Darkest Temptation

The Dark Ones Saga #4

by Rachel Van Dyken

I'm a werewolf King who chose to step down out of grief for my mate.
For centuries I've been alone, choosing to live a life of modesty despite the wealth surrounding me.
I deserve to be punished.
I crave things I have no business craving.
And it is manifesting itself in a way I'm terrified I won't be able to control any longer.
Especially since she arrived.
Vampire. Orphan. Beaten beyond recognition.
My blood calls to her in a way that makes no sense.
I'm a wolf.
She's a vampire.
The two don't mate.
They barely tolerate one another.
All it takes is one slip of control on my part — one taste.
And I doom us all.
Then again, I never knew what is lurking inside has the power to balance good and evil.

Genres: Paranormal, Romance, Paranormal Romance, Fantasy, Vampires, Shapeshifters, Audiobook

ebook

First published October 31, 2017

About the author

Rachel Van Dyken is the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestselling author of mafia and contemporary romances.

Hey guys I'm rarely on Goodreads, if you need to reach me feel free to email!
EMAIL ME: rachelvandykenauthor@gmail.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rachel-...

Reviews

[Carvanz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What an incredible read! This went beyond anything I thought it would be.



Mason is a wolf shifter and yet he’s struggling with urges he can’t explain. Forcing himself to hold fast to what his nature should be, each day he finds it harder to not yield to the secret yearnings within. When Serenity, a vampire, is rescued and he helps to heal her, those urges are suddenly screaming at him and now everyone around him is aware that something isn’t as it should be.



There is no way I’m going any further into what this story is about. There were so many secrets with twists and turns that I literally could not set this book down. Not once. I found myself shocked and awed, interspersed with laughter and then oh my gawd, the tears. This book holds one of the most beautiful scenes I have ever read. I know it is due to the resemblance of truth that caused such strong emotions within me.



I have not read the previous books in this series, a fact that will be remedied, but I never felt loss. There were lots of characters from what I assume are from those books and I’m anxious to find out how they reached their hea. I’m relatively new to the Rachel Van Dyken booklist so I didn’t even realize she had a PNR series. But OMG can she write the heck out of a paranormal romance!

Won an advance reader copy from the author and dang I’m glad I got so lucky!

Dual POV
Safe – as in this is a mating don’t even think about looking at that other person
No apparent triggers
Epilogue – sets up the next hero’s story

[Sabrina · Rating 4 out of 5]

NOW LIVE!
Amazon US * Amazon UK * Amazon Paperback



Mason! I feel like I've been waiting forever for Mason's story and it's actually only been a few days. He was the character that was always there to help the mates of his friends and it made him impossible not to love. I just knew his story was going to be amazing and couldn't wait for him to finally find some happiness again.

In Darkest Temptation Mason was almost like a completely different character. I don't mean that in a bad way and it wasn't like RVD changed his character out of nowhere, instead it was the fact that we were getting to see past the exterior that he showed to everyone in the previous books and got to see the true Mason. What wasn't different was how much I just wanted to hug him and make him feel better. His pain and inner fight that he had over finding a mate broke my heart and I needed to see him get his HEA.

Serenity was the perfect mate for him I think, even if the immortal world didn't think a Vampire and Wolf should ever be together. But there's a reason it's so good to break the rules sometimes and she and Mason proved that it doesn't always end badly. I really liked that Serenity almost took a step back and let Mason come to her and didn't force the mating too much.

I thought their relationship was the perfect mix of intriguing and sweet. And it went really well with the shocks that just kept coming in the story, it didn't get pushed to the background at all but it also didn't make the bigger story lack any of that suspense.

This series is one big recommend from me and I'm actually a little shocked that I've read all of these books together. It speaks to how much these characters enthralled me that one series kept my interest for so long and between so many books.

ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.

[Leo (Queen of the Rants and Spoilers) · Rating 2 out of 5]

So it was brought to my attention after reading this book and loving it then that this hero had a threesome with heroine and hero from book 3 and there was not a peep of this in this book!!
Here I was so damn fucking stupid thinking he was fucking celibate while he was not and thinking I had a winner in my fuckings hands!
Was it the author’s intention not mentioning this in this book? I fucking think so!
I’m pissed! Now his heroine has to see and live with the woman he had a threesome with!
And this is why I’m fixing my rating and review!

[Sentranced Jem · Rating 4 out of 5]

Updated as of October 28, 2017

Title: Darkest Temptation ( The Dark Ones Sage #4)
Author: Rachel Van Dyken
Genre: Paranormal, Romance, New Adult
Publication Date: October 31, 2017

Rachel Van Dyken can do no wrong. End of.
Likewise, Sleep is overrated. hahaha
I have been waiting for this book for what feels like forever! Saying I'm a huge Fan of this author is also an understatement. Rachel Van Dyken has a way of creating such an intriguing character out of something we are so use too- A werewolf? We've read countless books on them, right? But Rachel's spin on things are... WOW!

Side Note: I recommend you read the other books from the series first in order to fully enjoy the book.

The book is filled with everything- romance, frustration that takes it to the next level that even we, as readers can feel it in our bones, plot twist that make you go "what?! Let me read that sentence again" to the unconditional loyalty amongst friends.

Just when I decide to take a break, Something gripping always happens- be it the sheer humor amongst friends (For those who've read the previous books- The 'Dynamic Trio' Mason, Alex and Cassius. Enough Said Right? hahaha), or the secrets that reveal the truth behind the power to balance good and evil.

I loved this book and I loved Mason and Serenity's relationship.
I hope you guys give it a chance!





For more reviews and giveaways follow my blog at www.jemimajamir.com

 

[✰ Liz ✰ · Rating 4 out of 5]

"You. You're my heaven. A gift from The Creator."

Darkest Temptation is the fourth book in The Dark Ones Saga. Although it can be read as a stand-alone, I highly recommend reading this series from the beginning in order to fully grasp the arc of the characters and the importance of their relationships with one another.

"Yours. I want to be yours. Forever."

Mason, a werewolf King, has been living a lonely life. Although he has the love and support of his friends, he has denied himself, love. After losing his mate years ago, he has felt a void that no one or nothing has been able to fill. Until he meets Trinity. Trinity is a unique vampire who finds herself in Mason's care. Although the two are an unlikely pair, a feral attraction ignites and they simply cannot resist the urge to mate. As evil and good battle to the death, Mason and Trinity discover their true destiny and vow to protect each other and save the world.

"My King."

Darkest Temptation is a delicious paranormal treat with powerful characters living in a magical world. With werewolves, vampires, angels, and demons, Ms. Van Dyken has created a masterpiece full of passion, action, and tender romance. In short, this series is addictive! I highly recommend this series to all of my paranormal romance reading friends! Be warned once you start you will not want to stop!

*ARC graciously provided in exchange for an honest review!

For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:

[Christine (Shh Moms Reading) · Rating 5 out of 5]

We have a Rachel Van Dyken giveaway happening on the blog now! Where are all the paranormal lovers! I LOVED THIS BOOK!
http://bit.ly/DTVanDyken

OMG it was better than I could ever imagine - RVD writes paranormal book crack!!!
Mason is to die for... his story and how it all comes full circle is pretty damn thrilling, amazing, and unputdownable.
Get ready!!! This is one you don't want to miss!!!

[Jilly · Rating 1 out of 5]

Oh, I'm mad. Mad enough to don my angry wig!



In the past three books, we have learned to love Mason the Werewolf. He is a vegan werewolf who absolutely loves The Lion King. He is cuddly, sweet, and befriends all of the new females that his friends have mated with. He also loved to feed everyone.


What's not to like about this guy?

But, Mason was sad because his own mate died 100 years ago, and unfortunately he was commanded to find a new mate because the supernaturals are stronger when they are mated. So, this is his book to get a mate and I'm thinking that it's going to be adorable and charming.




BUT I WAS WRONG!

Did anything cute and charming happen? NO!
Everything got weird. It's like Mason had a sudden personality transplant and became a moody, broody jerk overnight. Then...THEN.. he even developed a Scottish accent! What the hell? He had NO Scottish accent in the other books. Nor did he even use any Scottish expressions. But now he's a kilt-wearing asswipe with ultimate power?
No. I am done.

[Dali · Rating 4 out of 5]

Happy book birthday!!

Rachel Van Dyken stirs things up with the fourth book in the Dark Ones Saga. Her latest paranormal romance, Darkest Temptation, is otherworldly sexy, exciting, suspenseful and fun to read. Even though this is my first time reading a book from this series and there were a lot of things happening, RVD always produces a satisfying reading experience, but this time, instead of the contemporary romance I usually subscribe to, the story is brightened a motley crew of immortals and the mystery behind Mason and Serenity’s attraction and their origins.

I had only ever read Rachel’s contemporary books and was a fan from the first one. When presented with the opportunity to read Darkest Temptation I was a bit uncertain because I usually don’t read a lot of paranormal and I’d be starting mid series. Long story short, I’m hooked. I’ve bought the first three books and can’t wait for the next one. But I’m getting ahead of myself.

Centuries old Mason, rightful King of the werewolves, stepped down from his rightful place on the throne after losing his mate. Punishing himself for feeling underserving because he craves something that goes against his nature he chooses a life of control and modesty until her. Until Serenity, the vampire he helped heal and whose name represents everything but peacefulness to him. Because the attraction he feels for her makes no sense. Vampire and wolf do not mate, and yet their hearts beat as one. It is apparent to everyone around them. Will she be his undoing or will she help him bring balance?

Not having read the prior books, I don’t know how much would be prudent to reveal without a reprimand from the spoiler patrol. Needless to say, the plot was gripping, the writing was wonderful, the secrets behind Mason and Serenity’s heritage are huge, the twists are eye popping, and the romance was sweet, sexy and sizzling hot!

RVD has created a terrific group of paranormal friends. The rag tag group of immortals wonderfully complimented the story with their snark and witty banter. Each seeming to be more loveable than the next. I’ll be catching up with each couple soon enough.

Darkest Temptation is book #4 in the Dark Ones saga by author Rachel Van Dyken. It is a standalone paranormal romance. Told from both points of view with a happy ending for the main couple and a lead into the next one.

Amazon -> http://amzn.to/2A3BKUO

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[Nancy Metsch · Rating 5 out of 5]

** Spoiler free review**
Rachel has taken Paranormal to a whole new level. Mason and Serenity's story is my favorite out of the series. Now let me just say I loved Twilight. But these books are even better.
Mason is the werewolf and my favorite. He loves berries and pine cones which really cracks me up. BUT the guy also needs meat. Enter Serenity. I wont say to much about her. Just know that she came to Mason literally a mess. She's a vampire. Hence they should not get along. BUT rules are made to be broken
Mason is a bit complicated. He is fighting feelings that he feels he shouldn't have, but dioesn't that happen to us mortals. Feelings cant always be explained. And your heart cant help who you fall in love with.

[Clare · Rating 5 out of 5]

I feel like I've waited forever for this one lol But Rachel's books are so worth the wait. Where to start with how much i loved this book, I couldn't wait to read Mason's story and as always Rachel knows how to deliver and gripping story that had me reading this very quickly.

[Heather andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mason is easily jealous, "he full-on glared. “Why would you need Ethan? He’s mated.” Mason's thoughts are very primal, "because I was minutes away from stripping her naked next to a head of lettuce. That damn well would cause a need for clean-up on aisle four." Mason just doesn't understand his woman at times, “is there a reason you’re asking about my father after having ***? Is this a vampire thing? You need to know I have good breeding stock as a wolf. I know I can—” This is the sotry I've been dying for and now I'm sad Mason's story is over but I'm hoping this series isn't over because I demand more.

[ren ♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

"I'm not worthy," I whispered.
It was Cassius who finally said, "Those who are chosen never are. That's why He chooses them."

Okay. So I finished the first book, The Dark Ones, yesterday. Now, you might be wondering, why did you jump ahead to the fourth book? Well, I loved Mason so much in the first book, I just couldn't wait. He was definitely my favorite character out of all the immortals. Who can resist his berry-eating and pinecone hunting ways? Not me! Apparently you can read these books as stand-alones, and you can buuuut you'll get much more out of the series if you read it in chronological order - which I plan to do anyways because this one is definitely worth a reread.

As you can tell by the rating, I LOVED almost everything about this book. I complained in my review of the first book that the world building was a little weak but in this book we got to see more of their world. AND IT WAS AMAZING. There were so many things I did not see coming at all. I was really surprised at the direction this book took - the cosmic beings were SO COOL. I also really enjoyed the flashbacks, I can't believe I forgot how old these characters were. It was so fun to see these immortal characters joke around with each other and act goofy. It's probably not obvious by the cover, but this series is hilarious. I found myself laughing and giggling so much. The constant banter between the guys was just so endearing.

I went in The Darkest Temptation thinking I already knew Mason... I was severely mistaken. Mason was a very complex and well-rounded character. I was surprised to see another side of him that went beyond the grief he was dealing with in the first book. Just when I thought I couldn't love his character any more than I already did, I ended up rooting for him even harder. I was not expecting his heritage to be so much more than it was.

Serenity, the heroine, was so lovely. Much like Genesis from The Dark ones, she start's off kind of meek and eventually grows into her own skin. It's been a while since I've read a heroine that wasn't your typical in-your-face badass bitch, so it was a breath of fresh air (Don't get me wrong, I love me some badass bitches but it's nice to have some diversity once in a while, ya know?). Like Mason, she also had a really a cool, and somewhat tragic, backstory. All in all, Serenity and Mason were perfect for each other. I loved seeing their interactions and the way they got jealous over each other.

Have I mentioned that books in the paranormal genre are generally a big hit-or-miss for me? I honestly can't remember the last time I felt so giddy reading a paranormal series. Rachel Van Dyken is amazing. I feel like I haven't written anything substantial, it's just me and my mindless gushing. I'm keeping this a spoiler free review because I whole-heartedly believe you should jump into this book not knowing all the twists and turns. You're going to want to read it yourself. You're welcome.

Rating: 4.5/5

[Princess under cover · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was OK. I’m used to the author’s style by now and not going to complain again about all the pages she wastes with one or 2 word sentences.

Plenty of editing issues too. A star off right there.

Reuse of a trope she used already in book 1: vampire Ethan had a mate, who was not really the ONE for him but whose death had a lasting effect on him and made him bitter and damaged. Take 2: in this book, Mason’s mate wasn’t meant for him either. And the one he’s with in this book is actually THE ONE.

Well, thought wolves can’t mate twice? Well, that’s why he has to be not quite a wolf. Thought wolves and vampires dom’t Mix? Well, that’s why his mate isn’t all vamp.

It gets really old. Mason might have been my fav character other than Alex and both their books fell flat. After 4 of these, everything has become really repetitive. Angels mixing, humans mixing, everyone mixing, now goddesses too. It’s like - throw the kitchen sink in there while ur at it!

I’m all about destined love and insta-mates and all that stuff, but I also want to feel a real relationship growing between the 2 MCs beyond just attraction at first sight and then finding out they’re mates and that’s the end of it.

I think book 1 was the most coherent and more focused on an actual relationship which is why it garnered the highest stars out of the 4 for me. But then everything got too convoluted from there on.

Will not be reading more of this author’s work for a good long while...

[KDRBCK · Rating 5 out of 5]

Darkest Temptation by Rachel Van Dyken is the fourth book in The Dark Ones Saga. While every book can be read as a standalone, I recommend to read the books in order. Book one, The Dark Ones; Book two, Untouchable; Book three, Dark Surrender and Book four, Darkest Temptation.

Mason is a werewolf king who gave up his throne and stepped down when his mate died. He´s alone for centuries. He griefes his mate, ´til she comes.
She, is a vampire, a orphan badly beaten and in need of healing - Serenity.
Vampire and Werewolves don´t mate, ever, they barely tolerate each other. But it takes one taste and he´s toast - and dooms them all.

Mason fights against his feelings for Serenity and against himself, he doesn´t know what happens with him. He´s powerful, but this power comes with a price.

Darkest Temptation is a PNR romance novel that had me hooked from page one. I read the book in one sitting, I couldn´t put it down.
This book is full of twists and unexpected turns, secrets and caused strong emotions. Neither is what he seems to be, they´re so much more. And then the story comes full circle.
Darkest Temptation is written in a dual POV. Meet old friends and new enemies and acquaintances.
I recommend Darkest Temptaion and give 5 stars. Thank you, Rachel Van Dyken !

[Witchy Richey's Booktastic Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been dying to read the pine cone eating hotness that is Mason and this did not disappoint. So thrilling and powerful. He’s such a tortured soul but the story comes full circle and the entire cast is present.

Witty dialogue and serious hotness...Mason will make you swoon HARD! I love, love, love this read.

A RVD paranormal experience that will trip your trigger and feed your PNR addiction.

[Jan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Firstly I'm not normally a pnr reader the different beings and words completely go over my head as did this often but I can't ignore the creativity of RVD and the chemistry between the characters that make this a sizzling pnr with a plot full of twists and turns.

For those who do normally read pnr you will love this with its mixture of so many beings, and an obvious established series, theres Angels, wolves,vampires & more. I really do need educating on all this lol but I was engaged and intrigued throughout and wil definitely start from the beginning I was so intrigued with it all it may turn me into a pnr reader.

Arc received for review purposes

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

DARKEST TEMPTATION by Rachel Van Dyken is the Fourth book in The Dark Ones Saga. This is the story of Serenity and Mason. I haven't yet read the other books in this series, so for me this was a standalone book. Although I do wish I read the books in order since this one was so good and I would like to have more background on this series.
Mason we learned has lost his mate and he has taken it very hard. But he is starting to feel and want things he thinks he shouldn't want. Those feeling increase when he helps save Serenity. Serenity is a vampire where Mason is a wolf shifter. So the two should not be mates nor should they have the desire to do so...but that doesn't seem to be the case with them. They each have there own stuff to work through and Vampires an Wolves don't get along. But for how long can they fight the need to be together?
I really enjoyed having the chance to read their story...loved it!

[Luana ☆ · Rating 4 out of 5]

This hero was a teddy bear sweetheart from book 1 and I am happy that even dark he was still a sweetheart. Lucky for the heroine. I gotta say that it was weird his switch in personality but I still think his was the best book of this series.

This author writes very on point and does not talk a lot about the lives of the other characters, which is a pity. Like, the twin children from the couple of the first book was mentioned but there was no interaction or anything. That's the only downside from these author.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Epic-Animal-Heat Stars!!!

Why?! Why did I do this to myself….again?! This is the second time I’ve started in the middle of a Rachel Van Dyken series, only to be uber curious about the previous characters! Damn you, Rachel for reeling me into your series and making me go back and read all of the books before it. Ok, I actually mean Thank you, Rachel (*muah).



Biting is hot, right?! It’s not just me?! Ok, good. But I would say that I have a Vampire Standard. I’m a picky bitch when it comes to vampires, ok? But I am so glad Rachel wrote this series. I haven’t even read them all, but I know I will luuurve it, as soon as I’m done beating up my stubborn-self over not reading all of her books in order. Hopefully, I’ve learned my lesson by now (*wink). There are some things that I missed because I haven’t read the previous book. There are some things that confused me. This is my own fault. BUUUUT that didn’t stop me from completely devouring and enjoying this book.

Mason has been fighting himself for too long. He is both werewolf and vampire, but no one knows. Mason had a previous mate, a human. Although, he loved her, he always thought she was fragile and couldn’t completely be himself or let loose with his desires for fear of hurting her. Serenity is his MATE. They are destined to be together and have a history together that they don’t even know about. The longer they fight it, the worse it is for them to the point of physically hurting themselves. Stuck in a house together, they must face the inevitable, and when they finally give in…..Epic….Animal….Heat.



Yes, this book was fairly predictable, but what I loved most about this book was the characters and the alpha-banter between the guys. Rachel is one of the best writers of Alpha Male Bickering, which is totally a thing. Trust me.

I’m off to read all the previous books. (*rolls eyes at myself)

ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review


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[Marie Vasquez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just love this series!! Mason, the lone wolf that he is, has always had a special place in my heart and I knew he was destined for great things with a great love by his side...but I had no clue how wondrous his destiny would be.

Rachel Van Dyken continues the Dark Ones Saga with Mason and Serenity’s story and their fates were more intertwined and majestic than I could have imagined or hope for.

Both characters are no strangers to loneliness but Mason’s was by choice and now that Serenity is under the same roof his most basic and primal urges get much stronger and harder to resist. Her presence brings out everything he’s denied himself for centuries and once he finally gives in his world is completely flipped on its axis as he’s finally faced with taking his rightful place and claiming his mate.

What I love be so much about this series is that while it falls into the paranormal genre, it still feels so mainstream with the passion and heat intensity as well as the emotion and comic relief included with each book. The great immortals in this series are just as goofy, emotional and combative as any family sharing the same room. They way they pick on each other one minute and stand side by side in support of one another the next just completes me.

I was so worried that Mason’s story would be the last because I didn’t want this series to end...and I was so excited to find out that there will be more. I CANNOT wait!!!

FAVORITE QUOTES:
“Yours,” Her blood sang.
“Mine,” I said right back.

One heart beat.
I counted its rhythm; I told my heart to match it.
And the strangest thing happened.
It did.

When he looked down at me, his feelings intensified as if his soul recognized that maybe heaven wasn’t in the sky.
But in his arms.

[Kim Sutton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Darkest Temptation is book 4 in The Dark Ones Saga, although it can be read as a standalone I'd recommend reading the other books first.

This was a really amazing paranormal story, I guess I shouldn't be surprised because I’ve loved everything that I've read by this author so far. There's so many twists in this book, the characters are thrilling and loveable and yet some are scary at times. There's more to most of the characters than even they themselves know, and I loved being shocked speechless!

Can't wait for more from this series! Five stars!

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mason is the werewolf king, but stepped down when grief for his dead mate became too much to handle. He has been suppressing his instincts for centuries, punishing himself for his mate’s death. When Serenity arrives at the house, injured and needing help, he craves her in a way that isn’t nature. He isn’t supposed to desire her he isn’t supposed to want to take her as a mate. She is a vampire.

Yet again, Rachel has turned traditional lore into something new. Part of what I enjoy most about this series is the creativity and twists it takes on traditional fantasy character types. I was unable to make clear predictions about the direction of Mason and Serenity’s future, past, or present with the way things were blended together. I was constantly on my toes wondering the whys and hows behind their story.

I have been waiting for Mason’s story since we met him at the beginning of the series and this did not disappoint! I loved watching as Mason came to grips with his past while fighting his cravings for Serenity. The way these two character’s stories were intertwined was a perfect mix of chemistry and fate.

The return to this world and the group of characters was great. I love the family that has formed out of so many different types of paranormal beings. Angels, vampires, werewolf, sirens, and fallen all move in and out of the scenes fluidly and as if they really exist on the same plane.

This is officially and technically a standalone, but having read the whole series, I can’t image reading Mason’s story not knowing the buildup that’s been happening throughout the series, the meanings behind the little interactions between him and the other members of the council. That being said, they are little interactions, and the build up isn’t necessary to follow this story.

I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Brandy Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have had the pleasure of reading some of Rachel Van Dykens stories and found them quit enjoyable , Darkest temptation would be my first read in The Dark Ones Saga and I plan to go back to read the first three in the series because all the secondary characters are so likable I'd love to read their books but don't worry this can be read as a standalone you wont be lost at all . I'm very picky when it comes to Paranormal romances but something about the blurb drew me and when I found out it was written by one of my must read authors I was so sold not disappointed at all . The story is done beautifully love the history about it plus Outlander is mentioned in this people Outlander witch happens to be one of my favorite shows and the hero gets a little Scottish brogue once in awhile I'm a accent lover so ya drooling / wet panties . Thought it was very intriguing that not only the hero learns something about his shared past with the heroine but she also finds out a lot of things she had no idea about and things that were a mystery between them separately but come to discover when brought together . Another thing I enjoyed was the fact that it's from both point of views were learning things along with the person were in the minds of . Mason thought he already had his chance at happiness with a mate when she died but unknown betrayals bring him to his true mate who happens to be forbidden , liked the comic relief Mason gives when he banters with past heroes in this saga their back and forth had me laughing . Serenity adore the name by the way gets badly injured looking for the call that haunts her every year on that day and that is how she finds herself being licked I mean healed by the man she's been urning for to fix her broken heart make it hole again, she grows as the story progresses and we feel the pain she feels by being abandoned having no one to confide in . I can't wait for the next dark ones we got a little tease in the epilogue so excited .
copy provided for honest review 
****************************************
hero=10 heroine=10 secondary characters=10 Chemistry=10 steam= 5
romance=8 humor=5 darkness level= 5 action=6 mystery=5
enjoyment=10 angst=3 story line=10 Story ending=10
character development=10 pacing=10
cover=10 stars=5 author=10
would I recommend this book=yes
would I re read this book=yes
would I read future books by this author= yes

[Lindsay Thompson-Sublett · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've been waiting for Mason's story since the beginning of this story and it didn't disappoint. Another great story by the talented Rachel Van Dyken.

[Beyond The Covers Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Darkest Temptation is the fourth book in The Dark Ones Saga. While every book can be read as a standalone, I would read the books in order.

Mason has spent centuries alone after losing his mate and feels he is to live alone for the rest of his life. Then Cassius and Ethan bring home Serenity who has been bitten and left for dead and is forced to heal her. Can Mason let Serenity in let alone mate with a vampire?

This book is full of twists and unexpected turns. I loved Masons story and how even though two people that are completely different can come together and learn to love and heal. Bring on the nect one, I'm ready to see what happens with Timber!!!

[Theresa Payne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rachel sure knows how to get you sucked right into a book.
I love Mason's story. So lost so confused you just can't help but to keep reading Great book

[Laura Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mason is a wolf who doesn't really know his true self, but who does with the dark ones there are so many secrets so many unknowns. Mason tortures himself with his past life with pinecones and berries until he see Serenity, he's already had a mate why would he find such attraction to her? She's a vampire wolfs and vampires don't mate, but hey it's the dark ones nothing is ever normal with them. This is a fast read with blood, humor, hot steamy parts, and secrets you'll love this book!

[Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rachel is another author that I adore so much. When she started this paranormal series back in 2015, I was all-in from the get-go and she has continuously amazed me with her unique stories and amazing characters in these books. I have been waiting (not so patiently) for Mason's book and we finally have it!!!

I will do my best to not to give anything away, so I apologize in advance if my review is more than vague. It's not on purpose, it's just that the slightest bit of information may give too much away and ruin the whole story and I refuse to do that. This is the fourth book in her series, but it can be read as a standalone. However, I HIGHLY urge you to read the other 3 books because all these characters are just so damn enthralling you will find yourself wanting to know about them after reading this book.

As I said before, Darkest Temptation is Mason's book. He's a werewolf King but since he mate died centuries ago and since then, he stepped down and has not been the same werewolf since. He lives a very simple life and feels that doing anything else would be an insult to his deceased mate. But what we never got to see from the other books, is why he feels so strongly about this. Yes, his heart was torn away, but to live this way for centuries is just mind boggling. And we finally get out answers.

I don't think anyone could be a more perfect match and mate for Mason than Serenity. Yes, she's a vampire and that right there should make it completely impossible. But rules are meant to be broken and challenged, right?!? Serenity and Mason definitely challenge the status quo.

What I loved most about his book was finally seeing past Mason's rough exterior. We get to see what makes him tick; what drives him. And then watching him fighting against those cravings he has towards Serenity - I love it all!!!

Rachel does an amazing job with Mason's story. It's an exciting and fast-paced read filled with some twists and turns that add to the angst in this book. And even the added humor is a nice blend to keep the book from getting too dramatic. Another amazing read that has the perfect blend of sexiness, angst and humor in this paranormal world.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review



The highly much anticipated story of Mason was worth the wait. Rachel Van Dyken couldn’t have orchestrated a more perfect story line of a shape shifter werewolf and his chosen one, a vampire. Two complete different species and yet the electric charge and connection Mason felt for Serenity was an electric pulsating charge that made this romance and connection stand out. Darkest Temptation was a great blend of temptation, romance, and mystery. So if you are looking for a PNR that included every element of surprise, allure, and passion then this book is for you.



Rachel Van Dyken

[Sofia Lazaridou · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had no idea what was going on with this book most of the time. This is not a bad thing and I didn't intend to make it sound like that. It's just that we were finding out stuff about Mason and Serenity all the time and everything was happening very fast. I wish Mason had spent more time with his pine cones! I loved that part in the third book and it was mentioned a couple of times in this book. Most food talk was about blood. Mason and Serenity worked very well together and I wish the book was longer so I could read more of their story. I hope that will be the case in the next book since in this one we got to see the characters from the previous ones. I love the guys. Cassius, Alex and Mason make a good team and I love their friendship and all the jokes that come with them.

I read the book way to fast and I loved reading it. I will not give it 5 stars because I still feel like there was a revelation about Mason and Serenity's destiny that wasn't taken as seriously as it should have and after it was revealed none of the characters mentioned it which was strange. It practically said that Mason and Serenity were meant to be together and it was early or around the middle of the book. Anyways the story was very interesting, the secondary characters rocked and the series continues to have good quality books.