Fighting the Dark

by Kassidy Carter

Desperate to escape her past…
Rylee Smith spends her days behind a computer. She hides away in her home diligently working to make her next deadline. Escaping her father’s grasp keeps her motivated. Being an author doesn’t leave a lot of time for a social life. If it wasn’t for her -- nagging, yet loving -- best friend she wouldn’t see beyond the walls around her and the screen.

Determined to prove himself…
Mason Carlson hasn’t had the easiest life. Growing up with a tyrant for a father and a brother just as demented, he struggles to find his place within the family. He was given one assignment. Watch her and wait for further instructions. Mason never expected to become attached to her. He never expected that her screams would cause him such pain.

Dedicated to righting the wrong…
When secrets are exposed, Mason realizes everything he thought to be true is lie. It will take everything in him to right those he has wronged. Everything he has to set her free. And to find a way to Fight the Darkness.
*Recommend for 18+ due to Violence, language, and adult situations.

Genres: Dark

190 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 11, 2016

About the author

Kassidy Carter lives in Florida with her Husband and two daughters. You can normally find a book in her hands or doing activities with her daughters. She has a passion for reading and will read just about anything. Her favorite kind of stories to read are one's with happy endings. She has always wanted to write, but the fear of getting started and not being good enough has stopped her...until now. If you want to find out more about Kassidy or follow her and her writing adventures, here are the links for her Facebook and Goodreads

Reviews

[angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent

I found this to be an excellent book. It definitely keeps your attention, and there are some real sum bag characters but, hey their needed to make the story. It also has some really great characters and great love. Characters that will risk all for the one they love and the love of friends. This really is a great book written well, that keeps your attention from beginning to end.

[Candyce Kirk · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay, I know I read the warnings about violence and such, but it was a lot different than I expected. Rylee is kidnapped, because of her father's gambling issues. She is taken to Mason's family's house. There she is exposed to things and threats I wasn't completely comfortable with. I almost stopped reading to be honest. The only reason I continued was because said event didn't happen.
Mason has a really messed up childhood and adult life. His father is cruel and that is how he was raised to be. Part of him gets that he isn't doing the right thing, but the fear of his father keeps him going. When he finds out certain things aren't like his dad told him, he has had enough. That on top of actually caring for Rylee makes him make a change of plans. I can't get too much into it without giving spoilers, but this is a pretty eventful book. The writer knows how to keep you on the edge of your seat and describe the emotions they are feeling pretty well. I love that the chapters switch between Rylee and Mason, so you learn about his deep, dark secrets as well. The end of the story was a bit too happily ever after, not because it ended well, but how fast Rylee accepted things and how everything was all okay. I read this book pretty fast and kind of hope how a few characters end up after some time has passed.

Look for a more descriptive review soon on: thebookdutchesses.wordpress.com

[Lisa]

I'm sorry, but I couldn't finish. The plot and characters need work. I got to about 50% before I called it quits.

[Angie McGuire · Rating 4 out of 5]

I reviewed this book for Kylie's Fiction Addiction.

I wasn't sure what this book would really be about ... death, mourning...horrible nightmares? Well, it did have some massive anxiety brewing, but really , this book was awesome. The plot was full of drama, but the characters made me keep on reading.

Mason had a depraved childhood. Not the normal depravity , if that is even a thing... but a past that makes your skin crawl. Rylee was a beautiful woman with a bright future that was taken from her. Her nightmares were not earned, but given by some very crooked people. And Mason was the beginning of that darkness for her...wow right?? Truly you have no idea.

Mason has tried in the past to do the right thing, but could never live down his past. He's done some horrible things in his life, but all in the name of family. Cruel??? This isn't even half of his horrid drama. Starts when he's 10...and gets worse from there. Even though some may say he's a monster, i just grew more in love with him. He tried to be normal, but he didn't know how to do it. That is, until Rylee came along. Forced to follow her for a year, he got to know her more, and feelings became paramount. It took a while for him to realize that he was worthy of loving someone.

This is not your normal story of falling in love with someone who doesn't deserve you...ohhhhh no. This is the story of falling in love when in the beginning you aren't worthy of that love. Rylee changed that for him. She was the only one deserving of him being Mason.

I liked this book so much more than I ever thought I would. I hope you like it as much as I did. There are some sinister parts in this book, but the light prevails the dark. I promise.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I have read by Kassidy Carter and it will not be my last. I actually went into the book totally blind on what it was about and right from the start I was not able to put the book down.
Mason Carlson lost his mother at the age of ten and her death took the light out of his world. Growing up with a very strict father and younger brother his life was never an easy one. He isn’t like his father and brother but follows what he is told to do. That is until Rylee Smith.
Rylee was also raised by her father. He may not have been like the tyrant Mason’s dad is, but booze and gambling was what was important to him not Rylee. Rylee has separated herself from him and is living her life as an author until her life is turned upside down on her twenty first birthday.
Will Mason be able to right the wrongs and save Rylee?
Just when you think you know what is going to happen, you are surprised with another shocking twist. This book can easily leave you with whiplash with all the unexpected twists. The author does an excellent job in keeping things realistic. Even the smallest of details are answered and by the end of the of the book you are left with a hangover from everything that took place. The interaction between Mason and his brother, Beck, are not the lovable sibling connection. You will be on the edge of your seat wondering what will happen next.
I can’t wait for more books in the series as several of the supporting characters have stories to tell.

[Busy Bumble Bee Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let's see if I can come up with the right words for this book, without me rambling on or sounding like a sap!!!! :) This book...... This book is so different from author Kassidy Carter's first two books. This isn't a sweet and light book. This book is darker. As soon as I heard Mrs. Carter was coming out with a "Dark" book. I knew I Needed This Book!!!!

Gosh what can I say about Mason and Rylee. Both of these characters are damaged in someway and have demons on their shoulders. Mason probably more than Rylee. The were both dealt sh*tar$e parents and obviously hard childhoods.

Man I loved Mason. He's not your typical Hero. He's your Dark Hero, he's the one that most people probably wouldn't give a chance to. He's the one that even though he does questionable things, he has enough of a consensus to do the right thing. Underneath all that dark, he's sweet, caring and protective. He's willing to risk it all for the girl.

I really liked Rylee. She's the quiet hermit that sticks to herself. She kind of reminded me of myself. Even though she doesn't realize her life's about to change dramatically because of her father. I liked seeing her keeping herself together and not losing herself. She kept strong through it all.

I really enjoyed this book from start to finish. I couldn't put it down once I started. I really enjoyed Rylee and Mason, and I even really enjoyed Masons best friend Dan. This book was dark and twisted.

I'm giving this book 4.5 Stars out of 5!!!!

***I received an arc of this book from the author for my honest opinion***

[Cranky - The Book Curmudgeon · Rating 5 out of 5]

***** 5 Cranky Stars *****

The title of this book says it all. While reading you will find that fighting the darkness is exactly what you, as the reader, are doing. I was completely captivated by Kassidy Carter's story telling and will be recommending this book to everyone.



Rylee Smith keeps to herself. Always trying to stay one step ahead of her gambling father. She has one friend who keeps her grounded and her writing that allows her to work from anywhere.



Mason Carlson's life is a test in resilience. As a young boy he lost the only light in his life. Now surrounded by his tyrant father, crazy brother and the hired goons his life is anything but sunshine and rainbows until her.



This story will piss you off and make you cry. It will tear your emotions to shreds then slowly put them back together. It's one exhilarating roller-coaster ride that you don't want to miss.

[Flora Viggiano · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book will sweep you way and hold your emotions for ransom. Rylee is an author whose life is more exciting and dangerous and romantic than any story she could ever write. How can so much sadness and pain turn into anything positive. Rylee's night out with Alice was anything but fun and she was sure she would never live long enough to have another girls night out. Her life would never be the same.
The author makes you fall in love with the characters and even the evil Beck has a horrible childhood which almost makes you feel sorry for him. Carter has both main characters tell the story. The point of view change was so helpful for this reader to get more into the heart racing plot. I had trouble putting this book down. It haunted me. It has some scenes that are intense and racey, but they are truly there to keep to the reality and seriousness of the story.
I know this is a series but it could be read as a stand alone book. If you like adventure, romance and emotional plots this author delivers with a mixture of bitter sweet moments and quick wit thrown in with heart in your throat moments to weave the stories of a woman taken out of her comfortable life and a man who wants to change to be part of her new life. The pages turned and I kept hoping for a miracle.

[AnessaRenee Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story was heart gripping and captivating. Sometimes you need a lil dark romance in your life and Fighting the dark was the perfect book. Mason is the brooding bad boy that has some good in him that makes you fall in love with him. This book definitely has some dark issues that are heartbreaking. There were times when I didn't think it was gonna go the way I wanted than it would turn around and than I would be screaming at the book again. My first reaction to the first couple of chapters was "what the heck is going on?" This was my first time reading Kassidy Carter and it will not be my last. Her writing style flows so beautifully that you don't realize how long you've been enthralled with this story. *Reviewed for Sweet Spot Sisterhood*

[Stephanie Daley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing Dark Suspense!

I really enjoyed reading Fighting the Dark by Kassidy Carter. This is a first read by her and will not be my last. Her writing style just flows and reading this book was very enjoyable. I was captivated at the beginning (what a way to begin a story!) and it just kept coming with surprises and those "I did not see that coming!". Full of suspense, it kept me on edge and I love that in a book. I liked that this was dark ( I love my dark reads) and did not disappoint!

[Alicia Marietta · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fighting the Darkness is fast-paced, dark, suspenseful, sad, hot, & even has an HEA for those of you that require one. I would rate FtD 3 out of 5 on the dark. It's definitely not sunshine and rainbows, but it's not seriously deranged either. A good first for those wanting to dip their toes into the pool of darkness. Kassidy is a new to me author, and I can't wait to get my hands on more of her work.

[Natalie Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first read from Kassidy and I look forward to reading more of her work in the future. This is a fast paced book and although it is dark it's nothing that is too extreme.
Rylee and Mason are an unusual match but with their backgrounds they kind of bring each other light in the darkness. I do hope to see more in this series. I don't want to give too much away because I went into this book kind of blind and I think it made my experience all the better.

[Breigh Stout · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, I'm going to start my review off by saying I love the heroines name <3 (Daughters name.)

But "Fighting the Dark" by Kassidy Carter is about Rylee Smith, an author who was raised by her alcoholic father. She doesn't have a social life, and more so focuses on her next book deadline. Her best friend Alice drags Rylee out for one night at the bar, which she normally doesn't do, and towards the end of the night realizes why. She meets Mason and his friend Dan. Mason's job is to keep tabs on Rylee, and was supposed to be kidnapped for Mason's sinister younger brother, Beck.

I didn't like Beck's character at all. He was very dark, just like his and Mason's father, and took what he wanted when he wanted and only cares about himself. Mason was supposed to bring Rylee to him, but he changes his mind, and realizes he doesn't want Rylee to be in his grasp. So what does he do? She is kidnapped once again and they are on the run from his brother.

I like dark books, and this has just enough darkness in it for me to enjoy. I liked reading the conversations between Mason and Rylee, and they had good chemistry to match.

I won't give away the ending, but it wasn't too surprising. Needless to say, it will not be the last Kassidy Carter book I read.

[Mary Fazzi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dang!!!
This book took me took to places I never thought of. Rylee, a girl who is normal and is a secret writer, is happy with her life. The one times her best friend makes her go out and things happen that you never would of thought could. Meeting Mason and Dan at the bar with her friend Alice changed her life. She was kidnap for Mason's brother Beck. Beck is a nasty man who takes what he wants and doesn't care about anything other than him. Mason takes Rylee to Beck but something changes and he can't let his brother have her. So, being kidnap again to be on the run to get away from the family was the only choice. Happy and sad things happen. Then just when they are starting to breathe Dan sees men from the family. They have to run again, but Beck finds Rylee and all hope is lost. Till Rylee has a plan and so does Mason. Awesome Book!!!!!

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!! This book left clueless how to even describe it or put it into words. Yes, it really was that good. I really had no idea what I was getting my self into when I started reading this. I read the blurb but still didn’t expect too much but read it anyway since a friend kept telling me I needed to read it. This book gave me a hangover that’s what’s I definitely know. It was everything I didn’t expect but it was totally the different that I’ve been looking for without realizing it. The author pulls you in immediately and doesn’t let go until you finish and leaves you feeling like you can’t start another book either. I seriously struggled putting this book down and honestly couldn’t read and turn the pages fast enough. I absolutely loved this book and will definitely be reading more from this author in the near future. I totally recommend you read this book too. You won’t be sorry.

[Cassie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a new Author to me - the Synopsis drew my attention and I can say I'm glad I decided to read this one. The Prologue broke my heart but definitely set the stage for understanding Mason and seeing the "world" Beck is living in. I love that through everything Rylee kept her "sass" and remained true to herself. The characters were broken, which made it easier to understand & not hate some of them. The writing kept me turning pages, even keeping me up when I really needed sleep - it was worth it!

I can't wait to read Dan's story, I can see there is so much more for him. I am looking forward to reading more from Kassidy.

[Charlotte Coles · Rating 4 out of 5]

Follow the story of Rylee kidnapped to pay a debt, then saved by her captor... sounds good doesnt it? This story will have you on the edge of your seat with every page you read. Holding your breath to see what happens next. Its brilliantly written and being my first by this author im excited to see what else shes written. This book has a dark edge to it but its quite a soft side of dark. Id definately reccomend this book.

[Deborah Lane · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I have read by Kassidy Carter, it is not the last. This book is dark, twisted. It's characters are REAL. The drama between the brothers is dark and intense, and you may like me find it disturbing. Miss Carter writes with authority, her voice amazing in the interactions of the pivotal characters. Not for the weak of heart, not a sweet romance, but the pay off in the end. Will leave you book hung over. Recommended.

[Tiffany · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story was good, not great for me. I found myself struggling through it. However, it was suspenseful and I love that.

Rylee and Mason meet in a very non conventional way, they end up falling for each other and have to face some pretty tough obstacles to be together.

This book has a little bit of everything you look for in a book, suspense, love, and mystery.

[Jennifer Richey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow going into this book I was hooked in this book I was on the edge of my seat! So many twists and turns! Mason meets rylee at a bar and they hit it off but when she goes home something crazy happens she wAkes up being kidnapped!!! This book had alittle emotional read to it but I loved reading it and can't wait to read more!!!!

[Bobbi Elmore · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great book. Just enough suspense and drama, mixed with love. I enjoyed it very much. I hated Beck. I wanted to yell at Mason every time he tried to push Rylee away in the beginning, thinking he wasn't good enough for her. I loved how strong and defiant Rylee was. I really enjoyed this book!

[evieo17 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought the book was going to go one way but then there was a twist and it went another way and then another twist. There was a lot going on in a short amount of time but the story didn't feel rushed. Nor was it as dark as I though it would be. I'm really look forward to Dan's story.

[Deirdre Stokes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well this book is definitely like the title there were some dark moments in this book. Which made it intense but still needed to find out what was going to happen. Well written and worth reading kind of book.

[kittykat AKA Ms. Tortitude · Rating 1 out of 5]

1.5 stars. So much was too far-fetched for me and Rylee and Mason were no-where near likable. Also, was expecting some backstory (not just a brief mention) to Dan and his relationship with Mason's family as he was given his own book.

[Angel Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good 4 star book!
Dark romance about overcoming the darkness you are given and finding the light. First book I have read by this author and I liked it. My only issue is it could have been longer !

[Pam · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.75 stars. It was ok, nothing new or special. Could use a good editor as there were typos and missing words.

[Valerie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good read! Strong characters. Good storyline. Several twists and turns. Not an obscene amount of sexy time. I really liked Dan, Masons best friend. Some of it was a little cheesy on some of the love parts but overall it was a good book. This was my first Kassidy Carter book and I will for sure read more from her.

[Loralie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think I've learned that I like light & sweet over darker books, but reading about love & redemption can be satisfying, as well. There is a lot of both love & fight in this book and it's worth a read.

[Ladyjovi Stone · Rating 3 out of 5]

I tried really hard to love this book, I wanted to love this book but I just was not able to make the connection with the characters that would allow me to love it. I like the premise of the book but I just think that there needs to be a bit more development of the relationship between Rylee and Mason. I almost felt like Rylee was suffering from Stockholm syndrome but it felt like it happened too fast to make it believable for me.

This is a very dark romance and there are some scenes that are pretty violent and abusive so if that might be a trigger for you might want to avoid this one but if it doesn’t bother you might feel more of a connection with these characters than I did.