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The Crown of the Seven Realms #4
Dark Skies: The Crown of the Seven Realms Series
Journey into the clouds as Dani, Rhyland, and Erik venture to Zephyria, where floating islands drift through endless skies and ancient magic rides on every breeze. In this thrilling new installment of the Crown of the Seven Realm Series, their quest for the next stone leads them into a realm where danger and destiny intertwine.
When they cross paths with Bryn, a fierce Valkyrie warrior, long-buried secrets surface that will forever change Dani's understanding of her past. In a realm where Norse gods reign, Dani must navigate both her growing powers and the dangerous politics of the divine.
For Rhyland, this journey unveils earth-shattering revelations about his true heritage, while a shadow from his past emerges in Mortalis, threatening everything he holds dear. Back home, Lucian and the gang face their own battles, as hidden enemies close in from all sides. But it's not all danger and darkness—love blooms in unexpected places.
As Dani's powers continue to evolve, she and Rhyland must confront challenges that will test their abilities and the strength of their bond. With new secrets unfolding and enemies lurking in both realms, the stakes have never been higher. Prepare for the next epic adventure where loyalty, love, and destiny collide in the winds of Zephyria.
This latest installment promises heart-pounding action, breathtaking romance, and revelations that will leave you speechless.
⚠️ TRIGGER WARNINGS ⚠️
This book
Explicit sexual content and steamy scenesGraphic violence and brutal battle sequencesBlood and goreStrong languageEmotional traumaMajor cliffhanger endingRecommended for mature readers 18+
When they cross paths with Bryn, a fierce Valkyrie warrior, long-buried secrets surface that will forever change Dani's understanding of her past. In a realm where Norse gods reign, Dani must navigate both her growing powers and the dangerous politics of the divine.
For Rhyland, this journey unveils earth-shattering revelations about his true heritage, while a shadow from his past emerges in Mortalis, threatening everything he holds dear. Back home, Lucian and the gang face their own battles, as hidden enemies close in from all sides. But it's not all danger and darkness—love blooms in unexpected places.
As Dani's powers continue to evolve, she and Rhyland must confront challenges that will test their abilities and the strength of their bond. With new secrets unfolding and enemies lurking in both realms, the stakes have never been higher. Prepare for the next epic adventure where loyalty, love, and destiny collide in the winds of Zephyria.
This latest installment promises heart-pounding action, breathtaking romance, and revelations that will leave you speechless.
⚠️ TRIGGER WARNINGS ⚠️
This book
Explicit sexual content and steamy scenesGraphic violence and brutal battle sequencesBlood and goreStrong languageEmotional traumaMajor cliffhanger endingRecommended for mature readers 18+
744 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 2, 2025
3 people are currently reading
64 people want to read
About the author
A.L. Hampton
5 books105 followersHi there! I'm A.L. Hampton, and like so many of you, I've been completely obsessed with books for as long as I can remember. There's nothing quite like getting completely lost in a story—you know that feeling when you look up and realize hours have passed? That's my happy place.
I'm absolutely head-over-heels for fantasy, urban fantasy, romantasy, and anything dark and paranormal. And yes, I'm totally here for the spice! After years of devouring every book I could get my hands on in these genres, I found myself thinking, "What if I combined all my favorite elements into one series?" That's how the Crown of the Seven Realms Series was born.
I'm a total sucker for witty banter and those laugh-out-loud moments that make you snort unexpectedly (hopefully not in public). I believe the best stories have characters that feel like real people—flawed, funny, and fierce.
My series features heroines who can hold their own and alpha males who are compelling without being insufferable, all wrapped up in plots that'll have you staying up way too late because you absolutely must know what happens next.
When I'm not busy torturing my characters or building new worlds, I'm living the dream in the gorgeous Pacific Northwest with my incredibly patient husband and our two spoiled dogs. My background is a bit all over the place—I have an A.A. in Criminal Justice, a B.S. in Psychology, and an M.Ed. in Education. Turns out, studying human behavior comes in pretty handy when you're trying to write believable characters and relationships!
You'll usually find me either exploring Washington's breathtaking landscapes (research for all those dramatic settings, obviously) or curled up somewhere cozy with a good book and way too much coffee.
As a debut author, I'm beyond excited to share these stories with fellow book lovers. I hope you'll come along for this wild ride through the Seven Realms—trust me, it's going to be fun.
Welcome to my world!
-A.L. Hampton
I'm absolutely head-over-heels for fantasy, urban fantasy, romantasy, and anything dark and paranormal. And yes, I'm totally here for the spice! After years of devouring every book I could get my hands on in these genres, I found myself thinking, "What if I combined all my favorite elements into one series?" That's how the Crown of the Seven Realms Series was born.
I'm a total sucker for witty banter and those laugh-out-loud moments that make you snort unexpectedly (hopefully not in public). I believe the best stories have characters that feel like real people—flawed, funny, and fierce.
My series features heroines who can hold their own and alpha males who are compelling without being insufferable, all wrapped up in plots that'll have you staying up way too late because you absolutely must know what happens next.
When I'm not busy torturing my characters or building new worlds, I'm living the dream in the gorgeous Pacific Northwest with my incredibly patient husband and our two spoiled dogs. My background is a bit all over the place—I have an A.A. in Criminal Justice, a B.S. in Psychology, and an M.Ed. in Education. Turns out, studying human behavior comes in pretty handy when you're trying to write believable characters and relationships!
You'll usually find me either exploring Washington's breathtaking landscapes (research for all those dramatic settings, obviously) or curled up somewhere cozy with a good book and way too much coffee.
As a debut author, I'm beyond excited to share these stories with fellow book lovers. I hope you'll come along for this wild ride through the Seven Realms—trust me, it's going to be fun.
Welcome to my world!
-A.L. Hampton
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
November 26, 2025
8th July 2025 - Beta read this beauty and wowwwww, let me say just add this to your tbr already!!!
I'm obsessed with this series and each new addition just adds to every element so perfectly!
🔥⚡🌶️ ❤️ ✨
*My review will be added nearer release date to avoid spoilers*
Edited - Nov 2025
A perfect combo of sass, sarcasm, spice, and high stakes adventures.
This next installment ventures through the realm of Zephyria, a challenging landscape where Dani has to master new abilities, face new trials, and to discover if they can find answers from the Norse Gods about the prophecy and their roles.
They face so many challenges which test their bond, and have to confront brutal enemies of the past adding to their trauma.
As the family split for separate missions, they each face danger and darkness, and it has you bouncing from shock to relief, from anger to heartbreak.
There is always something going on with secrets being revealed, battles and conflict, relic hunts, and spicy scenes, but at its heart it's still a love story between fated mates, and the protection of their found family growing group.
I loved that we got a focus on Erik in this one and explored new sides to him including his awkwardness, and I loved the new character additions and all the drama and tension.
We've seen vampires, angels, Fae, witches, pirates, sirens and monsters, this time it's chaotic Gods, vengeful exes, and unrequited love.
Each book is building on the lore, unpicking the prophecy, and upping their knowledge and skills for the big battles you know are going to be explosive.
Guaranteed emotional trauma, explicit spice, hilarious banter, chaotic energy, and the most amazing group of found family you'll ever meet.
I'm obsessed with this series and each new addition just adds to every element so perfectly!
🔥⚡🌶️ ❤️ ✨
*My review will be added nearer release date to avoid spoilers*
Edited - Nov 2025
A perfect combo of sass, sarcasm, spice, and high stakes adventures.
This next installment ventures through the realm of Zephyria, a challenging landscape where Dani has to master new abilities, face new trials, and to discover if they can find answers from the Norse Gods about the prophecy and their roles.
They face so many challenges which test their bond, and have to confront brutal enemies of the past adding to their trauma.
As the family split for separate missions, they each face danger and darkness, and it has you bouncing from shock to relief, from anger to heartbreak.
There is always something going on with secrets being revealed, battles and conflict, relic hunts, and spicy scenes, but at its heart it's still a love story between fated mates, and the protection of their found family growing group.
I loved that we got a focus on Erik in this one and explored new sides to him including his awkwardness, and I loved the new character additions and all the drama and tension.
We've seen vampires, angels, Fae, witches, pirates, sirens and monsters, this time it's chaotic Gods, vengeful exes, and unrequited love.
Each book is building on the lore, unpicking the prophecy, and upping their knowledge and skills for the big battles you know are going to be explosive.
Guaranteed emotional trauma, explicit spice, hilarious banter, chaotic energy, and the most amazing group of found family you'll ever meet.
November 5, 2025
I don't even know where to start in saying how insanely amazing this book was!!!
ARC REVIEW
Once again A.L. Hampton has blown my freaking mind with her world building prowess and her incredibly hilarious wordsmithing iykyk (Lucian)
I have been on this journey since the beginning of the Crown of the Seven Realms series with book on "Dark Awakening" to say I am a super fan is an understatement. This series is all consuming and gives you everything you could want in a dark paranomal romantasy, you get super hot MMC's, fiesty badass world saving FMC's, hilarious banter, earth shattering battles, emotional roller coasters, celestial smut that is out of this world ***read your triggers people***
This book....this book...just did something different than the rest and I can't really explain what the difference was but I felt much more emotionally connected to this book than the rest. The others were phenomenal don't get me wrong but this one just hit different. The emotion that the author puts into these characters bleeds off the pages and into your soul. I won't give too much away because this book needs to be read to understand the full weight that it packs behind it. So read the dam book!! But start at the beginning is you are new to the 7 realms, you don't want to miss a thing!
ARC REVIEW
Once again A.L. Hampton has blown my freaking mind with her world building prowess and her incredibly hilarious wordsmithing iykyk (Lucian)
I have been on this journey since the beginning of the Crown of the Seven Realms series with book on "Dark Awakening" to say I am a super fan is an understatement. This series is all consuming and gives you everything you could want in a dark paranomal romantasy, you get super hot MMC's, fiesty badass world saving FMC's, hilarious banter, earth shattering battles, emotional roller coasters, celestial smut that is out of this world ***read your triggers people***
This book....this book...just did something different than the rest and I can't really explain what the difference was but I felt much more emotionally connected to this book than the rest. The others were phenomenal don't get me wrong but this one just hit different. The emotion that the author puts into these characters bleeds off the pages and into your soul. I won't give too much away because this book needs to be read to understand the full weight that it packs behind it. So read the dam book!! But start at the beginning is you are new to the 7 realms, you don't want to miss a thing!
November 24, 2025
If you thought A.L. Hampton was done torturing you (in the best way possible), you thought wrong. Dark Skies is an absolute explosion of high-stakes tension, emotional turmoil, and heat that will leave you gasping for air and demanding the next book immediately.
From the first page, this book grabs you by the throat and doesn't let go. The plot is a masterclass in suspense, twisting and turning right when you think you've finally got a handle on things. Just when you're ready to settle in, Hampton drops a bomb, and suddenly you're back on the edge, muttering 'No, she didn't' under your breath.
And let's talk about the steam. Oh, the steam. If you need a thermostat for your Kindle, now is the time to buy one. The chemistry is so palpable, it practically scorches the pages. It's the kind of intense, all-consuming passion that makes you aggressively fan yourself while reading.
But the real kicker? That ending. THAT. ENDING.
I'm not even going to attempt to recover. It's a cruel, brilliant cliffhanger that should be illegal. Consider this my formal petition for Book 5, because I need answers, I need closure, and frankly, I need a therapist after that emotional rollercoaster.
The Verdict: Clear your calendar, lock the doors, and silence your phone. You won't be able to put this down. It's dark, delicious, demanding, and mandatory reading for anyone who loves a powerful, mind-bending romance.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (Five stars and a restraining order against the author for that ending.)
From the first page, this book grabs you by the throat and doesn't let go. The plot is a masterclass in suspense, twisting and turning right when you think you've finally got a handle on things. Just when you're ready to settle in, Hampton drops a bomb, and suddenly you're back on the edge, muttering 'No, she didn't' under your breath.
And let's talk about the steam. Oh, the steam. If you need a thermostat for your Kindle, now is the time to buy one. The chemistry is so palpable, it practically scorches the pages. It's the kind of intense, all-consuming passion that makes you aggressively fan yourself while reading.
But the real kicker? That ending. THAT. ENDING.
I'm not even going to attempt to recover. It's a cruel, brilliant cliffhanger that should be illegal. Consider this my formal petition for Book 5, because I need answers, I need closure, and frankly, I need a therapist after that emotional rollercoaster.
The Verdict: Clear your calendar, lock the doors, and silence your phone. You won't be able to put this down. It's dark, delicious, demanding, and mandatory reading for anyone who loves a powerful, mind-bending romance.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (Five stars and a restraining order against the author for that ending.)
December 2, 2025
ARC Review
A.L. Hampton does it yet again! I thought the previous books were amazing, but this one kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end.
Dark Skies sucked me in from the moment I cracked open the first page — and from that point on, my bookmark basically had no purpose. This installment kicks the series up a notch with tension, magic, and the kind of emotional payoff that makes you physically clutch the book like it might reveal secrets if you squeeze hard enough.
The characters? Still chaotic, still lovable, still the reason I kept whispering “just one more chapter” long past when I should’ve been asleep. I loved to learn more about other characters too. Sometimes the side characters are just as interesting as the main characters. ALSO, the worldbuilding expands in ways that made me wish I could easily move to the next book like now.
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ — Medium heat. Enough to keep things delicious, swoony, and fun, but balanced perfectly with plot and character arcs. (Also: certain scenes hit even harder when you’re reading them ink-on-paper.)
If you’ve been on this journey from earlier books, Dark Skies feels like that perfect middle-of-the-series installment where everything gets bigger, deeper, and more intense
A fast, dramatic, magic-filled ride that’s 100% worth rearranging your weekend (or week) for.
A.L. Hampton does it yet again! I thought the previous books were amazing, but this one kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end.
Dark Skies sucked me in from the moment I cracked open the first page — and from that point on, my bookmark basically had no purpose. This installment kicks the series up a notch with tension, magic, and the kind of emotional payoff that makes you physically clutch the book like it might reveal secrets if you squeeze hard enough.
The characters? Still chaotic, still lovable, still the reason I kept whispering “just one more chapter” long past when I should’ve been asleep. I loved to learn more about other characters too. Sometimes the side characters are just as interesting as the main characters. ALSO, the worldbuilding expands in ways that made me wish I could easily move to the next book like now.
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ — Medium heat. Enough to keep things delicious, swoony, and fun, but balanced perfectly with plot and character arcs. (Also: certain scenes hit even harder when you’re reading them ink-on-paper.)
If you’ve been on this journey from earlier books, Dark Skies feels like that perfect middle-of-the-series installment where everything gets bigger, deeper, and more intense
A fast, dramatic, magic-filled ride that’s 100% worth rearranging your weekend (or week) for.
December 5, 2025
I am so absolutely obsessed with this series.. not only does it have ction, it has romance, humor, science, Norse Mythology, some religion mixed it and all tied together nicely.
Youll laugh, cry, scream and giggle and cry all the way through it . I absolutely love her books. Im already foaming at the mouth for the next books and she JUST released this one
Youll laugh, cry, scream and giggle and cry all the way through it . I absolutely love her books. Im already foaming at the mouth for the next books and she JUST released this one
November 21, 2025
Again, I cannot say enough about this series! The world building is top tier. So much action and banter. I absolutely love how the characters get more developed with every book and relationships expanded and tested. The new monsters/characters add so much to the story. Gullfax is a new favorite. The cliffhanger at the end was jaw dropping.
November 10, 2025
There is not enough stars for this book! This entire series has me so locked in. It's next level! I was obsessed 5 pages in! There's God's, new creatures, monsters, and remarkable world building!
Now, we get the air realm. Not only is Rhylands heritage revealed, but we also dive deeper into his brothers separate stories (especially Erik.) Also really loved side characters Gullfax and Brax. There's also more surprises in store for Dani. I am mindblown! Rhyland and Dani are my top 2 favorite book couples. What is that ending?!?!
Now, we get the air realm. Not only is Rhylands heritage revealed, but we also dive deeper into his brothers separate stories (especially Erik.) Also really loved side characters Gullfax and Brax. There's also more surprises in store for Dani. I am mindblown! Rhyland and Dani are my top 2 favorite book couples. What is that ending?!?!
December 9, 2025
I’m going to be so honest right now: Dark Skies didn’t just pull me back into the Crown of the Seven Realms it reminded me exactly why I’ve been riding with A.L. Hampton since Book One. I’ve watched this author grow, stretch, and step deeper into her gift with every single release, and this book right here? This feels like the moment where everything she’s been building toward finally clicks into place.
Her voice is stronger.
Her world-building is tighter.
Her emotional layering is deeper.
And the way she commands the page now? She writes like a woman who knows exactly what story she wants to tell and isn’t afraid to go all in.
Dark Skies is exactly that kind of book: bold, dark, magnetic, and completely unapologetic.
From the very first chapter, the energy shifts. The atmosphere is colder. The stakes feel heavier. The magic in this one feels like it’s humming under your skin. You can tell she’s not just writing a fantasy she’s writing a world that bleeds, breathes, and breaks right alongside the characters.
And the characters?
Whew.
A.L. Hampton did not come to play.
Danica continues to be that girl fierce, intuitive, loyal, stubborn, and so emotionally complex. And Rhyland… listen. The chokehold this man has on both the plot and my nerves?? The possessiveness? The devotion? The quiet softness buried under all that iron? This is the kind of love interest who makes you stay up at 3AM arguing with yourself because he’s toxic, he’s dangerous, he’s obsessive and yet you root for him with your whole chest. Their chemistry is unreal: explosive, messy, breathtaking, and so charged it practically vibrates off the page.
The pacing in this book feels more alive than earlier installments. You can see the maturity in the structure scenes hit harder, dialogue carries more weight, revelations feel earned. She balances the tension, the fantasy lore, the political twists, and the romance in a way that shows just how far she’s grown as a writer. Book One A.L. Hampton was good… but this A.L. Hampton is polished, powerful, and purposeful.
Her pen evolved, and you can literally feel it.
The emotional work is also different in this book. It’s heavier. More intentional. You feel the strain, the fear, the desperation, the longing and somehow you feel the author behind it all, finally writing with her full chest instead of holding anything back.
Now, the spice?
Let’s talk about it.
It’s dark.
It’s intense.
It’s that “grab the headboard and hold on” kind of intensity.
But what makes it work is that it’s not empty heat it’s woven into the story, into the trauma, into the bond, into the absolute chaos of these two trying to survive a world that wants to chew them up. That’s storytelling + desire + danger all braided together. That’s growth.
If I have any complaint at all, it’s the same one most readers mention: the story is so big so many realms, so much lore, so much magic that sometimes it almost spills over. But honestly? Even that feels like part of the charm. This is a world meant to overwhelm you, and Hampton embraces that fully.
Overall, Dark Skies is one of A.L. Hampton’s strongest works to date.
It’s darker, richer, sharper, and more confident than anything she’s written so far.
You can see her evolution on every single page.
And I need to say this:
As someone who’s been reading her work from the beginning, I am so incredibly proud of her.
The growth is real. The maturity is real. The way she taps into her imagination and translates it into emotion is something special. She’s not just writing a series she’s building an entire legacy of fantasy romance that is only getting stronger.
4.9 stars because it gave me everything I wanted and then some, but she keeps pissing me off with these cliffhangers and I’m already impatient for what comes next. And
A.L. Hampton, you outdid yourself. And I’m excited to see where you go from here.
Her voice is stronger.
Her world-building is tighter.
Her emotional layering is deeper.
And the way she commands the page now? She writes like a woman who knows exactly what story she wants to tell and isn’t afraid to go all in.
Dark Skies is exactly that kind of book: bold, dark, magnetic, and completely unapologetic.
From the very first chapter, the energy shifts. The atmosphere is colder. The stakes feel heavier. The magic in this one feels like it’s humming under your skin. You can tell she’s not just writing a fantasy she’s writing a world that bleeds, breathes, and breaks right alongside the characters.
And the characters?
Whew.
A.L. Hampton did not come to play.
Danica continues to be that girl fierce, intuitive, loyal, stubborn, and so emotionally complex. And Rhyland… listen. The chokehold this man has on both the plot and my nerves?? The possessiveness? The devotion? The quiet softness buried under all that iron? This is the kind of love interest who makes you stay up at 3AM arguing with yourself because he’s toxic, he’s dangerous, he’s obsessive and yet you root for him with your whole chest. Their chemistry is unreal: explosive, messy, breathtaking, and so charged it practically vibrates off the page.
The pacing in this book feels more alive than earlier installments. You can see the maturity in the structure scenes hit harder, dialogue carries more weight, revelations feel earned. She balances the tension, the fantasy lore, the political twists, and the romance in a way that shows just how far she’s grown as a writer. Book One A.L. Hampton was good… but this A.L. Hampton is polished, powerful, and purposeful.
Her pen evolved, and you can literally feel it.
The emotional work is also different in this book. It’s heavier. More intentional. You feel the strain, the fear, the desperation, the longing and somehow you feel the author behind it all, finally writing with her full chest instead of holding anything back.
Now, the spice?
Let’s talk about it.
It’s dark.
It’s intense.
It’s that “grab the headboard and hold on” kind of intensity.
But what makes it work is that it’s not empty heat it’s woven into the story, into the trauma, into the bond, into the absolute chaos of these two trying to survive a world that wants to chew them up. That’s storytelling + desire + danger all braided together. That’s growth.
If I have any complaint at all, it’s the same one most readers mention: the story is so big so many realms, so much lore, so much magic that sometimes it almost spills over. But honestly? Even that feels like part of the charm. This is a world meant to overwhelm you, and Hampton embraces that fully.
Overall, Dark Skies is one of A.L. Hampton’s strongest works to date.
It’s darker, richer, sharper, and more confident than anything she’s written so far.
You can see her evolution on every single page.
And I need to say this:
As someone who’s been reading her work from the beginning, I am so incredibly proud of her.
The growth is real. The maturity is real. The way she taps into her imagination and translates it into emotion is something special. She’s not just writing a series she’s building an entire legacy of fantasy romance that is only getting stronger.
4.9 stars because it gave me everything I wanted and then some, but she keeps pissing me off with these cliffhangers and I’m already impatient for what comes next. And
A.L. Hampton, you outdid yourself. And I’m excited to see where you go from here.
December 4, 2025
Dearest NON Gentle Reader....
I am excited to share my review of Dark Skies, AL Hampton's highly anticipated fourth installment in The Crown of the Seven Realms series. AL Hampton consistently leaves readers on a breathtaking cliffhanger, and after Dark Fate, I have eagerly been waiting for more of Eric; the Silver slice of heaven! More backstory, more dialogue... just more!
While Dark Skies keeps the central narrative focused on Dani and Rhyland, A.L. once again masterfully weaves histories, timelines, love, and lore into a high romantasy, setting the story in the realm of Zephyria. DO NOT EXPECT A HALLMARK ENDING. Norse mythology comes into play as Dani, Rhyland, and Eric travel to Zephyria to continue their quest, and this includes bloody battles, beer drenched halls, testosterone fueled rage, and lip biting - eye rolling misunderstandings as all good stories have.
In typical AL Hampton fashion, the book features well-placed, sinfully spicy scenes that enhance the story without hindering the plot. For me, this installment was significant not only for the main quest but also for how it developed multiple other plotlines. Based on AL Hampton's previous works, pay attention to all the details because A.L. is a crafty lady and they absolutely lead to future pay dirt and "EUREKA" moments.
The quality of the character development is exceptional; I could easily envision myself as part of this well-rounded sarcastic group or engaging in witty banter with Lucian. Just like after finishing each of the other books in this series (Dark Awakening {Now also available in audio}, Dark Fate, and Dark Tides) Dark Skies has left me devastatingly hungry to see what the next Realm in the Crown of the Seven Realms series has to offer Dani, Rhyland and their badass crew! So much so that I will have to check A.L.'s Insta and Website for any tidbits or updates about the next installment in this amazing series that you won't regret diving into.
Seriously, you're still reading my review? ORDER THIS BOOK and the whole series so you can fall in love with it as well!
I am excited to share my review of Dark Skies, AL Hampton's highly anticipated fourth installment in The Crown of the Seven Realms series. AL Hampton consistently leaves readers on a breathtaking cliffhanger, and after Dark Fate, I have eagerly been waiting for more of Eric; the Silver slice of heaven! More backstory, more dialogue... just more!
While Dark Skies keeps the central narrative focused on Dani and Rhyland, A.L. once again masterfully weaves histories, timelines, love, and lore into a high romantasy, setting the story in the realm of Zephyria. DO NOT EXPECT A HALLMARK ENDING. Norse mythology comes into play as Dani, Rhyland, and Eric travel to Zephyria to continue their quest, and this includes bloody battles, beer drenched halls, testosterone fueled rage, and lip biting - eye rolling misunderstandings as all good stories have.
In typical AL Hampton fashion, the book features well-placed, sinfully spicy scenes that enhance the story without hindering the plot. For me, this installment was significant not only for the main quest but also for how it developed multiple other plotlines. Based on AL Hampton's previous works, pay attention to all the details because A.L. is a crafty lady and they absolutely lead to future pay dirt and "EUREKA" moments.
The quality of the character development is exceptional; I could easily envision myself as part of this well-rounded sarcastic group or engaging in witty banter with Lucian. Just like after finishing each of the other books in this series (Dark Awakening {Now also available in audio}, Dark Fate, and Dark Tides) Dark Skies has left me devastatingly hungry to see what the next Realm in the Crown of the Seven Realms series has to offer Dani, Rhyland and their badass crew! So much so that I will have to check A.L.'s Insta and Website for any tidbits or updates about the next installment in this amazing series that you won't regret diving into.
Seriously, you're still reading my review? ORDER THIS BOOK and the whole series so you can fall in love with it as well!
November 27, 2025
We have arrived at the day when I will review book four, Dark Skies, in the Crown of Seven Realms series by A.L. Hampton. You're in for a treat when you start The Crown of Seven Realm series as A.L. Hampton takes word-smithing antics to the next level with her snark, the depth of spice to the highest levels, and the heart-wrenching emotions she makes you feel for these vampires and their mates, even those who do not know they are mated yet.
The world-building crafted with each realm we visit as Dani and Rhyland are on a quest to save the world and find these gems for her crown makes my fantasy-loving brain squeal with joy. The characters she adds as sidekicks alongside this time, in the form of a fantastic horse and a snarky demon, wow. I especially love that she tossed in a God who can throw the whole story into a roller coaster of antics, and we did not even realize it until almost a third of the way through this monster of a book. And I will say it again and again: I love big books, and I can't lie, cause we get to spend so much time getting involved with them that it doesn’t feel like a long story.
The ending is heartwrenching, so I'm warning you now: buckle up, have your Kleenex ready, and have a soft landing for your book, cause you're probably going to throw it at the end of this book's journey. Take heart, there is more story to come in Dark Desire—excellent book as always.
The world-building crafted with each realm we visit as Dani and Rhyland are on a quest to save the world and find these gems for her crown makes my fantasy-loving brain squeal with joy. The characters she adds as sidekicks alongside this time, in the form of a fantastic horse and a snarky demon, wow. I especially love that she tossed in a God who can throw the whole story into a roller coaster of antics, and we did not even realize it until almost a third of the way through this monster of a book. And I will say it again and again: I love big books, and I can't lie, cause we get to spend so much time getting involved with them that it doesn’t feel like a long story.
The ending is heartwrenching, so I'm warning you now: buckle up, have your Kleenex ready, and have a soft landing for your book, cause you're probably going to throw it at the end of this book's journey. Take heart, there is more story to come in Dark Desire—excellent book as always.
December 7, 2025
100% worth every moment! a little bit for everyone
I have been a mess waiting for the release of this book, and it did not disappoint.
This book is filled with vampires, deities, mythical creatures, prophecies, fated mates, finding & defending family, and has some dark themes, but also hope!
so much happening in it, but it all flows so smoothly together. Like the first books in the series this one is absolute GOLD! Chef’s kiss!
Bryn might be my new favourite, after Gallfax of course!
Honestly I absolutely adoringly love Dani and Rhyland, but I’ll tell you a not so secret, I LIVE for Lucian’s jokes, sass, sarcasm, and inner monologue. No matter what Lucian’s antics they always bring a smile to my face.
Key Points in no particular order:
- Past comes back to haunt them
- Vikings
- Asgard
- portal Travel
- 1 villain wasn’t enough
- those lost brought back
- Friendships
- adopted by Otter dragons
- Deceit
- Trials
I have been a mess waiting for the release of this book, and it did not disappoint.
This book is filled with vampires, deities, mythical creatures, prophecies, fated mates, finding & defending family, and has some dark themes, but also hope!
so much happening in it, but it all flows so smoothly together. Like the first books in the series this one is absolute GOLD! Chef’s kiss!
Bryn might be my new favourite, after Gallfax of course!
Honestly I absolutely adoringly love Dani and Rhyland, but I’ll tell you a not so secret, I LIVE for Lucian’s jokes, sass, sarcasm, and inner monologue. No matter what Lucian’s antics they always bring a smile to my face.
Key Points in no particular order:
- Past comes back to haunt them
- Vikings
- Asgard
- portal Travel
- 1 villain wasn’t enough
- those lost brought back
- Friendships
- adopted by Otter dragons
- Deceit
- Trials
November 30, 2025
*ARC Review*
I don’t even know where to begin. Just when you think this series can’t get any better, A.L. Hampton will blow your expectations out of the water!
I know that there’s more to this series to come, and every time I sit down to read one of her books, I just know it’s going to be a world wind of high steaks, high emotions, and a chemistry that jumps off the page to burn you in just the right ways! And this book did not disappoint.
If you haven’t started this series yet, what are you doing?! Because you are missing out on a ride of your life!
If you want witty banter, tension, and a story that seems to never quit, this book/series is made just for you!
Bravo A.L. Hampton, you’ve created such a beautifully delicious masterpiece once again!
I don’t even know where to begin. Just when you think this series can’t get any better, A.L. Hampton will blow your expectations out of the water!
I know that there’s more to this series to come, and every time I sit down to read one of her books, I just know it’s going to be a world wind of high steaks, high emotions, and a chemistry that jumps off the page to burn you in just the right ways! And this book did not disappoint.
If you haven’t started this series yet, what are you doing?! Because you are missing out on a ride of your life!
If you want witty banter, tension, and a story that seems to never quit, this book/series is made just for you!
Bravo A.L. Hampton, you’ve created such a beautifully delicious masterpiece once again!
December 13, 2025
Dark Skies by A.L. Hampton
Available now on Amazon and KU
Dark Skies is the 4th book in the Crown of the Seven Realms series and it completely ripped my heart out and stepped on it for good measure! It's by far my favorite one of the series. If you love brooding Vampires, Angels, Witches with spice you'll burn for them this is your new go to obsession!
You'll start right where book 3 left off! I learned so much about the Norse gods that I didn't even know and the history lesson proved necessary for the plot and enjoyment of this book!
Of course you'll find that out when you read this book!
If I could give this an 11 star review I would because that's how good it is!
Tropes
Forced proximity
Paranormal romance
Enemies to lovers
Fated mates
Prophecy/ Chosen One
Available now on Amazon and KU
Dark Skies is the 4th book in the Crown of the Seven Realms series and it completely ripped my heart out and stepped on it for good measure! It's by far my favorite one of the series. If you love brooding Vampires, Angels, Witches with spice you'll burn for them this is your new go to obsession!
You'll start right where book 3 left off! I learned so much about the Norse gods that I didn't even know and the history lesson proved necessary for the plot and enjoyment of this book!
Of course you'll find that out when you read this book!
If I could give this an 11 star review I would because that's how good it is!
Tropes
Forced proximity
Paranormal romance
Enemies to lovers
Fated mates
Prophecy/ Chosen One
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 14, 2025
This book was such a wild ride. I love how each installment introduces a whole new world and new characters, and this time with Valkyries and Norse gods it was especially fun. It made me so happy seeing everyone find their mates and their happiness, which gave the story such a wholesome feel. The group dynamic in this book was amazing, and I really loved getting to know Erik more.
The story was a total rollercoaster with kidnappings, tension, and constant twists. I was feeling so content with the ending, but at the same time I kept waiting for something bad to happen… and of course it did. Right after the perfect Christmas too. Rhy being gone and brainwashed has me stressed. What does this mean for their mate bond, and what happens next?! I need the next book immediately.
The story was a total rollercoaster with kidnappings, tension, and constant twists. I was feeling so content with the ending, but at the same time I kept waiting for something bad to happen… and of course it did. Right after the perfect Christmas too. Rhy being gone and brainwashed has me stressed. What does this mean for their mate bond, and what happens next?! I need the next book immediately.
November 30, 2025
Holy crap! This book is the best one so far! sooooo good! It picks up where book 3 left off. And let me tell you. From chapter 1 it pulls you in and takes you for one hell of a ride. All I can say is this thick ass book is full of suspense, action, mind twists, new characters and new POVs! And need I even say Norse Gods? Absolute page turning masterpiece. Also…. The ending….. chills. Book 5 needs to be here yesterday
10 out of 5 stars
10 out of 5 stars
December 2, 2025
Oh, man. I've been here from the release of book one, and let me tell you, this was amazing. So much emotional unrest, spice, twists, and plenty of tension that keeps you reaching for more. DOES NOT DISAPPOINT. I love Dani; she's strong, fierce, loving, and the guys are fantastic, too! The spice was spicing, and I did squeal.
The world-building and descriptions were unreal; it was incredible.
That ending, though?! Talk about a cliffhanger.
The world-building and descriptions were unreal; it was incredible.
That ending, though?! Talk about a cliffhanger.
December 2, 2025
This book opens right up where we left off in the 3rd book and throws you right back into this wonderful world that A. L. Hampton has created. Poor Dani just can't seem to catch a break. The action and banter just kept me so entranced, that even though this was a big book I could get through so many pages without realizing I had read that much. We got more background on our favorite guys. I love how even though we are on book 4 there is still so much to learn. Every character continues to grow. The cliffhanger though! When is book 5 coming? Lol.
December 2, 2025
Absolutely loved this book! This series just keeps getting better with each book. The characters are amazing and those twists, oh my! I desperately need the 5th book like now. I would highly reccomend reading this series.
December 2, 2025
The way the writing picks up from the last book and continues is amazing. The character development even side characters is amazing. I loved this book and found myself staying up later just to finish the chapter and not continue reading…. Such a great book and series!
December 2, 2025
We have another fantastic add to the series! This one was just as breath taking as the rest. You can feel the suspense of what's going happen next. The world is incredible and detailed. You really are left on the edge of your seat waiting to see what will happen next!
December 2, 2025
The book hooked me at page 1. The story was captivating and the characters were amazing. Definitely would recommend it!
December 3, 2025
LOVED THIS INSTALLMENT!!
I'm a huge fan of Norse Gods and stories so this really scratches and itch I've had! Can't wait to see where the series goes next!
I'm a huge fan of Norse Gods and stories so this really scratches and itch I've had! Can't wait to see where the series goes next!
December 4, 2025
this book had me from the very 1st page...I love how A.L. brings the realms and characters all the way alive...amazing read and cannot wait to see what's next for Dani and Rhyland
November 23, 2025
I have liked this series so much from the beginning, She is an absolute mastermind when it comes to these books, she grabs you at the beginning and holds on to you, every detail, every relationship, every character, you truly feel like you know them because you have on this journey with them. Its truly amazing, every book builds more and more, so many unsuspecting things pop and and they go different ways than you could imagine. It is truly remarkably written,If you like those long books, that draw you in and keep you waiting for the next release date, then you have to check this series out, besides the first one this is my favorite by far.
November 7, 2025
This book completely consumed me from start to finish. I’ve loved this series from the beginning! The world of this story is so beautifully written, you can tell with every character written, A.L Hampton has truly put her heart into it all, the way she describes her world makes you feel as if you’re there right along with the characters! There were moments that made me gasp, tear up, and literally whisper “no way” as I read this book! This series just keeps getting better and better, when I got to the last few pages I couldn’t believe it! I’m so excited for the next book!
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