Darkest Before Dawn

Guardian's Diary #1

by Amelia Hutchins

Hello Diary,
Sorry, it’s been a while since I have been able to write.
As you know, my dad is a modern-day Noah, always working on building his ark, trying to save folks and getting my brother and I ready for the impending end of days – whatever that means.
One thing I did learn (the hard way), is that going through an apocalyptic event doesn't mean the end of the world.
There was nothing in his prepper manuals that could prepare us for what actually happened.
I had nothing to prepare me for Jaeden and Lachlan. Heck, I don’t know of any girl that would have been prepared for those two.
There was nothing to prepare any of us for the things that go bump in the night, or the creatures who have been hiding in the background that emerged when civilization collapsed.
No, an apocalyptic event is just a set-up for things in our world to be shaken AND stirred.
What will come out of this mess, remains to be seen.
I’ll give more details soon, gotta go…
~Emma
*Reader Advisory* This is a paranormal urban fantasy with strong themes of violence and sexual situations that are only suitable for readers over the age of 18. If you do not like dark romance, this is not the book for you. There are no zombies in this book. It is adult.

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

338 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 13, 2014

About the author

Amelia Hutchins is a Wall Street Journal and USA Today Bestselling author of the Monsters, The Fae Chronicles, and Nine Realm series. She is an admitted coffee addict who drinks magical potions of caffeine and turns them into magical worlds. She writes alpha-hole males and the alpha women who knock them on their arse, hard. Amelia doesn’t write romance. She writes fast-paced books that go hard against traditional standards. Sometimes a story isn’t about the romantic aspect; it’s about rising to a challenge, breaking through them like wrecking balls, and shaking up entire worlds to discover who they are. If you’d like to check out more of her work, or just hang out in an amazing tribe of people who enjoy rough men, and sharp women, join her at Author Amelia Hutchins Group on Facebook.
Books by Amelia Hutchins along with reading order for the series.
Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/12402...

Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/authoramelia...

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author.amel...

LEGACY OF THE NINE REALMS

Flames of Chaos
Ashes of Chaos
Ruins of Chaos
Crown of Chaos
Coming Soon
Queen of Chaos
King of Chaos 2024
Reign of Chaos


THE FAE CHRONICLES

Fighting Destiny
Taunting Destiny
Escaping Destiny
Seducing Destiny
Unraveling Destiny
Embracing Destiny
Crowning Destiny
Finished Series

THE ELITE GUARDS

A Demon’s Dark Embrace
Claiming the Dragon King
The Winter Court
A Demon’s Plaything
Standalones, which can be read alone.

A GUARDIAN’S DIARY

Darkest Before Dawn
Death before Dawn
Midnight Rising -TBA

MONSTERS SERIES

Playing with Monsters
Sleeping with Monsters
Becoming his Monster
Revealing the Monster
Finished Series

WICKED KNIGHTS

Oh, Holy Knight
If She’s Wicked
Book Three -TBA


MIDNIGHT COVEN BOOKS
Forever Immortal
Immortal Hexes
Midnight Coven
Finished Series

BULLETPROOF DAMSEL SERIES
Bulletproof Damsel
Coming Soon
Silverproof Damsel 2024
Fireproof Damsel

Alpha’s Claim Standalone

WITHIN THE DARKNESS
Moon-Kissed
Book 2 TBA
THE DARKEST FAE
King of the Shadow Fae
Coming Soon
King of the Night Fae
Queen of the Stars

Fate Series
Whispers of Fate (Intro to Kahleena’s book)

If you’re following the Fae Chronicles, Elite Guards, and Monsters series, the reading order is as follows.

Fighting Destiny
Taunting Destiny
Escaping Destiny
Seducing Destiny
A Demon’s Dark Embrace
Playing with Monsters
Unraveling Destiny
Sleeping with Monsters
Claiming the Dragon King
Oh, Holy Knight
Becoming his Monster
A Demon’s Plaything
The Winter Court
If She’s Wicked
Embracing Destiny
Crowning Destiny
Revealing the Monster
Whispers of Fate

Reviews

[Patrycja · Rating 2 out of 5]

Title: Darkest Before Dawn
Series: A Guardian's Diary #1
Author: Amelia Hutchins
Release Date: October 14, 2014
Rating: 2 stars
Cliffhanger:. Mild.
HEA: Not yet





This review is very hard for me to write. As I am a big fan of Amelia Hutchins’ Fae Chronicles, It pains me that I didn’t enjoy reading Darkest Before Dawn, a book I was almost certain would be mind - blowing. I was badly mistaken! This novel was just not for me.

I anticipated something very different from what I got; not only did the plot disappointed me but the characters as well. Something very important was lacking. Frankly, most of the time, I fought the urge to DNF it and move on. But I didn’t. I decided to see where this would go.

The plot was a misfire; Honestly, everything was just boring and very slow paced. Nothing exciting happened. I love reading great UF books with vampires and shape shifters, but here everything was so stereotypical (and yes, you’ve guessed it boring) , the vamps and were where not exactly well fitted idea, they just weren’t adequate for this novel.

While reading about Emma, I couldn’t stop myself from comparing her and her journey to Syn from the Fae Chronicles, which resulted in me being even more pissed off at the main heroine, who clearly was a ‘kickass babe wannabe’. She acted all tough and strong, but in reality she was just stubborn, uptight bitch. I barely put up with her and her constant whining as well as should ‘I put out or not’ drama. I quickly had enough of this ‘being slut by losing her virginity act’; you either want to have sex and embrace it, or you stop being terrible cock tease and keep your legs crossed. I am sorry, but even sexy guy, who clearly knows his way around the bedroom is starting to be a completely off putting after a while.

How many times can a hero attempt to get the heroine in his bed without looking like a totally sex obsessed, shallow asshole?

Jaeden quickly lost respect in my eyes. I wanted Ryder to give him few lessons.

So with that, I had actually nothing to hold on to. I didn’t enjoy the plot, characters were getting on my nerves and all this sex talk, literally destroyed the experience.

I will admit, it were my high expectations mixed with desire to finally read outstanding paranormal romance novel that probably made this book quite a letdown. I wanted a lot of more from this author, so this is still a bitter pill to swallow.

I can’t say Darkest Before Dawn is worth reading, as that would be a lie, but I can highly recommend you other books by Amelia Hutchins. If you wanted to give this book a shot, but now after reading this review, you know for sure it’s not a novel for you, please do yourself a favor and if you haven’t already read Fae Chronicles. It’s totally badass, I promise!


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[Jennifer Kyle · Rating 3 out of 5]

*2.75 Stars*

”In my darkest hour, he was my dawn. His kind is dangerous, but in the world we now live in, he was and is my best chance of survival. ”



I’m a fan of this author’s Fae Chronicles and was excited to try this new paranormal series. I just loved the warning the author issued in the beginning of the story and wished that the zombies mentioned in it were involved instead of the story line I received. I battled with the desire to DNF but carried on to see what the full idea for the story was and tried not to compare anyone to Ryder from this author's prior series.

The story starts strong but once I got the full picture of the apocalypse from virus, kick ass girl running community in bunker, vampires and werewolves with hot guy leaders wanting a piece of her and her virginity things went very flat for me. (I do like vampire and werewolf books but this had a generic feeling to it.)

Jaeden’s attempts to get Emma in his bed was just flat out exhausting by the 65 percent mark. (Yes he can dirty talk and was hot in the bedroom but even their chase got tiresome.)

Don’t even get me started on the Twilight references and the wacked out ex-wife...



By the end our main character’s true identity is revealed to her and things are set in motion for book 2 but I just wasn’t that into this group to be carrying on for future books.

*I want to thank my friend Anjee for gifting me this book and hanging through to the end with me! *

[Elise ✘ a.k.a Ryder's Pet ✘ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Re-read: 20.01.2017
The beautiful characters: Jaeden (late twenties or early thirties) and Emma (twenty-one). They both are awesome, stubborn, and together they are hot as hell. Though the book is not as good as it was the first time around, it was still good. There was, of course, things that still annoy me, like the mentioning of hussy too many times, Jaeden's constant pressuring, and the Norwegian translation (I'm from Norway, so I would know), but still, Amelia Hutchins writes a compelling story, that drags you in and keep its hold on you. I'm really looking forward to next book, to see where it goes. I wonder how many books in this series there will be...?

“Twelve wolves, eight you can see, four are lagging behind. Three brown and the rest are gray, and you’re beautiful.”

Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (New Adult) Paranormal Romance
Series: - Series, Book One
Love triangle? - No.
Cheating? - No.
HEA? - For now... though it kinda ends in a somewhat cliffhanger.
Favorite character? - Jaeden
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Fuck yes.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Yes.
Will I read this again in the future? - Yes.
New Rating - 3.5 stars.

First read review:

I’m getting ahead of myself. For you to understand it all, we need to start at the beginning. The day the virus hit our town. The day the world as I knew it ceased to be, and a new world began.

*NOTE: I got too excited when I started to write the review, so its REALLY long*
Bloody fantastic!! Amelia Hutchins is fucking brilliant! Her writing is so amazing and her characters are so lovable. I could barely put the book down, even if I had to go to school, it was that great! And wow, let me not get started on the male character, Jaeden, in this book... cause then I'll NEVER stop! Simply said: amazing book!:) Amelia does not disappoint, that's for sure! And that ending? Damn, I want to know what will happen NOW!! Please Amelia, don't let us wait long!!

Lying there in the blackness of night, it almost seemed normal. Until you listened to the silence and it sank in that nothing would ever be normal again.

Story:
So here's the thing about Amelia's writing, she writes her own worlds, and in this one is dystopian-post-apocalyptic world. A virus is set free, and people are dying all over the world. Emma's father had predicted this for a long time and while waiting for this to happen, he made a safe-house. This is where the book find place. Emma's dad left to save some people, but he hasn't returned, so it's Emma's job to keep the people who lives in the safe-house alive and safe. With the help of her best friend Addy, she's doing a find job until mysterious things starts to happen. Things that should be impossible.

To keep those I care for alive, and thriving, I’ll have to do so much more than I could have before. Still, my darkest hour is yet to come, and I’ll keep fighting until we’ve won.

While being on her patrol she meets a mysterious man. He's sexy as hell, and he makes Emma feel..something. (not love at first sight, only lust) Next time she meets Jaeden, he ends up saving her from crazy wolves. He keeps showing up, and he keeps saving her. AND he makes sure Emma knows he want her in his bed. The thing is, Emma probably want to jump him, but she's virgin. She doesn't want to be fuck, then left, so she keeps telling him no, but damn, it's hard for her to say no when he's so determined to have her and continues to show her what a real man is. (sexually).

“You think it’s that easy to walk away from me? You think I buy that shit, Emma? You want me even now. It’s in the curve of your lips when I say something you like, the way your mouth lingers on mine when I kiss those soft lips. That slow, deliberate way your lips maneuver down my neckline when I’m riding your body. You don’t have to admit it, sweet girl, that mouth of yours gives it away every time."

Now, on to the awesome characters:
First, I'll just say some stuff about the secondary characters like Lachlan, Grayson, Addy, Astrid, Shamus. Lachlan cool dude, but I have trouble understanding what he's saying. Grayson is Emma's brother, and though he's cute and all, he could be a brat and annoying. I don't think he understands everything Emma really does for him... Addy, great bestfriend, but she seems weak. Astrid, a serious messed up biiiitch, and finally Shamus, him I want to know more about. I don't understand him at all. Is he more powerful than Jaeden? I hope we get more answers about him in next book..

“Why not? Need to practice it? We have men here, and I’ve read 50 Shades of Grey, if he’s all controlling, sign me the fuck up!” Her arms were waving in excitement as she hustled to keep up with me.
“You read that book?” I asked.
“Five times already. I can’t stomach that romance shit. You think E. L. James survived the apocalypse? I hope she did, I need more books.”

Emma, well she's mostly great! She really reminds me of Katniss Everdeen, as in can be a cold person, great with a bow and doesn't mind getting dirty. Emma's a real badass! Though she hates that she has to kill, make tough decisions, and make scarifies, she does it to keep the people she loves safe and sound. Or at least as safe as possible in this hard time. Emma literally put like wall up around her heart so that she won't completely break down.

“Odin, Mercy, Fucking, Glory! Holy Satan’s golden dick, that shit hurts!” I babbled as I tried to get away from that thing.

On to my FAVORITE character in the book... Yes, you guessed it, it's Jaeden! Ah man, he's just so DAMN sexy! I love him!! He's dominant, possessive, strong, smart, seductive, and knows Norwegian! (my language) Sounds perfect, right? Well he's not, he can be a cold hearted man too.

“Yeah, try. Emma, I’m very old, and in my day we fucked to claim. We fucked to please our women and keep them sated for weeks after we’d gone to sea. My point is I’m going to fuck you hard and fast. I’m going to make damn sure you know it was me who fucked you. Understand?”

Amalia is brilliant when it comes to writing strong female leads, but she's PERFECT at writing males leads, like my favorite male character of her, Ryder from Fighting Destiny. Though I freaking love Jaeden, no one, and I mean, NO ONE beats Ryder!

“Am I dreaming?” I whispered.
“Do you want to dream of me, sweet girl?” he asked as he rubbed his massive erection against me.
“Yes,” I replied and then gasped as he rolled over, pinning me to the floor.

Jaeden and Emma:
The chemistry between Emma and Jaeden is just great! You can feel the sparks fly whenever they are around each other. The way Emma fights Jaeden on their lust is just awesome and we get some pretty great comments from them both. Emma's snapping/funny/mean comments, and Jaeden replaying with sexual comments... =Perfect!

“You make a good case, but say I found it lacking? Maybe I’m used to something so much bigger.”
“Bigger? I felt how tight you were. You couldn’t handle bigger, little girl. You live in a small town where boys are just that, boys. I promise you that I am all man, and I also promise you this, Emma; I will have you. The only question is when it will happen, and how hard I will fuck you.”

I didn't like:
There were a few things that I didn't like that much which was the way Jaeden kept pushing Emma to get her in his bed, the book was a bit too long, Addy being a bit of a slut, and sometimes Emma was seriously annoying. Like, she keeps mention 'hussy' all the time!!

One moment I was about to scream, and the next, I was being kissed. By kissed, I mean it was curling my toes, and the moment his tongue pushed past my lips, I moaned. Hello Hussyland! I am your new leader. Follow me!

Here's another example, though it's a lot more in the book...

I tore my eyes from them, back at him just in time for him to look back and wink at me. “Get in the hummer,” I growled.
“I’d give him a hummer,” Jillian laughed.
I shook my head; yup, it was official. I had a land, it was called Hussy, and I was its queen.

Wow, I really need to stop talking about this book.. When I love a book, I seriously can't stop talking about it.. lol, I almost feel sorry for people who read it :P The review turned out really looooong... Anyways, please Amelia, write the sequel fast :)!
Rate: 4.5 stars.

[Fatima · Rating 2 out of 5]

Oh brother , bring out the eye-rolls ....



I can't believe this is the same author who has written one of my favorite series of all times . I mean The Fae chronicles was right up there in my list of 'awesome books ever written' and then this book comes along and I'm all like ...



The plot is pretty much simple . A virus has taken over , many people have died and those who have survived are constantly living in fear and trying to survive the aftermath left over by the virus . Emma is the leader who is supporting everyone by providing them shelter and food and other necessities . And she also watches over them . She was prepared for this because her father had a feeling that something like this would happen one day .

Enter Jaeden and Lachlan ..

Who exactly are these guys ? Well , let me not spoil that for you . You'll find out eventually and that in itself was a major eye-roll moment .

All the characters in this book were pretty annoying ..

Except for Jaeden everybody else was .. was .. I don't know , living in a planet of their own or what ..

And don't even get me started on Emma ... What a bitch . Nobody asked her to carry the weight of the world on her shoulders . And just because she was doing it , nobody expected her to be a total bitch about it . Her constant sometimes very hot sometimes mildly cold approach to Jaeden were giving me a massive headache .

At some point I thought this was gonna turn into a love triangle and I was all like 'I not going to read this anymore !! ' ..
I still feel that at some point it may ...

The only saving grace for me in this book was the sex scenes ! Holy hell batman ! They were HAWT !! There was humor which managed to tickle my funny bone .

But something was missing big time ..

All in all , I'm just disappointed .

[Sophia Triad · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book would have deserved so many stars! I mean
a) it is dystopian and the world has changed after a deadly virus. LOVED IT!
b) it has unexpected twists. Suddenly the dystopian story will become paranormal romance. LOVED IT!
c) it has a kickass heroine. She does not wait to be saved. She saves others instead. LOVED IT.
d) it does not hold back in gory scenes, sex scenes, dark emotions. It is not fluffy and sweet. LOVED IT.

BUT

I had two serious issues:
1. Emma's virginity. It was getting in my nerves. I though the book would finish and she would still a blubbering mess virgin and a nonstop cock-teaser.
2. Jaeden. Dear God this guy...He tried so hard to be a strong Alpha, but in the end he was like a confused, selfish unbearable guy with wifey's issues. If you continue with the series, don't get too attached to him, I heard that he is replaced from Emma's bed. And most of the time, he was all talk and no action.

I will read book 2.

[Amelia Hutchins]

It's live!
Amazon US link: http://tinyurl.com/po8lqzx
Amazon UK link: http://tinyurl.com/qzork43
Barnes & Noble Link: http://tinyurl.com/melw3ff

[Natasha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm going to start this review off by saying that a lot of people are going to compare this to Amelia's other work, and you simply cant. They are 2 completely different times, worlds, and ways of life. To compare isn't fair to either series or the author. I FLOVE the Fae Chronicles to the point of obsession. Darkest before Dawn I found to be just as epic and a class all in it's own. It's so different than anything I have ever read, and that's what I like so much about it.

All of Emmas life people made fun of her with of her dad preparing for the "end of days", until it happens and said people all expect to be saved. Now her dad has gone away and has left her in charge. She is innocent, compassionate, funny, sweet, caring and selfless. Putting everyone ahead of herself. She is also very smart, strict and feels the groups safety as well as the weight of the situation on her shoulders. I find her determination unwavering as she goes through whatever life throws at her. I think she is beautiful - inside and out - though she doesn't see it herself. She is caught completely off guard when she meets Jaeden.

"His eyes and skin tone were hard to make out in the moonlight and shadows flickering off the bonfire behind me; It was creating an enchanted feeling inside of me"

Doomsday has arrived and Jaeden isn't the only thing that goes bump in the night. He runs into Emma and is intrigued by her. He feel this instant pull to her and his need to protect her overwhelms him. He hates that he wants her so bad. I'm pretty sure that I'm in love with Jaeden so I'll apologize to my husband right now (though he is no stranger to my ever growing list of BBFs). He is the total Alpha: sexy, overbearing, confident, mysterious, and so panty melting hot in a way that makes you wish he' d throw you over his shoulder and do bad bad things. Even with all that, I love that he still respects Emma and her wishes and doesn't push her into anything that she isn't ready for.

"Even now she pulled at me, her soul knowing me as though she was fated to become mine, and it was f**king strong."

The tension between them is smoking hot .... It may seem to some that Emma is playing hot and cold but I think its more because she feels so conflicted. She wants him BAD but knows that she shouldn't. She has so many pressures on herself that she isn't willing to put herself first. It's the difference between the 2, Jaeden knows what he wants and takes it, Emma knows what she wants but holds herself back. I love that she doesn't just give it up and really makes him work for his prize. When they do get together, even in the slightest sense, its crazy hot and jaw dropping.

"That, sweet Emma, is how you tell the boys from men. Men know how to get a woman soaking wet without doing a single thing. Boys have to touch and caress with their hands."

If you think Jaeden is delicious, hold on to your panties ladies because you haven't even met hot to trot, sexy accent Lachlan. I mean really - Whats better than 1 Alpha male, you got it, 2. He's also mysterious and feels a need to protect Emma and those she loves. There is no love loss between him and Jaeden and their constant head butting, chest thumping, cheeky banter will have you laughing. Addy, Emmas bestie is also adorable. She is Emmas confidante and protector. Addy is carefree, compassionate, and a total bad influence (In a good way). She says what she thinks and I love her sassy attitude.

There are a lot of plot twists, and its full of emotions. You'll laugh at the one liners, and feel heartbroken over her circumstances, I also felt an enormous sense of pride for Emma and how she has taken charge, and the sexy scenes aren't too shabby either *lol*.

For me it was a total page turner, I couldn't get enough. I found it captivating and gripping. I was completely enthralled. This is why I love PNR because anything is possible and nothing is off limits. Cannot friggin wait for the next book, well done Amelia!

[Christine Wallflower & Dark Romance Junkie]

Another BOOK by Amelia Hutchins!!!




I love this cover♥♥♥

[Erline Iacaboni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can only be the best!!! Looking forward to another hit!!! It's literally killing me to wait, but wait I shall, all good things........

[T.J. Shaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars!

I must admit, this book took me by surprise. It was a friend recommendation so I kept reading when it started a bit slow for me. But Ms. Hutchins was just establishing her world and once she’d created the foundation, I had a very hard time putting DARKEST BEFORE DAWN down. I’m usually not a first person POV fan, but Ms. Hutchins did a fantastic job with Emma’s inner dialogue. Some of the things Emma thought and said were too funny! As for Jaeden, well, he’s pretty hard to resist. Strong, domineering, sexy — he has all the ingredients for a sizzling alpha male. The conclusion wasn’t a typical romance ending, but I wouldn’t say it was a cliffhanger either. While I was satisfied by how it ended, Ms. Hutchins definitely paved the way for the next book, which I’ll anxiously and happily wait for. Great start to a new series!

[Zakirrah BookBlogger · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 Stars

I hate writing bad review :( but I think if I'm going to rate a book low stars I should explain why I felt that way.Another thing is that everyone is different and just because I didn't enjoy this one doesn't mean you won't either! And if you did't enjoy this book I beg you not to give up on this author because she is awesome and you definitely need to check out her Fae Chronicles series because them book are the BEST! And I'm just so excited for more of the fae books and even though this one didn't work out for me I will still be reading everything Amelia Hutchins releases!!

I was so excited to get an arc of this book and well I guess I had a lot of high expectations since I loveee Amelia's Fae chronicles series so I guess I assumed this would be just as good but I felt there was a lot lacking and I didn't feel as connected to the story and characters.Emma annoyed me a lot of the time, I couldn't help but compare her to Syn and well she was being silly and annoying so many times. Jaeden was the only character I liked and one thing that met my expectations were the hot scenes because they were bloody hot! Emma and Jaeden had chemistry but I needed something more I guess I wanted Jaeden to be more alpha to be honest.

At a point I thought it would turn into a love triangle and I was panicking like oh god please no because I hate them but no thank god it didn't happen but I guess there is still the possibility that the next book it may occur.I felt like it wasn't different I wanted more from this book, more twists and something to keep me at the edge of my seat and craving more. And I felt a change in writing style like it felt like this book was written before fae chronicles.

Again this is just my opinion don't let it deter you from buying if this looks like something you may enjoy :)

*ARC provided by the awesome author for an honest review*

Blog: http://zakirrahsbookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
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[Ruth Gutscher · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have anticipated this book from what I saw from the teasers ....If you go in to this book thinking its like the Fae Chronicles,it is not.. it is a completely different series,and I loved it,cover to cover ! This book had everything I look for in a book...I loved the story line,the characters,it had adventure & plot twists,I love plot twists,it had humor,romance,and steamy hot sex ...the bare basics to the story line as I don't do spoilers ..you have a virus outbreak,and a small group of survivors that move to the middle of nowhere and help those that they can,this is where the plot twists started and hooked me in .. I loved Emma,sexy Viking vampire Jaeden,& even Lachlan who is a wolf shifter,you encounter other characters like rogue wolves,Sentinels,etc .. but you need to read the story to see how it all comes together ..I encourage readers to read this book,allow their imagination to soar and go along for the ride ! Amelia Hutchins is one author I will one click always ... check it out,it may just surprise you !

[Vieira · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this!! I was captivated by the new world Amelia has brought to us. There was plenty of hotties I loved Jaeden and Lachlan! I thought Emma kicked ass. I can't wait for the next one!! Also this book was smokin HOT!!!!

[Nekeisha Ryce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amelia hutchins you rock!!!!! Definitely one of my favorite authors of all time...... Need a part two now please!!!!! Seriously hooked to your writing....keep it coming!!!!

[Valentina "TinchyB" · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 going on 5 stars!!!

I haven't read a paranormal romance in a while.
And this one was refreshing read for me!
I read it in one sitting and I really love it!

This is a story about sexy and feisty girl Emma.
Her father was one of the preppers for the doomsday,an in the end,he was right.
Lethal virus struck most of the population,and Emma was one of survivals,thanks to shelter that her father build.
I realy love her character.She's strong,hardheaded,and I was surprised with things that came from her mouth!



And,we have a love triangle again...
Our hero of the day Jaeden is vampire,Lachlan is werewolf,and our heroine is Bella...
Just as Emma said in book: Holly crap,this is Twilight all over again!
But little more R rated...
And I fell for a wrong guy in this one,again!

Meet wolfy:


Meet vampire:

[Leigh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let me start by saying that I really enjoyed Darkest Before Dawn. I think what I liked most was that I had no idea what to expect so all the events that occurred made for a book I couldn't put down. I was concerned about a love triangle because I just don't like them and I stay away from them, but I didn't really feel there was one here. Yes, both men wanted her but it was clear who Emma wanted. Now for Emma she is a great h. She is a strong and loyal protector. Most of my issues with her was how hot and cold she ran with Jaeden. Jaeden now was sexy as sin, very aggressive and had a filty mouth to go with it. There was absolutely no misunderstanding him with his wants and desires, and those wants and desires he directed completely at Emma. There are a lot of unanswered questions and no HEA. I wish there was already a book 2.

[K.K. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Re-read. OMG I knew i was torturing myself for re-reading this. Since I knew that Ms. Amelia was finishing its sequal, I couldn't help but read this book and re-love it once again. MY GOD, I NEED THE NEXT AND THE NEXXXXTTTTTT!!!!

5 Stars!!

Edited 16 Oct 2014

First Read: 15-16 Oct 2014

GOLDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD!!!!!!!
I have no regret finishing this book at 3AM in the morning and i'm buying every available edition at my local store when it comes... and I WILL worship it with my heart and soul!! Amelia Hutchins's BOOKS ARE PURE GOLD!!!! I'm afraid my status towards her book are beyond obsessive. LOL!!

[Duchess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Amelia's approach in writing. If you're expecting TFC (The Fae Chronicles or playing comparative to it STOP now before reading further) this is a different book with different characters and a wholly different setting - if you start out that way before reading this you will be disappointed and that is completely unfair to you and the author. This book is it's own story and has some very cool twists for a change. Based on how it was presented I did not expect the turns it started taking (which is flipping impressive since I can usually figure out where something is headed within the first few chapters).. Amelia's sleight of hand approach to building this series was pretty stellar. People have said it was jumpy and the truth is it seems deliberate and well done - in a time of chaos life altering events guess what things seem bouncy and tend to quickly jump. She pulls off a here then there approach off flawlessly with building blocks setting up for future events taking place without giving away everything at once. You go from point a to focusing and trying to figure out what happened at point b to point e and realizing maybe you should have paid attention to point c somewhere because it may be crucial down the line. There is more going on here and several other stories she may place in future books and I for one am ecstatic to see where it goes next - this is book one you are just meeting these people and no you don't know everything about your characters lives in book 1 (if you did we wouldn't need the next few).. I love the sense of humor in this that had me laughing at times out loud followed by some very steamy scenes that have a very alpha male involved *fanning self*. The male character has a very filthy mouth but here's the thing people don't seem to get about him (that immediately dislike him) - he was a Viking (with additives of course) basically look the word up - his character is extremely well written and his traits fit the personality given to a tee. His back story gives him reason for his actions thus far and I can't wait to delve further into the yumminess and secrets (plus contrary orders he doesn't love to follow) that make up Jaeden. Emma is a perfect contrast for him with her tough act and attempts at being everything at all times yet still being a kid in her own ways - growing up too fast yet not experiencing everything to have the world fall down around you while you all while trying to fix it in your own way has got to take a toll - for one so very young she kicks ass. I also officially have new nickname for people I loathe that are fake (Mattel) - I'm hoping his ex gets a wake up call ASAP like Emma's foot in her face - can't wait to see the next showdown because she needs to be put in her place. Adore her best friend who has her moments yet is still her true friend at the end of the day - hoping she gets an awesome love story out of this all too. Her brother I am interested in finding out more about - he was very young in this one and a sub-story (maybe hoping for some more flashbacks there and a bigger connection to the love between siblings there). Then there's Lachlan... Hmm... Yummy sounding and I want to know more there - hoping we can get some more of his personal story in the next one. I want more interaction between the main characters overall - awesome settings great building material with a fabulous base and I can't wait to see what Amelia builds out of this all. There were some very graphic scenes in this book which were done disturbingly well and for it to have some of these characters involved the brutality should be felt as much as the softer edged parts - the jumps here may not be liked by all, but they were appropriately placed and highly effective. I see combination elements of some awesome storylines in here that blended to make it's own unique tale and I am already on tenterhooks to see where the journey goes from here! C'mon Amelia take me to your next stop in Utah!

[Tammie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amelia out does herself again! Pure genius was at work for this book. This is the First book in her new series and WOW freakin WOW! Emma learns things about her family that will change her forever. This story was interesting from the beginning as Amelia Hutchins built their world where Emma learns humans aren't the only ones that exist in this crazy new world where they find themselves. It was erotic and blistering hot!!! Get ready for toe curling sexy and adventures .
I loved how the aspects of the supernatural were slowly introduced in the beginning of this story, and how the connections of the characters came together with one thing coming after the other in a never ending fight for survival. This story will keep you on your seat, and have you wishing for more!

Well done Amelia! This was a brilliant read!

[Jenne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Don't be fooled by the dystopian genre with this one, it's more erotica than anything. I devoured Ms. Hutchins fae chronicles and I love a good dystopian ever so often so I was excited to read this. It totally wasn't what I was expecting (which isn't bad!) and I did see some similarities to her fae chronicles.
A) Jaeden has the whole alpha male I must dominate you thing going on (like Ryder)
B) Emma was a pretty tough heroine who just can't quite 100% commit (like Syn)
C) It was freaking hot a lot of the book! Steam may have been coming out of my kindle.

It's set up nicely for the next book (no major cliffies *coughs* fae chronicles) and I will read it when it's released!

[V · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5-almost-5-stars.

She’s done it again! Amelia has created another paranormal world that is different from anything I have read before. Not only that, she’s created more hot-sexy-heroes, this time in the form of a tall, dark, hot Viking vampire – Jaeden (as well as a sexy-Scottish-werewolf – Lachlan).
I loved the first 40-50% of this book, which starts by setting the scene of a world devastated by a virus that rampaged the world and killed billions of people. The heroine, Emma, is one of a group of people that did survive, thanks to her father who for the last decade has spent building an ‘end of days’ type shelter. Of course everyone thought he went crazy after the death of Emma’s mother….but, look who’s laughing now. Six months later Emma is the one in charge after her dad does missing. She’s turned into some kind of deadly-survivalist (like those on The Walking Dead) and will do anything to keep herself, brother and those in the shelter safe.

On one of her patrols, she meets Jaeden, or ‘mystery man’ since they don’t exactly introduce themselves formally. Months go by before they do learn each other’s names, when Jaeden rescues her from a pack of rogue wolves. The chemistry between them is smokin’ hot, one of the reasons the first half of this book was better for me. Jaeden is probably the king of dirty talk, something no female could resist, and Emma is no exception.

”Because they’re nothing but little boys, my little Valkyrie; idiots go after the easy fu#ks. Men go after the ones who are worth the chase. Like you.”

As time moves on, this book transforms from a sci-fi/apocalypse type storyline to more paranormal/fantasy as things begin to change. Emma suffers an horrendous accident/attack, leaving Jaeden no choice but to let her die or save her. How? Read and see. I can’t say much more about what happens, firstly because it will have to contain spoilers, and secondly, some of it won’t make sense because, well, it doesn’t make sense. By the end of the book there are lots of things left unanswered and even more questions to be addressed. What is Emma? What the hell is going on and what exactly lead to the outbreak of the deadly virus?

What I liked….did I mention the dirty-teasing talk?

”I like it when women play hard to get. Never been one to take the easy pickings. So please, Emma, play hard to get with me.”

And the dirty-possessive talk?

”I’m going to f#*k you soon, hard, and for hours. By the time you leave my bed, you’ll know who you belong to. You’ll never question it again.”

So why not a full 5 stars? Well this will be hard to explain. I loved this book. Loved the storyline and the characters. But there were times when I had to back-track a few pages just to double check what was going on and where the scene was. Normally when I read I can picture what’s going on in my mind, but I struggled sometimes with this. I think more description of the locations might have helped.
Secondly, I didn’t liked how unpredictable Jaeden was when it came to scenes with Emma. One minute he was all possessive (as illustrated in the quotes above) and then he would just leave. Not disappear, just….leave. I was like, WTF? This happened when they were just talking and when they were getting physically intimate and this whole Hot n Cold thing frustrated me even though later his behaviour is sort of explained. Finally, Emma’s slow-to-burn realisation of what Jaeden is (and Lachlan for that matter) kinda annoyed me. There were lots of clues and the penny should have dropped a lot sooner than it did.

Still, a great start to a promising series and im looking forward to the next instalment.

[Hayley Jay · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐💫 3.5
🌶🌶🌶🌶 4/5 🌶 rating

Nothing like the end of the world to make you enjoy the irony of an apocalyptic story!

Ok, this started off with a serious NA vibe... but I put my faith in Amelia.

Did it pay off?

Eventually! Reading the first few chapters was a little frustrating, the MC was hard to connect with and I was actually a little scared that I'd stumbled across a tame NA fic that I did not sign up for.

That will teach me for doubting Amelia Hutchins!

Once the story gets going - the emotional rollercoaster that I know and hate to love in Amelia's books came through!

The constant yoyoing of feelings between the two MCs will give you whiplash - but I'm certainly interested to see how it plays out.

Emma the female lead is extremely petulant and immature - she's definitely no Lena or Syn!

Jaeden - I have high hopes for him, but - for a badass vampire, he's under the thumb. He thinks he's in control? Bless him.

Lachlan - I need more of him! I hate love triangles and I hope that this doesn't turn into one. *But* I do hope we see more of him in book two!

Would I recommend?

Yes, though, if you are a hardened fan of Amelia's - do not start this series thinking it will be ANYTHING like her other books. That was my mistake and I think I would have enjoyed it more, if I had read this series before her other books!

Amazon | Goodreads | Instagram

[Dana aka ♥Belladonna♥ · Rating 2 out of 5]

That's the end???



*flips pages* OMG, that was the end!

[Ashli Buchanan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amelia does it again! What a fantastic new world she has created. There were a few grammatical errors but the plot was so good, I could easily look over it. Great love story... Jaeden is yummy and I can't wait to see how badass Emma becomes!!

[Amy J RAREtte4Life · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this series.
Book two is available now book three on the way.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a huge fan of Amelia Hutchins Fae Chronicles and was bracing myself for her next book which she revealed was an Apocalyptic theme. So with mixed expectations I started reading Darkest Before Dawn, and was gradually drawn into the plot.
The introduction of paranormal species (vampires, werewolves, etc.), totally upped my interest and curiosity.
Actually it is quite logical that it would be the paranormal creatures that would be expected to survive the deadly disease that has ravaged the earth. The fact that they are mostly hunky, alpha vamps and weres was a definite plus. I did wonder why it took the heroine so long to figure out the fact that these men were not totally human, as there were many clues. Either way the gradual reveal of this and many other twists and turns definitely peaked my interest in the story.
Emma is a born leader, much of her sense of purpose and survival skills honed by her father. Her dad has been preparing for this apocalyptic event her whole life and when he goes missing, Emma is prepared to take control.
At first I thought the heroine a bit too serious, but as the story continued her spirited, heroic, loyal personality came out.
Enter the mysterious hero, Jaeden. He has been watching Emma from a distance and has become quite drawn to her. We are kept on put toes figuring out "who and what" Jaeden is and the role he will play on Emma's life.
Jaeden is a gorgeous, confident alpha male who saves Emma on several occasions. It's hard to pin him down as he has both good, hero elements but then there are some dark secrets also.
The chemistry between the Hero/Heroine is hot, leaves you a bit breathless at times as Jaeden is very naughty and loves to vocalize his desires. Emma was a bit frustrating at times with her feelings toward Jaeden, and it will be interesting where Lachlan falls into their story.
Secondary characters such as Lachlan, Emma's best friend Abby, etc, definitely bring depth to the book.
Despite the bleak circumstances the exciting, thrilling story shines through and the hot scenes were a plus. The many twists and turns and "reveals" will keep you on your toes especially in the second half of the book.
As this is a series I am hoping the storylines of many of the secondary characters are expanded and played out.
Starting a whole new series after a fantastically successful first series is quite a daunting task. Amelia Hutchins appears to have embraced the challenge with this first book. It has a good foundation that will hopefully build with the next book as we await the the continuation of where the story left us on a bit of a cliffhanger..(overall I felt we were left in a good place as far as the characters and story goes).
This book is very different than TFC and this is quite a different in writing style so please don't set up comparisons. It is a great thrilling ride into a whole new kind of world.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Before reading this book I read some mixed reviews so I wasn't sure how I would like it since most compared it to the Fae Chronicles but I loved it! I knew the story would be post apocalyptic but what I wasn't expecting was the paranormal aspect which was a pleasant surprise. I love Emma, I felt she was strong and was fighting for everyone's survival. At times she came across as "bitchy" but I think that was just her coping mechanism. I thought she was a strong character determination to survive even when everything is going to hell. I also really liked Jaeden and even thought he tried to not develop feelings for Emma it was apparent he had without being overly obsessed. I can't wait to see what more comes from these characters and this story.

Re-Read 2/23/17

I loved it the second time around too! I was a little annoyed with the back and forth between Jaeden and Emma but more so because Emma was being such a tease. I still love all the characters and I'm looking forward to getting to book two!

[Megpie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it! Like really really loved it. Hard.
Amelia Hutchins did it again!!!!!

Full review to come! <3

(EDIT: It’s been four years since I read this book and I finally was about to do a reread so I could read book two BUT I just found out Amelia decides to introduce and put the heroine with a new different hero than Jaeden in book two! Yeah, that’s going to be a big ass HELL NO for me. Way to ruin a good series.)

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's the end of the world as we know it!!!!!

This book just covers it all. Hot dominant men? Check. Hot Vampires? Check. Hot werewolves? Check. Top it off with a kick a$$ chick. You can't go wrong with this book. I am just devastated I have to wait for the second book but I so will.

[Michelle Relta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fucking amazing cant wait for the next one !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!