of the Darkyn) I'm so excited for the next book now. I wonder who it's going to be about :)

[Dark Faerie Tales · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review Courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales

Quick & Dirty: Ms. Viehl’s characters live in a strange, strange world.

Opening Sentence: A shout outside the barbican tower jerked Brother Frémis from his contemplation of the inside of his eyelids.

The Review:

A strange, strange world indeed. For who in their right mind would train a tiny little girl to become an assassin by having her attacked by a crap load of males her own age. Oh, and for kicks let’s video tape it for posterity.

Let us concentrate on the hero and heroine of this particular story. Korvel is Darkyn, a certain breed of vampire. These guys are not deathly allergic to sunlight, but it does weaken them quite a bit. They do drink blood, however, and very often mix it with wine, especially when it is older or bagged. Oh, and these guys, they smell good. So good, that often they can use their scent, or l’attrait to turn any human into one who will do their every bidding. Nifty trick, that. We met Korvel in a previous book in this series, and forgive me for not remembering which one. Back then we were meant to hate him, for he did something seemingly horrible to one of the heroines from that series. Nice to see Korvel get some redemption, because I think we all knew that down deep, Korvel really is a nice guy.

Korvel is the Kyn high lord’s right hand warrior, his seneschal, and is currently on a secret mission for the high lord to recover an ancient Kyn artifact, one that contains the secret to immortality. When he arrives at the last known location of the artifact, he is ambushed by assassins trained to defeat his kind, and finds a nun who is also being attacked. After rescuing her, and suffering some battle wounds, he is taken to a nearby convent to heal before continuing his mission, for which he has now also acquired a partner, that very nun whose life he saved.

But, our little Simone is no nun; in fact she has been trained to be rather deadly since she was a young girl. She is also a trisori sentinel, a member of a group of mortals sworn to aid the Kyn, but also sworn to follow the orders of the tresoran council. The tresoran council has not only sworn allegiance to the Darkyn, but has also taken on the job of protecting the mortals of the world from them as well, if necessary. The council has ordered her to kill Korvel after he helps her find the artifact that has been in the care of her family for generations, because they don’t think his master should get a hold of it. Simone may have been trained as an assassin, but killing for the sake of killing has never been much to her liking, and this particular order becomes even harder to follow when she becomes romantically involved with the subject, or when the subject becomes romantically involved with her.

On their mission to find the artifact, they are met by a few blasts from the past, Nick, Gabriel and Alex. Nick and Gabriel were sent to find Korvel and help him; Alex appears off and on to brandish her infinite doctorial skills and sarcasm. We also bear witness to some of their struggles in life and love. But one question…when did her man Michael start letting Alex wander the countryside without him? If I remember correctly, wasn’t he all master of the caveman tendencies where she was concerned?

Needless to say, the hero and heroine accomplish their mission and live happily ever after (in a fashion). But, I want to know: Do we get to see more of Simone’s “brothers”? Sounds like some of them could be interesting, maybe even quite handsome…

I find this book does a decent job at standing alone, though previous knowledge of the Kyn and tresora, Nick, Gabriel, etc. would seemingly make some parts of the book more meaningful. Especially the parts with Alex, and those focusing on the Nicola/Gabriel relationship, and all of its hardships. Also, I do remember the complexity in Ms. Viehl’s writing from before, and the knowledge of having to read them in order. It’s a sound idea, starting from the first book, but that’s just a suggestion from me to you. Thankfully, I am up on the list to reread the whole series, start to finish, for DFT. So maybe in the future I will revisit this one, and at that point my review will seem to make more sense, at least to me anyway.

Nevertheless, I liked it as much as I remember liking her others, and would recommend it to my friends. That is if I had any friends who would actually read something about vampires, and stuff like that.

Notable Scene:

The first charged at her from behind as two flanking her ran a cross pattern. As soldiers, they had been trained to fight upright, falling prone only to take cover or to change position, and expected the enemy to do the same. Simone dropped, seizing the blades and diving between the legs of her first attacker, cutting his hamstrings. She rolled over in time to parry the man on her left as he struck down, grabbing his shoulder and using his momentum to throw him into the third soldier, who collapsed in a tangle with him.

Back on her feet, she moved to the scaffolding, using a running jump to pull herself up to the first level and turning to drive her boot into the face of the guildsman who pursued her; she leaped over the one who followed him and swept her arm back, slamming her elbow into the base of his skull.

She regarded the five who were left, and how they rearranged themselves. These were the watchful ones, the martial artists with their black belts and their clever techniques. They would be strong, practiced, and deceptive, but they had been trained to read the body of the enemy to anticipate his or her actions.

Simone remained still, holding her arms to shield her upper body while she shifted her eyes from one chest to another. Two of the men danced back and forth as they approached, feinting strikes at her head before they lashed out with their feet at her legs. She fell before they could touch her, jerking the legs they stood on out from beneath them.

Both fell back, one striking the back of his head and going still, the other managing to partially break his fall with an arm. The snap of his ulna sounded like a brittle branch as Simone wrapped an arm around his neck and dragged him up, heaving his body toward two more guildsmen.

That left one standing only a few feet from her, and he stepped forward, keeping his eyes on her face as he bobbed in a shallow bow. He raised his arms, his hands cupped, his legs slightly bent at the knees, prepared for any move she intended to make.

Except this one, Simone thought, raising the .22 she had taken from one of the soldiers and shooting the last guildsman in the knee.

The Lords of the Darkyn Series:

1. Nightborn

2. Nightbred

FTC Advisory: Penguin/Signet provided me with a copy of Nightborn. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.

[jD · Rating 3 out of 5]

This Darkyn installment was like false eyelashes for me. They look nice but when I know the true face…they just throw me off.

Looking at this book in comparison to the Darkyn series I loved, I am disappointed. I miss the comprehensive historical aspects. I miss the multiple layers of intrigue. I missed the strength and power of the vampires from previous books. I miss the angst.
Nightborn can stand alone without the series supporting its creative concepts so that is a good thing for those who found Viehl too heavy handed in previous installments. I understand that she is expanding her fan base by going more commercial. As I am not an author, I have no idea how or why that is done. I don’t think one can cut that much mean away and call it the same dish. At least, not when I am eating it.

On the plus side, the book held many of Viehl’s trademarks. The romance and mystery aspects are strong. I still find her to be bold in her use of violence and cunning as it relates to her antagonist. She did not go cookie cutter with the bad guy. Overall this book is a gain for fans of paranormal romance especially if the reader likes their love scenes hot. For readers who don’t want to work too hard to understand what the hell is going on, you will find this one easy to follow. It’s not dumbed down exactly but it’s a near thing.

I am going with 3 stars because it really did not entertain me as much as I would have liked. There were moments when I felt like I was reading the Darkyn series I loved but then it was gone.

[Shannon C. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Just finished Nightborn: Lords of the Darkyn and it was a really solid read (4 - 4.5 stars). I'm so glad Viehl decided to revisit the Darkyn world. Korvel was the hero in this one--the High Lord's right hand guy. I really liked his heroine Simone. She's very kick a$$ and had some cool secrets about her background. The book was well written and a good amount of mystery, action, suspense and romance.

I liked that the Brethen didn't play a role in this book. They were such nasty bad guys in the earlier Darkyn books. I have to admit they are a bit too dark for me, so I appreciated their absence.

It has a good excerpt at the end for the next book Nightbred: Lords of the Darkyn, which Amazon says will be out in December 2012.

If you haven't read this series yet, it's best to start with the original Darkyn series first: . There is also a very good also spin off Kyndred series set in the same world with some cross over characters.

[D.B. Reynolds · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was very happy to see Viehl return to the world of her Darkyn series, full of hunky, brooding vampires and plucky heroines. I admit to being confused for much of the early part of the book as I tried to figure out what had happened when and to whom. This usually doesn't happen with Viehl's books, so it was even more confusing. Eventually it all straightened out, but I still found the story more secretive than it needed to be, and thought the hero of the tale, Korvel, was a little too forgiving of his heroine, Simone, who persisted in being dishonest in her dealings with him right up until the end. This wasn't the best of Viehl's books, but if you loved the Darkyn series, you'll want to read it. I'll give it 4 stars, but it mostly because it gets points for being part of the series.

[Dana Alma · Rating 4 out of 5]

NightBorn by Lynn Viehl leads us to another amazing view of the Darkyn. Finally, we get to learn more about the illusive Korvel. NightBorn delves deeper into the past of the Darkyn opening our eyes to what can only be more amazing stories via Viehl. I was thrilled that Korvel finally found his woman, the deadly and kick-ass, Simone. Smoldering looks, and bone melting romance make this a winner. I look forward to the book two, Nightbred, due out December 4, 2012.

[Helyce · Rating 4 out of 5]

Korvel, seneschal to King Richard, High Lord of the Immortal Darkyn, has been sent into France to recover a very old artifact that is rumored to hold the secrets of eternal life. This scroll, crafted in its entirety out of gold during the time of the Knights Templar, was entrusted to one family who has passed it down over the centuries and has kept it hidden and safe. When Richard receives word that it may have been compromised, he sends Korvel to retrieve it, but when Korvel arrives he finds the chateau under attack, the residents slain. Korvel fearlessly enters into the fighting, easily taking out five or six of the men dressed in black before being stabbed in the thigh by a copper coated blade.

Simone Derien spent a good part of her young life in denial. All through her growing up, she did everything her father expected of her, except for the one thing he needed most. But upon his death bed, he was able to extract a promise from her, one she had never hoped to make. Living among the nuns now she’s finally found a sense of calm and peace her life never knew. Sadly, her peaceful existence is about to be shattered when she receives word that a man she thought was dead is not only alive, but wants the object her family has been tasked with keeping safe for centuries. She immediately leaves the convent and heads home to her father’s chateau.

When she arrives, the chateau is on fire, the elderly couple who take care of the property are dead. She’s immediately attacked by more men in black, but Korvel comes forward taking out the men, even in his injured state. Simone takes off toward the greenhouse to find it in shambles. She frantically begins to look for the scroll, digging through broken pots until she finds the case, the clasp broken and the case empty. It is only then that she finally seems to notice Korvel. She realizes he is injured and he asks her to help him remove the tip of the copper blade. It is then that she realizes he is Kyn and that he too has been sent to retrieve the scroll, something she cannot allow.

When Simone and Korvel set out together to track and retrieve the scroll, Korvel has no idea who or what Simone is and what she is capable of. Simone confuses him. She knows he is Kyn, in fact offered her blood to him to help with his healing. He assumes that she is a nun as she is living in a convent, yet she has no qualms about stripping naked in front of him to clean up before dressing and leaving to track the scroll. Korvel has to fight hard against his baser instincts; it’s been a long time since his body has reacted like this to a woman and he has to keep reminding himself that she is a nun.

Simone is keeping a big secret. There is so much more to the scroll than what the Kyn know about it. Her promise to her father ensures that it can never fall into the wrong hands, that she is to destroy it first. While she agreed that she and Korvel should join forces to retrieve the scroll, it was never her intent to follow through with that. Her plan is to somehow divert Korvel at some point, meet up with her contact and move forward with her plan. In fact, she has been tasked to kill Korvel, but in the short time that she’s spent with him, she begins to have feelings for him. And in that short time she shares more about herself than she ever expected to. Torn between her duty and her feelings for Korvel, she decides to follow through with her plan, never suspecting that her contact would double cross her.

Nightborn is the first book in a spinoff of Ms. Viehl’s Darkyn series from a few years back. This story is filled with intrigue and adventure and I was captivated by it from the first pages. Korvel is sent out by Richard to retrieve an artifact and bring it back with him. He’s heard of it, and knows its importance but for the most part, he’s just carrying out his orders much like he’s done for centuries as Richard’s seneschal. He really is totally unprepared for Simone Derien. His immediate attraction to her confuses him and he does try his best to fight it. It’s difficult as Simone starts to have her own feelings for him and begins to make advances. When she finally admits to Korvel that she is not a nun, all bets are off and they both give in to it, unable to deny it any longer.

As the reader, we know that Simone has a huge secret and as the story moves forward, and we learn about the abuse that Simone suffered at the hands of her father, it is really easy to hate him and be confused by his actions. While horrible, what she went through as a child truly did serve a purpose even though she won’t realize its significance until she is forced to use everything she learned under his guidance.

There are some secondary characters that aid Korvel and Simone as they search for the scroll. Nicola Jefferson and Gabriel Seran, both Kyn, head to France against Richards instructions to help look for Korvel when he goes missing. Nicola, aka Nick, is a kick ass first, ask questions later type of gal and I adored her. She and Gabe come in just in time to rescue Korvel and Simone when they are kidnapped by Pajaro, the assassin who originally stole the scroll.

The ultimate conflict and subsequent resolution was one I did not see coming and when everything was said and done I swear I put my fist in air and said “yes”! Simone may have had secrets, but she’s totally unprepared to learn that her father was so much more than the man she knew. Yes, she suffered at his hands, and she may never forgive him, but even after his death he had been looking out for her, and when she realizes all that he did in preparation of the trial that he knew she’d one day go through I was totally blown away.

I really enjoyed Nightborn. It is certainly not your average vampire lore and I really liked that Simone was so much more than what her appearance led you to believe. I also very much liked Korvel and especially enjoyed seeing his character growth at the end when he’s forced to make a very difficult decision. Secondary characters were interesting without taking away focus from our H/H. I look forward to the sequel, Nightbred, due out in December.

[Kk · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 Stars...

I read the original Darkyn series years ago when it was first released. Lords of the Darkyn was released later and has sat in my TBR for all these years.

Its not a bad book. Corvell served Richard Tremaine but lost faith after his lord captured Alexandra Keller, Crispan's wife. He was sent to find a scared key and cross. He runs into a "nun" who seems to know more about the situation that she lets on... Murder, psychopathic behavior, and rape ensue as the "nun"'s garrison help Corvell to give Richard the finger and ride off into the sunset.

[Margaret Fisk · Rating 4 out of 5]

I came back from a week away to discover a present. It was my turn to read Nightborn, which had come while I was away. I knew all too well what this meant. I would struggle to be productive around the urge to keep reading.

Lynn Viehl lived up to my expectations well.

The Darkyn world was already complex and multilayered from the start. Then she blended in the Kyndred, and now this. It says a lot for the environment that it smoothly incorporates new aspects without undermining the existing structure, and the roots of these new aspects are either plausible or well-seeded all the way back to the very first novel in these related series.

Like the original Darkyn series, this one focuses on a specific Darkyn and his struggles to find a place and a partner in this world. What makes Nightborn more complicated is the character chosen. Korvel has played the role of villain as much as any of the Darkyn except possibly Richard’s wife, and he tried to destroy the bond between Alex and Michael, a key foundation for the original series and not something to make him loved. But Lynn never makes things simple, and Korvel has suffered for his crimes, has suffered enough, apparently, that he’s due a second chance when he was sure there could be none.

So you might ask how the Lords of Darkyn is any different than the Darkyn series considering that it has the same basic setup with choosing a known Darkyn to pair up. Well, Korvel is only half of the pair. Simone Derien makes up the other half, and she’s neither Darkyn nor Kyndred. Nor is she merely a common human.

Simone brings in a hidden side to the bond between the Darkyn and the humans who devote their lives to serving the Darkyn. She’s living as a nun, allowed to stay by a deal made with her father, a man who brutally trained her to fight and kill.

They are brought together by word that a significant Darkyn treasure is now at risk, one Simone’s family has guarded since the Darkyn first walked the Earth. Richard wants it for his own purposes while Simone needs to keep it from the Darkyn lord because of promises made generations ago and more recently to her father.

Nightborn brings into play complicated characters with issues of their own, aspects of the Darkyn that have not yet been explored, and new aspects that yet have foundations in what Lynn has established for the world. It maintains the strengths of the other books while opening the door to a new focus. Though Alex shows up, it’s not her story. I suspect Simone and Korvel will form the key couple for this series, but it could just as easily be Nicola and Gabriel, who also play an important part in this opening salvo.

In case you couldn’t tell, I enjoyed Nightborn, and look forward to the rest of the series. I’ve tried to give enough to intrigue without giving away much of anything, but as usual it’s a difficult task. This series stands on the back of what came before, but at the same time, if you’re the type of reader able to accept the characters did not spring onto the page unformed, I think you can read this book without reading the rest and still enjoy it. I also think that, having done so, you’ll go back and read the rest.

[Kara-karina · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of all, the cover is pretty horrible! This is not Korvel. I imagine him more like this...



I understand the reason for copper coloured hair, but he is frigging blond! Ugh.

Secondly, I am very surprised this book is marketed as a new series when it can easily be the continuation of Lynn's successful Darkyn series.

OK, my little rant out of the way, I actually really love Lynn Viehl. You might have noticed that I don't read many paranormal romances unless they are crossovers with urban fantasy, and it's just the case with the world of Darkyn.

Lynn usually combines gorgeous world building, dark fantasy, plenty of action and very much kick-ass heroes and heroines. I wouldn't recommend Nightborn to someone who is not familiar with Lynn's work, because they would miss out too many details which otherwise are quite clear to those who read this author's work continuously.

If you take work of Lara Adrian for example (I have a huge grudge against her, sorry), her women no matter how talented and independent they are in the beginning always end up barefoot and pregnant. In Lynn's world they are fierce and fiercely independent. Their men pretty much have to adapt to their world not the opposite - they are cops, surgeons, thieves, knights, FBI agents, assassins, etc. and they don't change themselves to suit the world they are drawn into. I think this is one of the main reasons I love Lynn so much.

What happens in Nightborn is that Korvel, loyal servant of Richard is sent on a wild chase to France to get the artifact which can make a human immortal. There are other forces who try to get the artifact as well.

Simone who lives a quiet life in a nunnery is in fact a guardian of the artifact and an enormously skilled assassin. When what she guards is stolen she and Korvel both go to get it with different goals in mind. There is plenty of action, tortured past and deeply hidden secrets, there are also quite a few twists which change your perspective on what is happening.

I wasn't a fan of the love story, it was way too awkward for my liking, however my favourite of this series, Alexandra, makes a cameo appearance, which made me forgive any drawbacks this book night have and just enjoy the drama. Simone also simply rocks. She is way ahead of Korvel most of the time, and it's her who makes things happen *grinning*

Overall, I highly recommend Lynn Viehl's work in general, especially her awesome kick-ass heroines. I think this mix of urban fantasy and paranormal romance will be appreciated by fans of both genres, especially by those who love J.R.Ward, Lara Adrian and D.B.Reynolds.

[Theresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of a spin-off series from ‘Darkyn’. This is Korvel’s story. Remember he’s the one who forced a bond on Alex when she got kidnapped by Richard. Richard has sent him on a mission to retrieve a Templar scroll whose guardian has gone missing. But it’s not unguarded. As he searches for it, he tries to get over the break and get his life back on track. He finds himself digging deep into his emotions as he tries to decide if all is worth it and if he can reconcile his past enough to continue in the future.

Simone has been living near her childhood home with a strange group of ‘nuns’. During her whole childhood, her father put her, and several ‘brothers’ through an unusual and grueling training. And now it’s time for her to fulfill her duty. But Kovel arrives just as it stolen from her and they have to learn to work together to get it back, before several other groups who are also after the scroll. It’s just too dangerous for anyone to have it.

Simone is a very competent and highly trained woman. Due to her size everyone underestimates her, to their misfortune later. She leads Korven on a merry chase that he has a hard time keeping up with. But she too isn’t sure if she can, or even wants to continue living as she is.

The whole story is full of fascinating plots and details. The rich history of the hidden scroll is intriguing. The prologue gives us a taste from the very beginning. Then the whole scroll story unfolds throughout, as we also get a lot of historical and current details of Darkyn life. I did have some confusion with who was entrusted with it through the years and how the chain of custody was decided, but at the end it all makes sense. The whole Helada naming system is different and I love the depth of the horrible training the Helada puts them through.

To my pleasant surprise, Gabriel and Nick join in the search. Both of the unusually useful talents become an integral part of this story. They work so well together. But they also have to work out some issues of their own, finally resolving into a very satisfying result. I love how Nick helps Simone with her emotional problems.

Quick Thoughts: 1)It mostly takes place in Providence, though it switches to Paris and then Jamaica later.

2)The cool invisible entity that’s briefly appeared in other books makes a definite appearance here. I’ve been wanting to know more about him.

3)Her brothers are so cool. Hopefully we’ll get more of their stories.

Fave scenes: Nick inspecting the Mona Lisa, Simone’s rest area break, the hotel nightclub and Simone fighting Lechance’s men.

[Bookaholics · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nightborn by Lynn Viehl
Paranormal Romance -March 6th, 2012
4 stars

In Nightborn, Lynn Viehl returns to her widely popular Darkyn series about powerful and long-lived vampires who life secretly in the modern day world.

Korvel is the high lord’s seneschal, his most trusted advisor and first in command. As part of the Kyndred his loyalty is unquestioned. When his lord puts him on mission to find a legendary and powerful scroll Korvel does not expect to have trouble. But he finds it in a beautiful and noble nun named Simone who knows more than she appears. Is she an innocent or his enemy?

Simone is human but one entrusted with the secrets of the Darkyn. For she is the protector of a magical scroll. One that is foretold to give its owner the capability of immortality. Her entire family has been entrusted with its safe keeping. But when they are compromised Simone soon discovers herself in danger. But her duty is clear -retrieve the scroll and prevent it from being misused. When she is saved by an unknown Darkyn named Korvel she finds herself enamored by his heroics and beauty. Her heart longs for Korvel. But she knows that her responsibility to protect the scroll and its secrets hold precedence. Can she make a choice between love and duty?

This was an action packed paranormal romance with mythical stakes. Both characters are strong and fiercely independent. They have been forged through sacrifice and severe suffering. So much that you want them to find some happiness. Both of their lives have only been duty to their lord or family. Neither has had the freedom to live each of their lives. The villain in this story is utterly ruthless and devious. He is jealous of Simone and wants her to suffer. The mystery behind the scroll is fascinating as the reader wonders if it will grant immortally if found and where it comes from. There is also the side story of Gabriel and Nicola who have been sent to find the scroll when Korvel is deemed missing which adds tension to the plot.

Thrilling and exhilarating, those who love paranormals and mythological mysterious will find this book an exciting read.

Reviewed by Steph form the Bookaholics Romance Book Club

[Chen Gj · Rating 1 out of 5]

Among the books that I have read, this is one of my most disliked.

I have never read the other books by this author before. I chose to read this book, because the idea of an adventure and romance of a vampire-like hero intrigued me enough to read it.

I was disappointed.

The plot is really really bad in my honest opinion. Despite the length of the book, the adventure itself is actually very short. It fell flat, with near-zero excitement.

This is my understanding of the plot. Guy search for treasure, gets injured, saved by girl. They XXXX each other. Villain continues his evil plan. Vampire couple shows up to help. Girl leaves alone, and guy follows. At the climax, girl gets surprise help, and they all go kill the villain who would have died on his own anyway. And the treasure is missing. And then they quit their jobs, and live happily ever after.

What was the whole point of it all? There is nothing exciting about the story. At all.

My greatest annoyance with this book, is how the author takes so much time into describing so much detail about things that aren't really relevant to the story itself.

For example, the main character stops for a meal. The author went into a long explanation of how the restaurant owner conducts her business. And at the end when the couple settles, the author again goes into great lengths to describe all the conflicting expectations of the neighbors, for reasons that escape me.

Stop! I'm begging you, please stop! It's painful, tedious, and distracting.


In summary:
Character development: Good.
(Characters are well thought out, background story done well.)

Romance: Acceptable.
(The romance is believable. Feelings are well-described. But nothing that brings tears to my eyes.)

Plot: Terrible
(Understatement.)


My conclusion:
I won't be reading any of this author's books again.

PS.
There is a part in the book where I suspect there is a mistake. During the part on the ship, where the agent with strong perfume showed up. Something about the section that follows seemed very out of place. Perhaps a missing page or paragraph?

[Tania · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Nightborn" by Lynn Viehl. Book 1 of the Lords of the Darkyn trilogy.

I liked this first book in the Lords of the Darkyn trilogy. The main characters are Korvel and Simone. Korvel is a character that was introduced in the Darkyn series. He is the seneschal to the Darkyn High Lord, Richard. The last we hear of Korvel in the series is that he is trying to get over the loss of Alexandra (who he thought was the love of his life), but she's was already sygkenis (wife) to Michael Cyprien. Simone is a new character. She is a woman trained to be a warrior and she works for the tresori council.

Both Korvel and Simone are after the same thing. They are tasked to find an ancient golden scroll that holds the secret to immortality. Korvel must find it for his lord Richard, while Simone must find it to keep it hidden from all the Darkyn. But that's not the only thing Simone must do...she's also supposed to kill Korvel.

That's pretty much the basic plot line of this book. There is a lot of action in this book. A lot of fighting scenes. Simone is a very kiss-ass kind of woman. She comes off as a quite person but she's very lethal. Korvel is getting over a broken heart. His power is the ability to seduce any human woman so it's difficult for him to know if a woman really wants him or is she just compelled by his power. Previous characters, Gabriel and Nicola, are also in this book and keep the story line flowing nicely.

At first, the characters spoke very formally to each other and it kind of threw me off a little. The year in the book is 2011 and I expected them to speak a little less formally and more with-the-times. Their speech seems to mellow a bit more as the story continues and Korvel and Simone start to realize their attraction for each other. Good chemistry between them. As with most of the Darkyn books, the reader is left with a bit of a mystery at the end of the book.

I really enjoyed the story line and I found it very interesting. I will definitely be reading the next two books.

[Jeanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like this series and I like the author. What always surprises me about this series is how the books all cover the same world and similar situations (just like all series do) but the books don't read like carbon copies of each other. The books and the story remain interesting and there are new plot twists and developments that feel like they belong there - not like they were contrived to help move the story along.

I was looking forward to Korvel's book though I wasn't sure what I would think of him overall. I liked him. Simone was a bit different than many other heroines and I liked her as well. My favorite part of this book is that the heroine is strong and capable and she fends for herself without being a hard-a** or being a total bi*ch. She is really a strong and likable female character - and I don't see enough of them. Too often a female lead described as strong is a snide, inconsiderate, selfish woman - and if we were reading a story about a male lead with those traits we wouldn't like him and probably wouldn't finish the book. Thankfully, Simone wasn't in that category.

This book opens up a few more areas in the plot line that had been hinted at in prior installments but haven't been explored yet. I can see where there could be several more books - or where the series could be drawing to a possible close in the foreseeable future. Either way, this book was fresh and interesting and I enjoyed the progession of the overall story line as well as the specific HEA. Some of the plot pieces were fairly easy to see coming (which is fine) but others were less obvious. I would definitely recommend the book to fans of the series. If you don't know the series, you can follow the book and enjoy it, but there are several references to characters from prior book as well as key players (Nicola and Gabriel specifically) who are more interesting if you know the history of the series.

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

Do not read this book if you have not read the Darkyn series! I mistakenly read this book not knowing this is a spin off series and I was LOST!

There are characters and back story up the wazoo with this installment and I really struggled to keep up. I found the premise of the story fascinating and the plot of the tale intriguing. Additionally the main characters where likable, especially the main female character as she is one tough mamajama. The other couple in this tale, whom I'm assuming had their own little HEA in the Darkyn series, wasn't as fun to read about. Because I didn't read their tale, I wasn't as invested in their relationship, so their little spats were not interesting to me and I wanted more of the main character's POV. Also, I believe Korvel is a character that you meet in the first book in the Darkyn series and from what I got in this book, he was a bastard in that book and tried to muck up a relationship. Well, BIG SHOCKER ALERT (I'm being sarcastic) we get to see Alex (the lady love he tried to steal in the first book) and I actually didn't like her. Again, I'm going to chock that up to the fact that I didn't read the first book in the Darkyn series so I couldn't empathize with her character. I just thought she was a rude person in this book.

Overall, there is a lot of substance in this book that make a great PNR tale. I will be going back to the Darkyn series so I can get a grip on the world-building, terminology, and characters.

Narration
Narrator: Johanna Parker
Performance: 4/5
Speed 1.25x
Narrator did a great job with the accents and the distinction between characters. I enjoyed listening to this audiobook and didn't find it difficult when the narrator would change tone, voices, or characters. I listened to this book while in the car and didn't find myself needing to adjust the volume to accommodate the sounds of driving on the freeway or when the narrator would switch from character to characters.

[Michelle Leah Olson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Our Review [by Michelle L. Olson – LITERAL ADDICTION’s Pack Alpha]:
I have thoroughly enjoyed Lynn Viehls Darkyn and Kyndrd series. In this 2nd spinoff to the Darkyn series, Lords of the Darkyn, she hits another homerun with some old and new characters and thoroughly engaging plotline.

Korvel, seneschal for high lord Richard, is sent on a quest to find an artifact used and hidden by his kyn back in the Templar days.

He meets up with Simone, a pseudo-nun with an interesting past and an even more interesting secret.

Their journey to find the scroll is action packed and thrilling. Their chemistry is amazing, and despite the hardships they encounter they make a wicked team and bring things to a satisfying conclusion.

I was ecstatic to finally see a happily ever after for my beloved Korvel (he’s been the underdog that I’ve been cheering on for 2 series now) and having 2 of my sassy kyndred turned kyn heroines – Alexandra and Nicola – back was an amazing treat. It was also very interesting to see a little bit deeper into the relationship between Nicola and Gabriel. There’s has probably been the rockiest of them all, but they’re also a couple that you want the best for.

I’m really excited to see where the Lords of the Darkyn series goes. I loved the way it started and I’m looking forward to book #2.

LITERAL ADDICTION gives Nightborn 4 Skulls, and would recommend it to all Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance readers. While you don’t have to read the Darkyn and/or Kyndred series before reading this book, I would suggest that you do. There’s SO much history there and this book will be way more enjoyable with that knowledge locked away. All 3 series have been incredible and they’re definitely worth the time and money.

[Mandapanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's nice to be back in the world of the Darkyn with this first novel of a new series from Lynn Viehl. An ancient treasure of immeasurable power has been revealed and Korvel, the captain of Richard's guard, has been dispatched to retrieve the golden scroll for his master. But the scroll has another keeper, Simone, whose family is trained to protect it from all threats. When the scroll is stolen Simone and Korvel team up to find it.

The original Darkyn series has a lot of influence on this new tale. Many of the original cast are present, particularly two of my favourite MC's, Nicole and Gabriel, whose future is defined by events in this newest story. Korvel is still shattered by a broken bond he tried to force on another Lord's sygkenis. When he meets the pure and selfless Simone, he is entranced and awakened. Simone is like a Sleeping Beauty character. She has been kept prisoner by an obsessed father and a well-meaning order of nuns. What she discovers with Korvel shows her a new way of being.

Lynn Viehl's vampire romances have a very sophisticated, European, gothic vibe. You can feel the weight of the hundreds of years of these vampires' lives in their haughty, world-weary, and ruthless perfection. This is an old-fashioned paranormal romance style of writing (although it's not that long ago since this genre started). Very enjoyable, but now that I'm used to the more edgy urban fantasy genre, it feels a little dated.

I would read the Darkyn series before starting this one.

[Styles · Rating 4 out of 5]

I presume you know what the book is about. I'm letting you know what I liked or disliked about it.

This was a good addition to the series. Simone is an incredibly strong protagonist, and Korvel is shown to be intense, passionate, and loving. As is the way of characters in a series we really only get snapshots - the tiniest of impressions of what a character is like and it isn't until they have their "own" book that we get to know more about them. This story was very good, and as usual well written.

You know... Nicola? Well, she can be so abrasive and rude and I just love it that Ms. Viehl draws those emotions from me by her characters. :) Gabriel is such a sexy, hot-hottie, and it bums me out that he has to deal with Nicolas aloofness. I mean really? Here is a darkyn that totally loves her, and she - oops I better not say or this will become a spoiler alert. ;)

I will say I cried during this read at the end... even while being optimistic the end would swing around. "Seeing" Korvel cry made me sad. Swoon - you know it's a great story when you are made to laugh, and cry, and fret, and worry. In-vision if you will the scene from, "Romancing The Stone" when Kathrynn (what's the last name?...) is at her type writer, bawling her eyes out.... Yes! It was sort of one of those bookish moments. This is a great addition to the series.

PS - I can see I have to add books I've read to my shelves. deep sigh... Just realized this is book one of a new series of Darkyn. Same characters it seems, just set in a new direction. Interesting. But anyway - I have all the other Darkyn Books to add and Kyndryd too.

[Riley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nightborn is a successful return to the world of the Darkyn! Centuries old immortals bring rich history into contemporary times. The story is as dark and compelling as the original series that birthed this new Lords of the Darkyn series.

I was pleased to see Korval get his own story. A character from previous Darkyn novels, I was always intrigued with him and felt he needed to be able to show that he could be the hero.

After centuries of service to Richard, Korval stands on his own in Nightborn. He joins with the lethal, but beautiful Simone, of the Tresora council. They search for a dangerous Darkyn Scroll that has the potential to reshape the world for humans and Darkyn.

Unquestioning service marked the lives of both Korval and Simone. Korval to Richard and Simone to her father. As their love evolves, so do their relationships to their masters. This was a fascinating part of the story, particularly for Korval.

The Brethren are not present in Nightborn, but there are new forces at play that recharge the series. I look forward to see what they are all up to in the next book.

If you enjoyed the Darkyn series, you will like this one. If you have not read the Darkyn series, read it for a fascinating explanation of the evolution of blood drinking immortals. The Darkyn are not your everyday vampires!

[H · Rating 2 out of 5]

After reading the Darkyn and Kyndred series I was simultaneously excited and wary to read Nightborn. Perhaps my disappointment in her last book (Nightshine) jaded my opinion of Nightborn, but this book just didn��t work for me. This book was too much like Nightshine. I didn’t love this book for the same reasons I didn’t love Nightshine. I’ll read the next book in the series, but if this trend continues I won’t read another Lynn Viehl book for awhile.

I felt the focus was on the adventure and unraveling the many, many, many, many mysteries rather than the characters and the development of their relationship. I‘m not a fan of mysteries/spy novels, perhaps if I was I would have liked this book more. I was so busy trying to figure out what was going on I wasn’t feeling the chemistry between the H/h. Their relationship was inexplicable, it just happened and was supposed to be awesome for some unexplained reason.

Past characters Gabriel and Nicola get too much screen time for my taste. Gabriel and Nicola had their own book. This was Korvel and Simone’s book, I wanted to read about Korvel and Simone’s issues, not re-hash Nicola’s AGAIN.

I guess that’s it. It’s not a bad book, it’s just not my cup of tea.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nightborn brings us to a different chapter in the world of the Darkyns. The start of a new trilogy and just as thrilling as the previous Darkyn novels, Nightborn brings the mysterious Darkyn existence to a new level as past secrets unleash new threats into their already dangerous lives. Korvel is on a mission from his high lord to find an ancient scroll, which brings him to a more challenging task when he crosses paths with the one sworn to protect the scroll. Simone’s life has never been her own and when Korvel tempts her with a passion, she has only ever dreamed of, she finds herself torn between duty to her family and her growing feelings for Korvel. Their relationship is of course complicated, and the story will keep you engaged in an exciting journey across France guaranteed to pull you into their world. There are familiar characters that join the unfolding plot while Korvel and Simone work their way into your heart as the tension builds between them with a story full of twists and mysteries. Great start to this new trilogy by Lynn Viehl and her amazing world of the Darkyns. Enjoy!

[PNR lover · Rating 3 out of 5]

Now before there is any shoe throwing may I say that I'm a big fan of Lynn Viehl.

Lynn Viehl does seem to have a elegant quality to her writing but does she try too hard.....

One of my biggest pet peeves in books is when there are different language's like in this one they was in France, and while I understand the writer is trying to convey they are in France with people speaking french, I DON'T speak french and if I wanted to read French I would have brought the French version. The occasional 'oui' will do for me.

Also too descriptive on the wording, I don't need to know the actual name of the bone that was broken in the forearm like 'Ulna' I never even knew what that was until I looked it up, keep it simple please or it takes the enjoyment out of the reading.

It also seemed that this book left a lot of questions unanswered.

Like the shadow figure at the end??

Why go to all that trouble to get the scroll when you knew where to go in the first place..

Also why leave this object when you know what it can do.....

[TXreader Stacy · Rating 2 out of 5]

{2.5 stars}

Eh.....not a stellar book for me. I loved the original Darkyn series, but I have struggled with the Kyndred. The constant "french" language is annoying, it impedes the flow of the book for me. Simone, even though she is a trained assassin, and the protector of the secret of the scroll, she is written to seem very weak. She is too timid and it doesn't quite fit for me, adding in the extra annoying appearance of Nicola and Gabriel. Well, Nicola is annoying, she is always complaining and negative, didn't really care for her when it was her and Gabriel's book. But I trudged on through this one because out of all the Kyndred series characters, Korvel is my favorite and I wanted to see how this played out. Still confused about the scroll and its purpose and/or power, to many unanswered questions. Overall I really enjoyed Korvel, but as for the rest....take it or leave it. Not sure whether I will continue with this series. The Lords is supposed to be a trilogy, so I might give the next one a try if it's free.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lynn Viehl is an author I have automatic buy at the top of my list! Once again she has delivered a story that unfolds with a masters hand. Beautiful Simone lives in a French Convent, scrubbing, cooking, gardening...Korvel is the King of the Kyn's most trusted warrior, but his loneliness is nearly crippling him because he can never have the woman he partially bonded with. When Simone receives a message that time has come to fulfill her destiny, she acts on pure instinct to follow through on the training she has gone through all her life. Korvel is ordered by his master to go pick-up a mysterious scroll in France and meets Simone under less than perfect circumstances and is bowled over by her beauty and personality. All Korvel wants is to love Simone and care for her all the days of their lives, but forces beyond any they can battle have decided their paths and only time will show who will win and who will die! Look for "Nightbred" in December 2012 for Jamy's story by Lynn Viehl, I know I will!