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The Dark Shadows #2.5
Phaelyn
The Dark Shadows were charged with the responsibility of protecting the vampire nation. Going after the kidnapped vampire royal guard was all in a day’s work.
Idris Lafayette waited inside of his prison cell for the Dark Shadows to come for him. Idris knew that they would be relentless in their quest to find him. No vampire left behind. Through all of the torture and experiments the necromancers put him through he refused to break. He held onto a small shred of hope. Hope that he would be rescued, hope that the Shadows would tear through the necro’s hidden underground lair and kill them all. He yearned to get at least one last glimpse of her.
As the lone female Dark Shadow member, Phaelyn Otvos was used to being singled out. She was one of the deadliest females to ever hold a sword. Enemies underestimated her, while potential lovers were intimidated by her. Her latest assignment—retrieve the missing vampire guard. The one person who captured her heart years ago was now her mission. Thrown together in the midst of the war between vampire and necromancers, will Phaelyn and Idris recognize that they were meant for each other?
Idris Lafayette waited inside of his prison cell for the Dark Shadows to come for him. Idris knew that they would be relentless in their quest to find him. No vampire left behind. Through all of the torture and experiments the necromancers put him through he refused to break. He held onto a small shred of hope. Hope that he would be rescued, hope that the Shadows would tear through the necro’s hidden underground lair and kill them all. He yearned to get at least one last glimpse of her.
As the lone female Dark Shadow member, Phaelyn Otvos was used to being singled out. She was one of the deadliest females to ever hold a sword. Enemies underestimated her, while potential lovers were intimidated by her. Her latest assignment—retrieve the missing vampire guard. The one person who captured her heart years ago was now her mission. Thrown together in the midst of the war between vampire and necromancers, will Phaelyn and Idris recognize that they were meant for each other?
83 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 4, 2016
15 people are currently reading
206 people want to read
About the author
Ariel Marie
72 books1,541 followersCleveland-born and raised, Ariel Marie has been delighting readers for over a decade with her signature blend of pulse-pounding action, steamy romance, and paranormal thrills. From shifters and vampires to fae and witches, she spins worlds where supernatural forces collide with intense emotion—and readers can't get enough.
Many of Ariel’s devoted fans appreciate her ability to transport them into richly imagined worlds, returning again and again to the characters they love. She’s proud to be an indie author, cherishing the freedom to deliver stories on her terms—and it shows in the passion behind every page.
When she’s not writing, you’ll find Ariel curled up planning her next novel—often inspired by a lifelong love of storytelling.
Many of Ariel’s devoted fans appreciate her ability to transport them into richly imagined worlds, returning again and again to the characters they love. She’s proud to be an indie author, cherishing the freedom to deliver stories on her terms—and it shows in the passion behind every page.
When she’s not writing, you’ll find Ariel curled up planning her next novel—often inspired by a lifelong love of storytelling.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
June 6, 2016
4.5 from this reader. This is a pretty quick read. Although story wise it doesnt feel that way. This is part of a series, but I never felt lost. Nor does the author spend half the book rehashing other books. I really enjoyed the style and flow of both the words and characters.I cannot speak for the stories before this one as I havent had the pleasure of reading them YET, but this book has a finale. And has a back story that is what brings in the series.
This is the continuing story of the Dark Shadows and the Vampire family and the dangers and such they face. In this book we learned about Phaelyn, the only female Shadow Shadow. And she is LETHAL. We learn the how, why and when she became what she is now. And follow her through a small part of her life. Including finding her MATE and WOW! What a finding.....
This is the continuing story of the Dark Shadows and the Vampire family and the dangers and such they face. In this book we learned about Phaelyn, the only female Shadow Shadow. And she is LETHAL. We learn the how, why and when she became what she is now. And follow her through a small part of her life. Including finding her MATE and WOW! What a finding.....
June 4, 2016
The only reason this is only 4 stars is because it's just a short story.
Phaelyn is the only female warrior in the Dark Shadows. She is a turned vampire and a friend to the princess. She has always felt that she has to work harder to prove herself than the males. This next mission is to rescue one of the royal guard who is being held by the necromancers.
Idris failed in his mission to protect the human friend of the royal family. He will not tell his captors anything. He knows the Dark Shadows will come for him.
A short story from the series that must be read in order. It is jam packed with danger, excitement and joins together two lovely characters. A very good addition to the series.
Phaelyn is the only female warrior in the Dark Shadows. She is a turned vampire and a friend to the princess. She has always felt that she has to work harder to prove herself than the males. This next mission is to rescue one of the royal guard who is being held by the necromancers.
Idris failed in his mission to protect the human friend of the royal family. He will not tell his captors anything. He knows the Dark Shadows will come for him.
A short story from the series that must be read in order. It is jam packed with danger, excitement and joins together two lovely characters. A very good addition to the series.
June 5, 2016
Wow
Phaelyn and Idris just wow, nice quick read to fill in what happened between book 2 and 3. Steamy read, loved every second of it.
Phaelyn and Idris just wow, nice quick read to fill in what happened between book 2 and 3. Steamy read, loved every second of it.
June 4, 2016
Short & Sweet! (Okay, there was fighting too!) LOL!
We found Idris!
I was truly bugged at the end of Toma, when I couldn’t remember what happened to Idris. I even went back and re-read through the fight sequence twice! Good to see him…but as a hostage…not so much. But the Olarus are an honorable family, and never gave up searching for Idris. Says a lot about their character…and his. I also loved that Idris KNEW they would come for him – he just had to hold on.
Enjoyed the opening sequence, detailing how Phaelyn came to be a made vampire. Gave more depth to her, and explained not only why she’d never again be a victim, but her motivation to excel as a Shadow warrior. Would have enjoyed some of the same for Idris, but not having it didn’t detract from the story.
It was a bit surprising to find that while both Idris and Phaelyn were pledged to the Royal Family, they actually had little contact with each other. Explains some of their hesitancy and unfounded doubts.
This author has a knack for writing villains I truly loathe! Like Xalak before him, Zoreal made me wish I could kill him myself! LOL! The description of Idris after his last “session” with Zoreal was it for me – he had to go!
Good team effort out in the woods. Shadow warriors will not be deterred…no matter how many versi there are!
It was also refreshing to see Idris and Phaelyn not go through endless, unnecessary denial about being mates, being together, blah, blah, blah. They both knew that despite being vampires, time was still a gift.
Good to see those around the Royal Family also find their fated mates.
Loved this surprise installment in the Dark Shadows series, and definitely recommend it!
Enjoy!
We found Idris!
I was truly bugged at the end of Toma, when I couldn’t remember what happened to Idris. I even went back and re-read through the fight sequence twice! Good to see him…but as a hostage…not so much. But the Olarus are an honorable family, and never gave up searching for Idris. Says a lot about their character…and his. I also loved that Idris KNEW they would come for him – he just had to hold on.
Enjoyed the opening sequence, detailing how Phaelyn came to be a made vampire. Gave more depth to her, and explained not only why she’d never again be a victim, but her motivation to excel as a Shadow warrior. Would have enjoyed some of the same for Idris, but not having it didn’t detract from the story.
It was a bit surprising to find that while both Idris and Phaelyn were pledged to the Royal Family, they actually had little contact with each other. Explains some of their hesitancy and unfounded doubts.
This author has a knack for writing villains I truly loathe! Like Xalak before him, Zoreal made me wish I could kill him myself! LOL! The description of Idris after his last “session” with Zoreal was it for me – he had to go!
Good team effort out in the woods. Shadow warriors will not be deterred…no matter how many versi there are!
It was also refreshing to see Idris and Phaelyn not go through endless, unnecessary denial about being mates, being together, blah, blah, blah. They both knew that despite being vampires, time was still a gift.
Good to see those around the Royal Family also find their fated mates.
Loved this surprise installment in the Dark Shadows series, and definitely recommend it!
Enjoy!
June 26, 2016
This is part of Ariel's Dark Shadows series. Its a 2.5 so its shorter than others. It was actually released the same day as Teague. Not exactly sure why but I have to assume its because it was short and perhaps she didnt wanna disappoint her readers too much. This is a story about Royal Guard vampire Idris who was kidnapped along with Anika in book 2 and Phaelyn who is a Dark Shadow warrior. She's fought really hard to get where she is. The only female warrior. She's tough and independent and can kick some butt. Both Idris and Phaelyn have had sort of a thing for each other. They've never really spoken or been alone by themselves to get to know one another. Its action packed and its a rescue operation and she saves him. Its very fast and they admit their feelings and bond. Now, although I enjoyed the book...I sorta felt Idris and Phaelyn should have gotten a better book. A better look at these 2 characters and their romance because there really wasn't a romance or getting to know you. Thats my only issue. They are briefly mentioned in the first 2 books and thats pretty much it.
June 5, 2016
I received an ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
This was a nice, quick read. It was my first introduction to Marie's Dark Shadows series, and as such, there is a lot of backstory that I've missed out on. I don't usually read vampire books, but I found this one interesting. I like the kick butt heroine, and the adversaries aren't what I expected either. The downside is that because the story is so short, we really don't get a complete picture of our two protagonists, Phaelyn and Idris. I would have loved to see both of them shine a bit more in a longer story. I didn't feel like I got enough of either of them to get to know them. Perhaps they're discussed more in the other stories, but perhaps they're more supporting characters in those books. The story was engaging, and I found myself wanting to go back and read the first two books as well. Looks like I'm adding to my to-be-read list.
This was a nice, quick read. It was my first introduction to Marie's Dark Shadows series, and as such, there is a lot of backstory that I've missed out on. I don't usually read vampire books, but I found this one interesting. I like the kick butt heroine, and the adversaries aren't what I expected either. The downside is that because the story is so short, we really don't get a complete picture of our two protagonists, Phaelyn and Idris. I would have loved to see both of them shine a bit more in a longer story. I didn't feel like I got enough of either of them to get to know them. Perhaps they're discussed more in the other stories, but perhaps they're more supporting characters in those books. The story was engaging, and I found myself wanting to go back and read the first two books as well. Looks like I'm adding to my to-be-read list.
May 23, 2016
I love this series and this novella certainly delivers the same strength and storyline of a full book.
Many years ago, Phaelyn was human and friends with Nadira Olaru in Romania. Attacked and left for dead, Nadira turned Phaelyn and gave her a second life.
Phaelyn is a Shadow and fights to protect the royal family. Idris is a fellow Shadow whom Phaelyn has feelings for. Upon his capture and torture by the necromancers, both Idris and Phaelyn have come to terms with the other being their fated mate.
This novella captures their story as the vampire kingdom continues their fight against the necromancers.
Many years ago, Phaelyn was human and friends with Nadira Olaru in Romania. Attacked and left for dead, Nadira turned Phaelyn and gave her a second life.
Phaelyn is a Shadow and fights to protect the royal family. Idris is a fellow Shadow whom Phaelyn has feelings for. Upon his capture and torture by the necromancers, both Idris and Phaelyn have come to terms with the other being their fated mate.
This novella captures their story as the vampire kingdom continues their fight against the necromancers.
October 29, 2016
Another amazing book by Ariel! This is Phaelyn's story. In Toma when Anika and Idris were taken, Anika was rescued but Idris was still in the Necromancers possession. So when Phaelyn is tasked by Nicu to help in the rescue of Idris she's ready. See she secretly has a thing for Idris and he her. But will she and the other Shadows be able to save him before Zoreal finishes him off? If Phaelyn or Idris die before letting each other know how they feel for one another it would be devastating. Loved this short story and can't wait to find out what happens next with this war between the Vampires and the Necromancers.
June 7, 2016
A great short story that gives us Phaelyn and Idris's story. After being captured by the necromancers and being tortured daily, Idris waits patiently for the Dark Shadows to rescue him. He sits in his cell with his mind only on one thing... Phaelyn. He knows without a doubt that he will be reached by her and her team.
I loved seeing the point of view of the only female Shadow member. She is as strong as the others. She will stop.at nothing to rescue the man she can't stop thinking of.
Even though this is a short read, it packs quite a punch. Usually it's hard to get in a full storyline in such a short book, but Ariel always nails it.
I loved seeing the point of view of the only female Shadow member. She is as strong as the others. She will stop.at nothing to rescue the man she can't stop thinking of.
Even though this is a short read, it packs quite a punch. Usually it's hard to get in a full storyline in such a short book, but Ariel always nails it.
May 20, 2016
Love this series and this novella about Phaelyn does not disappoint. Ariel does a great job of having you like her characters more and more with every book released in this series. This book picks up where book 2 Toma left off and gives you a lead into book 3 Teague. Phaelyn's story has a little bit of everything you have come to expect with this series suspense, steam and action. Can't wait to start Teague!!
May 23, 2016
There is absolutely nothing more sexier than a strong, independent woman and Phaelyn fits that description. Never one to back away from a challenge, she fights with no mercy and will not give up not even on her mate! Ariel never disappoints me and this was no exception. I was left wanting more of Phaelyn and Idris.
June 6, 2016
Ahh. What to say about the dark mysterious life of a vampire. In this novel we learn about Phaelyn's life, how she was turned and her job with the Shadows. We follow along as she rescues Idris. And also learns that he is the love of her life.
A little action and a lot of love. Enjoy the happiness of these two vampires.
A little action and a lot of love. Enjoy the happiness of these two vampires.
June 4, 2016
I'm loving this series, even though this is a short story it's still just as good as the others.Being the only female Shadow fighter I was instantly curious about Phaelyn and her story. I was excited to learn that her story was being made and it didn't disappoint. Who doesn't love a woman surrounded by men who can hold her own in a fight,hot hot hot.
June 7, 2016
Great story that let's you get to know Phaelyn and Idris. Their bond. ♡ I really enjoyed reading this! And being able to read it as a stand alone was a bonus. I can't wait to delve into the other books! Great writing, flow, description and character development. Short read that let's you get to know some of the characters in the other books. Who doesn't love Vampires and Necromancers.
July 16, 2016
What can I say other than I love this author . Every book I've read I have loved . This story wasn't as hot as the others but that didn't matter it was still a great love story with belivably worded sex and violence . What I love just as much as the stories are the covers to these books . I absolutely love being able to look at the cover anytime I have trouble picturing the main character .
May 28, 2016
This is the first book I read by Ariel. It was a great book and it gave me some insight into Phaelyn and Idris. I cannot wait to read the next one to find out more about the war with the Necromancers and the Vampires and to find out what happens next with Phaelyn and Idris. Great book.
July 23, 2017
Short But, Excellent!
This story was short as I finished it in an hour but it was excellent.
Phaelyn & Idris have worked together for a long time but, mooned over each other from afar; until his capture by the necromancers. When the Shadow Tram finally locates him after many days of torture Phaelyn is the one to find him & take him to somewhere safe until the rest of the team could get to them.
The place was an abandoned cabin in the woods; while there Phaelyn & Idris realized that the were each other's mate & bonded to each other right away.
When they decided that Idris would come & live with her & Idris saw her condo he was startled because of a "dream" he had that ended with her death by the hands of the necromancer, Zoreal who had tortured him. But, as you will read at the end of this book that the real life ending to his dream is much better.
This book was short but excellent & I will be reading some more of the books in this series.
This story was short as I finished it in an hour but it was excellent.
Phaelyn & Idris have worked together for a long time but, mooned over each other from afar; until his capture by the necromancers. When the Shadow Tram finally locates him after many days of torture Phaelyn is the one to find him & take him to somewhere safe until the rest of the team could get to them.
The place was an abandoned cabin in the woods; while there Phaelyn & Idris realized that the were each other's mate & bonded to each other right away.
When they decided that Idris would come & live with her & Idris saw her condo he was startled because of a "dream" he had that ended with her death by the hands of the necromancer, Zoreal who had tortured him. But, as you will read at the end of this book that the real life ending to his dream is much better.
This book was short but excellent & I will be reading some more of the books in this series.
May 24, 2017
This is it just a short book about one of the Warriors the shadow Warriors because she is mentioned in another book has found her mate. When her mate is kidnapped when he's trying to save the princesses friend she doesn't realize he's her mate but she thinks about him a lot he's been a royal guard for centuries. When they do a mission to go and rescue him he's being tortured And she helps and escape to a cabin in the woods. He's weak with blood loss from being tortured and starved. When she offered him her blood he knows that he's found his faded made after he takes her blood she knows that she has to have him. The book with cute short into the point think I've read the mall now except the one which is the last one sad to see them in
July 13, 2017
Beautiful and Deadly
Phaelyn book 2.5 of The Dark Shadows series by Ariel Marie is a wonderful novella. It's Phaelyn and Idris' story. It's about fate, brutality, friendship, loyalty, devotion and love. This novella is a great book to read when you have a break and want to get away. It's a standalone within a series. While you don't have to read the books before it I recommended that you do so you grasp the impact of the storyline. It doesn't end with a cliffhanger and it has a HEA. Teague's story is next and I can't wait to read it.
Phaelyn book 2.5 of The Dark Shadows series by Ariel Marie is a wonderful novella. It's Phaelyn and Idris' story. It's about fate, brutality, friendship, loyalty, devotion and love. This novella is a great book to read when you have a break and want to get away. It's a standalone within a series. While you don't have to read the books before it I recommended that you do so you grasp the impact of the storyline. It doesn't end with a cliffhanger and it has a HEA. Teague's story is next and I can't wait to read it.
May 6, 2017
Good book
Gave this book 4 stars. Wish it was longer but it was still a good book to read. About to read the next book in this series. Would recommend this book to mature adult 18+.👍👍
Gave this book 4 stars. Wish it was longer but it was still a good book to read. About to read the next book in this series. Would recommend this book to mature adult 18+.👍👍
April 6, 2019
The perfect rescue
Short but sweet. The only reason for 4 stars is i wanted it a little longer. Maybe a little of Idris's background.
Short but sweet. The only reason for 4 stars is i wanted it a little longer. Maybe a little of Idris's background.
June 4, 2016
Phaelyn is the only female in the Dark Shadows. She was once a human and was turned by her friend Nadira, the vampire princess, after being attacked by a rogue vampire in the woods outside her childhood home.
Idris is one of the royal guards. He was charged with keeping Watch over Anika, Nadira’s best friend and Toma’s fated mate, but he failed and they both ended up being taken by the necromancers. He knows it’s only a matter of time before the Dark Shadows find where they are hiding him.
Phaelyn is on the team sent to free Idris. When things don’t go quite as planned, they find themselves alone in a cabin for the night. Will they finally admit to the feelings they both have for each other?
This was a nice short read! It tied up some of the loose ends from Toma and Anikas story and also gives you a look into how Phaelyn came to be the only female in the Dark Shadows. Both Phaelyn and Idris are strong alpha characters. Idris has always had feelings for her but never acted on them. It wasn’t until they were alone that they realized that it was maybe more. There are a few dark moments in this book when Zoreal, the necromancer who tortured Idris, couldn’t handle losing and decides he needs some revenge. But don’t worry, there is plenty of HOTNESS to balance things out. It is another great book to continue this series.
June 9, 2016
Spunky n Sassy Rating: 5.0
~~~~~~~~~~Dee's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Ariel never fails to entertain us when she lights up the dark shadows of the vampire world to us. This is a short story jam packed with exciting action, tense, dark situations and loving moments when two fated hearts find each other. Phaelyn is a warrior of the Dark Shadows, an elite fighting team of the Royal Vampire family. This story illustrates the exciting rescue of a captured and tortured palace guard, Idris, from the Necromancers, the fierce, deadly enemies of the Vampire Nation. Idris has long admired Phaelyn from afar and now he has his chance to reveal his love for her. Great continuation of the Dark Shadows unfolding story. Five stars.
~~~~~~~~~~Dee's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Ariel never fails to entertain us when she lights up the dark shadows of the vampire world to us. This is a short story jam packed with exciting action, tense, dark situations and loving moments when two fated hearts find each other. Phaelyn is a warrior of the Dark Shadows, an elite fighting team of the Royal Vampire family. This story illustrates the exciting rescue of a captured and tortured palace guard, Idris, from the Necromancers, the fierce, deadly enemies of the Vampire Nation. Idris has long admired Phaelyn from afar and now he has his chance to reveal his love for her. Great continuation of the Dark Shadows unfolding story. Five stars.
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June 18, 2016This story is far too short... I want more!
Phaelyn is a great addition to the Dark Shadows series, but I have one small problem with it... It seems too short. As part of a series of books that have been much longer, this novella is still an amazing addition to the series, but it left me wanting to know so much more about the two main characters.
Ariel Marie continues to build on the history and characters already in place, and still manages to bring surprises to the series. While each of the books is a standalone story, I highly recommend reading them in order, because there is a story thread that continues throughout.
Phaelyn is a great addition to the Dark Shadows series, but I have one small problem with it... It seems too short. As part of a series of books that have been much longer, this novella is still an amazing addition to the series, but it left me wanting to know so much more about the two main characters.
Ariel Marie continues to build on the history and characters already in place, and still manages to bring surprises to the series. While each of the books is a standalone story, I highly recommend reading them in order, because there is a story thread that continues throughout.
May 24, 2016
I love this series! A must read for all paranormal readers.
Even though Phaelyn is a short story it packs a punch. Ariel gives a look into Phaelyn's life past and present. You can't help but love the characters in the story as well as despise the Necromancers. If your are looking for suspense, action, love, and some steamy romance look no further. This short story is for you. I can wait to read Teague.
I want to Thank Ariel Marie for all the hard work she does to provide such great reads.
I was given this book in a giveaway in exchange for my honest review.
Even though Phaelyn is a short story it packs a punch. Ariel gives a look into Phaelyn's life past and present. You can't help but love the characters in the story as well as despise the Necromancers. If your are looking for suspense, action, love, and some steamy romance look no further. This short story is for you. I can wait to read Teague.
I want to Thank Ariel Marie for all the hard work she does to provide such great reads.
I was given this book in a giveaway in exchange for my honest review.
June 4, 2016
I received an ARC for an honest review and let me tell you that it was a short story but a great one. I won't say much because I will spoil it but I totally and honestly recommend this book especially if you are to continue with series.
June 6, 2016
I must say that this is one of my favorite series' as each book tells us a new story that captivates and ensnares all of your senses. the author's writing style always leave you desiring more and her characters are beautiful and strong. Five stars for this book.
May 23, 2016
Short and sweet. It was a little too short for my liking but it was an enjoyable fast read that will make you smile not to mention you could finish it on your lunch break!
I look forward to hearing the other characters stories.
I received a copy in exchange for a review.
I look forward to hearing the other characters stories.
I received a copy in exchange for a review.
December 9, 2016
Phaelyn is bad ass
A definite five star rating the fighting and love between this family and loves will make your heart melt. A forever mate is just what you need to read about. I cant wait to read the next Dark Shadows book.
A definite five star rating the fighting and love between this family and loves will make your heart melt. A forever mate is just what you need to read about. I cant wait to read the next Dark Shadows book.
June 4, 2016
Great
I liked the ending and I can't wait to read her next book. I love the bad ass warrior and strong bodyguard. Recommended to anyone who likes paranormal romance.
I liked the ending and I can't wait to read her next book. I love the bad ass warrior and strong bodyguard. Recommended to anyone who likes paranormal romance.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews