Love Bites

Darkness & Light Duology #1

by T.L. Clark

Shakira had never felt at home growing up in Surrey, but as soon as she entered the quaint Welsh village she knew she belonged. Maybe it was because of the welcoming villagers. Or perhaps it was the presence of the others whom she sensed nearby; the ones she saw in her dreams, with their strange glowing eyes.

Fate is not always kind. It gives with one hand and takes with the other. There is a reason she didn’t grow up with her own kind.

A rich tale of witchcraft, fae, sorcery, elinefae and dragons; this is a story for all who dare to believe.

Genres: Romance, Paranormal Romance, Fantasy, Paranormal, Vampires, Fiction

368 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 27, 2017

About the author

TL Clark is an award-winning, best-selling, British, romance author who stumbles through life as if it were a gauntlet of catastrophes.

Rather than playing the victim, she uses these unfortunate events to fuel her passion for writing, for reaching out to help others.

She writes about different kinds of love in the hope that she‘ll uncover its mysteries.

Her loving husband (and very spoiled cat - RIP) have proven to her that true love really does exist.
Writing has shown her that coffee may well be the source of life.

Reviews

[Bex (Beckie Bookworm) · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟STARS
So I absolutely adored Love Bites (Darkness & Light Duology, #1) by T.L. Clark and I really can't wait to get started on the second book.
I can honestly say I don't think I have ever read anything this different Love Bites has a uniqueness to it that I haven't seen in a while.
A freshness to a paranormal/fantasy theme that I haven't encountered before.
I read a lot and can honestly say this is the first time I have encountered this idea.
Here we are dealing with basically evolved felines.
Elinefae to give this race of unique individuals their correct name.
Basically, a race of cat-people who have kept their selves separate from the world almost lost in another time if you regard their lack of technology and how they live in Dens underground.
Clans of Elinefae who are basically forbidden to mix with humans each clan having the aid of a witch.
And into this strict hemisphere of controlled populace comes Shakira searching for something she's not quite sure of just following her inner psyche until she lands in a small welsh village beginning a journey that has been in the reckoning for nigh on twenty years.
In the process Setting in motion a ball that cannot be stopped in its momentum gathering speed along the way.
Until all of Shakira's questions are finally answered.
So as I said earlier this is so fresh and unique Love Bites is filled with all sorts of magical creatures a lot would do Kiera harm given the opportunity (Kiera is Shakira's new chosen name on account of Pryderi being unable to pronounce Shakira.)
Pryderi is?
well, Maybe you should pick this up and give this a go and find out for yourself.
I Guarantee you Pryderi is all sorts of fascinating.
And you so won't be bored.
This was such an easy engaging read with fantastic world building a truly unique experience all-round.
I read this so fast and in one sitting I was that engrossed and lost in this fascinating original world.
So Love Bites is filled with witches, fairies sirens, warlocks the list goes on and on.
This is such a magical extravaganza that I really enjoyed and didn’t want to end.
So to finish up this was a great read that I highly recommend.
I was gifted a copy of "Love Bites" (Darkness & Light Duology, #1) from the Author of which I have reviewed voluntary.
All opinions expressed are entirely my own.



Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm.
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com

[Dianne · Rating 4 out of 5]

So often, people don’t feel like they quite fit in and that is exactly how Shakira felt, just not on the same wave length as those around her. It wasn’t until she moved to Wales that she finally discovered why she felt “different.” It wasn’t her, it was the human world she lived in, because as soon as she is “transformed” by a handsome young man, the world she should belong in comes to life. Is Shakira finally going to find a place to feel like home or will she discover that even in the mysterious world of magick she does not quite belong. Is it her fault or the circumstance of her birth?

Speaking of birth, a man will come into her life who wants nothing more than to know her and possibly kill her, a man filled with powerful magick, a man she should be able to freely call “father.” What drives his ire against her? Is he truly evil or has something in his own past twisted the man he has become today? In a world of witches and vampires, Shakira’s every existence is forbidden.

Step into the world of LOVE BITES by T.L. Clark and meet a heroine with attitude, standing strong in spite of her predicament, laugh at moments of quirky dialogue and feel your inner temps rise at some very adult, very hot moments of passion!

T.L. Clark doesn’t heave us over the edge into the action and tense moments, readers can settle in and get a good feel for the atmosphere before the real chaos begins. Definitely worth taking a look at for paranormal lovers always looking for that next great read that is just a little different.

I received an ARC edition from T. L. Clark in exchange for my honest review.

Series: Darkness & Light Duology - Book 1
Publication Date: August 27, 2017
Publisher: T.L. Clark
Genre: Fantasy
Print Length: 368 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com

[Prakash Sharma · Rating 5 out of 5]

TL Clark brilliantly created the world of witches, sorcerers and battling clans of vampires. The book is an enjoyably read. Shakira started jogging in deep forests and ultimately, came to know that she is only half human. This novel is a nice mix of fantacy and romance.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

'A story for all who dare to believe'



Fun, magical and enchanting, Love Bites is one of those rare finds in the fantasy genre. A book that manages to be both unique, surprising and absolutely refreshing.
It's like a breath of fresh air in the fantasy genre and I can safely say I've never read anything alike it until now.

The best part of it... the Elinefae. A race of cat-people, a sort of evolved felines, amazingly well described and beautifully fleshed out as far as both race and particular features and quirks are concerned. They are fabulous!!

Forbidden to mix with humans, they live in separate clans, in underground dens deep within forests, away from anyone who may stick their nose in their business. And to make sure boundaries are kept and safety guaranteed, each clan is guarded by a witch. The wards witches raise around the clans' territories are meant to keep intruders aside. Theoretically that is. Because they do nothing to stop Shakira from barrelling through and running straight into an Elinefae warden.

Recently arrived in the quaint Welsh village neighbouring the Elinefae's territory, Shakira had finally found a place in which she felt she belonged. Except for some nightmares involving people with strange glowing eyes and her usual body pains, there is nothing that's troubling Shakira in her new home. Until the day she runs straight into a tree. One with glowing eyes.

That particular encounter is the proverbial drop that fills the glass - the moment that starts tipping Shakira's whole life upside down. Before she knows it, she finds herself treated by witches who gently inform her she's a 'hybrid'. Not quite human it seems. And not all Elinefae either.

Saying she doesn't take the news very well would be the understatement of the year. But then, who could blame the poor girl!? :D

'"Oh God, I'm related to an evil magician and psycho blood drinkers" she moaned putting her face in her hands.'

You'd think the worst part of it would be the changes her body goes through right?
Or the vanishing and zapping from one place to another or the 'whoosh thing' she needs to learn.
Nope! She can get around all of those but....
It's 'eating Bambi' where she draws the line! :D

Fate is not always kind. It gives with one hand and takes with the other. There is a reason Shakira didn’t grow up with her own kind.

And her tale is on that will have you glued to the pages from the very first line to the very end. The plot is action packed and gripping, the setting so vivid you can easily picture every single scene, the characters are AMAZING and their dynamic fabulous! The magic is wonderful, the smut wild and hot and the rendered feelings... just right!

This is one book that will make you chuckle every other page and even laugh out loud once in a while. Of course you may find yourself at the edge of a seat possibly biting a nail or two while frantically turning pages to see what happens next... Or occasionally sighing now and then at a touch or a kiss...
But the fun and smiles are those that will stay with you long after.

Love Bites is a brilliant book and if I were to list every single thing I loved about it, my review would probably turn into a novelette. So I'll leave it at this.

A fresh fun and fabulous fantasy with all the feels!
A MUST READ for any and all fantasy fans out there.

Give it a try people and you can thank me later. :D

Find this review and more on my book review and cover art blog The Magic Book Corner

[Jessica Robbins · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I received a free copy of this book which I voluntarily chose to write an honest review for.

Welcome to a crazy fantasy world that will suck in keeping you hooked until you finally reach the end wondering what will happen next. Its full of some great world building as well as lots of little details that really set the story off. If you enjoy vampires, fantasy, and more then you will probably enjoy this book. I really enjoyed it so I give it 4/5 stars.

[Crystal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love Bites follows the life of Shakira, a young woman who has never really fit in anywhere. She decides to move away from her family and to start a new life in a new town. Shakira is drawn to Wales, especially to the mysterious forest bordering the small town of her new home. The novel is a mix of self discovery, fantasy, and romance. It was also a bit like reading a mystery. I felt like I was discovering all the secrets of a magical world right alongside Shakira.

I love a good fantasy adventure with a healthy dose of romance. Love Bites checks all of those boxes! TL Clark did an excellent job of world-building. It was fun to discover the secret lives of smart witches, temperamental fairies, the mysterious elinefae, and shady sorcerers. The pacing was good, with a slow build at the beginning and lots of action in the final chapters.

I’m not a big fan of cliffhangers, and technically, Love Bites did not end on one. All of the major issues are resolved, and all of the big questions are answered. However, there is a twist at the end that is pretty huge. Fortunately, the second book in TL Clark’s duology is available. At least I don’t have to wait to find out what happens next!

[Julia Blake · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although this is not normally a genre I read, I'd been following this particular author on Instagram for a while, so decided to give it a go, and I'm very glad I did.

Right from the start, the plot is engrossing and draws you into the tale. Just why has Shakira left everything behind and run away to a tiny Welsh village? What is it about her, that means she has found it impossible to ever feel she really belongs anywhere? As the story unfolds, we discover that Shakira is much more than she ever imagined possible, although I did doubt her intelligence when she went jogging in the woods, alone. Has she never seen a horror film?

Believing this to be your typical YA novel, I was a little taken aback by the first graphic sex scene, yet they are very well written, so, once the initial shock is over, you settle down and simply enjoy them as a necessary part of the plot.

The author has very cleverly built a credible and believable world around her characters, with enough backstory to inform, but not so much you get bogged down in the details, and I look forward to learning more of this world in book two.

The character of Shakira, as she morphs into Kira, develops nicely, learning her strengths along the way, but never losing sight of her humanity and compassion, which, in the end, turns out to be her greatest strength after all.

There was a lot I really liked about this book, and only one tiny thing I didn't, and that was the split dialogue, which sometimes made it a little difficult to know whom was talking. But that is just a personal observation, and in no way detracted from my enjoyment of the novel.

The plot rolls along at a fair old pace, as witches, sorcerers and battling clans of vampires are thrown enjoyably into the mix, the whole thing interspersed with frequent deliciously naughty sex scenes. On the whole, a very enjoyable read, and I look forward to the next book.

[Ellie Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘She was Elinefae, she was a Sorceress. She was Keira.’

Love Bites, a gripping fantasy tale, follows young Shakira as she discovers a unique and mysterious heritage- she is part fae- Elinefae. Shakira starts the story with an ingrained sense that she ‘doesn’t belong,’ which is understandable, given her mixed ancestry.

Through befriending a local witch, Cerys, Shakira slowly learns to adapt to her new Elinefae form (cat-like hybrid), and even begins to make allies in the Fae world. Themes of: not belonging, secrets, and dishonour dwell dep within this enchanting tale.

‘She could be accepted nowhere…She’d never fit in anywhere…She was nothing. NOTHING.’

Keira’s internal conflict of not belonging was one I found easy to relate to, being a transgender man, as well as an Autistic individual. Not fitting in has forever been the bane of my existence and so, I came to view Keira as a dear friend, for whom I would do anything to protect.

This recurring theme of feeling out of sync with her new friends fades as Keira learns more about her dual heritage and accompanying powers. She appeared to me as a brave young woman/Elinefae, with a strong and determined will. I especially loved Keira’s dark sense of humour, as well as the playful way she interacts with Pryderi, her mate.

Despite the numerous dangers present in the Fae realms, Keira navigates them well, transforming from a shy human female, into a brave and beautiful, young Elinefae. With her unique abilities, she is able to bring about the end to a war within the Fae realms (for now), and finally finds where she belongs, with her own makeshift family, amongst friends.

Love Bites is a powerful, imaginative fantasy that swept me off my feet from the very beginning.
I would definitely recommend this to lovers of the fantasy genre, and Fae world.

My rating? Easily 5 stars.

[Bookish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magnificent.

When Shakira leaves her parents and drives away to find a new life for herself, she is completely unaware of just how complete that change will be.

‘Love Bites’ is a story of learning to deal with change, but also one which emphasises the power of the struggle for supremacy between light and dark, and goodness and evil. Shakira grows and develops from a young woman fully aware of the fact that she doesn’t fit in to someone who must accept and learn to embrace her origins in order to survive.

The story is cast with well-developed characters, none of them perfect but many of them very likeable. Shakira herself is developed not only through her experiences and relationships, but also through how she deals with what is imposed upon her. There is more than one lesson for all of us in this, and the reader is challenged to consider their own choices and ethics in the way they communicate and relate with others.

The narrative is well-crafted, weaving together a number of plots and subplots, various settings and significant challenges for the characters that often leave the reader holding their breath without even realising. The dialogue is engaging, reflecting both the author’s and the characters’ intelligence and adding further depth to the characters and to the action of the story. Clark’s design and development of characters, including a new and unique species of creatures, and of rich and varied settings, is elegant and complex, paying careful attention to detail without causing any wordy distraction for the reader. The pace of the story is effective without being overwhelming, making this book an absolute page turner.

There is some adult content so it is not recommended for younger audiences, but ‘Love Bites’ is sure to please adult lovers of both fantasy and paranormal reads.

[Erin Bomboy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first time reading this genre, and I liked it! TL Clark has quite an imagination, and she does an excellent job describing the assorted magical groups including the Elinefae, who are cat-like creatures. As a cat lady myself, I enjoyed this incarnation of felines, which captures their fierceness, loyalty, and beauty.

Love Bites, the first in the Darkness and Light Duology, centers around Shakira, a woman who has left her adopted family to find herself. She discovers a lot more than she bargained for. She's half Elinefae plus a powerful sorceress to boot, both of which prove to be a blessing and a curse. She falls madly for Prygeri, her Elinefae soulmate, but she also must grapple with a sorcerer father who suspects her power may be greater than his. A couple of good witches add to the hijinks, doling out a brew of humor, kindness, and context.

The pace is brisk, and the plot easy to follow but not overly predictable. While Shakira, later renamed Kiera, is the heroine, I enjoyed witch Lily the best due to her personality, which is sweet and occasionally sassy.

While the dialogue is snappy and realistic, the heavy-handed use of dialogue tags (often coupled with -ly adverbs) was distracting. Sometimes, the tag reiterated what was already covered in the speech, and other times, it was just a physical impossibility (you can't breathe and speak at the same time as vocalizations only occur on an exhale).

Overall, this criticism reflects my preferences, and I imagine most readers will be too caught up in the story to care. I would rate something like this 3.5 stars, but I bumped it up to four since it was so much fun.

[Maggie Hasbrouck · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall: It was a little slow to start for me, but once it got going, I was interested enough to read all the way through. The characters were introduced at a steady pace, and I was never lost or confused—which is a big plus for a fantasy novel.

Writing: I felt the writing was, for the most part solidly good. At times, a string of sentences would seem more like stand-alones rather than parts of a paragraph, but for the most part, the prose didn’t get in the way of the story. The descriptions of places and characters allowed me to visualize things pretty easily. Dialogue moved the story forward, was crisp and snappy when it was appropriate, and sometimes it was just okay. Also, the sex scenes were well done.

Plot: once it got going the plot moved forward at a pretty fast pace, at times it was maybe a bit rushed. It was easy to follow (yay) and never felt bogged down by too much world building.

Characters: The characters, (and creatures and beings) were likable and fairly well fleshed out, but at times I wanted more depth. There is plenty of room here for a second book.

Recommendation: If complicated world building keeps you away from fantasy, this fast-paced book might win you over.

[Amy Shannon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting paranormal

The story is full of vampires and witches, and Shakira's existence in this world. This is the first book I've read by Clark, and I'm sure I'll add the next book in this Darkness & Light duo to my TBR list. This is just book one, and it peeked my interest, and was very indulgent. The story was well written but maybe falls a little too much in the template of paranormal genre, but the search for adventure in the story was there. The characters were well-rounded but need a little more depth. I did enjoy the story and the writing of Clark. I'll be reading more of Clark's stories, I'm sure.

[CoffeeTimeRomance andMore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Come along on an adventure provided in the pages of Love Bites. A whole world of creatures await your presence and wish to tell you their story. I love the writing of Ms. Clark; what an imagination. I enjoyed every moment of the book and will pick up the next book to read the rest of the story. Come along for a magical journey; you will not be disappointed.
Delane
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More
Full Review @ Coffee Time Romance & More

[Joshua Grant · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love Bites by T.L. Clark is a supernatural romance with an interesting and broody main character. Shakira just moved to a new place. She struggles to fit in, in large part thanks to her tragic past. But when she encounters some otherworldly beings, her life changes forever. You might say that’s your standard supernatural romance setup, but that’s not a bad thing. Clark’s writing is engaging and I enjoyed seeing Shakira’s journey. This is a good one for anyone itching for a story with magic and romance!

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Elinefae: ee -LINE-fay”

This was my first book that I have read by TL Clark. Not one to usually like the world of fairies and witches, and magnificent dragons, it was the reviews that hooked me on this one. I could tell that this was going to have a spin on the genre that I had not read before. I am glad that I chose to pick it up and ultimately can’t wait to see what comes after that shocking and abrupt ending. I say ending because this wasn’t your typical cliffhanger. It just real serious real fast at the end. I will definitely be going to get the other book now, as it is available already.

Shakira has always felt like something was off about her. Like she didn’t fit in amongst anyone that she knew. This feeling grows more intense and she feels it drawing her to somewhere different. She isn’t sure where that is but one day she decides to follow her senses and gut. She packs up her car and hits the road.

Stumbling upon the town of Wales she knows immediately that this is where she should be. It becomes very apparent that while she felt different before she fits in amongst this town. When she realizes that there are shadows lurking in the forest and discovers that there is a magical world she didn’t realize ever existed.

As she begins to settle in and discover more about herself her ‘father’ reenters her life. In fact he may be out to kill her!! Could he be the evil she has been warned about? Is he on the dark side of magic or did he just become lost in his past? Maybe he is just trying to protect the fact that Shakira is still special even among who she feels the most at home with. Is Shakira able to keep herself safe?

This book had a twist in the typical paranormal romance that I had not yet read. It was unique and I enjoyed the imagination behind that. In the same right it was quite confusing to figure out or make sense of as you are getting used to the concept. It was a bit of an annoyance but eventually the book got faster paced and less confusing. Overall this was a four star read for me.  Oh, and fyi this is one steamy book. Not suitable for readers under 18. This is definitely an adult romance novel. That is my cup of tea, but I know some aren’t so into that in this genera category. Still a great read worth giving a one click for!

 

“Upon this mirror you may gaze,

To witness the horrors of former days.

When once more all the past pain you can feel,

Then at last you can start to truly heal.”

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars

Love Bites is the first book in the Darkness & Light Duology by T.L Clark. This is such a gem of a find! A wonderful Fantasy/paranormal romance with so much going on in it- I couldn’t have read it any quicker, demolishing it all in a few hours because I HAD to find out all the spellbinding details. The author wove a superb tale that came to life under her creative touch. There are witches, faeries, sorcerers, Elinefae, magic, mystery, suspense, and so many more fascinating additions and details. This story is completely original from anything that I have read in this genre before. It has its own unique identity, which the author has lovingly crafted. I wasn’t sure of what to expect going in but I loved the cover and was intrigued by the blurb, so I took the plunge…. And I am SO happy that I did! This may be my first read from Ms. Clark- but it definitely won’t be the last. She has confirmed her place on my must-read authors list and I can’t wait to devour everything she will write/or has written. How excited was I to discover that she has also got quite a few other books to her name- which I will definitely be one-clicking, and devouring ASAP.
Shakira, Pryderi, Cerys, Lily and all the other wonderful characters really brought this story to life. They are wonderfully developed individuals with their own personalities, quirks and flaws. They led me on an incredible journey that I won’t soon forget. I love Kiera and Pryderi so much! I am blown away by all the unique touches that Ms. Clark gave her characters- it really made the story quite an exciting ride. Then, there is the matter of the exceptional world building skills that Ms. Clark demonstrates throughout this story. She brought everything to life, with fantastic descriptions and attention to details. Right down to having a world history, backstory, languages… and so many more unique features.
I have already jumped into the second book as I couldn’t wait to find out what would happen! I can’t recommend this book/duet highly enough, especially if you love fantasy/paranormal stories that are unique, enchanting and well written.
Brilliant!

Thank you, Ms. Clark!

[Linda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Love Bites by TL Clark

Shakira is not really sure what drew her to Wales when she left her parent’s house in Surrey, England in her little old Ford Puma (Very clever!). She is on a quest of self-discovery. What she learns is a lot more than she bargained for. Shakira ends up on a sharp learning curve when the plot divides into several story arcs. The characters are well-fleshed out and it becomes quite evident why Shakira never felt like she fit in. Even as the story develops this insecurity still haunts her.

Ms. Clark seamlessly weaves together finicky fairies, witches who aren’t as smart as they should be, new and unique paranormal creatures with their own society and laws, and sorcerers who think they can do whatever tickles their fancy. Oh, and a dragon with some unique qualities. (I want one!) The characters are diverse with many likable qualities, others are vile. Their dialogue is intelligent and informative.

Most of the story arcs came to a satisfying close, except for two important arcs left me hanging… I should have seen it coming, it’s mentioned in the title: Darkness & Light Duology Book 1. It is possible though, to end a book in a series without leaving readers hanging. Luckily, at this late dated review, the second book of the duology is available.

I did enjoy the story, I found it well written with a few proofing misses, nothing that threw me out of the story.

FYI: “Love Bites” is the first book in the Darkness & Light Duology. There are some graphic sex scenes and are some F-bombs. If you are sensitive to these issues, this book may not be for you. The author, being British, uses British spelling conventions. **Originally written for "BigAl’s Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy.** August 8, 2018
Format/Typo Issues: No significant issues.

[Laura Furuta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Bites (Darkness & Light Duology Book 1)
By: TL Clark
5 out of 5 stars

The story Love Bites (Darkness & Light Duology Book 1) by TL Clark is a mythology/fantasy book. This story hooked me in from the beginning and had me lost in its pages. I didn’t want to put it down until I had read the ending. It is a wonderful story that includes action, danger, mythical creatures, and magic. The story introduces you to Shakira. She has never felt that she fits in anywhere. She has moved in order to get a new start. She finds herself discovering a world that not many know exist. She is learning things that she never knew about herself and also meets someone that she feels a deep connection and feelings for. She feels a pull towards them. Has Shakira discovered the place where she fits in? Is she in any danger from the discoveries that she is making? Will she completely fall for the one that has made her feel like no one else has? I loved reading this story and about the character of Shakira. I felt bad/sad for her in the beginning as she so many doubts about herself. As the story progresses she begins to learn about the gifts that she has and shows more confidence in herself. There are many other characters that I loved reading about. They help Shakira anyway they can. There are also those characters who have their own selfish agenda and will do anything to make sure their evil plans succeed. This is a story that gives attention to detail and does a wonderful job in developing the characters introduced. It is the first book I have read by the author and the first book in a series. I can’t wait to read the next one. This story does contain mature content and would be recommended for those over the age of 18.

[Cat Imb || The Reading Cat ||]

I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you T.L. Clark!

I have to say that I love cats. Like L-O-V-E cats. When I first read that the elinefae were half human half cat, I was surprised and a little on the fence about if it would work. I am happy to report that IT DID WORK! Oh man, once this story got going I couldn't stop reading! It does take a little while to get accustomed to the world and creatures, but the second half of the book really did it for me.

What really stuck out for me was the humour; the little expressions that make you laugh, like "Ohh Poopey!". (Side note, I totally say that in real life). The humour also brought out all of the characters' personalities. They are all so different, and relatable. (Other confession: I love sassy characters *wink*). Honestly, can I be part of that world?

The danger with fantasy, is getting in over your head with a super complex world that isn't cohesive. This did not happen in Love Bites. This book had a decent amount of creatures and beings, and was the right size. It grew at an appropriate pave which allowed the reader to gradually firmly grasp each concept Clark threw our way.

TL! How do you finish a book like that???

As soon as you guys read this one, you'll definitely want the sequel! Good thing they come out on the same day eh?

Oh! I almost forgot to mention this: IT'S SUPER SEXY AT TIMES. I mean, like so hot under the collar... catch my drift *second wink*

[Bobbi Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love Bites (Darkness & Light Duology Book 1) by TL Clark is the first book in her Darkness & Light Duology series. This is a paranormal romance that is fast reading and will keep you engaged until the end. It is full of action from dragons, witches and fairies. This is my first book by this author and I enjoyed it, I can't wait to read the next book in this series. I enjoyed how this author was able to pull me in right from the beginning. Her attention to details made me feel as if I was right there with they paranormal characters. I enjoy how her characters are lovable and I could connect with them on a certain level. They took me on a few twists and turns that I didn't see coming and left me sitting on the edge of my seat. This is a story of Shakira has moved to a new town hoping for a new start. She is on a mission to find somewhere to belong. She realized that things don't always work out the way she wants. What will happen when she feels a draw to the forest? What is it about that forest? What are the cat-like eyes she spies? Then everything gets flipped when she meets him and that first kiss could change her life forever. You will have to read this book to find out more but I highly recommend reading it. I enjoyed how Shakira was about self discovery and finding romance. I also enjoyed the secondary characters that had secret lives and they were just magical including vampires. Who doesn't love a vampire. It will leave you looking for more.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love Bites (Darkness & Light Duology #1)
By T. L. Clark
Rated 4 stars

This story is intriguing. This book isn’t what I thought it was. I assumed it was a vampire story. Hence the title. It’s not. It is full of witches, fairies, sorcerers and some panther-like people (elinefae). The story was a bit confusing at first since I didn’t really know what was going on. Then things started happening and moving along quickly. We meet Shakira at first while she is still human. She was a little shaky but as the book moved forward she grew. By the end I was impressed in all she could do. This became much more than just of story of a girl and her guy (her mate)whose family (clan) would prefer to execute her than let her join the family. There was some background stuff going on that took over the book. Oh and I don’t want to forget the cute little (don’t tell him I said that) dragon. Although not a large part...who doesn’t love and want a dragon??
I was shocked at the ending and had to go back and reread the last couple paragraphs in the book. I needed to make sure what I read was right!
In the title of Darkness and Light. At first i assume that dark is evil and light is good. But I was impressed in the Darkness of this story was not what i thought and the Light was actually the problem.
This is my first book by the author. The story flowed nicely and there is character growth. I am Interested in what will happen to the characters next! So on to book two!

[Behind Closed Doors Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amount of sex 3 / 5
How explicit 2 / 5
Story 4 / 5
Overall: 4 / 5

Review: Drawn to the small anti-stranger Welsh town, Shakira finds her place among the locals serving tea and coffee at the local cafe. She loves to run and be in nature finding a connection there like no other. Yet, something is off and some of her new friends know it. With changes abound, Shakira finds herself in a strange new world she thought only existed in her childhood fantasies.

Plunging into the world of Love Bites is a mystical and sometimes confusing experience. Like Shakira, the reader finds themselves in a unique world of witches, changelings, and sorcerers. T.L. Clark creates a magical world that is rich with multiple characters and stories. The main story focuses on Shakira, but there are many other characters with stories to tell. This is particularly true of the multiple witches that span the world.

I enjoyed this complex story and world the author has created. The writer does a good job of explaining things and helping the reader (and Shakira) understand what is happening in an entertaining way. While there are frequent naughty bits, they are pretty tame by Behind Closed Doors standards.

The story is fun, magical and entertaining. It does end on a cliffhanger.

[Julia Red Hatter Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love Bites is a totally unique take on paranormal and myths. This book is jam packed with some amazing characters of all different paranormal races. Love Bites is centered around Kiera and Pryderi. Yet we get a bonus love story with Cerys and Chen. Kiera believes she is a human and when she moved to a new town she finds out differently. She meets Pryderi and had an immediate connection to him. Pryderi is Elinefae and confused on why he's obsessed with this woman. Enter Cerys the Elinefae clan witch and we find out Kiera isn't human at all. She's half sorceress and half Elinefae. Then starts an amazing action packed journey of self discovery, lies, secrets, love, and heart break.

Kiera is fiercely brave and strong. She seems to take everything in stride. She is smart and learns so much so fast. Pryderi is a sigh worthy book boyfriend. He's a loyal warrior and mate. This story did go slow a bit in the beginning but after that it picked up steam and I couldn't put it down. The ending was shocking and leaves you scrambling for the next book. Not really a cliffhanger but enough to leave you hanging (it is a duet). Kiera will steal your heart with her bravery. She is such a very likable character that she has you rooting for her throughout the whole book.

[Ashleigh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love Bites by TL Clark is the first book in her new series Darkness & Light Duology, and what a great opener. Following the story of Shakira who has never really felt like she fit in in her life, and the measures that she is willing to go to find a place where she belongs. The story of Shakira deals with how we handle change, how light and darkness plays in all our lives and even the factors of good and evil in us all. Getting to see the story of Shakira, how she grows to not only accept herself but her branching out and learning to love others once they accept who she is as a woman. The story is full of intricate details, bodied with undertones of inner messages and outer feels that will make you feel great as you are reading this one. Clark is a new to me author, and I am so happy that I picked this one up as the cover art really didn’t roll in my usual wheelhouse of reading. Her style of writing pulled me in from the beginning and didn’t let go until the end. I can’t wait to read more about Shakira and the adventures of her life. If you are looking for a great new author, with a writing style that is guaranteed to stay with you for a while and teach you something along the way than this is the one for you to grab up today.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I give Love Bites (Darkness & Light Duology Book 1) by TL Clark, 5 stars.

What a wonderful book! This story is of Shakira, a young woman who doesn't seem to fit in anywhere or with anyone. She feels compelled to leave home. The feeling gets so strong, she decides to act on it and packs up her car. She has no idea where she's going, but follows her instinct. She ends up in a small Welsh village. Little does she know just how much this decision will change her life. Her life takes a turn she never expected or believed could be real.

This is a paranormal romance that is different from anything I have read before. Sure, there are witches, faeries, and creatures. But the main creatures in the book are something I haven't heard of before. I have to admit, I had trouble following it at first, not knowing exactly where the book was going. But it got so much better and very soon, I could not but it down! The story is amazing and Shakira is a wonderful main character. The other characters are also wonderful and I cannot wait to read more about them. I anxiously await when I can get my hands on the next book! I highly recommend this book to those who enjoy paranormal romance and/or fantasy.

[Candida Furbush · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Bites (Darkness & Light Duology Book 1) by TL Clark

This is an awesome fantasy, mystery, and romantic story. This book starts out telling us about Shakira, who never felt like she fits in anywhere. She decides to move and start new, when she makes this decision she doesn't actually know where she's headed. She moves to Wales because she feels drawn to this place, more specifically the mysterious forest near the small town. I truly enjoyed how the story starts out with hints of what's going on and then onto more details adding more characters and more magic and definitely more action the build up was awesome!! This story had me hooked from the beginning, I couldn't put it down till I read the whole thing. I had an all nighter because of how much I enjoyed reading this story. The author did and amazing job creating this magical fantasy, and making the story flow so well. Now that I have finished this book I cannot wait to start reading the next book especially since there was a twist in this story that I need to know how it turns out and I won't know until I get my hands on the next book. I highly recommend this book it is an exceptional story, just talking about it makes me want to dive back in and get lost in it again!!!

[ThatReader · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a fast read. It's a fast paced story, very youthful and peppered with humour, a fairytale for grownups - because of the hot, steamy scenes, if it weren't for them, this book would not go wrong with being read by teens, but since there's a few love scenes of the torrid kind, I do not advise it to those under 18.
The pace, as I said, is very fast, and a lot happens in not many pages, so be warned, you're in for a fast ride. There's a lot of dialogue, so if you don't fancy that kind of thing, this is probably not for you.
The best thing about the book, as far as I can say, is the Elinefae. I pride myself in having read a lot of books all through my life, and I can vouch that I have never, ever come across something like the Elinefae. This is new, uncharted territory, and I think the author has got something here which she'd do well to explore. Of course, there's always the sequel to this one - Love Bites Harder - but I wonder if she might not pick up this world she created and delve deeper into it? As far as Fantasy Literature is concerned, I believe there's room for it.
A good, fast read, all in all, entertaining and light.

[Dawn Daughenbaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Star
Love Bites (Darkness &Light Duology Book 1) by T.L. Clark is the first book in her Darkness and Light series. This is a paranormal romance and is full of witches,dragons and fairies. This is my first Book by this author but definitely wont be my last. I really like this author's style of writing and her ability to grab your attention and keep it till the end. I was sad this book ended but can't wait to read the next book in this series. These characters are very real and connectable.There is a few twists and turns while on the edge of my seat trying to figure out what was happening. This is the story of Shakira,shes is on a mission to find somewhere she belongs. But she realized things don't always work out the way you want.What will happen when she the forest draws her in?what is it about the forest makes her feel? Are those cat like eyes she spies? But then everything is turned when she meets him and the kiss .Can a kiss change her life?This book is a must read I highly recommend it especially if you want to know what happens.Looking forward to reading more from this author.

[Kerry Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love Bites by T.L. Clark is the first book in the Darkness and Light Duology series. It is a book about finding yourself and finding a way to truly become comfortable.
Shakira never knew why she didn’t fit in. She just didn’t. Hoping to change that she moves to Wales hoping that she can find the solution. But when she gets there it isn’t the solution she is looking for. Instead she finds herself more on the edge, dreaming strange dreams and certain that she can see things she can’t explain. And she is drawn to the forest in a way she describe.
When she meets the mystical stranger everything changes. Her world starts to make sense and it starts taking shape - albeit in a way she could never foresee. Is the kiss they shared the thing that sets her on the path she is meant for? Or is she putting too much hope into a stranger?
As a new author to me I didn’t know what to expect from this book but I have to say I really enjoyed it. I loved the complexities of the story and how everything was woven. The characters were interesting and well written, working well throughout the entire book. I am looking forward to seeing what book 2 has to offer.

[Tracey · Rating 4 out of 5]

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

I was sceptical about whether I would like this book at first at it isn't something I would normally read. But the story had my interest peeked from the first few pages. Shakira is a young woman who doesn't feel she belongs and so decides to move from her parents and feels a call to move to a small village in Wales. It's here that she discovers why she has always felt an outsider and that's because she isn't human.

I enjoyed the first half of the book. T L Clark has created some nice well rounded characters and the sassy banter between them had me laughing out loud at times. There are also some quite explicit sex scenes too which I felt a bit embarrassed reading as it was almost like intruding on the private moments of two friends.

I was a little disappointed with the second half and the action part of the book. It was very fast paced but I felt almost a little rushed.

But I did enjoy the book and will be adding the sequel to my "to read" list. Oh and i almost forgot to mention there are CATS :-)