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Dark Kings #4
Hot Blooded
The Dark Kings soldier on in their fight to preserve their dragon magic. But eternal doom is always close behind…
SWORN TO PROTECT
His name is Laith. To most, he’s known as the owner of a local pub near Dreagan. But little do his patrons know that beneath his handsome, charming exterior Laith has the heart and soul of a Dragon King—one who wields control by keeping his friends close and his enemies, just across the border, closer. Until a mysterious stranger enters the picture, and sets his whole world off course…
DRIVEN TO DESIRE
Iona is a woman with a mission: To learn the truth about her dead father. She’s returned to Scotland only to learn that she’s part of an ancient pact with Dreagan—one that will threaten the fragile peace with the Dragon Kings. Gorgeous, sly Iona isn’t like anyone Laith has ever met before . . . and she harbors a secret that others would kill to possess. Will she complete him—or destroy him? Passion always comes with a price…
SWORN TO PROTECT
His name is Laith. To most, he’s known as the owner of a local pub near Dreagan. But little do his patrons know that beneath his handsome, charming exterior Laith has the heart and soul of a Dragon King—one who wields control by keeping his friends close and his enemies, just across the border, closer. Until a mysterious stranger enters the picture, and sets his whole world off course…
DRIVEN TO DESIRE
Iona is a woman with a mission: To learn the truth about her dead father. She’s returned to Scotland only to learn that she’s part of an ancient pact with Dreagan—one that will threaten the fragile peace with the Dragon Kings. Gorgeous, sly Iona isn’t like anyone Laith has ever met before . . . and she harbors a secret that others would kill to possess. Will she complete him—or destroy him? Passion always comes with a price…
349 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 30, 2014
120 people are currently reading
2102 people want to read
About the author
Donna Grant
307 books4,769 followersDonna is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over a hundred novels. Her most popular series is the breathtaking Dark King (aka Dragon King) series featuring dragons, immortal Highlanders, and the Fae.
In addition to her novels, Donna has written short stories, novellas, and novelettes for digital-first and print release. She has been dubbed as giving the “paranormal genre a burst of fresh air” by the San Francisco Book Review. Her work has been hailed as having “deft plotting and expert characterization” by Publisher’s Weekly and “sizzling” by RT Book Reviews.
She has been recognized with awards from both bookseller and reader contests including the National Reader’s Choice Award, Booksellers Best Award, as well as the coveted K.I.S.S. Award from RT Book Reviews.
Donna travels often for various speaking engagements, conferences, and book signings. She is also a frequent workshop presenter at national conferences such as RT Book Lovers Convention and Thrillerfest, as well as local chapters.
Born and raised in Texas, she also has ties across the border in Louisiana. Growing up with two such vibrant cultures, her Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding. She is never far from her faithful 80 pound dog, Sisko, or her three cats. She can often be found at the movies or bookstore with her children. Or buying makeup. And shoes.
You an find her at www.DonnaGrant.com
as well as her website devoted entirely to the Dragon Kings and all series that encompass the Dark World at www.MotherOfDragonsBooks.com.
In addition to her novels, Donna has written short stories, novellas, and novelettes for digital-first and print release. She has been dubbed as giving the “paranormal genre a burst of fresh air” by the San Francisco Book Review. Her work has been hailed as having “deft plotting and expert characterization” by Publisher’s Weekly and “sizzling” by RT Book Reviews.
She has been recognized with awards from both bookseller and reader contests including the National Reader’s Choice Award, Booksellers Best Award, as well as the coveted K.I.S.S. Award from RT Book Reviews.
Donna travels often for various speaking engagements, conferences, and book signings. She is also a frequent workshop presenter at national conferences such as RT Book Lovers Convention and Thrillerfest, as well as local chapters.
Born and raised in Texas, she also has ties across the border in Louisiana. Growing up with two such vibrant cultures, her Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding. She is never far from her faithful 80 pound dog, Sisko, or her three cats. She can often be found at the movies or bookstore with her children. Or buying makeup. And shoes.
You an find her at www.DonnaGrant.com
as well as her website devoted entirely to the Dragon Kings and all series that encompass the Dark World at www.MotherOfDragonsBooks.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
November 1, 2020
Re-listened on 8/1-2020.
First listened on 6-7/12-2019.
Review from 7/12-2019:
I've already started the next book. I'm binge-listening to this series.
First listened on 6-7/12-2019.
Review from 7/12-2019:
I've already started the next book. I'm binge-listening to this series.
December 30, 2014
Laith is a Dragon King, one who wields control by keeping his friends close and his enemies closer until Iona appears in this life and has the power to complete him or destroy him in this enthralling paranormal romance.
With a fast pace and smooth flowing plot, this romance enthralls readers from the very beginning with suspense, action and romance. Iona captures the heart a young woman who doesn’t believe in love and the reader can’t help but get caught up in the story as she returns to Scotland to discover her father’s secrets only to have her world turned upside down. Laith makes hearts pound as the Dragon King determined not to find a mate but soon discovers that the mysterious Iona has the power to destroy him. These strong compelling characters grab reader’s attention and ensure that they have to know the entire story behind their sizzling attraction and romance.
Spine tingling excitement abounds throughout the book as the Dragon Kings learn of a new conspiracy against them that involves Iona and the Kings will have to not only protect her to keep their secrets but hope that when she learns of their secrets that they will be able to trust her. The well written scenes and details paint vivid imagery that capture the imagination and make it easy for the reader become lost in the story and the well orchestrated action and suspense draws the reader in and holds them hostage until they have read every last word. To spice things up even more, the Dragon Kings are being attacked from several different sides and they have to call for reinforcements which add more wonderful characters and magic to the story.
There is never a dull moment as the battle being waged on the Dragon Kings continues to besiege them with quite a few surprising twists as well as emotional turmoil to keep readers on their toes and I can’t wait to read the next one.
With a fast pace and smooth flowing plot, this romance enthralls readers from the very beginning with suspense, action and romance. Iona captures the heart a young woman who doesn’t believe in love and the reader can’t help but get caught up in the story as she returns to Scotland to discover her father’s secrets only to have her world turned upside down. Laith makes hearts pound as the Dragon King determined not to find a mate but soon discovers that the mysterious Iona has the power to destroy him. These strong compelling characters grab reader’s attention and ensure that they have to know the entire story behind their sizzling attraction and romance.
Spine tingling excitement abounds throughout the book as the Dragon Kings learn of a new conspiracy against them that involves Iona and the Kings will have to not only protect her to keep their secrets but hope that when she learns of their secrets that they will be able to trust her. The well written scenes and details paint vivid imagery that capture the imagination and make it easy for the reader become lost in the story and the well orchestrated action and suspense draws the reader in and holds them hostage until they have read every last word. To spice things up even more, the Dragon Kings are being attacked from several different sides and they have to call for reinforcements which add more wonderful characters and magic to the story.
There is never a dull moment as the battle being waged on the Dragon Kings continues to besiege them with quite a few surprising twists as well as emotional turmoil to keep readers on their toes and I can’t wait to read the next one.
May 28, 2015
Dang Star ratings just aren't enough..... should be at least at 10
Donna Grant is one of my FAVORITE authors! I love her books and the Dragon Kings are awesome. She has interwoven the Dark Swords and this series together, so if you have not read Swords, you need to do so first.
Not once in all the books I've read have any of them disappointed me! You will love Laith and Iona's book! It's suspenseful, mysterious and beautiful.
Donna Grant is one of my FAVORITE authors! I love her books and the Dragon Kings are awesome. She has interwoven the Dark Swords and this series together, so if you have not read Swords, you need to do so first.
Not once in all the books I've read have any of them disappointed me! You will love Laith and Iona's book! It's suspenseful, mysterious and beautiful.
September 25, 2019
Iona is brought back to Scotland by the death of her father. She quickly realizes that things are not normal and she is now a protector one of Dreagon's secret. I really liked Iona. She was smart, beautiful but didn't flash it, and an amazing photographer (which I wish I was). She took all the supernatural info instride and didn't really freak out too much.
Laith was perfect for Iona. He was instantly attracted but didn't push her too far too quickly. He set the relationship at her pace and helped her cope with all the changes. I loved their relationship.
The Kings are still trying to determine who is targeting them, and now Iona. They face new attacks and new questions are raised. I can't wait to read Rhys book and see what is going on in his head.
Laith was perfect for Iona. He was instantly attracted but didn't push her too far too quickly. He set the relationship at her pace and helped her cope with all the changes. I loved their relationship.
The Kings are still trying to determine who is targeting them, and now Iona. They face new attacks and new questions are raised. I can't wait to read Rhys book and see what is going on in his head.
November 28, 2018
Every time I get back into this series I remember how much I love these dragon shifters.
December 30, 2014
Again with book four in the Dark Kings series, Donna Grant releases the books in four parts as a serial. However, you can wait after all the parts have been released to read the book in full. While I did receive the book by serial style, I read them all at once so for this review I’ll go about it differently than usual and talk about how it stands as a serial vs. whole book (because I think it’s a different experience).
HOT BLOODED is the story of Laith and Iona. When Iona’s father dies unexpectedly, officials realize it wasn’t an accident as previously suspected. He was been murdered. Everything from his accounts to the land gets thrown onto Iona however, she cannot sell the land as much as she wants to. Without Iona really knowing, other players are targeting her and that’s when she gets thrown into the Dark Kings world.
One of the things I like about this series is that it follows a story arc that continues to be compelling and fun. Grant continuously makes great strides in every book that I wonder how she is able to imagine this all. The world has become so developed that it could be real!
When reading the story in its separate parts, I thought that each part gave just enough to keep the reader entertained, but never enough to keep them satisfied for long. And that’s what makes the stories work as a serial; they make you want more.
The only thing that I didn’t like was actually something that I used to love about this series. As mentioned earlier, Grant likes to build on her series in every book. With that being the case, the characters have multiplied and in this book, Grant has multiple POVs from the hero and heroine, the bad guys and even some of the other Kings. I liked it, but when reading a serial, it can be too much in too little time that the hero and heroine of the book don’t seem to get enough page time in the tighter word count of each part. I imagine, however, that if you read it as a whole, it wouldn’t be so tiresome, but that was just my experience while reading it.
*ARC provided by publisher
November 10, 2017
4 1/2 stars!
I'm a very moody reader. A reading slump ended with this series and I've been driven to just keep reading it. Just not interested in anything else. Hot Blooded was no exception.
Laith is a Dragon King that runs the local pub. He's drawn to Iona, who comes to town to figure out what happened to her father. She knows nothing of the Dragon Kings or the pack her family has had with them for generations. What she remembers from her father is not exactly what she learns as she talks to people in the local town about him. Something more is going on here.
Indeed it is and a lot of it revolves around the very hot guy who runs the pub. Laith wants to protect Iona but how are things she's around getting out to their enemies. Something is definitely going on.
I love this world and these characters. I love seeing the characters from previous books as they interact with the current stars. I love that they support each other. I love the dragons and the secrets. I really want the overarching story to move a bit faster but that's the only flaw I find. Really the books happen just days from each other so I shouldn't complain. But I do want some secrets discovered and some serious dark fae behind kicked.
This is one of those addictive series' that you can get lost in and forget there are even other book choices out there. I just want more. I go from one to the next and can't get enough.
It's a great paranormal world and if you haven't given it a chance, you should!
I'm a very moody reader. A reading slump ended with this series and I've been driven to just keep reading it. Just not interested in anything else. Hot Blooded was no exception.
Laith is a Dragon King that runs the local pub. He's drawn to Iona, who comes to town to figure out what happened to her father. She knows nothing of the Dragon Kings or the pack her family has had with them for generations. What she remembers from her father is not exactly what she learns as she talks to people in the local town about him. Something more is going on here.
Indeed it is and a lot of it revolves around the very hot guy who runs the pub. Laith wants to protect Iona but how are things she's around getting out to their enemies. Something is definitely going on.
I love this world and these characters. I love seeing the characters from previous books as they interact with the current stars. I love that they support each other. I love the dragons and the secrets. I really want the overarching story to move a bit faster but that's the only flaw I find. Really the books happen just days from each other so I shouldn't complain. But I do want some secrets discovered and some serious dark fae behind kicked.
This is one of those addictive series' that you can get lost in and forget there are even other book choices out there. I just want more. I go from one to the next and can't get enough.
It's a great paranormal world and if you haven't given it a chance, you should!
February 15, 2015
"John Campbell was found dead this morning." He was murdered...
The Campbells had owned the fifty acres bordering Dreagan for countless generations...
"Who's going to guard the land?" Laith asked....
"John has a daughter, Iona."
HOT BLOODED by Donna Grant is another mesmerizing read in Donna's Dark Kings series. I read it as a four-part serialized story. I inhaled each installment as it was published and then couldn't wait for the release of the next! This review is a combined review of all four parts. The full book was released December 30, 2014. I had never been a fan of serialized books before I started reading this series that way, but Donna's Dark Kings are slowly, but surely, converting me. :-)
I simply cannot get enough of Donna's sexy Scottish dragons! They're fierce, strong, fearless and delicious! While this is the fourth book in the series, it can be fully enjoyed as a standalone if that is your druthers. However, I recommend reading the whole series in order as there are interconnected characters and a common theme. I bet that once you read one, you'll be dying to read the rest!
My full review is posted at Reading Between The Wines Book Club. Check it out here: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
4 1/2 Wine Glasses!
The Campbells had owned the fifty acres bordering Dreagan for countless generations...
"Who's going to guard the land?" Laith asked....
"John has a daughter, Iona."
HOT BLOODED by Donna Grant is another mesmerizing read in Donna's Dark Kings series. I read it as a four-part serialized story. I inhaled each installment as it was published and then couldn't wait for the release of the next! This review is a combined review of all four parts. The full book was released December 30, 2014. I had never been a fan of serialized books before I started reading this series that way, but Donna's Dark Kings are slowly, but surely, converting me. :-)
I simply cannot get enough of Donna's sexy Scottish dragons! They're fierce, strong, fearless and delicious! While this is the fourth book in the series, it can be fully enjoyed as a standalone if that is your druthers. However, I recommend reading the whole series in order as there are interconnected characters and a common theme. I bet that once you read one, you'll be dying to read the rest!
My full review is posted at Reading Between The Wines Book Club. Check it out here: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
4 1/2 Wine Glasses!
December 31, 2014
Got my copy today and couldn't put it down! Why is it that every book in the series is my next favorite? Already looking forward to the next book and don't want the series to end!
Okay, rave aside, this story is about Laith and Iona. After the death of her father, Iona inherits her father's land -- only to find that she can't do anything about it except keep it. Unbeknownst to her at first, that land needs to stay in her hands and continue to be guarded and guess who's been put in charge of that task? Laith, of course.
Rhi, who suffered at the hands of the Dark Fae, is no longer the same Rhi and seems to have more power to her than she herself even realized.
Meanwhile, whatever struck Rhys in the escape from the Dark continues to plague him and feed his distrust in his fellow dragons. The story continues in the next book.
Okay, rave aside, this story is about Laith and Iona. After the death of her father, Iona inherits her father's land -- only to find that she can't do anything about it except keep it. Unbeknownst to her at first, that land needs to stay in her hands and continue to be guarded and guess who's been put in charge of that task? Laith, of course.
Rhi, who suffered at the hands of the Dark Fae, is no longer the same Rhi and seems to have more power to her than she herself even realized.
Meanwhile, whatever struck Rhys in the escape from the Dark continues to plague him and feed his distrust in his fellow dragons. The story continues in the next book.
February 13, 2015
THIS IS AN HONEST REVIEW, YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED.
3 stars - Adult Fantasy Romance
Why the story felt short? I want more! Another dragon fell in love hard HIKHIK thank goodness the heroine is a little bit of superhuman, at least there's something. I liked the romance it was hot and the suspense was great except the inevitable, the final battle has yet to happen. That means I have to wait for the next book and yes, it's kinda cliffhanger crap of sort. I also hope the future book features Rhi and Con as lovers, a couple. I have this instincts telling there's definitely something between them.
Main characters: Laith (Dragon King of Black) + Iona (human/border guard of Campbell land)
3 stars - Adult Fantasy Romance
Why the story felt short? I want more! Another dragon fell in love hard HIKHIK thank goodness the heroine is a little bit of superhuman, at least there's something. I liked the romance it was hot and the suspense was great except the inevitable, the final battle has yet to happen. That means I have to wait for the next book and yes, it's kinda cliffhanger crap of sort. I also hope the future book features Rhi and Con as lovers, a couple. I have this instincts telling there's definitely something between them.
Main characters: Laith (Dragon King of Black) + Iona (human/border guard of Campbell land)
February 9, 2019
3 stars - Paranormal Romance
This was my least favorite story in the series so far. The romance between Laith and Iona just didn't capture my interest like the previous couples and the overall story arc was a bit slow going in this one.
I want to keep reading the series, mainly for Rhi's and Con's stories. But I'm wary knowing that there have already been 15 books released in the series and DG still hasn't revealed who Rhi's dragon king lover was or indicated who Rhi's and Con's mates will be or when their books will be released.
This was my least favorite story in the series so far. The romance between Laith and Iona just didn't capture my interest like the previous couples and the overall story arc was a bit slow going in this one.
I want to keep reading the series, mainly for Rhi's and Con's stories. But I'm wary knowing that there have already been 15 books released in the series and DG still hasn't revealed who Rhi's dragon king lover was or indicated who Rhi's and Con's mates will be or when their books will be released.
October 15, 2019
I really enjoyed this book! The end was especially captivating and I’m just itching to start Rhys’ book!!
September 12, 2019
The 4th dark kings book is really good! Laith and Iona’s story is fun and fast paced with a lot of appearances from other characters we know and love. And the Scottish countryside sets a great background for the stories!
March 14, 2018
I had high hopes for this story but I found that it dragged, never grabbed my attention. I didn't warm up to Iona either.
November 18, 2021
This book has me extremely Curious to read more???????
August 11, 2015
Review copy courtesy of the publisher.
This is my first book by Donna Grant so it's also my first book in the Dark Kings series. I've been intrigued by the idea of dragon paranormal romances so I was excited to get this one and try it out, even if it is in the middle of a series.
I liked Iona fairly well. She was a career-focused woman and I always respect that. She's a photojournalist and travels the world getting the story in photos. I think that's a pretty cool if tough job to get. Plus, it meant that she was very brave which is another trait I like heroines to have. But she's been fed lies about her father from her mother for her whole life and when he dies and she comes back to where he lived, she realized that she really never knew him at all. Iona knows that her mom is no role model but her mom has drilled into her that love doesn't exist and men are around for women to use and discard. I understand the conditioning that Iona went through but it was difficult for me to swallow that a grown woman who has traveled the world doesn't believe in love. It felt like a childish belief, to me, and I found it hard to believe that she hasn't seen evidence of love on a daily basis. But maybe I'm walking around with rose-colored glasses on. Something else that bothered me about Iona was that she was this world traveler who has survived some of the scariest places you can go. But she's absolutely clueless that she's being followed. There's only so many times you can think, "But I'm sure I left my keys over THERE" so many times before you start to think something is going on. I really felt like she should have been much smarter and much more savvy than that.
Laith was pretty cool but I felt like he was mostly defined by his feelings for Iona. He's a dragon, so he's strong and brave. He owns a bar in town so he's friendly. But that's about it. He falls for Iona and it's all over for him. I could understand his reluctance to tell Iona the truth about her land and about his people. I would have any idea how to have THAT conversation with someone! LOL! But he was a good guy and he tried to do the right thing so I ended up liking him a lot.
The Sexy Time was decent. There wasn't a ton of it but that was okay by me, for some reason. There was a lot of other stuff going on. Iona didn't really want to fall for Laith and I didn't really get her motivations. She doesn't believe in love, yeah yeah, I got it. So I was glad that there was almost an instinctive pull towards Laith (for her). It would have taken her forever otherwise.
This was a good book. It's the fourth book in the Dark Kings series. I think it's probably okay to read this book as a stand-alone but again, there IS a lot going on. One of the Light Fae (just go with me here) who was kidnapped, tortured, and escaped has returned and she isn't sure if she's good or bad now. One of the dragon dudes was injured during some kind of skirmish in a previous book and there's something fishy going on with him, but I think that will be resolved in Book 5. There are a lot of species and characters to become familiar with and a whole lot of dragon history too. I didn't find it insurmountable though. In fact, I enjoyed the book. I liked the writing style and the pacing so I plan on continuing with this series. Stay tuned for more!!
This is my first book by Donna Grant so it's also my first book in the Dark Kings series. I've been intrigued by the idea of dragon paranormal romances so I was excited to get this one and try it out, even if it is in the middle of a series.
I liked Iona fairly well. She was a career-focused woman and I always respect that. She's a photojournalist and travels the world getting the story in photos. I think that's a pretty cool if tough job to get. Plus, it meant that she was very brave which is another trait I like heroines to have. But she's been fed lies about her father from her mother for her whole life and when he dies and she comes back to where he lived, she realized that she really never knew him at all. Iona knows that her mom is no role model but her mom has drilled into her that love doesn't exist and men are around for women to use and discard. I understand the conditioning that Iona went through but it was difficult for me to swallow that a grown woman who has traveled the world doesn't believe in love. It felt like a childish belief, to me, and I found it hard to believe that she hasn't seen evidence of love on a daily basis. But maybe I'm walking around with rose-colored glasses on. Something else that bothered me about Iona was that she was this world traveler who has survived some of the scariest places you can go. But she's absolutely clueless that she's being followed. There's only so many times you can think, "But I'm sure I left my keys over THERE" so many times before you start to think something is going on. I really felt like she should have been much smarter and much more savvy than that.
Laith was pretty cool but I felt like he was mostly defined by his feelings for Iona. He's a dragon, so he's strong and brave. He owns a bar in town so he's friendly. But that's about it. He falls for Iona and it's all over for him. I could understand his reluctance to tell Iona the truth about her land and about his people. I would have any idea how to have THAT conversation with someone! LOL! But he was a good guy and he tried to do the right thing so I ended up liking him a lot.
The Sexy Time was decent. There wasn't a ton of it but that was okay by me, for some reason. There was a lot of other stuff going on. Iona didn't really want to fall for Laith and I didn't really get her motivations. She doesn't believe in love, yeah yeah, I got it. So I was glad that there was almost an instinctive pull towards Laith (for her). It would have taken her forever otherwise.
This was a good book. It's the fourth book in the Dark Kings series. I think it's probably okay to read this book as a stand-alone but again, there IS a lot going on. One of the Light Fae (just go with me here) who was kidnapped, tortured, and escaped has returned and she isn't sure if she's good or bad now. One of the dragon dudes was injured during some kind of skirmish in a previous book and there's something fishy going on with him, but I think that will be resolved in Book 5. There are a lot of species and characters to become familiar with and a whole lot of dragon history too. I didn't find it insurmountable though. In fact, I enjoyed the book. I liked the writing style and the pacing so I plan on continuing with this series. Stay tuned for more!!
April 30, 2016
I received a free copy of this book at RT16.
I'd want to preface this review by saying that I haven't read books 1-3. There are a lot of characters and some history that no doubt would have made more sense if I had.
My primary feeling about this book is meh. I like that there is quite a bit of history between the characters, but the characters weren't different enough from each other to be very interesting. Here are some thoughts:
-This is a couple per book type series, which is getting a little stale for me. I want to know the characters more than the taste you get in one book. There are multiple POVs in this book and an overall plot arc so there is limited page space for the central characters.
-There is nothing dragony about the dragon kings when they were in human form and nothing really when they were in dragon form. My favorite shifter books are generally the ones in which shifters are really different from humans. That they have mates and miss the other dragons isn't enough for me. I wondered about the dragons that had to leave Earth - what did they do without their kings? Do the dragon kings go back and rule them or have any contact with them? Hopefully, books 1-3 answered these questions.
-The baddies are bad because they are bad and the goodies are good because they're good. There are a couple of characters that are nuanced, but most are not. We are told they are bad or good and go from there. Why do some factions hate humans? What benefit do other factions get from ridding the world of humans that they don't have now? I'm not talking about the ex-dragon king, but some of the other various baddies. Some characters seem to like/hate humans for no particular reason; they just do.
-I didn't like the heavy handed hints about the king of dragon kings and Rhi. I was sufficiently interested in the story to check out the next five books and Ms. Grant seems to be spinning the reveal out since the other books are not about the couple. Here is my guess about the deal with them:
You'll like this book if you like a whiff of dragon, a different couple in each book, basic sex scenes, and generally nice characters.
I'd want to preface this review by saying that I haven't read books 1-3. There are a lot of characters and some history that no doubt would have made more sense if I had.
My primary feeling about this book is meh. I like that there is quite a bit of history between the characters, but the characters weren't different enough from each other to be very interesting. Here are some thoughts:
-This is a couple per book type series, which is getting a little stale for me. I want to know the characters more than the taste you get in one book. There are multiple POVs in this book and an overall plot arc so there is limited page space for the central characters.
-There is nothing dragony about the dragon kings when they were in human form and nothing really when they were in dragon form. My favorite shifter books are generally the ones in which shifters are really different from humans. That they have mates and miss the other dragons isn't enough for me. I wondered about the dragons that had to leave Earth - what did they do without their kings? Do the dragon kings go back and rule them or have any contact with them? Hopefully, books 1-3 answered these questions.
-The baddies are bad because they are bad and the goodies are good because they're good. There are a couple of characters that are nuanced, but most are not. We are told they are bad or good and go from there. Why do some factions hate humans? What benefit do other factions get from ridding the world of humans that they don't have now? I'm not talking about the ex-dragon king, but some of the other various baddies. Some characters seem to like/hate humans for no particular reason; they just do.
-I didn't like the heavy handed hints about the king of dragon kings and Rhi. I was sufficiently interested in the story to check out the next five books and Ms. Grant seems to be spinning the reveal out since the other books are not about the couple. Here is my guess about the deal with them:
You'll like this book if you like a whiff of dragon, a different couple in each book, basic sex scenes, and generally nice characters.
December 8, 2014
The battle between good and evil, human and demon is a never-ending war waged for centuries and shall continue into the future with destructive consequences, as power and control take precedence over everything. And as history shows, for every act of evil, there will be reacting to maintain the balance and for every demon that steps on an innocent, there will be a protector to mete out justice.
Donna Grant’s latest in her paranormal dragon saga “Hot Blooded”, brings Laith, a Dragon King face to face with Iona Campbell, daughter of the caretaker of the vast lands that safeguard the secrets of the Dreagan Industries. Estranged from her father for twenty years, photojournalist Iona makes the decision to reunite with her father in Scotland, but unfortunately ends up coming to his funeral instead. Strange things seem to happen as the beauty of the vast lands hide secrets that put her life in danger and test her integrity, loyalty and intelligence.
Guarded by the Campbell estates, the Dreagen Industries nestle the Dragon Kings and their kingdom, as they man the vast skies protecting the innocent and taking care of their own. Laith, as one of the Dragon Kings and protector, is drawn to Iona at first sight. The attraction between them kindles a passion that cannot be ignored, even as danger surrounds Iona, and Laith puts all his magical resources and allies to defend Iona and his kingdom.
Hot Blooded is another brilliant story, further taking the readers on a ride of passion, secrets and betrayal. For new readers, this book can be read as a stand-alone, and can be a good start, as it gives a detailed description into the history of the paranormal dynamics of the Dragon Kings, Warriors, Fae and others, and the ensuing war. And as Laith unveils the secrets of the Campbell lands and the Dreagen Industries to Iona, he puts himself and his love at risk.
Another passionate “Dark Kings” story by the fabulous Donna Grant, of a Dragon King finding his mate, a brilliant continuation of the Dragon King saga as it chronicles the past bringing us with the current, a thrilling ride of a mortal with her Dragon King, as he takes her on a fiery ride high above the skies, and an evil that is lurking in the shadows, biding it’s time, waiting for the perfect time to strike.
Received an ARC from St. Martins Press via Netgalley for an honest review.
December 22, 2016
http://openbooksociety.com/article/ho...
Hot Blooded
Dark Kings, Book #4
By Donna Grant
ISBN# 9781250060723
Author’s Website: http://www.donnagrant.com/
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Heidi
Iona hasn’t been in Scotland since the night her mother tore her away from her home when she was just a child. Her father, her protector, just let them go. Why didn’t he fight to keep her with him? And, how come he’s never contacted her since? All of the horrible things her mother said about him must be true. But now Iona has decided it’s time to talk to her father and see who he really is. Only when she arrives, she discovers he’s been murdered. And, everyone in town really liked him and thought he was a good man. How could her idea of him be so different than everyone else’s?
The Campbell family’s land houses the doorway to Dreagan, it’s the only way to get onto the land undetected. The Campbell family has protected the doorway for generations, and in return the Dragon Kings protect them. The land can never be sold and when one Campbell dies it’s passed down to their heir. But now John Campbell has been murdered and the land passed down to his estranged daughter, Iona, who knows nothing of their existence. It is up to the kings to enlighten her, and in order for that to happen one of the kings must get close to her. Laith doesn’t want the job, but when she walks into his pub and takes a shine to him, the job falls to him. He also can’t fight the attraction he has for her. He never wanted a mate, but with her the idea doesn’t seem so terrible.
I really wanted to like this story. But… I found it to be incredibly boring. I’ve heard of a slow build-up to a relationship, but Iona and Laith take it to new extremes. Not to mention, that I didn’t find either character all that exciting.
But we did find out more about the extent of the damage done to Rhys, and my heart aches for him and what he has lost. And, I can’t wait for the next book when he and Lilly will finally get together. Hopefully they will find a way to return to Rhys what was taken from him.
We also go to see several of the Warriors, which was nice.
And, we got a look at the King behind everything that’s going on, but I’m not convinced that it’s Ulrick!!
Hot Blooded
Dark Kings, Book #4
By Donna Grant
ISBN# 9781250060723
Author’s Website: http://www.donnagrant.com/
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Heidi
Iona hasn’t been in Scotland since the night her mother tore her away from her home when she was just a child. Her father, her protector, just let them go. Why didn’t he fight to keep her with him? And, how come he’s never contacted her since? All of the horrible things her mother said about him must be true. But now Iona has decided it’s time to talk to her father and see who he really is. Only when she arrives, she discovers he’s been murdered. And, everyone in town really liked him and thought he was a good man. How could her idea of him be so different than everyone else’s?
The Campbell family’s land houses the doorway to Dreagan, it’s the only way to get onto the land undetected. The Campbell family has protected the doorway for generations, and in return the Dragon Kings protect them. The land can never be sold and when one Campbell dies it’s passed down to their heir. But now John Campbell has been murdered and the land passed down to his estranged daughter, Iona, who knows nothing of their existence. It is up to the kings to enlighten her, and in order for that to happen one of the kings must get close to her. Laith doesn’t want the job, but when she walks into his pub and takes a shine to him, the job falls to him. He also can’t fight the attraction he has for her. He never wanted a mate, but with her the idea doesn’t seem so terrible.
I really wanted to like this story. But… I found it to be incredibly boring. I’ve heard of a slow build-up to a relationship, but Iona and Laith take it to new extremes. Not to mention, that I didn’t find either character all that exciting.
But we did find out more about the extent of the damage done to Rhys, and my heart aches for him and what he has lost. And, I can’t wait for the next book when he and Lilly will finally get together. Hopefully they will find a way to return to Rhys what was taken from him.
We also go to see several of the Warriors, which was nice.
And, we got a look at the King behind everything that’s going on, but I’m not convinced that it’s Ulrick!!
November 10, 2014
Another Great Addition to the Dragon King Series by the Talented Donna Grant!
This series is sexy, sinful and addictive. I've never been to Scotland but I've felt like I have and definitely want to go after reading about Dreagan. This book will leave you up late into the night and longing for the next one.
I was hooked from the first time I read The Dark Sword Series and then came The Dark Warriors and they truly just keep getting better! The Dragon Kings are one of a kind! Also, it's always great to hear a little more about the Warriors and what's happening in their lives. Those men are not to be tamed and are still fighting for all that is right and good!
Iona is independent and used to being alone. She also does not believe in love. She is never in one place for long and that's just how she likes it, however she is about to discover that her past is not as it seemed. For years she believed one thing to find out that she had it completely wrong and has lost time she can never get back. As she discovers her heritage she also realizes that there is more to life .When she lays eyes on Laith, for the first time she wants to stay and experience the passion that burns between them even if it can't possibly last forever.
Laith is content with his life by doing his part of protecting the secrets of Dreagan and running his Pub. He has seen many of the other Dragon Kings find their mates and he believes he wants no part of it but what Iona makes him feel is indescribable. He longs for more time with her but is also afraid of how to tell her the dangerous secret that her family has held for centuries and could destroy all that they hold dear at Dreagan if found by their enemies. With danger lurking and the Dragons on the brink of war with old and also unknown enemies, they will have to stay one step ahead or they could lose it all. Trust is not easily earned when the Kings have so much at stake. Can Laith and Iona's love conquer all? Not if their enemies have anything to say about it.
You will not want to miss out on this MUST READ Series! =) 5 Stars *****
I received an ARC for an honest review.
Reviewed by Kristin
This series is sexy, sinful and addictive. I've never been to Scotland but I've felt like I have and definitely want to go after reading about Dreagan. This book will leave you up late into the night and longing for the next one.
I was hooked from the first time I read The Dark Sword Series and then came The Dark Warriors and they truly just keep getting better! The Dragon Kings are one of a kind! Also, it's always great to hear a little more about the Warriors and what's happening in their lives. Those men are not to be tamed and are still fighting for all that is right and good!
Iona is independent and used to being alone. She also does not believe in love. She is never in one place for long and that's just how she likes it, however she is about to discover that her past is not as it seemed. For years she believed one thing to find out that she had it completely wrong and has lost time she can never get back. As she discovers her heritage she also realizes that there is more to life .When she lays eyes on Laith, for the first time she wants to stay and experience the passion that burns between them even if it can't possibly last forever.
Laith is content with his life by doing his part of protecting the secrets of Dreagan and running his Pub. He has seen many of the other Dragon Kings find their mates and he believes he wants no part of it but what Iona makes him feel is indescribable. He longs for more time with her but is also afraid of how to tell her the dangerous secret that her family has held for centuries and could destroy all that they hold dear at Dreagan if found by their enemies. With danger lurking and the Dragons on the brink of war with old and also unknown enemies, they will have to stay one step ahead or they could lose it all. Trust is not easily earned when the Kings have so much at stake. Can Laith and Iona's love conquer all? Not if their enemies have anything to say about it.
You will not want to miss out on this MUST READ Series! =) 5 Stars *****
I received an ARC for an honest review.
Reviewed by Kristin
November 28, 2014
Review will be posted at www.books-n-kisses.com .
NUMBER OF HEARTS: 4
REVIEW:
In Hot Blooded The Kings have to deal with the death of their neighbor. John Campbell was more than just a neighbor he was a friend and the keeper of something very important to The Kings.
With the death of her father Iona Campbell has inherited the family land. But along with that comes some very interesting rules and people.
Another great Dark King novella. I was very happy that this story took a different path than the prior book. It was great to see all the Dragon Kings working together. It was great to see The Warriors getting along and working side by side with The Kings. Liath and Iona are great together. I am already looking forward to seeing them both in future books. There were a few heartbreaking parts in this book too. I know that Ms. Grant will make these right at some point in time, but like any good (evil) author she needs to torture us just a little. :D
Can’t wait for the next Dark King novel.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Donna Grant in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
NUMBER OF HEARTS: 4
REVIEW:
In Hot Blooded The Kings have to deal with the death of their neighbor. John Campbell was more than just a neighbor he was a friend and the keeper of something very important to The Kings.
With the death of her father Iona Campbell has inherited the family land. But along with that comes some very interesting rules and people.
Another great Dark King novella. I was very happy that this story took a different path than the prior book. It was great to see all the Dragon Kings working together. It was great to see The Warriors getting along and working side by side with The Kings. Liath and Iona are great together. I am already looking forward to seeing them both in future books. There were a few heartbreaking parts in this book too. I know that Ms. Grant will make these right at some point in time, but like any good (evil) author she needs to torture us just a little. :D
Can’t wait for the next Dark King novel.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Donna Grant in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
June 11, 2015
I read HOT BLOODED as a four part serial.
HOT BLOODED is a revealing storyline in the Dark Kings series as Donna Grant builds towards a showdown between the Dragon Kings, their one time friend and fellow Silver Dragon King Ulrik, and the Dark Fae. The Campbell family and their lineage have protected the secret gateway to Dreagon for millennia but with modern technology and a little bit of ingenuity, the Dragon King’s secret is about to be revealed. While the Dark Fae continue their hunt for the location of a mysterious weapon known only to a few, someone behind the scenes is choreographing a war that will destroy the Dragon Kings-once and for all.
Donna Grant perfects the serial and series format by recounting the history, the detail and the previous storyline information so that readers are reminded of what happened and what is to come. The ensemble cast of Dragon Kings, Druids, Warriors, Light and Dark Fae are colorful villains and traitors, friends and allies, lovers and mates. No one is safe when the Dark Fae work their magic but black magic is darker than most. HOT BLOODED is a story of suspense, mystery, action and romance. There is a war on the horizon and the Dragon Kings had better be prepared.
Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
HOT BLOODED is a revealing storyline in the Dark Kings series as Donna Grant builds towards a showdown between the Dragon Kings, their one time friend and fellow Silver Dragon King Ulrik, and the Dark Fae. The Campbell family and their lineage have protected the secret gateway to Dreagon for millennia but with modern technology and a little bit of ingenuity, the Dragon King’s secret is about to be revealed. While the Dark Fae continue their hunt for the location of a mysterious weapon known only to a few, someone behind the scenes is choreographing a war that will destroy the Dragon Kings-once and for all.
Donna Grant perfects the serial and series format by recounting the history, the detail and the previous storyline information so that readers are reminded of what happened and what is to come. The ensemble cast of Dragon Kings, Druids, Warriors, Light and Dark Fae are colorful villains and traitors, friends and allies, lovers and mates. No one is safe when the Dark Fae work their magic but black magic is darker than most. HOT BLOODED is a story of suspense, mystery, action and romance. There is a war on the horizon and the Dragon Kings had better be prepared.
Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
November 15, 2014
Sometimes you must see to believe.
Iona and Laith’s story starts with a tragedy but ends with a promise of a happy future for the couple. While they were the focus of the book, there was an abundance of other plotlines in this installment. Rhys is still suffering from the injury he sustained in the last battle with the Dark Fae during Rhi’s rescue. Speaking of Rhi, she is struggling to find herself again after being tortured by Balladyn, someone she considered a brother. The future of the Kings and those around them is uncertain and so far they have more questions than answers.
The Dark Kings series is wonderfully captivating simply because there is nothing else like it out there. For those who love paranormal romance, a series about dragons is an unexpected break from vampires and were-creatures.
Donna Grant has done an excellent job of keeping readers interested by leaving the underlying thread of the series a mystery through four books. The Dragon Kings are a hair’s breath away from war with a still unnamed enemy. Those who have followed the series have a strong suspicion but at this point it could still be anyone.
Iona and Laith’s story starts with a tragedy but ends with a promise of a happy future for the couple. While they were the focus of the book, there was an abundance of other plotlines in this installment. Rhys is still suffering from the injury he sustained in the last battle with the Dark Fae during Rhi’s rescue. Speaking of Rhi, she is struggling to find herself again after being tortured by Balladyn, someone she considered a brother. The future of the Kings and those around them is uncertain and so far they have more questions than answers.
The Dark Kings series is wonderfully captivating simply because there is nothing else like it out there. For those who love paranormal romance, a series about dragons is an unexpected break from vampires and were-creatures.
Donna Grant has done an excellent job of keeping readers interested by leaving the underlying thread of the series a mystery through four books. The Dragon Kings are a hair’s breath away from war with a still unnamed enemy. Those who have followed the series have a strong suspicion but at this point it could still be anyone.
January 26, 2015
This is Laith and Iona's story and it was good! Another story in the Dark Kings series and giving us more in the general arc of who is out to expose the dragons and who is the evil Dragon King behind it. Iona Campbell returns Scotland when she found out her father had died but later learned he was murdered. It is incredible the reach that this evil has gone to manipulate Iona and bring her to Scotland because she is the key to another way onto Dreagan land thru her land.
I liked how well thought this is and how the author has intertwined the Dark Warriors and Dark Swords into this series. She has multiple storylines as well with Rhys and his troubles, and Rhi still recovering from her ordeal. I'm still working on who the evil Dragon King may be and I am hoping that the obvious one isn't the one. We shall see. I'm intrigued and hooked! Rhys' story is next and I can't wait for that one.
I liked how well thought this is and how the author has intertwined the Dark Warriors and Dark Swords into this series. She has multiple storylines as well with Rhys and his troubles, and Rhi still recovering from her ordeal. I'm still working on who the evil Dragon King may be and I am hoping that the obvious one isn't the one. We shall see. I'm intrigued and hooked! Rhys' story is next and I can't wait for that one.
December 12, 2014
A copy was provided by Netgalley for an honest review.
This review is for all the four parts and will be the same for all four books.
Hot Blooded is a book released in four parts, the four parts will be released as a novel in January 2015. I had not read any of Donna Grant’s books before, and I gotta say, I was missing out. I have just recently taken interest in paranormal/fantasy romance. I had only read one dragon shifter book in the past and I was not all that interested. These highland dragon shifters are beyond fascinating, add in the witches, fae and all of the other mythical beings and you have me stuck swiping through each part uninterrupted. I really got into the progression of Iona and Laith’s story as well as the Dreagons as a whole as Iona tried to come to terms with the loss of her father. I will be reading more of Donna Grant.
This review is for all the four parts and will be the same for all four books.
Hot Blooded is a book released in four parts, the four parts will be released as a novel in January 2015. I had not read any of Donna Grant’s books before, and I gotta say, I was missing out. I have just recently taken interest in paranormal/fantasy romance. I had only read one dragon shifter book in the past and I was not all that interested. These highland dragon shifters are beyond fascinating, add in the witches, fae and all of the other mythical beings and you have me stuck swiping through each part uninterrupted. I really got into the progression of Iona and Laith’s story as well as the Dreagons as a whole as Iona tried to come to terms with the loss of her father. I will be reading more of Donna Grant.
June 20, 2016
I was prepared to not like this book. I really was but I was surprised by how much I actually loved it. Laith is one of my favorite dragons now! Iona I didn't like at first but she grew on me.
Iona is a photographer who travels all over the world taking pictures in dangerous situations. Her father was the man who owned/protected the land next to the Dragon Kings. He dies and she come stop Scotland to bury him and sell his things. She has zero intentions of staying long. Then she meets Laith. They have an instant connection. Not just a lusty attraction but a connection on a deeper level. They want to know everything right off the bat. Neither of them wanted to fall in love but things happen.
This book is full of action, secrets and two people slowly falling in love. OH and the warriors play a big role in this book!! I miss them and LOVE when they get involved.
Iona is a photographer who travels all over the world taking pictures in dangerous situations. Her father was the man who owned/protected the land next to the Dragon Kings. He dies and she come stop Scotland to bury him and sell his things. She has zero intentions of staying long. Then she meets Laith. They have an instant connection. Not just a lusty attraction but a connection on a deeper level. They want to know everything right off the bat. Neither of them wanted to fall in love but things happen.
This book is full of action, secrets and two people slowly falling in love. OH and the warriors play a big role in this book!! I miss them and LOVE when they get involved.
November 30, 2014
Thanks Netgalley for a free book to read and review. I don't think this series can do no wrong in my eyes. This story focused on Laith finding his mate, and the chemistry between the two was scorching. Iona comes back to Dreagan after twenty years of being gone only to find her father has passed. A lot of this story is about their romance but I can't help but be tickled over Rhys and Lily's blooming romance. Then there's Rhi and Con's intense hatred that battles the air everyone breathes. The dark Fae, and Ulrik clash against the dragons.....such an intense series but I'm loving it! Five absolutely great stars.
September 3, 2025
This wasn't just a simple fantasy romance; it was a deeply immersive experience. The plot was a masterclass in world-building, weaving a tapestry of characters and lore that drew me in from the very first page. The protagonist's internal struggle and growth were particularly compelling, making their journey feel both authentic and emotionally resonant.
While I loved the intricate plot and the richly detailed setting, I did felft like a few of the secondary characters could have been more fully developed. At times, their motivations seemed a little one-dimensional, which prevented me from connecting with them as much as I did with the main character.
While I loved the intricate plot and the richly detailed setting, I did felft like a few of the secondary characters could have been more fully developed. At times, their motivations seemed a little one-dimensional, which prevented me from connecting with them as much as I did with the main character.
January 10, 2015
Another beautiful story by Ms. Grant. She really knows what her readers crave for, but my addiction to this series is insatiable. I lose my sanity when I reach the last page. I am so grateful that the author has brought back the Dark Warriors once again in the world of the Dark Kings by linking Iona to Hayden. After reading this book, it helps me to deduce about Rhi and Con. Ulrik is definitely the culprit, but it is still unclear who has helped him regain his magic. Did one of the Wallaces help him?
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January 10, 2015Dragons' Dragons, Dragons
Aaaahhh... I love Dragons. Just. Love. Them.
This was interestingly different, even if it was the same.... Not in a bad way as in boring. But Dragons tend to be headstrong, stubborn asses. And Laith is, was that and more
But, he knew he loved her and didn't put up too much of a fight
Cannot wait for Rhys, Rhi and Con's stories ...
I just have to know what happens to Rhys. And Rhi ... Shame
Still, I love Dragons
Aaaahhh... I love Dragons. Just. Love. Them.
This was interestingly different, even if it was the same.... Not in a bad way as in boring. But Dragons tend to be headstrong, stubborn asses. And Laith is, was that and more
But, he knew he loved her and didn't put up too much of a fight
Cannot wait for Rhys, Rhi and Con's stories ...
I just have to know what happens to Rhys. And Rhi ... Shame
Still, I love Dragons
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