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Dark Chains: First Link
She knew him as Yaaf, the scrawny boy with long legs and an infectious smile who was her best friend. Six years later, he's back, and the boy has grown into a handsome man. Powerful. Disturbingly different. Is her friend still somewhere in there? Or has the brutal training camp beaten all kindness and humanity out of him?
Meanwhile, across the globe, Annani is at her wits’ end. The mission to retrieve the five chests containing Khiann and his companions is facing setbacks and complications, and she wonders whether the Fates are testing her resolve to move mountains to save her beloved, or whether there is another reason for the delays piling up.
Meanwhile, across the globe, Annani is at her wits’ end. The mission to retrieve the five chests containing Khiann and his companions is facing setbacks and complications, and she wonders whether the Fates are testing her resolve to move mountains to save her beloved, or whether there is another reason for the delays piling up.
367 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 2, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
May 14, 2026
Move on with the story
Story is good but it's not moving much. I hope the next book can at least get the chests recovered and is safe with the clan.
Story is good but it's not moving much. I hope the next book can at least get the chests recovered and is safe with the clan.
May 7, 2026
Dark Chains
Soap opera continues!
This is the worst I have read in the series.
Author straying to far from the other books!
Get back to the characters already introduced.
Soap opera continues!
This is the worst I have read in the series.
Author straying to far from the other books!
Get back to the characters already introduced.
May 2, 2026
First Link
First and foremost, the appreciation of the content warning at the beginning of the book! Most triggers don't bother me but knowing ahead of time, especially since this particular trigger actually does, is appreciated. It it not necessarily a bad trigger just a sad one. But as always Ms. Lucas fills the book with how "passion" should be expressed.
The book itself is of course a continuation of the series that we all know and love. We see more of Dave, Kain, the scientists and we meet Sullha and Yaaf (Number One). I have a feeling as the series continues it will become more explosive!
This one is about escape plans and Azezoo's up coming nuptials. And Syssi's heritage, oh boy! Thankfully it does not leave on a cliffhanger, I hate those. But definitely keeps waiting for the next installment a nail bitter.
First and foremost, the appreciation of the content warning at the beginning of the book! Most triggers don't bother me but knowing ahead of time, especially since this particular trigger actually does, is appreciated. It it not necessarily a bad trigger just a sad one. But as always Ms. Lucas fills the book with how "passion" should be expressed.
The book itself is of course a continuation of the series that we all know and love. We see more of Dave, Kain, the scientists and we meet Sullha and Yaaf (Number One). I have a feeling as the series continues it will become more explosive!
This one is about escape plans and Azezoo's up coming nuptials. And Syssi's heritage, oh boy! Thankfully it does not leave on a cliffhanger, I hate those. But definitely keeps waiting for the next installment a nail bitter.
May 9, 2026
Children of the Gods Dark Chains: First Link - Book 107! Yaaf, an enhanced Immortal, and Sullha, an enslaved human with the Immortal gene (aka Dormant) are renewing their friendship which was curtailed 6 years ago when they turned age 13. This series has 3 book arcs for the couple being profiled as the newest True Love Mates. Isabell T. Lucas is a master storyteller and she keeps getting better and better! If you haven't read any of her books, I urge you to start today and begin with Books 1,2&3- Dark Stranger: The Dream(1), Revealed(2), and Immortal(3). They're about Kian and Syssi...their turbulent love story and the phenomenal Children of the Gods plot line and the believable backstory history is SiMpLy AmAzInG. If you're into paranormal romantacy themes, you won't regret beginning this series!!!
May 2, 2026
Did they answer?
This is the first book for Dave (Yaaf) and Sullha. This will be very interesting to see how that relationship will play out.
There is a lot going on in this book similar to the last 3 and there is more to come. We get to see what happens between the clan and Dimitri and I can't wait to see how that plays out.
Dave is becoming something. More likable? You may even want to root for them. This will be a very interesting dynamic to watch play out.
As usual, there are some side stories going on. Arezoo is coming into her own and her wedding is soon. Syssi may have found another relative but I won't say who yet.
Another great read from I.T. Lucas and can't wait for the next one.
This is the first book for Dave (Yaaf) and Sullha. This will be very interesting to see how that relationship will play out.
There is a lot going on in this book similar to the last 3 and there is more to come. We get to see what happens between the clan and Dimitri and I can't wait to see how that plays out.
Dave is becoming something. More likable? You may even want to root for them. This will be a very interesting dynamic to watch play out.
As usual, there are some side stories going on. Arezoo is coming into her own and her wedding is soon. Syssi may have found another relative but I won't say who yet.
Another great read from I.T. Lucas and can't wait for the next one.
May 4, 2026
Thank you to the author for this gifted ARC. I enjoyed this book so much, I gave it 5 stars!
🌟 second chance romance
🌟paranormal romance
🌟 tropical island adventure
🌟 escape planning
This is the 1st book that really deals with the women in the dorment enclosure. Number 1 of the 8 enhanced solders that share a hive mind, whose name is Yaaf, fondly remembers his special friend Sullah and is determined that Sullah and her son join the escape when they go.
The excavation of the mansion basement is having more set backs than progress. But supports have finally been put up and work resumed. Hopefully the chests will be found soon!
I am so anxious for the next book, this story keeps building and getting more and more exciting as it goes!
🌟 second chance romance
🌟paranormal romance
🌟 tropical island adventure
🌟 escape planning
This is the 1st book that really deals with the women in the dorment enclosure. Number 1 of the 8 enhanced solders that share a hive mind, whose name is Yaaf, fondly remembers his special friend Sullah and is determined that Sullah and her son join the escape when they go.
The excavation of the mansion basement is having more set backs than progress. But supports have finally been put up and work resumed. Hopefully the chests will be found soon!
I am so anxious for the next book, this story keeps building and getting more and more exciting as it goes!
May 4, 2026
This is another that isn’t as fast paced as some of the others, it’s a lot of setting up but adding in a sprinkling of new information and relationships.
You have the clan poised to infiltrate the island for an epic rescue, a possible family link for Syssi, and an extremely unique relationship budding for “Dave”.
The anticipation!! The pieces are moving to one epic confrontation and I am here for it.
You have to start at book one but they quick reads and come out constantly. If you aren’t reading this series you are seriously missing out and honestly I’m a lot jealous of the adventure you’re about to go on.
***Received this from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review***
You have the clan poised to infiltrate the island for an epic rescue, a possible family link for Syssi, and an extremely unique relationship budding for “Dave”.
The anticipation!! The pieces are moving to one epic confrontation and I am here for it.
You have to start at book one but they quick reads and come out constantly. If you aren’t reading this series you are seriously missing out and honestly I’m a lot jealous of the adventure you’re about to go on.
***Received this from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review***
May 3, 2026
After the way the last book ended, I couldn’t wait for the call. As the communication between the scientists, Mattie and Dave and the clan continue boundaries, expectations and limitations are considered. Who else could they possibly take? Will the chests finally be able to be retrieved and sent to the clan? Time is precarious with Losham and his brothers vying for control. While the planning continues, I keep hoping that something drastic happens on the island that ends up being fortunate for the escape, the retrieval of the chests and possibly the entire dormant enclosure. But the tension builds which makes the wait for the next book excruciating.
May 3, 2026
The evolution of the "Dave" collective into the individual journey of Yaaf is one of the most compelling arcs in the series so far. Seeing him reconnect with his humanity through his bond with Sullha adds a beautiful layer of hope to an otherwise intense situation. This book masterfully balances the large,scale tension of the escape plans with these deeply personal moments of transformation. Between Arezoo’s upcoming wedding and the shocking revelations regarding Syssi’s heritage, there is never a dull moment. It is another incredible installment that proves why this saga is so addictive.
May 4, 2026
Didn’t see this coming!
Dave #1 has a name and it’s Yaaf. And Yaaf, as part of the amalgam known as Dave, has decided that his childhood friend, Suulha, along with her son, should not be stuck on Epstein’s, er I mean Navuh’s island. Planning the great escape is a bigger task than Dave can handle, even working with the Russian doctors who supply them with the drugs that keep them (mostly) sane. So they do the unimaginable: reach out to Navuh’s enemies!
Does Kian and company have what it takes to pull off a rescue mission of both humans, Dave and precious cargo?
Dave #1 has a name and it’s Yaaf. And Yaaf, as part of the amalgam known as Dave, has decided that his childhood friend, Suulha, along with her son, should not be stuck on Epstein’s, er I mean Navuh’s island. Planning the great escape is a bigger task than Dave can handle, even working with the Russian doctors who supply them with the drugs that keep them (mostly) sane. So they do the unimaginable: reach out to Navuh’s enemies!
Does Kian and company have what it takes to pull off a rescue mission of both humans, Dave and precious cargo?
May 2, 2026
Transformative Excitement
If you’re looking to expand your desire and level of enticement then Dark Chain will do the job! Getting to know that Dave is growing to allow Number One, “Yaaf,” to experience feelings with his childhood friend shows promise of a new phase. Yet, as we gain new characters, we also have our satisfaction of the continued saga of our beloved clan. My excitement comes in layers. Bottom line is you’ll love the book.
If you’re looking to expand your desire and level of enticement then Dark Chain will do the job! Getting to know that Dave is growing to allow Number One, “Yaaf,” to experience feelings with his childhood friend shows promise of a new phase. Yet, as we gain new characters, we also have our satisfaction of the continued saga of our beloved clan. My excitement comes in layers. Bottom line is you’ll love the book.
May 3, 2026
brilliant as always
This story concentrates on Dave especially number one his feelings for his childhood friend. In the meantime planning between them and the clan is established. Losham would be wise to take advice from Rami to leave and establish a life away from the brotherhood. Navuh is despondent but as he catalogues everything is he hoping to escape as usual the story ends with the reader desperate for the next book
This story concentrates on Dave especially number one his feelings for his childhood friend. In the meantime planning between them and the clan is established. Losham would be wise to take advice from Rami to leave and establish a life away from the brotherhood. Navuh is despondent but as he catalogues everything is he hoping to escape as usual the story ends with the reader desperate for the next book
May 8, 2026
So much better!
I've been struggling to read the last few books about the island. I didn't want to read about Dimitri merging minds. I wanted more of the clan and its members. This book let me have that as well as a new romance I wasn't expecting. I'm still desperate for Annani's reunion with Khiann. I really hope that will happen in the next few books. Hopefully the next book will be the chests extraction and escape. I really hope it all doesn't continue to be drawn out.
I've been struggling to read the last few books about the island. I didn't want to read about Dimitri merging minds. I wanted more of the clan and its members. This book let me have that as well as a new romance I wasn't expecting. I'm still desperate for Annani's reunion with Khiann. I really hope that will happen in the next few books. Hopefully the next book will be the chests extraction and escape. I really hope it all doesn't continue to be drawn out.
May 11, 2026
Sulha and Tomak exist in a dark, depressing existence. Finding a way to show Tomak that he can be or do anything is her goal. She finds herself in a unbelievable chance to leave and find love before the construction is finished. Her life after the construction is done will take so much away from her, possibly her own life. Number one has brought so many possibilities that she is starting to dream again.
May 21, 2026
Creative twist
I am finding these stories very interesting. The imaginative twists of the collective 8 and their commiucation with each other is fascinating. The edgy suspense retrieving the phone and the intricate plans developing the escape are fun to read. Now the change of learning emotion brings a whole new experience to read about. I'm enjoying the creativity of the contributors to this story, and of course to I.T. Lucas! Thank you :)
I am finding these stories very interesting. The imaginative twists of the collective 8 and their commiucation with each other is fascinating. The edgy suspense retrieving the phone and the intricate plans developing the escape are fun to read. Now the change of learning emotion brings a whole new experience to read about. I'm enjoying the creativity of the contributors to this story, and of course to I.T. Lucas! Thank you :)
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dark Chains: First Link, Book 107 of the Children of the Gods series by Isabell Lucas @itlucas_author - You must read this book serial in order from book 1!
What a great 1st book about Yaaf & Sullha! Tropes: Contemporary, Paranormal (Gods/Goddesses/Aliens), Male/Female, Did The Chests Survive The Collapse, Overall Storyline Arc For The Series & A Cliffhanger For Continuing This Serial!
What a great 1st book about Yaaf & Sullha! Tropes: Contemporary, Paranormal (Gods/Goddesses/Aliens), Male/Female, Did The Chests Survive The Collapse, Overall Storyline Arc For The Series & A Cliffhanger For Continuing This Serial!
May 2, 2026
I've become invested in Dave as a collective consciousness, and now in Yaaf as he reconnects with himself again. Yaaf and Sullha have me smiling to myself. I'm excited to see how Sullha goes about connecting with the other woman as the escape moves along. We're closer to Annani reuniting with her lost love, and we have an upcoming wedding to look forward to. Loved it. Great read as always.
May 3, 2026
It keeps going
I love these paranormal stories. This series is 107 books gone so far and still I can’t wait for the next one.
I figured out in this one that the two series by this author will eventually come together. Eluheed is one of the missing shaman that ran through a portal with dragon eggs during the first war.
I love these paranormal stories. This series is 107 books gone so far and still I can’t wait for the next one.
I figured out in this one that the two series by this author will eventually come together. Eluheed is one of the missing shaman that ran through a portal with dragon eggs during the first war.
May 7, 2026
this is the best series
I eagerly await each new story in the saga. I try not to read it straight through in one sitting, but rather savor it over several days. That takes discipline I don’t always have. Every book is too short….i want the story to go on. And FINISH it already! 109?
I eagerly await each new story in the saga. I try not to read it straight through in one sitting, but rather savor it over several days. That takes discipline I don’t always have. Every book is too short….i want the story to go on. And FINISH it already! 109?
May 13, 2026
Out of all the books I read last year and the beginning of this year The Children of The Gods Paranormal Romance is the best series I have read in a long time and I am sad it is coming to an end. I am looking forward to No. 108 but I am still hoping it is not the end Isabell's Children of Gods series.
Love your writing Isabell - you don't disappoint - keep it coming
Love your writing Isabell - you don't disappoint - keep it coming
May 20, 2026
Wow. ,just wow !
if you love getting aIbsorbed in your reading , This series will
Keep you coming back for more . I have been reading and listening since the first book came out , then started listening on Audible . I love getting lost in the love stories and the different problems that even immortality doesn't save you from .
if you love getting aIbsorbed in your reading , This series will
Keep you coming back for more . I have been reading and listening since the first book came out , then started listening on Audible . I love getting lost in the love stories and the different problems that even immortality doesn't save you from .
May 2, 2026
It is all starting to come together for those on the Island
Really enjoying seeing how areanna is settling into life outside of temhe hareem and Navuhs control. The escape is building to be epic and it will open up so much more opportunity
Really enjoying seeing how areanna is settling into life outside of temhe hareem and Navuhs control. The escape is building to be epic and it will open up so much more opportunity
May 2, 2026
Learning what love is......
Very suspenseful and will have you on the edge of your seat. We know the plans but can they be carried out without a lot of complications? A few very interesting new characters have been introduced and I can't wait to see how their stories unfold.
Very suspenseful and will have you on the edge of your seat. We know the plans but can they be carried out without a lot of complications? A few very interesting new characters have been introduced and I can't wait to see how their stories unfold.
May 3, 2026
Wow ,Dave how could you make us care ?
I would have never thought that I would like Dave but what I. T. Lucas does with this storyline just sucks you in. Then Nuvah finally gets to feel what he has done to Areana for thousands of years.
I would have never thought that I would like Dave but what I. T. Lucas does with this storyline just sucks you in. Then Nuvah finally gets to feel what he has done to Areana for thousands of years.
May 9, 2026
Great read....
I wasn't sure I was gonna like "The 8". And they could still turn into something that I don't like. But for now they are very interesting to the story. I can't believe I'm already 107 books into the story. And I am not even close to being bored.
I wasn't sure I was gonna like "The 8". And they could still turn into something that I don't like. But for now they are very interesting to the story. I can't believe I'm already 107 books into the story. And I am not even close to being bored.
May 13, 2026
Wonderful
Reading Yaaf journey has been amazing I enjoyed reading this book I love all the books but this one was hard to put down I can wait for the next book I hope it releases soon so I can see if they finally get Khiann out and save him Annani needs her mate
Reading Yaaf journey has been amazing I enjoyed reading this book I love all the books but this one was hard to put down I can wait for the next book I hope it releases soon so I can see if they finally get Khiann out and save him Annani needs her mate
May 22, 2026
COTG-107
This series is taking me right where I wanted to go and it's better than I expected. I still enjoy the twists and turns, it never gets old. Can't wait to see the next installment next month!
This series is taking me right where I wanted to go and it's better than I expected. I still enjoy the twists and turns, it never gets old. Can't wait to see the next installment next month!
May 22, 2026
love the 8
Excited and wondering how this all is going to play out and if the upcoming operation on the island will be a success. I know there’s going to be some kind of a twist somewhere
Excited and wondering how this all is going to play out and if the upcoming operation on the island will be a success. I know there’s going to be some kind of a twist somewhere
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sooooooo good, they always leave you wanting more.
May 6, 2026
I love these books. Lucas has a way of writing about characters that allows me to remember them in all 107 books. I can't wait for the next book to come out.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews