4.5 stars! Another fantastic book by Lexi filled with shifters and vampires, and vampire shifters, and all the spice and romance and action you could want. The dynamic between our two main characters, Lorcan and Kyra, is more unique though, from what we may normally see in Lexi’s books, and I’m 100% here for it all. Both of them are powerful, strong, stubborn, loyal, and fully content being unattached in any way. When they come together in any form, they clash spectacularly and have the best chemistry.
There is some crossover from prior books, but this is still a standalone story. Kyra is Quinn’s second, essentially, and has been leading things in the secret omega sanctuary Quinn’s family established centuries ago. It’s heavily warded and very very few are even aware of it’s existence, by design. With Quinn’s mating to Kieran, that circle becomes a little larger, especially when Lorcan essentially forces a mating with Kyra so he can accompany them to the sanctuary to support and protect Kieran, because only omegas and their mates are able to access it. Neither wants the mating of convenience, and Kyra, who has a reputation as an Alpha k!ller (because she unalived her former Alpha mate who was abusive in every way possible, but no one knows that story), has designs on eliminating the mating bond by eliminating Lorcan as soon as possible. Unfortunately for her, their telepathic link, and Lorcan’s strength and magical abilities, that is not an easy task to accomplish. Their sparring and banter is great, and even when they come to a mutual understanding and agreement about their unwanted mating, their chemistry and dynamic are still on point.
Even thought they are at each other’s throats pretty much every time they’re near each other, they also find themselves becoming more and more drawn to each other. Their telepathic conversations, be it strategic or otherwise, are great, and the way Lorcan tries to ease Kyra’s nightmares (because he can sense them through their link) adds an unexpected sweetness to their otherwise much less than sweet relationship.
Kyra’s past unfortunately comes back to bite her, forcing her back into a traumatic and terrifying situation. Lorcan immediately jumps into action to help her, and utilizes every tool and weapon at his disposal to find her and bring her back. It’s here where you really see their connection shine, even when it becomes weakened. Kyra is a very strong character, having previously overcome (mostly) her trauma, and then being forced back into it, she finds new ways to fight back. And with Lorcan’s help, she ultimately finds her way to vengeance.
I loved how these two very strong characters found their way to each other, through their preconceived ideas, their traumas, and their stubbornness, it is quite a journey. Not to mention the absolutely scorching chemistry between them. Overall, an engrossing story with a great romance and plenty of delicious spice.