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Adrian Olaru, vampire prince and Dark Shadow warrior, had everything; wealth, willing donors, a close-knit family and a job he loved. He had received his orders from his commander. Capture a rogue vampire in order for the Dark Shadows to infiltrate the necromancer regime. But a set of curvy hips and big brown eyes filled his thoughts, creating a distraction.

Left alone in the cruel dark world, Angelina Sanz was more determine to live life to the fullest. She would make the best of her situation. Fate had taken everything from her, but now, it seemed as if fate was ready to repay her— in the form of a sexy vampire prince.

The necromancers have plans to destroy the Dark Shadows and those plans include Angelina. Will Adrian be able to save the one person who was meant to spend an eternity with him?

306 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 1, 2016

17 people are currently reading
126 people want to read

About the author

Ariel Marie

72 books1,544 followers
Cleveland-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.

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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
Profile Image for Tina.
824 reviews23 followers
October 1, 2016
Ariel strikes again with all that fantastic vampire goodness you just want to sink your teeth into? The guys are alpha as they come and Adrian was no exception. He wasted no time figuring out Angel was his mate. Cue the damn necromancer and rogues. They always have to cause a problem for the Dark Shadows team. I loved this book and I believe you will too.
Profile Image for Jennifer Ellis.
397 reviews
October 5, 2016
Adrian by Ariel Marie is the 4th book in the Dark Shadows series but can be read as a standalone book.

Adrian is the second in line to be king of the vampires. He is also a member of the Dark Shadows along with his brothers. He is sent on a mission to observe a Rogue at a night club, but all he can seem to watch is he waitress, Angel.

Angel was made a vampire against her will. She was taught to be a vampire by the rogues who told her that the Dark Shadow were out to kill all the rogues and any turned vampires associated with them. She knew the rogue life was not for her so she escaped and is now making her own way.

Adrian realizes Angel is his fated mate after rescuing her from the rogue he was sent watch. Little did they know they would uncover the most sinister plot of the necromancers yet.

This was another great book by Ariel Marie. Like the other books in this series she doesn’t disappoint. I like how the insta love is tempered by their situation and isn’t exactly sunshine and roses. The love scenes were totally HOT as well.

I kept wondering how Adrian and Angel were going to get through the challenges they were facing.

This book caught my interest from the beginning and kept me going the whole way through. You will not be disappointed.
Profile Image for Candy76.
702 reviews25 followers
September 23, 2016
Oh my loved it!! Adrian a prince sent to find someone finds a female instead. Angelina (Angel) is a waitress at Temptress and she meets Adrian and has feelings welling inside of her that she's never felt before. Little does she know that Adrian feels the same. Will these two hook up or will Angel's insecurities keep her from finding love? A prince and a waitress........
Ariel this is the first I've read of the series and will be reading the rest..soon. You did a great job with writing and happy to say in the format of both POV. You had me laugh and cry and that's what makes a good author, if you can drag me in and feel the characters then you have a accomplished a great read.
*** Reviewed for Sweet and Spicy Reads, ARC provided in return for honest Review***
Adrian (The Dark Shadows 4) by Ariel Marie
Profile Image for Suszet Roberts.
379 reviews1 follower
October 2, 2016
Exceptional

This was a long anticipated book and I must say the author did not disappoint. I read it twice it was that good. Adrian and Angel were meant for each other. I cried when Adrian had to make rhe ultimate sacrifice, this book should the depth of fighting between to enemies, I enjoyed how the author gave a brief back description of the previous couples who played a part in the overall series. At one point I so wanted to hit Nicu, but I could see where he was coming from. After all that Angel had endured in her short life as a vampire, I was routing for her to overcome all and have her happily ever after. Both her and Adrian deserve it. Can't wait to read the continuation of the series, the author was brilliant with incorporating Nicu to give the reader a sense of what happens next. This book contains a cliffhanger and I'm waiting to see the conclusion of a brilliant and well written series
Profile Image for Spunky N Sassy.
5,418 reviews119 followers
October 1, 2016
Spunky N Sassy Rating: 5.0

~~~~~~~~~~Dee's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~

The war between the Dark Shadows, defenders of the innocents and the rogue vampires controlled by the Necromancers, a mystical force of malignancy continue in this ongoing saga of good versus evil. In this installment, we see Prince Adrian, second in line to the vampire throne, meet his fated mate, Angelina, a turned vampire alone in the world. But all is not unicorns and rainbows. Angel has been targeted by the leader of the rogue army to bring down the Olaru Royal Family. If you have been following along in this series, you know you are in for a fantastic entertainment of romance, mystery, gut wrenching action and seemingly impossible situations. The suspense level is high and one is mesmerized from the beginning and remains enthralled to the last page. Think of your sweetest desert. This series is ten times sweeter! Five Golden Stars!
Profile Image for Brenda.
794 reviews3 followers
November 12, 2016
Fantastic read! I received an arc for an honest review. I couldn't put book down unless I had to but I didn't want to. I really enjoyed reading about Adrian and Angel. It is a fast paced and action with hot scenes... loved it! If you have been keeping up with the series you know whats going on. Who the necromancers are and what they want to do. In book 4 you will find out how they will try to over power by starting a war with the Olaru's. That is where Angel comes in. She was not born a vampire..... Angel and Adrian fall for each other quick but fate has something in store for them. will they be able to over come it? hmmmm.... well, you gotta get this baby to find out. I honestly recommend it if you enjoy reading paranormal, romance, and action. I can't wait to read more on the Olaru Royal Family with the big brother Nicu. Yep there was a cliffhanger. Buahahaha.
Profile Image for Karlee.
521 reviews
October 29, 2016
Adrian has been given orders by his brother Nicu to find a specific rogue so they can learn the hiding place of the rogue army and the necromancers. But when Adrian meets waitress Angel, he gets distracted and fails at the job at hand. Realizing this is his mate, he saves her from the rogue when he tries to capture the following night. But as they learn from the now captured rogue, the necromancers have a secret up their sleeve and Angel is right in the middle of it. Can Adrian and the Shadows protect his mate or will it be too late? Loving this series! Can't wait to find out what happens next in this war between the Vampires and the Necromancers/Rogues.
Profile Image for Raina.
4,212 reviews34 followers
September 21, 2016
The fight between vampires and the rogues and necromancers continues on. Adrian, the second in line to the thrown is working with the other shadows to find out what the rogues are up to. Angel is a turned vampire that just tries to make it one day at a time. She works at a club that Adrian is visiting. Their first meeting wasn't the best but neither can forget the other.

The vampire romance has some steamy scenes and some violence. I highly recommend for PNR readers.

Received ARC from author for an honest review.
Profile Image for Ivette Pacheco.
205 reviews2 followers
September 23, 2016
Holly S***, can this series get any better???
I'm such a sucker for the Olaru's since book one, and Ariel's stories in general, OMG these are some fierce HOT male vampires and she didn't let me down with Adrian's story and his Little Angel!!!


P.S.: I'm a fan of The King and Queen, gosh I seriously love them.
Profile Image for Janiky.
29 reviews5 followers
September 27, 2016
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC for an honest review

This is the fourth book in the Dark Shadow Series, and that means it’s Adrian’s story. Adrian is the second oldest prince in the vampire kingdom. He is sent on a mission to find and bring in a Rogue vampire, which leads him to a club where vampires and human mingle. On his watch, he comes across a very hot Latina vampire. With only one look he is attracted to her, and he wants a taste, but she is not like other vampires.

“Have you looked your fill, or do you need me to turn around so you can see what my ass looks like?”

Angel has been through a lot in her life and she doesn’t need the prince on her plate either. She just wants to work and stay in the shadows, but this prince hasn’t taken his eyes off her. His stare does something to her and she can’t keep her eyes off on him for too long either. Yet because of him being distracted, his mission has become more complex and soon these two are brought on the same path again. However, Angel wants nothing to do with him and Adrian wants to consume her body and soul.

I have been reading Ariel’s story every time they come out, and I have to say I like Adrian very much. He knew what he wanted and didn’t waste anytime unlike his siblings (they have to learn from him lol). Angel’s story is so messed up that I felt kind of bad for her like she was just an innocent and that one moment changed her whole life. Overall, their story is hot, and passionate with the “hot and cold”. I’m going to give this story 4.5/ 5 simply because I feel like the ending was left with a lot of questions. The other endings in the series have that end feeling like yeah there is more to the story, but you know that for now, everything is good. But this ending has you wanting to know now! Otherwise, this story was a great continuation of the series, truly recommend for my paranormal lovers.
Profile Image for Felicia.
Author 5 books104 followers
October 1, 2016
Finding fated mates is always a shock, and takes some thought, explanations, and time. Whatever. Adrian Olaru threw all of that out the window and claimed his mate. YES! There would be time to think about it…later.

Angelina Sanz was on board one hundred per cent, although her issues with low self-esteem got to be a bit annoying. I give her credit though, for being a survivor. Despite all she’d been through before being turned and after, she was still standing. I understand why the rogues looked down on her…because her nature was different from theirs, but what was up with Vivian and that, “She’s a nobody” line? She gets a virtual smack in the back of the head for that.

I’ve been with this series from the beginning and I know the characters and their backstories. That being said, the story bogged down in spots for me and seemed redundant – going over backstory points several times. (How many times do we need to know Bella’s (Teague’s mate) a demigoddess?) Even the ‘sneak peek’ into Nicu’s story is the backstory of the vampire/necromancer centuries old war. Perhaps the author wants each book to stand on its on outside of the series, so includes backstories in each volume to flesh out the current story. *Shrugs*

Always good to see other members of the Shadows and the royal family. While they’ve taken on the responsibility of keeping the vampire nation safe, this close knit group still has each other’s back when it comes to protecting their mates and never leaving a vampire behind. I’m definitely on #TeamAlin! The Queen seems to be a woman for all situations. Warm and ready with wise counsel when needed, and out for blood when you get on her bad side…which the necromancers have done…again. She’s ready to end it once and for all – and I’m ready for Nicu’s story!

Another good installment to the Dark Shadow series.

Enjoy!
Profile Image for Melissa Khang.
344 reviews3 followers
May 2, 2021
Adrian is sexy and alluring from the beginning to the end. The story tells of his sweet nature and protective streak towards his mate and how every girl wishes their relationship is close to that. The plot is somewhat expectant but the twist that happens to Nicu isn't really foretold; which is interesting. I like the relationship between Adrian and Angel because it's so sincere. Angel's outlook on her life and status is similar to most girls and it makes us have a connection to the story. There is a lot of summarization in the story and this can be read as a standalone without reading the other stories in order. I think it would be a bit more exciting and powerful if there were to be less summarization so that the books would have to be read in order so that it keeps the readers more engaged. Other than that, I would recommend others to read Ariel's amazing series so far!
Profile Image for Timothy Bateson.
Author 4 books55 followers
October 4, 2016
Ariel Marie continues to provide a setting full of surprises, with characters and plots that draw the reader into her world.
The Dark Shades series continues as Adrian Oluru is sent to a nightclub for vampires, in order to see if a rogue makes an appearance. What happens while he is there will change his life forever.
For me, this has been one of the most anticipated releases in the series, because I always thought that Adrian's story was going to be one of the more interesting ones, based on the personality traits shown in previous books. I wasn't disappointed. The way the author ties together the characters in this series is nothing short of fascinating, and it's the little details that make them so interesting.
I'm not normally a romance reader, but there is more than enough action in these books to keep me coming back for more.
Profile Image for Clarissa Boggs.
646 reviews1 follower
October 1, 2016
Adrian..... OH my Lordy, that one is a slice of hotness.I couldn't get enough of him and reading about when he first meets Angel. A spitfire at first but quickly thinks herself not good enough to be near the prince. A fighter and survivor of many things,you instantly want this girl to be your friend and find her happiness .I love these books, this family just becomes total different people upon meeting their mates and for the better if you ask me. This has some hot and steamy scenes and I loved every word of it. FIVE STAR READ
Profile Image for Ani.
256 reviews5 followers
September 30, 2016
I have been given this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Oh my word! Not only has this book extended an already amazing story but made me want even more. From the beginning everything moves quickly but you find yourself hurting for Angel and pining with Adrian. By the end of the story I wanted to know more about the King and Queen and their story but I am thirsting for Nicu's story.

Beautiful balance of angst and action for me. A recommend read but definitely start with Princess and work your way through. You cannot help but want to be closer to this family.

#5STAR

#AbFabAni
Profile Image for Chell.
144 reviews
September 27, 2016
Another 5 stars for the 5th book in this amazing series !! I can not get enough!!! I love that this story picked up so fast . Adrian knows what he wants and takes it . This story again brings more and more creatures or beings in that you get to learn about and they also can be read as stand alones . But I don't know who in their right mind could read just one . Ariel truly has a gift and I am so grateful that she shares it with the world ! Thank you !
Profile Image for Laura  Hernandez.
802 reviews85 followers
September 30, 2016
Another fantastic book by this author. I read it in one sitting as I found myself gidy with glee over Adrian's story. A sexy read that kept me glued to my seat and I cannot wait for another book by this author.

{I received an eARC when I signed up to host the release day. I made no guarantee of a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are unbiased and my own.}
Profile Image for B. U..
564 reviews5 followers
October 3, 2016
I didn't think I would like a brother more than Toma, but Adrian wins!! And I loved Angel, she fits in perfectly as the new princess. Ends in a cliffhanger leading up to Nicu. Cannot wait for more from the Shadows!!
Profile Image for Emma Taylor.
Author 2 books6 followers
October 7, 2016
Once again I did not come away disappointed by the lovely Ariel Marie. Holy jeebus that was awesome. I need Nicu now lol. Ariel gets better every book she writes but no matter what all her stuff is AMAZEBALLS!
2,617 reviews25 followers
September 27, 2016
wow just loved this book! i cant wait to read your next book to find out what happens! highly recommend this book to everyone! you rocked this book . just love this story!
Profile Image for Elaine Kirby.
972 reviews2 followers
July 28, 2017
Exciting!

This book was very good, exciting & fast-paced as I finished it in 1 day.

Adrian was sent by Nicu to find a certain rogue vampire that they thought was working with the necromancers & his assignment took him to a vampire nightclub. While at the nightclub on the 1st night he was there he missed the rogue but found something else in a waitress/barmaid but he didn't realize what he found until the next night when he went back.

Angel was turned against her will by a rogue vampire who actually was working for the necromancers 10 years ago because they had wanted to make more rogues to fight against the other vampires but Angel was too strong to turn so they (the necromancers) did something else to her.

Adrian & Angel meet at the club & on the 2nd night there Adrian realize what Angel is to him when the rogue that he was sent to capture tried to capture her instead. He realized that she was his fated mate.

There story is filled with necromancers, rogues, The Dark Shadows, a fae (Arden) & an elemental. As I don't like to give away the whole book you will have to read it to find out what happens between Adrian & Angel with regards to their mating & what the necromancers did to her 10 years ago.
Profile Image for Barbara Stewart.
681 reviews
May 24, 2017
This book was pretty good I wasn't sure about them after I read the first one but I started reading the second and just kept on going. And this one he sent to a club to observe a bad vampire and follow him and find out where his hideout is. He meets his mate knows that she's his May but she doesn't think she's good enough for him because he's a poor vampire and she's a make vampire... when she's tried to be snatched by a rogue vampire he goes in and save their brings her to his palace and his mother talks to her he goes to take her home and knows that she's his mate and they bond immediately. He's not going to take his time like his brothers did life is too short.
Profile Image for Michelle Ferrari-Johnson.
1,559 reviews39 followers
October 21, 2016
Vampire Surprise

Oh My Flavorful Gravy (OMFG)!! I have been in love with the Olaru family and Adrian definitely delivers as Hot Alpha! Ariel Marie has kept the flame alive in this series and we are never disappointed. You know when you have to stop to reread a section that you are completely inside the story.

HOLY CRAP ON A CRACKER! I can't believe what happens!! Without giving away spoilers let's just say I didn't see it coming! I knew something was up but I kept thinking, "She wouldn't do that.... would she?" And yes, she certainly did!

Can't wait for the next book! ~
Profile Image for Tara Dorough.
1,296 reviews4 followers
July 29, 2017
Vampire Royalty At Its Best

Adrian book 4 of Ariel Marie's The Dark Shadows series is everything you would want from a take about a vampire prince trying to save his princess from evil. The story is full of emotion and heart. The war between the vampires and the necromancers is heating up. With each new day the pieces of the puzzle start to fall into place. Nicu's story is next. I can't wait to see how the vampires deal with the necromancers and end the war. Great job Ariel....from book 1 you have had us hooked.
Profile Image for Maria.
950 reviews2 followers
May 30, 2017
It started of quick. Adrian on a mission yet finds his mate. There are issues with his mate who has a difficult time to accept. This is just the jist of the story. What I enjoyed most, was the final chapter, now this is a cliffhanger. It leads into the intro for Prince Nicu, the Dark Shadows leader. I feel the whole series has been leading to this, the final in the 'The Dark Shadows' series. Whether there will be other books to be read, we will have to wait and see.
Profile Image for Teri.
3,918 reviews38 followers
December 28, 2019
Pretty good read if you like plenty of steam and very little background on the h. This could have been an easy 4 star if she was better developed.
Profile Image for McKayla Schutt.
Author 111 books429 followers
November 4, 2016
Another good one

Adrian was awesome and so was Angel. I loved how they mated and it was like throwing caution to the wind. It is great and can't wait till Nicu.
Profile Image for Suzy Bagshaw.
436 reviews2 followers
April 5, 2017
FREAKEN FANTASTIC!!

Another great book that you can't put down, nor do you want too. Fast paced, Sexy and smoking Hot!!! I Love, Love, LOVED IT!!!!!
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