Dark Alpha's Embrace

Reaper #2

by Donna Grant

An exclusive new series from New York Times bestselling author Donna Grant! There's no escaping a Reaper. I'm an elite assassin, part of a brotherhood that only answers to Death. And when Death says your time is up, I'm coming for you... I'm a warrior. My unbreakable determination, my backbone of steel define me. As a Reaper who does Death's bidding, weakness is a word I don't understand. Until a stunning librarian stirs emotions deep within me I've never felt before. Her soft curves blunt the sharp edges of my soul, crushing my defenses - yet make me stronger. But underneath those wide eyes and fierce femininity, she has a weapon, one she won't hesitate to use. And when the Dark begin their deadly descent, we'll need each other's love and protection...or risk fracturing apart.

Genres: Paranormal, Paranormal Romance, Romance, Fantasy, Audiobook, Fae, Magic

158 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 16, 2016

About the author

Donna 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.

Reviews

[Maya · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.



I loved the first book and this one was amazing as well. I'm so happy there will be more books in this series, since I'd love to see their journey continue in the future.



Donna Grant created a world that kept my attention from the start. The plot is creative and refreshing, also the characters are quite likable. What I like the most is that we get more than one POV. That's definitely keeping things interesting and fresh. Since this is the second book in this series, I really recommend reading the previous one first. Otherwise it can get confusing, since this story picks up where the first one left off.

Things were definitely changing.

I'm a fan of the PNR genre, so it's no wonder that I enjoyed this couple's journey. To not give away too much of the plot, all I can say is that you can expect a sexy, adventurous love story between a feisty librarian and her loyal protector, who is also one of Death's reapers. Their story is a wonderful continuation from the first book and a great build up for the next one. It was not only great to see all the characters from the past but we also get closer to unfolding the big mystery, of what's Bran and Death's next move. There were twists that I didn't see coming and I have to say one in particular left me insanely happy for this couple. The ending was wonderful and I can't wait to see whose story will be up next.



Safety-gang: Completely safe.

[XxTainaxX Curvy and Nerdy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the best one I've read yet. This series and that of the Kings, which runs simultaneously, has been a bit of a yoyo for me alternating between liking and not liking certain stories. Kyran and River share a pretty awesome story. River is half fae and hiding her nature as her family is hunted by the dark. I took well to River because she is a strong heroine. She kicks @$$. Kyran was characterized solidly with things that set him apart and made him a great hero. His tragic story provided great insight into why he chose to work for Death. I absolutely loved the banter between him and Talin... Even if Talin was "vexed" at times lol (inside joke you'd get if you read it). All in all a solid read.

ARC received in exchange for an honest review.

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 - "I won't let you down." Stars!

The second book in Donna Grant’s Reaper series continues the story of the Reapers as a whole, but gives us Kyran’s story and background in a little more depth.



I think the thing I really like about this series is that the author hits the ground running, yes there are a lot of characters to get your head around, but they were so well integrated in the first book that it really wasn’t a struggle to step right back into the story as a whole.

Only a fool would walk away from someone like her.

Kyran is one of two Dark Fae who works as a reaper, with his blood red eyes, and black and silver hair, one might say he has a distinctive style all of his own. His immediate and strong attraction to River, takes them both by surprise, especially as River is hiding a few secrets of her own, and getting involved with a Dark is definitely something that should not be on the agenda.

"There’s a fire between us."

You also have the stories of the rest of the Reapers developing and growing around the integral characters and I must admit I am itching too see how Cael and Erith’s story plays out, the sexual tension literally simmers across the Kindle screen when they are together, and at this point nothing has really happened between them, so when it does??

"You can’t run from me."

Dark Alphas Demand is due for release in May, and I am looking forward to seeing which of the guys falls in love next, and who with.

Things were definitely changing.

ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.

[Marta Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

This the second book in the Reaper series follows on from Dark Alphas Claim but I can't help but think the titles are a little off. Yes the Reapers serve Death but it's nothing like the usual interpretation that abounds in paranormal fiction. Here Death is a female with a seemingly endless supply of magic and those who serve her are Fae, both light and dark. If you have read the Dark Kings books then this world will feel familiar and indeed it does cross over.
The Reapers have been recruited by Death as they lay dying and offered the chance to defend both Fae and humanity from the evil Fae that pray on them. Half Fae are being murdered and the Reapers are hunting clues which leads them to a library in Edinburgh that could hold a set of thirty very special books. The librarian River, is very protective as she feels they belong to her and is willing to fight to keep her books. It doesn't take Kyran long to realise that River is half Fae and has been disguising herself as a rather mundane human. What is a huge surprise though is the fact that each of the books is written in a different and long lost language ! Oh and did I mention only River can read all thirty languages? It looks like Kyran and his fellow Reapers are about to face more challenges as even Deaths magic seems to be breaking down!
It always amazes me just how intricate and yet connected this authors books are. Whether it's her historical Dark Sword stories or her more modern Dragon Kings as a reader you just feel so at home in the worlds she creates. Her characters are passionate although you do have to admittedly believe in almost instant love but Kyran and River did feel convincing as a couple as the story progressed. This is so much more than just a paranormal romance though as this is a story that's ongoing and there are clearly big changes on the horizon for Death and her Reapers. Don't forget it is set in the same world as the Dragon Kings so I'm guessing we just might see one or two of them popping up soon and as I am desperate for answers about one or two of those I just can't wait to read more.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC received for review

Hi. It's me again. She who doesn't read the first book in a series. I kinda wished I had read the first one, but I wasn't lost having not read it.

Kyran is a Reaper and falls hard and fast for River, a half-Fae. She fell equally as fast. This one starts off not long after the first one ends. River is kick-a$$ herione, and Kyran is no slacker either. I would like to have the ability to stretch time.

Look forward to the rest of the series.

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 darkly magical stars.

Kyran gets his own love story with his leading lady as River. Death is finally starting to accept that her Reapers need love to function properly which is why she isn't completely against River and Kyran. This book moves further into the Reaper struggle and world. More issues arise to which River is needed. There's also a deeper look into Death's heart and world which makes you feel for her as she loves yet does not act upon it.

River's family has been hunted by Dark Fae for generations so she isn't too trusting when she meets the Reapers considering some of them look like Dark Fae. She is the only one with the much needed books and also the only one who can translate them all. This thrusts her into the Reapers group and further into Kyran's live, making it impossible for him to ignore his attraction to her.

This book allows a look inside of Kyran and all that makes him him. Kyran has a sad and destructive past and his family ties come to haunt him when he realizes how they intersect with River's life. The one woman he finally is in love with is being hunted and it kills him to realize why. The fight against the Dark ones and to save humans and the world continues in this book.

I was impressed with how easily Donna Grant wrapped you up in Kyran while still keeping the other major players afloat. I look forward to the next book because I'm dying to see what happen with Death and need to know who is next to get a life partner.

[Annie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was caught by surprise by this book. I don’t know why because in the past, I’ve enjoyed most of Donna Grant’s book but for whatever reason I found myself really enjoying this book more than her others. I think this mainly has to do with the heroine, River.

When readers first meet River, we don’t know much about her other than the fact that she likes books. And when the two men come crashing in demanding that she hand over these books, River stands her ground. She doesn’t do it because she’s stupid though. There’s thing about her that we don’t know and it’s these things that fuel her actions. She’s very skeptical of the Reapers and she has every right to be after what happened to her. She possesses that fiery personality, something which I think is quite different to Grant’s other heroines. While all her heroines are strong, River is more combative. She has some bite to her and I found her venom intriguing.

Kyran is a Reaper. It seems that Grant is finally stepping away from the Dark Kings and her Warriors and is finally exploring a world with just the Reapers. This series has a nice mix of ancient folklore and more modern twists thrown in. Also, I definitely think you can enjoy this story as a standalone.

I’m looking forward to see where Grant is going to be taking this series. She always excels at her worldbuilding and the whole mythology with the Reapers and the Light and Dark Fae will no doubt spellbound readers!

[Mindy Lou's Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kyran and River: River's backstory is horrendous. I can't even imagine having my family only allowed to keep producing just so another family can hunt and kill them for thousands of years. I'm glad to see River find her place with the Reapers and I really hope the two families involved in such evil gets their just rewards later in the series. Kyran's back story was just as intriguing. It goes to show that blind trust can be very dangerous.

[Danielle · Rating 3 out of 5]

After reading Dark Alpha's Claim last year I couldn't wait to watch the rest of the Reaper's get their HEA, and while I did enjoy Dark Alpha's Embrace, it definitely didn't compare to the first book in this series.

If you read the first book then you know that Death made an exception to the rules when it comes to Reapers falling in love which gave all of them just a little bit of hope that they might find love themselves. When Kyran and River meet the attraction is undeniable which means it's only a matter of time before they're giving in and seeing where that attraction leads.

I have to admit that after meeting River and learning of her families history I had a pretty good idea of the direction this book was gonna go and I was right... Luckily, it was handled exactly how it should have been handled without the unnecessary angst that would have totally ruined it for me.

While I enjoyed the romance aspect, I found that this one wasn't nearly as engaging as the first when it came to the Reapers and the baddies. There was some action that kept me on the edge of my seat but it definitely wasn't the main focus this time around which is why I'm only giving this one three stars... For as action packed as the first book was I was expecting a lot more from this one.

Overall, while I didn't love Dark Alpha's Embrace it was still a really enjoyable read and I'm definitely looking forward to more from this series.

*ARC kindly provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Laurie · Rating 5 out of 5]

My inner paranormal/fantasy junky is a happy camper right now. I liked the first book in the series, but I think it was hampered by the world building required for a new paranormal series. Dark Alpha’s Embrace had no such problems. I highly suggest you read the Dark Alpha’s Claim first because I think you’ll be a little lost if you don’t since there is an overarching storyline going on here, with lots of mystery and intrigue.

Kyran and River have dark histories, both deeply wounded but not broken by things that would have brought lesser people low. Kyran is troubled not only by what he was born into, but by what he at one time allowed himself to become. River is the last of her line and damaged by a brutal family legacy that includes generations worth of blood and death that was caused by the exact type of fae that Kyran is. It was a longshot that these two could overcome the obstacles in front of them, but from the very first meeting they felt a connection that rocked them both to their core.

Kyran, like all the reapers, intrigued me. The fact he was born a dark fae means you know he probably did some evil things before becoming a reaper but Kyran won me over from the beginning and he just kept getting better as the book went on. Immediately after meeting River, his need to make her happy even when she wasn’t sure about him or the reapers had my heart melting.

As a heroine, River impressed me. Determined to not fall prey as easily as the generations that had come before her, she did everything possible to learn how to fight the unfightable. She also took up the mantle of her family legacy, trying to find and keep ancient fae history books out of the wrong hands while keeping herself under their radar.

The writing was unbelievably strong in this installment. Words just flowed making me smile or even swoon as the first touch, first kiss, and especially the first smexy scene unfolded in front of me. I loved the connection these two had, plus we also see the strong bond the reapers have between them.

Although the answer to who the opponent was revealed in the first book, the mystery deepens as to how Bran escaped the netherworld. Even more alarming, strange things are happening to the leader of the reapers, meaning they need to get answers since Bran just seems to be getting stronger making the already high stakes hit astronomical proportions.

With the overall storyline spanning the series, we get a satifactory ending for our couple, but this adventure is not over. Between the engaging characters, the swoonworthy sex scenes, and a storyline that I can’t wait to dive back into, the next book can not come out quick enough for me.

Spice’s Rating: 5 Paranormal/Fantasy Romance Nirvana Stars

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

For this review and more, check out http://edgyreviews.com

[Vanessa theJeepDiva · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of the things about Donna Grant’s Reaper series that intrigued me from the very beginning was the fact that they were a group of Fae made up of both Light and Dark. The facts about the Dark have always shown them as evil, vile beings. The Reapers are comprised of both and they work together as a team. I was eager to see this aspect. In the second book from the Reaper series we get to know a little more about the Reapers from Kyran, a Dark Fae.

Each Reaper has suffered a betrayal that left them to Death. Death chooses her Reapers very carefully. Kyran’s betrayal stemmed from his loyalty. Loyalty is something that anyone would want in a team member. It makes Kyran a vital part of the Reapers. His loyalty will also be the thing that River needs most in her life as it makes a change that she never saw coming.

River has spent has entire life heeding the works of her family. She has always flown below the radar. Everything she does is to draw as little attention to herself as possible. The one thing she values most in her life and legacy has just been noticed by the Reapers and their enemy. She’ll have to make choices that will either save her already endangered life or put her in the center of the battle she heard stories of all her life.

Dark Alpha’s Embrace easily works as a stand-alone. The key events that occurred in Dark Alpha’s Claim are mentioned here in conversation with River. It’s done in a way that doesn't feel like an information dump or a rehash. The Dragons nor the Warriors and their various plights are not mentioned so this series appears to be moving into their own world.

[Emalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dark Alpha’s Embrace is the second book in the Reaper series and tells the story of Kyran, a Dark fae, and River, a librarian and fae descandant.

Originally I hoped this book would be about Eoghan, because I wanted him to get his story, but I am glad about how thing turned out. I wasn’t disappointed by Kyran’s story.

I liked both, him and River. Kyran, because he was one of the bad guys who decided to switch sides and River, because she kicks ass and she loved books. Their romance was sweet.

The story arc resolving around Bran continues and I can’t wait to see how it goes on. Also I really want to see more of Cael and Erith aka Death, they would make such a cute couple.

One thing I don’t really like about the books are the covers though. I can’t really say why, I just don’t like them.

Dark Alpha’s Embrace is a quick, entertaining read and can – at least in my opinion – be read as a standalone.

Rating: 3,5 stars

[Tanya Davis · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book for free from Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Dark Alpha's Embrace was a fun, quick read. River was a great heroine. She was a librarian, like, best job ever. But she also had a mission and stood strong to defend her family's legacy. I also love that we have another woman with the Reapers.

These Reapers seem to have major insta-love when their match appears. Reapers aren't supposed to fall in love, or have relationships, so finding the one puts their life on the line. However, I think Death has some internal emotional issues herself and those issues are making her a little more lenient when it comes to the Reapers.

I can't wait to come to a point where the Reapers are connected with the other Fae and Dragon Kings. I still feel like I really need to catch up on this series quickly since some of the events concerning the Fae and Kings were quite a few Dark King books back from where I am with that series. I also can't wait to see Death's walls break down and she allows herself a chance at love too.This review was originally posted on Rantings of a Reading Addict

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

An addictive, fast-paced paranormal romance with danger lurking at every turn!

Kyran was a Dark Fae, but that's not what she saw when she loo9ked at him. She saw a man who was devoted to his friends and his cause. She saw a man who was haunted by his past.
She saw a man who made her think of the future.

DARK ALPHA'S EMBRACE by Donna Grant is a daring and emotional second installment in the author' Reaper series. It is the story of dark fae reaper Kyran and half-fae River. River rates as one of my favorite heroines as she's a librarian with a special affinity for books. This series is connected to Donna's Dark Kings series.

The Reapers are light and dark fae warriors who have died and been recruited by Death to serve her in anonymously exacting karma within the fae world. In the first installment, we met a powerful ex-Reaper who was thought to be dead and who has vengeance against Death and her Reapers on his agenda. In this installment, the danger level exponentially rises. To make matters worse, something is happening with Death's powers potentially tilting the balance of power.

This book opens as the Reapers are searching for clues as to why their nemesis is so strong, why he is targeting the half-fae and what is happening with Death's powers. Their quest leads them to a library in Edinburgh which is purported to hold a selection of books from the set of thirty they require. Their task to retrieve the books is complicated as the Reapers come face-to-face with River, who defends the books as if they belong to her, utilizing impressive fighting skills to do so.

Both primary characters are engaging and realistic. River is feisty, determined and smart. Kyran is a tortured, intense entity. Both River and Kyran have very sad back stories. (Kleenex-time!) Neither were seeking a relationship. Even so, their relationship is passionate and steamy. They were great together - but, their relationship is doomed for a myriad of reasons.


Even though this is the second book in the series, DARK ALPHA'S EMBRACE could be enjoyed as a standalone if that is your preference as the romantic relationship is fully contained within this novel. The danger plot was introduced in the first book, but Donna seamlessly includes the necessary background from it so a new reader will not be lost. However, for full enjoyment, I would go back and read the first book first.

As with all of Donna's books, her writing is wonderfully imaginative and solidly plotted with touches of mystery and a scintillating romance. This tale had me holding my breath one minutes and swooning the next. Dangerous perils lurk at every turn of the page. Be aware that the epilogue will make you want the next book, DARK ALPHA'S DEMAND, ASAP! I know I can't wait to get my hands on it! I would recommend this series to anyone who enjoys addictive, fast-paced paranormal romances.

My full review is posted at Reading Between The Wines Book Club. Please check it out there: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...

4 out of 5 Wine Glasses!

[Sissy's Romance Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book two in the "Reaper" series. I have read book one 'Dark Alpha's Claim' but I total felt this was a standalone book. So if you haven't read book one yet it won't be a problem for you.
Kyran is a Reaper but also him and his friends are trying to save half-Fae who are being stalked and killed because they are half-blood. Which lead him and his friends to a historical library where they are looking for clues to help stop the hunters. There Kyran meets the librarian whose name is River and she is found to be half-Fae. River is very protective of the books she is guarding and fight them about taking the books. Kyran and his friends find that the books are in a language that they cannot understand and they go back for River to get her to help them. Along with them wanting to protect her since she will be in danger too. Kyran and River are attracted to one another rather quickly. River is also trying to hid from someone that has been killing her family and she knows they will be coming for her too. This starts their story of trying to over come past and future things so that they can be together. There is a small cliffhanger at the end but nothing really to do with them..just the issue/mystery that they all have been wanting to solve...its there to start the next book and love story. I enjoyed this book and hope that you will too.

[Marsha Keeper Bookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf

Dark Alpha’s Embrace takes the reader into a world where Death is not as we know it – and those who serve her are far from the Grim Reapers we’ve seen before. I found the universe created by Ms Grant to be fascinating and compelling. While there are a lot of characters in this series, they each have their own story to be the main focus of. The first novella in this series introduced us to them all and it was a full roster of people to remember.

Dark ALpha’s Embrace gives us the story of Kyran and River. One a Reaper serving Death, the other a half fae determined to save her family’s legacy through the books written in languages only she can translate. She, and the books have been hiding in plain sight – but everything is changing as their location is discovered and her knowledge needed… by good and evil.

I enjoyed Kyran and River’s story. This series is my first introduction to Donna Grant’s world. And while this series is obviously connected in some ways to her other series set in the same universe – I wasn’t completely lost. That alone keeps me reading the current series with plans to go back and discover the very beginnings of it all.

If you love a mysterious hero and a smart, sassy heroine plus a compelling and entertaining story then you’d enjoy Dark Alpha’s Embrace.

[Hannah · Rating 2 out of 5]

they fucked once and fell in love and got pregnant.

[Jacque · Rating 4 out of 5]

You got to love a book that feels like two in one because that’s exactly how Donna Grant’s Reaper series feels. Romance and intrigue rolled un in one enjoyable book.

First the romance. Kyran and River. Both have tragic backstories. Both are lonely. Both are fierce. River is no shrinking violet. She knows exactly what she is and is going to protect her books from all comers at any cost. Kyran as tough as he is, I think he is the more sensitive of the two. The instant attraction between them comes on quick in the book but it works and that’s all that counts. I had a bit of a giggle when Jordyn and River finally meet. Too smarties butting heads. And then River’s secret comes out. What a doozy!

The second storyline revolves around Death and what Bran is up to. Hmmm…still puzzling Bran out. I can see why he is so mad at Death and wants revenge. In a way, I kind of feel sorry for him and can understand why he wants his revenge especially when you see the current Reapers getting what he was denied and punished for. Death you are a bad girl! Things are beginning to get interesting as Death begins to lose her touch. Is it Bran’s doing or is there more going on than meets the eye?!

I see several people have eluded to the fact that the Reaper series is a spin-off from the Dark King Series. I haven’t read those books and so far, I’m not feeling slighted at all and not having done so. The Reapers series works very well on its own although having read the books somewhat out of order, I do recommend reading them in proper order. Not because of the romance but because of the anticipation to find out what Bran is up to and what is going to happen to Death.


I received this book from The JeepDiva with the express purpose of an honest review. The opinions, contents, and rating of this review are solely mine
Stars - 4, Flames - 3

[Sportochick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is written with such descriptive detail that it causes the reader to disappear into the pages of the story and only come out when it is over.

This second book of A Reaper Novel series does not disappoint the reader in fact it gets even better than book one, Dark Alpha's Claim, which in itself is an awesome read.

River, what a great name for the female main character and this quiet unassuming librarian will mess with all your preconceived ideas of what a librarian should look and act like. This is a very strong women and throughout the book you are shown more of her hidden strength. At some point in this story I decided I wanted to be just like her in my next life.

And let's not forget Kyran, the strong, dark, intense main male character your heart will break over because his story is that painful and sad. There were parts of this story that I just wanted to hold him and take away his pain especially when his full story comes out. As I read that part of the book it made me cry and still does just thinking about it. He makes you think of the word redemption and is it truly possible.

All I can say is you have to read the book and yeah you will need kleenex in this part of the book and a fan to cool yourself down from other parts of the book. I give this 5 STARS

An ARC copy was gifted in exchange for an honest opinion via Netgalley.

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[Eva Millien · Rating 5 out of 5]

Weakness is a word that Kyran as a Reaper for Death has no understanding of until he finds River White standing in the way of his mission and she crushes his defenses yet makes him stronger in this thrilling paranormal romance.

River knows just what the Fae are capable of and she has no intention of letting them win and the thrills immediately grab the reader’s attention as River not only stands in the way of the Reaper’s mission but the Dark’s as well. Anticipation and exhilaration builds continuously as Kyran persuades River to join forces with the Reapers which puts a bit of kink in the Dark’s plans which of course results in some exciting action and the relationship between River and Kyran is full of sizzling chemistry and emotional turmoil due to some unexpected twists from both of their pasts. These strong captivating characters easily draw readers into their story while the well written, fast paced and smooth flowing plot ensures that there is never a dull moment.

There was no way I could put this story down as there seemed to be important revelations on every page regarding not only River and Kyran but Death, Cael and others and I certainly didn’t want to miss a thing. With that being said I don’t really need to tell you that I can’t wait to find out what happens next in this thrilling battle…right?

[Ishabelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

As a second book in its series, Dark Alpha's Embrace continues on with the Reapers finding love, despite the seemingly impossible odds. I wasn't able to read the first book when it came out, but I did make it a point to look for that book before I read this second installment. To be honest, I think I liked the first book better. I guess it's because of the world-building and introduction that happened in that book. I got introduced to Death, the Reapers, and the main characters. I got the gist of what the series arc was going to be.

This book is a great continuation. Don't get me wrong. I love reading about the Reapers. However, I feel like the first book had all the orginiality that this book didn't have. The best part of this book is the main characters. Like any of Ms. Grant's books, she writes well-written characters that really reach out to the readers, making her audience love them and root for them. That aspect is ever present in this book.

All in all, even if I didn't like this as much as the first book, it still is a great, enjoyable read. It's a world I don't mind revisiting every now and then. I look forward to any book that comes next because I'm sure they will all be solid reads that I shouldn't miss.

[Trish R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome..

Yay! Another Reapers story!

I loved the first story and couldn’t wait for more. Loved Baylon and Jordyn’s story and I was hoping River and Kyran’s would be just as good. I love all the reapers: Cael, Talin, Eoghan (who doesn’t speak,) Dair (whose off following Rhi, of the Dragon Kings) and Fintan. Oh, Talin and his favorite word “vexed” was pretty funny, and irritated Kyran all to hell.

Love, love, love Erith (AKA Death.) She is just awesome. I wish she was in the books more than she is.

I like the desire that started right off the bat between Kyran and River, subtle on River’s part but not so much on Kyran’s. And I liked that River was a good fighter instead of standing behind Kyran and letting him protect her. I really hate a damsel in distress.

Battles, battles and more battles. The dark, and Bran, never stand a chance. I’ll be glad when someone kills that murderous piece if crapola!

I’m so happy that DG came up with this new series but they’re over with so soon. But then, these books could be 500 pages and they’d be too short, as far as I’m concerned.

And there were a few little swearwords but the F-BOMB was only used 7 times. Ok by me, but I know how some of you are.

[Kelly at · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review will be posted at www.books-n-kisses.com .

NUMBER OF HEARTS: 4
Dark Alpha’s Embrace picks up where we left off in Dark Alpha’s Claim. With the Reapers fighting an old enemy and learning how to cope with changes that they never thought would happen.
I enjoyed this second installment in the Reaper’s series. I love all the Reapers. They are so serious, loyal and fun!! I really enjoyed the addition of River to this series. It should be interesting to see how she copes with all the changes coming her way.
The end of this story reinforce my hate of a certain Light Fae. I can’t wait to see what happens next in this series. But I if I know Ms. Grant there will be much anxiety before the series is over.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley & St. Martin’s Press in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

[Debra Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark Alpha's Embrace is the second book in the latest paranormal series from Donna Grant. Her new Reaper Series is every bit as amazing as her other books and best of all there is an intricately woven tie in to the other series. As much I loved the first book, Dark Alpha's Claim, I think this one was an even more exciting read. I absolutely loved everything about it.

Kyran and River had an amazing connection and the trust that they had in each other was incredible. Of course, they both had some baggage to overcome and there was the inevitable drama and a few surprises thrown in to the plot. Things are changing for the Reaper family in this exciting series.

One thing that hasn't changed is the spectacular writing talent of Donna Grant. As usual, this book was an entertaining read from beginning to end. I can't wait to read the next Reaper novel.

[Donna Maguire · Rating 5 out of 5]

https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...

I actually read Dark Alpha's Embrace back in February this year but I have just realised that I didn't actually it my review online. Dark Alpha's Embrace is the second book in the Reaper series and it is a series that I am already loving!! This book is really well written and has Donna's usual flare for detail. I loved how the story within this book runs through that of the Dark Kings too and the characters can cross over being set in the same period. I do love the Dragon Kings but the Reapers definitely run a close second and are really growing on me. Donna has really has created some fantastic characters, particularly Erith, or Death. Loving the series and eagerly waiting for the next instalment!!

[Heather andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

River sometimes has an agenda of her own, at times that is not having her man stop, "when he tried to end the kiss, River refused to let him. He spun her, pushing her back against a wall of granite. His thick arousal pressed into her stomach. “I burn for you,” he rasped between fiery kisses." I really enjoyed this book, great start to a new series and I'm so anxious to see what happens next.

[☽｡⋆ Shells (jlreads_) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Idk, the plot and conflict seemed to be superficial and shallow like the book made it sound too easy?.

Aside from that, I couldn't feel any chemistry at all with the leads like the development is pretty not there. I'm not convinced with the romance.

I do enjoy the characters more though and find them pretty interesting and so far that's the thing that I liked about this series.

[Deannie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second in this spin-off of her Dark Swords and Dark King series. It's a must read and I can't wait for number 3.

Donna Grant is at her finest and I love her books! It's a must read!

This ARC was kindly provided by NetGalley for an hones review!

[Shawna · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars - Paranormal Romance

[OpenBookSociety.com · Rating 3 out of 5]

http://openbooksociety.com/article/da...

Dark Alpha’s Embrace
Reaper, Book #2
By Donna Grant
ISBN# 9781466883390
Author’s Website: http://www.donnagrant.com/
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Heidi

*Beware of Spoilers*

Things are definitely changing for the Reapers now that Death is allowing them to find love, if of course their love interest can prove themselves worthy to Death. Most of the Reapers are glad to see Baylon so happy with his woman, Jordyn, but not everyone feels that the women have a place with the Reapers, and that they are too much of a distraction and liability.

Despite all the happiness floating around, the Reapers still have a big problem to deal with. Bran is still on the loose plotting his revenge, and killing all the half-Fae he can find, and none of the Reapers can rest easy until he is dealt with.

Jordyn has found a list of 30 secret books that may have the secrets within their pages that can help in their quest. So, she sends Talin and Kyran to go steal them from the library. But the guys didn’t expect the frumpy librarian to be holed up in the room with the ancient texts, willing to fight them to keep the books safe. The men end up getting the books. They had good intentions of returning the books to River since she fought so hard for them, but it isn’t until they get the books home that they realize they are each written in a different dead Fae language that they can’t read. They end up going back to convince River to help them translate the books. Not only is River half-Fae, but her family has been hunted for generations by a Dark family, once she has a child, they will kill her too once that child is old enough to know all their family secrets. River has made it her mission to not pass her family’s curse down any further. She is determined not to have any children so it will end with her.

Sparks quickly fly between Kyran and River (as one would expect), and Kyran promises to stop the Dark from hunting her family. However, Kyran never expected to discover that it was his family that’s been hunting hers.

This was another enjoyable book in the Reaper series. I found that I liked the first installment, Dark Alpha’s Claim, better, but this one is still a good read. Although I found this one to be a bit more predictable, especially where River is concerned.

I liked Kyran quite a bit, and it was nice to read a story about a reformed Dark Fae. I could only imagine the guilt he’s lived with his whole life over what happened with his sister. I’m glad he finally has something good happening in his life again and that he was able to help River.

And, speaking of River, it was nice to see a female lead that could defend herself! She hasn’t lived all these years on her own without being able to take care of herself!

We get a little more info about Cael and Death’s attraction to one another. I can only imagine that this duo will end up together later on … maybe in the final book of the series. But knowing Donna Grant that may be quite some time from now as her series do tend to run a bit long!

Another enjoyable read and now on to the next one …