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Darkness #8
Darkness Rising
From USA Today bestselling author Katie Reus comes the final story in the sensual, pulse-pounding Darkness series…
When a bringer of death…
Awakened after millennia, dragon warrior Reaper is ready to fulfill his destiny…until he sees Greer. With one glimpse, everything Reaper has ever known throughout his very long life is irrevocably changed. Greer’s his mate, he feels it in his blood, in his soul—but convincing her is another matter. The dragon clan healer finds him obnoxious and annoying, but he knows a woman’s interest when he smells it. And Greer smells like one word: mine.
Meets a giver of life…
Greer has spent hundreds of years using her healing abilities for the good of others, making her the polar opposite of Reaper. The ferocious war general may be an ancient, but his arrogance proves he hasn’t spent any of that time learning about women. Greer is displeased when her Alpha sends her to New Orleans with the insufferable warrior—then she sees him in action against a menace threatening to tear the city apart. Fierce, protective, magnificent…mate-worthy. Except he’s hiding something from her. Something dark and devastating that could destroy their newly forged bond. Maybe opposites do attract, but if they want to live long enough to find out, they’ll first have to save the world teetering on the brink of obliteration.
Length: NOVEL
Author note: This is the final book in the Darkness series and can be read as a stand-alone.
When a bringer of death…
Awakened after millennia, dragon warrior Reaper is ready to fulfill his destiny…until he sees Greer. With one glimpse, everything Reaper has ever known throughout his very long life is irrevocably changed. Greer’s his mate, he feels it in his blood, in his soul—but convincing her is another matter. The dragon clan healer finds him obnoxious and annoying, but he knows a woman’s interest when he smells it. And Greer smells like one word: mine.
Meets a giver of life…
Greer has spent hundreds of years using her healing abilities for the good of others, making her the polar opposite of Reaper. The ferocious war general may be an ancient, but his arrogance proves he hasn’t spent any of that time learning about women. Greer is displeased when her Alpha sends her to New Orleans with the insufferable warrior—then she sees him in action against a menace threatening to tear the city apart. Fierce, protective, magnificent…mate-worthy. Except he’s hiding something from her. Something dark and devastating that could destroy their newly forged bond. Maybe opposites do attract, but if they want to live long enough to find out, they’ll first have to save the world teetering on the brink of obliteration.
Length: NOVEL
Author note: This is the final book in the Darkness series and can be read as a stand-alone.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 4, 2019
117 people are currently reading
669 people want to read
About the author
Katie Reus
165 books3,244 followersKatie Reus® is the USA Today bestselling author of the Endgame trilogy, the MacArthur Family series and the Deadly Ops series. She fell in love with romance at a young age thanks to books she pilfered from her mom's stash. Years later she loves reading romance almost as much as she loves writing it. However, she didn't always know she wanted to be a writer. After changing majors many times, she finally graduated with a degree in psychology. Not long after that she discovered a new love. Writing. She now spends her days writing paranormal romance and sexy romantic suspense.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews
April 23, 2020
Reaper and Greer
Reaper has just woken from a Hibernation and he is the classical caveman/ dragon who has lost centuries of the human evolution.
Reaper woke up in a century that humans think that actual dragons are myths or the thing of their nightmares. Now he has to compromise and coexist with the other shifters and the puny humans. And he needs to learn to behave like a civilised well mannered dragon.
“I am an ancient dragon with many kills and wars to my name. Humans are weak.”
Greer is a healer for her clan. She was quite content in her role until Reaper flew into her life and now she is never alone.
“You will come with us. I go where you go.”
The final book in this amazing series, but don't be so sad since a spinoff is coming soon.
Reaper has just woken from a Hibernation and he is the classical caveman/ dragon who has lost centuries of the human evolution.
Reaper woke up in a century that humans think that actual dragons are myths or the thing of their nightmares. Now he has to compromise and coexist with the other shifters and the puny humans. And he needs to learn to behave like a civilised well mannered dragon.
“I am an ancient dragon with many kills and wars to my name. Humans are weak.”
Greer is a healer for her clan. She was quite content in her role until Reaper flew into her life and now she is never alone.
“You will come with us. I go where you go.”
The final book in this amazing series, but don't be so sad since a spinoff is coming soon.
June 4, 2019
5 - "This is so bad…" Stars!
The ninth and final book in Katie Reus’s Darkness series was an absolute stunner. Although I was sad to know that I was saying goodbye to a number of beloved characters, the author finished the series with an absolute cracking read.
He sensed that war and destruction were coming… he needed to be ready.
Healer Greer and Dragon Warrior Reaper are hardly what you would expect to be a perfect match at first glance, but after waking from hundreds of years in hibernation, the first thing Reaper knows is that this gentle, but ballsy shifter is his mate.
He felt the mating call in his bones, all the way to his core, that they were connected…
Greer has been burnt by a relationship with a dominant man in the past and is not looking to end up with another, even though her dragon virtually purrs when Reaper is near, his blunt commands and explicit expectations leave her rubbed up in all the wrong sorts of ways. This lack of filter caused some absolutely hilarious moments, especially in the context that this is a man who has been asleep for a veeeeery long time and has no clue of the current societal niceties, or what common slang and phrases actually mean.
She wanted to find some peace in his arms and she hoped she gave him some too…
As you would expect, the relationship developing between them is not the sole focus of the story-line, and the end of the world as we know it plays a pivotal role in the rounding out of this series as well. We are also given plenty of page time with various other characters from the series as the bigger story arc plays out.
He was hers and she was his…
I’m not going to say anything else about the story in this one, but it was an absolute page turner, with action, surprises and excitement dropping in every chapter, I virtually read it in one sitting. I laughed, I cried and it was a struggle to say good bye to my favourite PNR series from this author. On the plus a spin-off is in the works, and with things left the way they were at the end of this one, I am expecting big things, more great characters and story-lines to keep me entertained for a long time to come.
"I’m excited to start a new adventure with you…"
ARC generously provided by the author, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review in exchange.
The ninth and final book in Katie Reus’s Darkness series was an absolute stunner. Although I was sad to know that I was saying goodbye to a number of beloved characters, the author finished the series with an absolute cracking read.
He sensed that war and destruction were coming… he needed to be ready.
Healer Greer and Dragon Warrior Reaper are hardly what you would expect to be a perfect match at first glance, but after waking from hundreds of years in hibernation, the first thing Reaper knows is that this gentle, but ballsy shifter is his mate.
He felt the mating call in his bones, all the way to his core, that they were connected…
Greer has been burnt by a relationship with a dominant man in the past and is not looking to end up with another, even though her dragon virtually purrs when Reaper is near, his blunt commands and explicit expectations leave her rubbed up in all the wrong sorts of ways. This lack of filter caused some absolutely hilarious moments, especially in the context that this is a man who has been asleep for a veeeeery long time and has no clue of the current societal niceties, or what common slang and phrases actually mean.
She wanted to find some peace in his arms and she hoped she gave him some too…
As you would expect, the relationship developing between them is not the sole focus of the story-line, and the end of the world as we know it plays a pivotal role in the rounding out of this series as well. We are also given plenty of page time with various other characters from the series as the bigger story arc plays out.
He was hers and she was his…
I’m not going to say anything else about the story in this one, but it was an absolute page turner, with action, surprises and excitement dropping in every chapter, I virtually read it in one sitting. I laughed, I cried and it was a struggle to say good bye to my favourite PNR series from this author. On the plus a spin-off is in the works, and with things left the way they were at the end of this one, I am expecting big things, more great characters and story-lines to keep me entertained for a long time to come.
"I’m excited to start a new adventure with you…"
ARC generously provided by the author, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review in exchange.
June 5, 2019
What an amazing way to end the series! I absolutely love this world and all the characters we’ve met along the way but I honestly never saw this coming, which made it all the more spectacular.
After hibernating for thousands of years, Reaper has just woken up when he sees Greer. Unable to communicate with her, he has no problem letting her know his thoughts. He wants her and along with that desire is the burning need to keep her by his side. He may not know much about this new world, but he knows his mate when he meets her.
Greer doesn’t like warrior dragons or their bossy ways. Reaper may call to that feminine part of herself but his arrogance is a complete turn off. That’s what she tells herself anyway. When her Alpha instructs her to travel to New Orleans with the ancient dragons she’d rather do anything but spend more time with the controlling dragon.
I absolutely loved Reaper! Due to his long hibernation, he struggles with the modern vernacular which had me giggling at his reactions and falling even deeper in love with him. From the beginning he was all about Greer, being with her, protecting her and claiming her.
”Oh, Reaper did not like this male. His dragon wanted to claw his face off for smiling at Greer. Claw it off, then rip his heart from his chest. Yes, his dragon thought, he would make a nice snack.”
Rather than demand she yield to him, he was smart enough to recognize that she needed to be in control and he forced himself to give her what she needed. He was a charming, alpha hero with the type of characteristics I love in a book boyfriend.
While Greer was a healer and had never fought in a battle, she was seriously strong and capable. Yet, even as she stood up for herself, she wasn’t harsh or foolhardy. She was smart in the way she dealt with Reaper as well as the attraction she felt for him. More than able to handle the issues popping up in this quickly changing world, she never lost the softness that was a part of her.
”Because she felt impossible safe – which sounded insane even in her own head. The world had completely gone mad, but with Reaper, she felt protected.
Treasured.
Safe.”
This has some amazing action and drama with some fantastic written imagery that totally blew me away. I could clearly picture it in my mind and imagine it on the big screen. Forget Fifty Shades, let’s see some dragon shifters of the Katie Reus variety!
Although the romance is a strong part of this story, it actually has a bit of a slow burn to it which escalated the anticipation with each scene between Reaper and Greer. When things finally get hot and heavy with these two, the pages of my Kindle let up much like the mating flames this couple generated.
I hated that this series was ending until I reached the end and the author’s note. With a spin-off on the horizon that will allow a few glimpses of some of our favorites as well as new characters, I’m antsy to get on with it!
Thank the lord for dragon shifters, alpha heroes and amazing heroines strong enough to tame them!
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
After hibernating for thousands of years, Reaper has just woken up when he sees Greer. Unable to communicate with her, he has no problem letting her know his thoughts. He wants her and along with that desire is the burning need to keep her by his side. He may not know much about this new world, but he knows his mate when he meets her.
Greer doesn’t like warrior dragons or their bossy ways. Reaper may call to that feminine part of herself but his arrogance is a complete turn off. That’s what she tells herself anyway. When her Alpha instructs her to travel to New Orleans with the ancient dragons she’d rather do anything but spend more time with the controlling dragon.
I absolutely loved Reaper! Due to his long hibernation, he struggles with the modern vernacular which had me giggling at his reactions and falling even deeper in love with him. From the beginning he was all about Greer, being with her, protecting her and claiming her.
”Oh, Reaper did not like this male. His dragon wanted to claw his face off for smiling at Greer. Claw it off, then rip his heart from his chest. Yes, his dragon thought, he would make a nice snack.”
Rather than demand she yield to him, he was smart enough to recognize that she needed to be in control and he forced himself to give her what she needed. He was a charming, alpha hero with the type of characteristics I love in a book boyfriend.
While Greer was a healer and had never fought in a battle, she was seriously strong and capable. Yet, even as she stood up for herself, she wasn’t harsh or foolhardy. She was smart in the way she dealt with Reaper as well as the attraction she felt for him. More than able to handle the issues popping up in this quickly changing world, she never lost the softness that was a part of her.
”Because she felt impossible safe – which sounded insane even in her own head. The world had completely gone mad, but with Reaper, she felt protected.
Treasured.
Safe.”
This has some amazing action and drama with some fantastic written imagery that totally blew me away. I could clearly picture it in my mind and imagine it on the big screen. Forget Fifty Shades, let’s see some dragon shifters of the Katie Reus variety!
Although the romance is a strong part of this story, it actually has a bit of a slow burn to it which escalated the anticipation with each scene between Reaper and Greer. When things finally get hot and heavy with these two, the pages of my Kindle let up much like the mating flames this couple generated.
I hated that this series was ending until I reached the end and the author’s note. With a spin-off on the horizon that will allow a few glimpses of some of our favorites as well as new characters, I’m antsy to get on with it!
Thank the lord for dragon shifters, alpha heroes and amazing heroines strong enough to tame them!
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
May 18, 2019
I have a new dragon to love and his name is Reaper. He's call the Dragon of War and he's an ancient like we have learned about Prima and Mira. Boy does he have a lot to learn about the new world.
I've always been a fan of the caveman heroes and you can't get more caveman than an ancient dragon who's been in hibernation for thousands of years. Greer seems up to the challenge of teaching him that he can't just boss her around.
It was actually pretty funny to see him crash and burn so much. Prima was a hoot. She knows what Reaper is going through and she enjoyed every minute of Reaper's foot in mouth syndrome.
Greer could have been more understanding but I still liked her. She's more of a peace keeper so she really didn't see how Reaper, the God of War, could be anything for her. Despite her preferring peace, she had no problems taking charge when she needed too.
I can't speak of where the story went in this book because I don't want to spoil anything, but I like the turn the author took. It seemed fitting for the last book in the Darkness series to end the way it did.
The author does say at the end of the book notes that she will be doing a spinoff. I am very happy about this because I have really enjoyed the many characters we have gotten to know in The Darkness series and want to see more of them in the new spinoff. Especially Prima. Please, please give us a book on Prima!
I've always been a fan of the caveman heroes and you can't get more caveman than an ancient dragon who's been in hibernation for thousands of years. Greer seems up to the challenge of teaching him that he can't just boss her around.
It was actually pretty funny to see him crash and burn so much. Prima was a hoot. She knows what Reaper is going through and she enjoyed every minute of Reaper's foot in mouth syndrome.
Greer could have been more understanding but I still liked her. She's more of a peace keeper so she really didn't see how Reaper, the God of War, could be anything for her. Despite her preferring peace, she had no problems taking charge when she needed too.
I can't speak of where the story went in this book because I don't want to spoil anything, but I like the turn the author took. It seemed fitting for the last book in the Darkness series to end the way it did.
The author does say at the end of the book notes that she will be doing a spinoff. I am very happy about this because I have really enjoyed the many characters we have gotten to know in The Darkness series and want to see more of them in the new spinoff. Especially Prima. Please, please give us a book on Prima!
April 8, 2021
A fab ending to a series that I really enjoyed, got to love me a dragon or two! Sometimes heroines really get on my wick and although I liked Greer at times, she irritated that wick! I think the whole mates thing was dragged out for too long, hence the 4 instead of 5 star rating that I wanted to give this book. Reaper alone is worth 5 stars. What a Neanderthal in the beginning, and I loved him!
June 16, 2019
Ancient dragon, Reaper awakens with a feeling of urgency and the premonition that danger and war is coming. His blood never lies and he knows that something big is coming. Meeting the intriguing Greer adds a new complication to the mix.
As a healer, Greer always imagined if she ever met her match, he would be a kind gentle person, someone more in sync with her own compassionate nature. Meeting Reaper and feeling instantly pulled to him throws her for a spin.
In the midst of their unexpected romance, the world as they know it is threatened and allies and friendships will be tested.
This is how an amazing series goes out with a bang! I loved everything about Darkness Rising. Greer and Reaper were amazing, the secondary characters - some old and some new - kept the story flowing in a direct that was exciting and totally unexpected. To say I was blown away by the ending would be an understatement. It was brilliant.
Darkness Rising had a slow burn but smoking hot romance, cute moments, sweet scenes and exhilarating action that made this read completely memorable. If you're a fan of the opposites attract trope, Greer and Reaper will charm you hands down.
A healer and the Dragon of War? Trust me, it was a perfect match :)
Would I recommend? Highly recommend. Especially if you've been following the series. It will not disappoint. No secret I'll be avidly following the spin off series to find out what's happening next!
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
As a healer, Greer always imagined if she ever met her match, he would be a kind gentle person, someone more in sync with her own compassionate nature. Meeting Reaper and feeling instantly pulled to him throws her for a spin.
In the midst of their unexpected romance, the world as they know it is threatened and allies and friendships will be tested.
This is how an amazing series goes out with a bang! I loved everything about Darkness Rising. Greer and Reaper were amazing, the secondary characters - some old and some new - kept the story flowing in a direct that was exciting and totally unexpected. To say I was blown away by the ending would be an understatement. It was brilliant.
Darkness Rising had a slow burn but smoking hot romance, cute moments, sweet scenes and exhilarating action that made this read completely memorable. If you're a fan of the opposites attract trope, Greer and Reaper will charm you hands down.
A healer and the Dragon of War? Trust me, it was a perfect match :)
Would I recommend? Highly recommend. Especially if you've been following the series. It will not disappoint. No secret I'll be avidly following the spin off series to find out what's happening next!
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
May 28, 2019
4.5*
Before starting this book I did a complete series re-read. While that wasn’t necessary for this book (since it can be read as a stand-alone). It reminded me just how much I love this series.
And while this is the last book in the Darkness series it’s not the end of this world or many of these characters. I thought I’d throw that in there so you’re not gutted as you near the end.
The ancients are rising. Something is drawing them from their hibernation. And whatever it is can’t be good for mankind.
The main characters here are Greer the healer for Petronilla clan. And the newly risen ancient Reaper known as the Dragon of War.
The action takes place in New Orleans where the newly risen ancients are being killed. But who would want to kill them and why?
This is a fabulous end to the series. I don’t want to say too much in case I inadvertently give something away. But I’m happy with how it ended and I’m looking forward to what’s to come. I will just say we meet a fascinating new character who I’m sure will feature heavily in the new series.
This book reminded me a little in places of Darker After Midnight. Another series I need to re-read.
But I digress.
So I loved this series and really enjoyed this book. Why not 5*?
I like Greer, she’s gentle and caring but also strong and confident. But...
I just felt the inevitable mating between her and Reaper was dragged out beyond all reason. Also considering how caring Greer is I would have thought she’d have been a little more understanding over Reaper. I know it’s different with him because her heart is involved but. He’s been asleep for a millennia. He lived in a different time (obviously). He was the Dragon of War. So yes he was arrogant and abrupt but cut him some slack woman.
Also and this is me being greedy but I would have liked a longer book. So much happens here and I wanted to catch-up with the others.
Now I’m just waiting for the new series.
I voluntarily read a review copy kindly provided by NetGalley.
Before starting this book I did a complete series re-read. While that wasn’t necessary for this book (since it can be read as a stand-alone). It reminded me just how much I love this series.
And while this is the last book in the Darkness series it’s not the end of this world or many of these characters. I thought I’d throw that in there so you’re not gutted as you near the end.
The ancients are rising. Something is drawing them from their hibernation. And whatever it is can’t be good for mankind.
The main characters here are Greer the healer for Petronilla clan. And the newly risen ancient Reaper known as the Dragon of War.
The action takes place in New Orleans where the newly risen ancients are being killed. But who would want to kill them and why?
This is a fabulous end to the series. I don’t want to say too much in case I inadvertently give something away. But I’m happy with how it ended and I’m looking forward to what’s to come. I will just say we meet a fascinating new character who I’m sure will feature heavily in the new series.
This book reminded me a little in places of Darker After Midnight. Another series I need to re-read.
But I digress.
So I loved this series and really enjoyed this book. Why not 5*?
I like Greer, she’s gentle and caring but also strong and confident. But...
I just felt the inevitable mating between her and Reaper was dragged out beyond all reason. Also considering how caring Greer is I would have thought she’d have been a little more understanding over Reaper. I know it’s different with him because her heart is involved but. He’s been asleep for a millennia. He lived in a different time (obviously). He was the Dragon of War. So yes he was arrogant and abrupt but cut him some slack woman.
Also and this is me being greedy but I would have liked a longer book. So much happens here and I wanted to catch-up with the others.
Now I’m just waiting for the new series.
I voluntarily read a review copy kindly provided by NetGalley.
June 4, 2019
Darkness Rising is book 9 in the Darkness series and it's the end. I have enjoyed this series for many years and I look forward to the spin off. I really liked the direction the author took and I enjoyed the new characters that were introduced. Darkness Rising was an enjoyable end with Greer the dragon healer from Conall's pack and Reaper and ancient dragon that has awoken from hibernation. First I have to say that I loved Reaper, he was sexy, arrogant and deadly but with an innocence to the world around him due to being newly awakened. I will admit to being a little disappointed in Greer I didn't like how judgmental she was towards Reaper and even when she realized she was his mate she still denied it. This kind of situation is very common in this genre but I guess I was hoping being a healer she was more willing to admit her feelings. Overall this is definitely a series that I would recommend for those who enjoy PNR.
***ARC Provided by NetGalley***
***ARC Provided by NetGalley***
July 12, 2019
3.5 Stars
Review to come
Review to come
June 8, 2019
We have to say that this was our first book by this author and we really enjoy it by them and we loved getting to know all the character's as the were so interesting and fun.We loved Reaper from the onset and his cave man ways.After reading this story I really need to go back and start the story from the very beginning.
Reaper a Greer where amazing together and had amazing heat together and I am not talking about the, breathing fire kind.We loved their fun and flirty relationship.
I love reading about Dragon shifters and it was a whole lot of fun with great character's mystery and suspense and we loved that they had mates that where a different species as it just showed all the different personalities and alpha ways.
Overall we loved it and we are sorry we didn't come upon this series sooner but, now that I have caught the bug we plan on reading the rest of the series.We thought it was an awesome read!
Recommended read to all!
Reaper a Greer where amazing together and had amazing heat together and I am not talking about the, breathing fire kind.We loved their fun and flirty relationship.
I love reading about Dragon shifters and it was a whole lot of fun with great character's mystery and suspense and we loved that they had mates that where a different species as it just showed all the different personalities and alpha ways.
Overall we loved it and we are sorry we didn't come upon this series sooner but, now that I have caught the bug we plan on reading the rest of the series.We thought it was an awesome read!
Recommended read to all!
May 29, 2019
I've thoroughly enjoyed this series and applaud the author for going out with a bang. Greer is a healer who gives so much of herself but when it comes to relationships she really isn't that interested. Reaper quite literally bursts into Greers life and from the start he's a character that is absolutely hilarious. Reaper is ancient and the oh so P C rules the modern world clings to totally bamboozle him. Reaper has no filter and frequently says the most outrageous things and I absolutely loved it !
So that my fellow reader us all I'm prepared to say as I think you really should dive into this book yourself. There's romance (naturally), action and treachery but most of all this was a thoroughly entertaining read. Plus even though this book closes this series the author has stated she has ideas for a new one and I for one cannot wait !
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
So that my fellow reader us all I'm prepared to say as I think you really should dive into this book yourself. There's romance (naturally), action and treachery but most of all this was a thoroughly entertaining read. Plus even though this book closes this series the author has stated she has ideas for a new one and I for one cannot wait !
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
June 4, 2019
Greer has always been congenial, nurturing and a little feisty. Until Reaper came along. He seems to bring out the worst in Greer, and I can’t com0laon because it led to entertaining clashes! After being in hibernation for so long, Reaper had to take a crash course in modern day behavior. He’s got his own code of honor and is an alpha to the core, however, Reaper’s severe lack of filtering put him in a big pot of hot water with Greer more times then he cared for, but don’t let her demeanor fool you. Greer gave as good as she got and then some! And who knew she had such power?! I mean, I knew Greer was powerful when it came to healing, but come after someone she really cares about... simply put, Greer and Reaper made a pretty amazing team. Greer and Reaper’s romance was full of spark and heat, along with a side sweetness I wasn’t expecting, yet felt entirely appropriate to their courtship.
There’s a whole other storyline occurring in the background of Greer and Reaper’s relationship, full of deceit, danger, and devious supernaturals. The intricacies made for a riveting read and I also loved revisiting previous characters, but there were a few loose ends that left me curious. While I was hoping this wasn’t really ‘The End’ to the fantastical Darkness series, it was nice to have confirmation after reading the author’s note! I am stoked for spin-off tales!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
There’s a whole other storyline occurring in the background of Greer and Reaper’s relationship, full of deceit, danger, and devious supernaturals. The intricacies made for a riveting read and I also loved revisiting previous characters, but there were a few loose ends that left me curious. While I was hoping this wasn’t really ‘The End’ to the fantastical Darkness series, it was nice to have confirmation after reading the author’s note! I am stoked for spin-off tales!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 26, 2020
My Thoughts - 5 out of 5 Unicorns - I loved it!!!
***I choose what I read and review based on what intrigues me!! I received a review copy, but no one tells me what to think, feel, or write about any book! I own this whole series save this one book which I will own in the future!
The cover is conservative, but he is shirtless so bonus!
This is the final book in the series, but I do believe I read somewhere that there will be a spin-off series picking up where this ends. This is for adults only do to the steamy content and violence.
This is Greer the healer’s story and an ancient who wakes up named Reaper. They do not get off to a great start, but they grow on each other and Reaper learns to curb his ordering around alpha tendencies. Something is going on and when Reaper sets off to find some of his comrade in arms, the Alpha sends Greer to keep an eye on everything to report back to him. They make some grisly discoveries and have to thwart a devious plot to harm humans. This story had tons of action. I enjoyed every moment. Never a dull moment and several humorous moments.
I highly recommend to all paranormal romance fans who want a great read!
***I choose what I read and review based on what intrigues me!! I received a review copy, but no one tells me what to think, feel, or write about any book! I own this whole series save this one book which I will own in the future!
The cover is conservative, but he is shirtless so bonus!
This is the final book in the series, but I do believe I read somewhere that there will be a spin-off series picking up where this ends. This is for adults only do to the steamy content and violence.
This is Greer the healer’s story and an ancient who wakes up named Reaper. They do not get off to a great start, but they grow on each other and Reaper learns to curb his ordering around alpha tendencies. Something is going on and when Reaper sets off to find some of his comrade in arms, the Alpha sends Greer to keep an eye on everything to report back to him. They make some grisly discoveries and have to thwart a devious plot to harm humans. This story had tons of action. I enjoyed every moment. Never a dull moment and several humorous moments.
I highly recommend to all paranormal romance fans who want a great read!
October 19, 2019
ARC received for review
A whole lotta sh!t went down in this book. Reaper is an ancient awoken to help battle an evil force, and claims Greer as his. Greer isn't on board with this at first, but yummy, growly Reaper grows on her. Lots of peeps from previous books on hand to help with the romance and the bad guys. We are left in the dark for most of the book about what is going on with August, Mira, Gabriel, and Vega down south. Another couple hooks up too. And we meet a yummy Alpha wolf shifter named King.
Ms. Reus says this is the last book in this series...tears. If that's the case, then I need a new series that starts off with King's HEA.
A whole lotta sh!t went down in this book. Reaper is an ancient awoken to help battle an evil force, and claims Greer as his. Greer isn't on board with this at first, but yummy, growly Reaper grows on her. Lots of peeps from previous books on hand to help with the romance and the bad guys. We are left in the dark for most of the book about what is going on with August, Mira, Gabriel, and Vega down south. Another couple hooks up too. And we meet a yummy Alpha wolf shifter named King.
Ms. Reus says this is the last book in this series...tears. If that's the case, then I need a new series that starts off with King's HEA.
June 8, 2019
https://www.instagram.com/p/BySjlmFoitf/
5 ‘Brand New World’ Stars
Oh wow…. Reaper and Greer were the PERFECT couple to wrap up this extraordinary and addictive Darkness series! Darkness Rising compacted every single element that made this Katie Reus’ series one of my top three PNR favs! Packed full of action, humor, emotion, sexiness, and kick@ss characters and unparalleled world building!
It was so incredibly bittersweet to read this book, because who wants to say goodbye to one of their all time PNR world and characters?! No one, that’s who! LOL
Well, Ms. Reus gave us the PERFECT COUPLE to close this series, because not only are Reaper and Greer brilliant as individuals and as couple, but DRAGONS!!!! Yep, who doesn’t love dragons?! I know I do, so I couldn’t be more thrilled to read about two strong and interesting ones like them.
She had no time for a rude male. Even one as sexy as Reaper.
It was as if no one existed for him except Greer.
Reaper has just woken up after thousands of years in Hibernation, and Fates had Greer be the very first being he sees. The Dragon of War faced with the sweet and caring Clan healer, we could already see that things would get interesting…LOL
Well, it was such an interesting journey, because with all the insta attraction present from the start, it was not exactly an easy ride, but one thing I can say, it sure was an extremely enjoyable one. Reaper had to not only catch up with the times, fulfill his ‘destiny’, but also conquer the female that he seemed to aggravate constantly with his natural arrogance and more times than none, with plenty of foot in mouth situations, but OMG, were they a joy to read, and for all of Greer’s hungups, and his less than delicate and tactful manner, it was easy to see that they very much wanted one another. And those hints of fragility and insecurity from Reaper, the big and strong dragon, regarding Greer, well, those just made me melt into a puddle! I absolutely adored this clueless – when it came to emotions – dragon. Major swoonfest! And once Greer gave in to the mating pull… WOW!
She wasn’t sure that she wanted to. He was nothing she thought she’d ever wanted but now… Maybe he was exactly what she needed.
She was everything he had never realized he wanted.
Needed.
My oh my, how incredible was the world building and expanding on this one. The revisit of so many of my fav couples from the series, and meeting this whole new universe of new and interesting characters and subplots… The setting of this whole book and the role of this couple, and the clear opening for this new coming series, were so incredibly well constructed and planned, that just proves once again Ms. Reus superb writing talent. I’m already dying for the ‘spinoff’, that’s how enticing Darkness Rising was in the regards of all the clues it left us. Talk about teasing!!!! <3 <3 <3 <3 <3
He was hers and she was his. Talk about being free.
She eclipsed every single fantasy he had ever had of what his mate would be like.
No fantasy could compare to reality. To Greer.
He wanted more.
So much more. All of her. Forever.
He had woken up expecting fire and war. But he had not expected her.
Thankfully the fates had given him this perfect female.
>u>ARC kindle provided by the author via Netgalley – KR LLC – for an honest review
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June 2, 2019
Darkness Rising by Katie Reus is book 9 in the Darkness Rising Series. This is the story of Greer and Reaper. I have been jumping in and out of the series, so for me this was a standalone book.
Reaper is a dragon warrior a General in fact who has been asleep for a long time but has awaken to fill his destiny until he sites are turned by Greer, his mate. Greer has been a healer for over a hundred years. So when Reaper takes a interest in her who is the opposite of her healing and not to mention his caveman attitude she rebuffs him..or tries too. Greer is having a hard time of rebuffing him because of her attraction to him then they are sent on a mission that puts them even closer together.
From my understanding this is the last book in the series. Loved this book and this author.
Reaper is a dragon warrior a General in fact who has been asleep for a long time but has awaken to fill his destiny until he sites are turned by Greer, his mate. Greer has been a healer for over a hundred years. So when Reaper takes a interest in her who is the opposite of her healing and not to mention his caveman attitude she rebuffs him..or tries too. Greer is having a hard time of rebuffing him because of her attraction to him then they are sent on a mission that puts them even closer together.
From my understanding this is the last book in the series. Loved this book and this author.
June 20, 2019
While the last book in the Darkness series, Darkness Rising turns Ms. Reus’s world of shifters and vampires on its head. I did enjoy the direction the author takes the series; however, I didn’t care for how suddenly the entire world changed. I don’t recall any indications that the series was headed in this direction in previous books, and the magnitude of these alterations is so large that it felt rushed and almost too easy. I suppose I would have preferred the final book focus more on closing out the series, although there really weren’t any outstanding plot threads from earlier titles. I was glad to see that at the conclusion of the book, the author notes she will be writing a spinoff series, because honestly, the story opened more doors than it closed.
The romance between dragon healer Greer and newly awakened ancient Reaper builds slowly over the course of the book. Reaper knows almost immediately that Greer is his mate, whereas Greer doesn’t want to be bothered with the sexy alpha male. I enjoyed the pace of the romance, which allows Reaper some time to adjust to this new world and Greer to accept the changes that mating with Reaper would have on her world. It’s a “fated mate” situation, so there doesn’t need to be a long “getting to know you” phase of the courtship, but the author does make the time.
I did have an issue with the inconstancy with which Reaper understands the modern world. The male has been asleep for at least a millennia, so he’s given a “gift” to understand modern English; however, that does not mean he understands idioms and context. At times, he’s rightly confused, not understanding the world around him. Yet at other times, he’s got no issues with technology and context. I felt it was completely out of place each time Reaper referred to Greer’s “ass” and used other more modern language.
Overall, I’ve enjoyed the Darkness series - one of the last remaining paranormal series I still read. Ms. Reus has created an interesting set of supernatural creatures, to include magnificent dragon shifters, in an exciting world. I look forward to discovering what she has in store for the future.
My Rating: B- Liked It, but I had a few small issues
Series Rating: B, Liked It
Review copy provided by NetGalley
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
The romance between dragon healer Greer and newly awakened ancient Reaper builds slowly over the course of the book. Reaper knows almost immediately that Greer is his mate, whereas Greer doesn’t want to be bothered with the sexy alpha male. I enjoyed the pace of the romance, which allows Reaper some time to adjust to this new world and Greer to accept the changes that mating with Reaper would have on her world. It’s a “fated mate” situation, so there doesn’t need to be a long “getting to know you” phase of the courtship, but the author does make the time.
I did have an issue with the inconstancy with which Reaper understands the modern world. The male has been asleep for at least a millennia, so he’s given a “gift” to understand modern English; however, that does not mean he understands idioms and context. At times, he’s rightly confused, not understanding the world around him. Yet at other times, he’s got no issues with technology and context. I felt it was completely out of place each time Reaper referred to Greer’s “ass” and used other more modern language.
Overall, I’ve enjoyed the Darkness series - one of the last remaining paranormal series I still read. Ms. Reus has created an interesting set of supernatural creatures, to include magnificent dragon shifters, in an exciting world. I look forward to discovering what she has in store for the future.
My Rating: B- Liked It, but I had a few small issues
Series Rating: B, Liked It
Review copy provided by NetGalley
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
April 21, 2025
2025 Review:
After finishing this book once again, I have to say that I agree with pretty much everything 2019 Sofia said, so the rating will stay the same. Although this time I was able to appreciate the secondary plots more, and I am glad I didn't skip this book in my reading marathon, because my girl Cynara finally got her happy ending! I was so excited to see her finally claim her vampire! Still, there are too many side plots that were left unfinished and I will have to make a board with all the secondary characters because at one point, I am bound to get confused. This is my least favorite book in the series and it had some major things happening! Greer was too stubborn for my liking.
2019 REVIEW:
I cannot believe Darkness rising is the last book in the series. As the author said there will be a spin-off that will continue with the story, but I don't feel satisfied with the ending. In my opinion, the books in the other series should have been included in this one. There so many questions left unanswered and that doesn't fit the qualifications that a complete series should have. So many secondary characters must have their own books.
The second thing that got on my nerves was the "Reaper is not my mate" line I kept reading for at least 60% of the book. Come on dude, you see Reaper to do things that only a mated dragon could do and you still question it? What do you need to see to finally say "yes he is my mate"? I read the previous 3-4 books before picking up this one and this is the only book where one of the main characters was so against the mating thing. That stubbornness made the romance less believable to me.
One of the things I liked was the ways Reaper was trying to catch up with how technology and language had evolved since the time he went to sleep. I would have loved to see more of that. The battle scene was good and it was done well. I am intrigued by King and I would like to read his story some day.
Overall, the book wasn't bad, but I feel like it could have been better. It didn't feel like an ending of a series, but more like a simple ending of a book. I get why the author decided to finish the series here with this book, after the battle, but I am not very happy about it.
After finishing this book once again, I have to say that I agree with pretty much everything 2019 Sofia said, so the rating will stay the same. Although this time I was able to appreciate the secondary plots more, and I am glad I didn't skip this book in my reading marathon, because my girl Cynara finally got her happy ending! I was so excited to see her finally claim her vampire! Still, there are too many side plots that were left unfinished and I will have to make a board with all the secondary characters because at one point, I am bound to get confused. This is my least favorite book in the series and it had some major things happening! Greer was too stubborn for my liking.
2019 REVIEW:
I cannot believe Darkness rising is the last book in the series. As the author said there will be a spin-off that will continue with the story, but I don't feel satisfied with the ending. In my opinion, the books in the other series should have been included in this one. There so many questions left unanswered and that doesn't fit the qualifications that a complete series should have. So many secondary characters must have their own books.
The second thing that got on my nerves was the "Reaper is not my mate" line I kept reading for at least 60% of the book. Come on dude, you see Reaper to do things that only a mated dragon could do and you still question it? What do you need to see to finally say "yes he is my mate"? I read the previous 3-4 books before picking up this one and this is the only book where one of the main characters was so against the mating thing. That stubbornness made the romance less believable to me.
One of the things I liked was the ways Reaper was trying to catch up with how technology and language had evolved since the time he went to sleep. I would have loved to see more of that. The battle scene was good and it was done well. I am intrigued by King and I would like to read his story some day.
Overall, the book wasn't bad, but I feel like it could have been better. It didn't feel like an ending of a series, but more like a simple ending of a book. I get why the author decided to finish the series here with this book, after the battle, but I am not very happy about it.
June 29, 2019
3.5 stars. I really enjoy this series and I absolutely adored Reaper but I wasn't a big fan of Greer. I think my favorite parts of this book was when Reaper was trying to catch up on all the updates in technology and the slang of the current generation. It was great and I would have liked more of it. I also liked how he was absolutely an alpha but still respected Greer and was really trying to adapt to the changes since he had gone to sleep. Greer drove me a bit crazy. How she could continue to deny that Reaper was her mate when she kept seeing all the typical signs was just ridiculous. It was nice to catch up with some characters from earlier books and I really liked King and am intrigued by his character.
This is the last book in the series but apparently there will be a spin off. For a last book there are a ton of unanswered questions and a lot of cliffhangers. It's really more like the end of one phase of the story and the start of a new phase especially since a lot of the characters from this series will be a part of the "new series."
I did find all the changes and the big war at the end very interesting and I'm really looking forward to where the new series will go.
Thanks to the publisher and net galley for provided this book. The review/opinions are my own.
This is the last book in the series but apparently there will be a spin off. For a last book there are a ton of unanswered questions and a lot of cliffhangers. It's really more like the end of one phase of the story and the start of a new phase especially since a lot of the characters from this series will be a part of the "new series."
I did find all the changes and the big war at the end very interesting and I'm really looking forward to where the new series will go.
Thanks to the publisher and net galley for provided this book. The review/opinions are my own.
June 15, 2019
Review posted on Got Fiction?
I’ve really enjoyed this series, and I was kind of bummed to see this is the last book in the series…until I read the author’s note at the end. This may be the last book in the Darkness series, but it looks like there will be a spin-off series set in the same world with some familiar faces, but with many new faces too. I’m so freaking excited!
This book begins with Greer enjoying a day in the snow alone and relaxing when out of the blue the earth tremors and a giant dragon emerges from beneath. Luckily Greer is also a dragon so she’s not as freaked out as say, I might be.
She bops him on his nose for his bad manners (which I loved), and he shifts to human form. But when he speaks, his language is so old, that Greer doesn’t understand it.
Greer’s no youngling at 1500 years old or so, but Reaper is ancient. Literally. He’s woken up from his very long Hibernation because his instincts are telling him war is coming. Blood, fire, war. He’s ready. But he’s not ready for Greer.
Reaper is a dragon of war. Not just a warrior, but like, the dragon of war. It’s his name. Greer is a healer, and the last time she dated a warrior, it didn’t work out for her. He tried controlling her, and she’s figured she needs some gentle guy. Reaper has always been with warriors as well, never once looking at a healer as a bed mate, let alone, his one mate. But he’s never met anyone like Greer before.
I think Greer tried to hold out against recognizing Reaper as someone she could be with just because of the chip on her shoulder about arrogant warriors, however, I liked her a lot, and her personality worked for me. Reaper was a big bad alpha male who tried everything he could to figure Greer out. A confused Reaper was a cute Reaper. The two of them worked well together both as mates and as partners. I was really invested in their relationship.
I enjoyed the plot, and the action, which never overshadowed the romance. This author is very good at balancing the action and the romance without sacrificing plot for romance, or romance for plot. I will say I was very surprised at the direction this book took the series, but not in a bad way. I am excited to see what happens in the world Ms. Reus has created, and I can’t wait to discover what she’ll do next.
***ARC courtesy of the publisher via Netgalley
I’ve really enjoyed this series, and I was kind of bummed to see this is the last book in the series…until I read the author’s note at the end. This may be the last book in the Darkness series, but it looks like there will be a spin-off series set in the same world with some familiar faces, but with many new faces too. I’m so freaking excited!
This book begins with Greer enjoying a day in the snow alone and relaxing when out of the blue the earth tremors and a giant dragon emerges from beneath. Luckily Greer is also a dragon so she’s not as freaked out as say, I might be.
She bops him on his nose for his bad manners (which I loved), and he shifts to human form. But when he speaks, his language is so old, that Greer doesn’t understand it.
Greer’s no youngling at 1500 years old or so, but Reaper is ancient. Literally. He’s woken up from his very long Hibernation because his instincts are telling him war is coming. Blood, fire, war. He’s ready. But he’s not ready for Greer.
Reaper is a dragon of war. Not just a warrior, but like, the dragon of war. It’s his name. Greer is a healer, and the last time she dated a warrior, it didn’t work out for her. He tried controlling her, and she’s figured she needs some gentle guy. Reaper has always been with warriors as well, never once looking at a healer as a bed mate, let alone, his one mate. But he’s never met anyone like Greer before.
I think Greer tried to hold out against recognizing Reaper as someone she could be with just because of the chip on her shoulder about arrogant warriors, however, I liked her a lot, and her personality worked for me. Reaper was a big bad alpha male who tried everything he could to figure Greer out. A confused Reaper was a cute Reaper. The two of them worked well together both as mates and as partners. I was really invested in their relationship.
I enjoyed the plot, and the action, which never overshadowed the romance. This author is very good at balancing the action and the romance without sacrificing plot for romance, or romance for plot. I will say I was very surprised at the direction this book took the series, but not in a bad way. I am excited to see what happens in the world Ms. Reus has created, and I can’t wait to discover what she’ll do next.
***ARC courtesy of the publisher via Netgalley
May 16, 2020
It’s been a minute since I read the last book in this series so all the names was more than a little confusing. Who is Bo again? Who is Cynara? How are they connected again? But other than that, I liked this story.
I liked Greer and Reaper. Not as much as I love Bo and Nyx or Keelin and Bran. They’re okay as MC’s.
Honestly? I didn’t feel much for them. And I think it’s because their love story takes a backseat to the fact that this is the last book of this series. There were a LOT of loose ends to tie up.
Because setting the scene for epic battles and for a spin off series was more at the forefront of this story, their romance, to me anyway, felt like a box to tick off. “Okay, they’re going to mate, but wait can’t let that happen yet, gotta insert fight scene here....” I dunno. Heck, I felt more feels because of Cynara and Justus.
Still, this was a good way to end this series and start a new one.
I liked Greer and Reaper. Not as much as I love Bo and Nyx or Keelin and Bran. They’re okay as MC’s.
Honestly? I didn’t feel much for them. And I think it’s because their love story takes a backseat to the fact that this is the last book of this series. There were a LOT of loose ends to tie up.
Because setting the scene for epic battles and for a spin off series was more at the forefront of this story, their romance, to me anyway, felt like a box to tick off. “Okay, they’re going to mate, but wait can’t let that happen yet, gotta insert fight scene here....” I dunno. Heck, I felt more feels because of Cynara and Justus.
Still, this was a good way to end this series and start a new one.
July 19, 2020
Loved this one! Highly recommend this series to paranormal romance readers!
May 25, 2019
Katie Reus's books are always a good time - a mix of actiony goodness, steamy romance and some scorching characters. Darkness Rising opens the world of the series even more - I won't spoil the plot, but something dramatically different happens and brand new threats are uncovered, tilting the series in a new direction. I absolutely loved it and couldn't put the book down for hours. Recommend!
June 7, 2019
Rating: 2.5 stars
Here’s to hoping it’s just me and the advanced reader copy I received was not the final version of this book. I’m a HUGE fan of this author and this particular series, but this storyline did not seem to have the same mojo I’m used to when it comes to Ms. Reus’s writing style. Once the dragon shifter hero, Reaper, appeared very early on, the writing on and off took a turn to the stilted, mechanical side. This dragon’s being laying deep down beneath the dirt for a l-o-n-g time, so I shrugged off the way he spoke. I chalked it up to him being disoriented, speaking a different language at first, and not knowing the lingo of the present day. However, by the end, I realized there was more to it than just that.
By 30% into it, Greer’s protesting too much about why Reaper just wouldn’t be right for her was granting on my nerves. By 60%, it was downright extremely annoying. It is hard to root for a main couple, folks, when the leading lady isn’t on board. He was off the charts lusting and in love with her from first glance. At least he got that part right in her eyes. Don’t get me wrong. She wanted him, too, but just didn’t think they would ever work as a couple.
I definitely did not get the reasoning to insert a blurted out, obscene name Greer hurled at Reaper, shortly after meeting him. It felt like a lame attempt to interject some potty, dirty thoughts, and imagery into it. I found it crude, crass, completely unnecessary, and out of character for her. I’m still mildly miffed at Greer for being so immature and petulant enough to do that. I even found myself mentally asking, “Did she really just say that?”
The out of the blue, graphic smexy scene featuring two sub-characters (that obviously have been flirting/circling each other for some time in previous books) proved others had more going on than this main couple. It’s kind of sad when I didn’t really see what Reaper saw in Greer.
By the conclusion, I realized the bad guy plot was overly done and the cast of characters was overly crowded. I skimmed through most of this book, folks.
Anyway, a spin off series seems to be in the works. This one just ended with a fizzle and not a big bang for me, despite the apocalyptic type drama. Again, overly done comes to mind. That’s just how the literary cookie crumbles sometimes, my fellow romance book loving friends. Here’s to hoping others like it. I certainly wish this author continued writing success. But I simply did not particularly enjoy this book very much.
Title: Darkness Rising, Series: Darkness (Book 9), Author: Katie Reus, Pages: 251, stand-alone but part of a series, the final book. Rating: 2.5 stars
(I voluntarily read and reviewed a free copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this review, nor is there any affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.)
Here’s to hoping it’s just me and the advanced reader copy I received was not the final version of this book. I’m a HUGE fan of this author and this particular series, but this storyline did not seem to have the same mojo I’m used to when it comes to Ms. Reus’s writing style. Once the dragon shifter hero, Reaper, appeared very early on, the writing on and off took a turn to the stilted, mechanical side. This dragon’s being laying deep down beneath the dirt for a l-o-n-g time, so I shrugged off the way he spoke. I chalked it up to him being disoriented, speaking a different language at first, and not knowing the lingo of the present day. However, by the end, I realized there was more to it than just that.
By 30% into it, Greer’s protesting too much about why Reaper just wouldn’t be right for her was granting on my nerves. By 60%, it was downright extremely annoying. It is hard to root for a main couple, folks, when the leading lady isn’t on board. He was off the charts lusting and in love with her from first glance. At least he got that part right in her eyes. Don’t get me wrong. She wanted him, too, but just didn’t think they would ever work as a couple.
I definitely did not get the reasoning to insert a blurted out, obscene name Greer hurled at Reaper, shortly after meeting him. It felt like a lame attempt to interject some potty, dirty thoughts, and imagery into it. I found it crude, crass, completely unnecessary, and out of character for her. I’m still mildly miffed at Greer for being so immature and petulant enough to do that. I even found myself mentally asking, “Did she really just say that?”
The out of the blue, graphic smexy scene featuring two sub-characters (that obviously have been flirting/circling each other for some time in previous books) proved others had more going on than this main couple. It’s kind of sad when I didn’t really see what Reaper saw in Greer.
By the conclusion, I realized the bad guy plot was overly done and the cast of characters was overly crowded. I skimmed through most of this book, folks.
Anyway, a spin off series seems to be in the works. This one just ended with a fizzle and not a big bang for me, despite the apocalyptic type drama. Again, overly done comes to mind. That’s just how the literary cookie crumbles sometimes, my fellow romance book loving friends. Here’s to hoping others like it. I certainly wish this author continued writing success. But I simply did not particularly enjoy this book very much.
Title: Darkness Rising, Series: Darkness (Book 9), Author: Katie Reus, Pages: 251, stand-alone but part of a series, the final book. Rating: 2.5 stars
(I voluntarily read and reviewed a free copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this review, nor is there any affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.)
June 26, 2019
Originally posted on I Smell Sheep.
* A copy of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review. All conclusions are my own responsibility and I was not compensated for this review.
Darkness Rising definitely fits the bill when it comes to an action-packed paranormal romance. If you love dragon shapeshifters and wonder if it’s possible to have them in a modern-day setting, look no further than Katie Reus. She does a wonderful job of making these dragons blend in as much as possible. Until they can’t anymore.
While Darkness Rising is technically the last book in the series, it isn’t the last time readers will see these characters or this world again, and I can’t think of a better way to kick off the next chapter of this paranormal romance saga. Yes, saga. There’s so much that happens in this book that changes things forever for all the characters involved.
Yet for all the action and world-shattering events that happen, Reus doesn’t forget that there’s a romance to develop. I felt that Reaper and Greer had plenty of time to get to know each other and fall in love. At the same time, Reaper had to acclimate to his new and fast-changing surroundings which sometimes lead to some light humor. He IS pretty darn old.
It isn’t necessary to read the series in order to understand it, but because it’s better if you do, I suggest picking up the first book ASAP.
* A copy of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review. All conclusions are my own responsibility and I was not compensated for this review.
Darkness Rising definitely fits the bill when it comes to an action-packed paranormal romance. If you love dragon shapeshifters and wonder if it’s possible to have them in a modern-day setting, look no further than Katie Reus. She does a wonderful job of making these dragons blend in as much as possible. Until they can’t anymore.
While Darkness Rising is technically the last book in the series, it isn’t the last time readers will see these characters or this world again, and I can’t think of a better way to kick off the next chapter of this paranormal romance saga. Yes, saga. There’s so much that happens in this book that changes things forever for all the characters involved.
Yet for all the action and world-shattering events that happen, Reus doesn’t forget that there’s a romance to develop. I felt that Reaper and Greer had plenty of time to get to know each other and fall in love. At the same time, Reaper had to acclimate to his new and fast-changing surroundings which sometimes lead to some light humor. He IS pretty darn old.
It isn’t necessary to read the series in order to understand it, but because it’s better if you do, I suggest picking up the first book ASAP.
August 7, 2019
Darkness Rising
Greer, a Dragon and one of the healers in the Petronilla Clan made an unexpected and life changing discovery one day when she out on one of her "me time". It was the first time she used her healing abilities to defend herself against another one of her kind. There was a new newcomer in her Clan, the man set her mind, body and soul on fire but she found him to be also annoying, arrogant and infuriating. If that doesn’t spell true love, I don’t know what does. Reaper was a Dragon shifter and a warrior who'd been in hibernation for so long that when he finally awakened. He was all set to fulfill his destiny until he laid eyes on the beautiful, strong and huge heart healer of the Petronilla Clan, Greer. He might be ancient but the arrogant man knew nothing about women. What I love about Katie Reus books while you get the love of a true romance novel there is always some epic battle or life altering battle that is beautifully woven into the story. I love that I haven’t read every book and was still able to follow along. I also love that unlike other authors in this genre she brings back older characters. I have a desire to finish this series and thwill be reading other books in the future. Thank you to Netgalley for my arc my apologizes for my delay. It in no way reflects poorly on the authors craft and more to do with my life.
Greer, a Dragon and one of the healers in the Petronilla Clan made an unexpected and life changing discovery one day when she out on one of her "me time". It was the first time she used her healing abilities to defend herself against another one of her kind. There was a new newcomer in her Clan, the man set her mind, body and soul on fire but she found him to be also annoying, arrogant and infuriating. If that doesn’t spell true love, I don’t know what does. Reaper was a Dragon shifter and a warrior who'd been in hibernation for so long that when he finally awakened. He was all set to fulfill his destiny until he laid eyes on the beautiful, strong and huge heart healer of the Petronilla Clan, Greer. He might be ancient but the arrogant man knew nothing about women. What I love about Katie Reus books while you get the love of a true romance novel there is always some epic battle or life altering battle that is beautifully woven into the story. I love that I haven’t read every book and was still able to follow along. I also love that unlike other authors in this genre she brings back older characters. I have a desire to finish this series and thwill be reading other books in the future. Thank you to Netgalley for my arc my apologizes for my delay. It in no way reflects poorly on the authors craft and more to do with my life.
June 3, 2019
I was a little worried about this final novel. No where in the blurb does it mention any of the wonderful characters I’ve fallen in love with during the reading of this series. No need to worry. This story is perfectly interwoven with the past characters of the series. And sometimes in a surprising way!
What can I say about Reaper? I’d totally let him eat crackers in my bed. Sure, he was gruff. But give the guy a break. He’s been in deep hibernation for hundreds of years. The modern age confuses me. It must downright confound him. Good thing he has some old friends to help him out along the way. I’m not sure why Greer didn’t jump him the moment she could. She had her reasons, for sure, I just didn’t think they were worth ignoring the sexy man for.
One of the things I love about this series is that the romance is only one element of the story. Sure, it’s a big element but not the only one. There’s always some kind of suspense or mystery happening as well. Darkness Rising is no different. There is something very evil going on and it’s up to Greer and any other ancients he can manage to gather together to stop it.
The ending is surprising. Yep, didn’t expect that to happen. I didn’t want this book to finish. After all, it’s the final novel of the Darkness series. I feel like my friends are moving away. Please, don’t go. Luckily, Reus has promised us more novels with our favorite characters in a spin-off series.
What can I say about Reaper? I’d totally let him eat crackers in my bed. Sure, he was gruff. But give the guy a break. He’s been in deep hibernation for hundreds of years. The modern age confuses me. It must downright confound him. Good thing he has some old friends to help him out along the way. I’m not sure why Greer didn’t jump him the moment she could. She had her reasons, for sure, I just didn’t think they were worth ignoring the sexy man for.
One of the things I love about this series is that the romance is only one element of the story. Sure, it’s a big element but not the only one. There’s always some kind of suspense or mystery happening as well. Darkness Rising is no different. There is something very evil going on and it’s up to Greer and any other ancients he can manage to gather together to stop it.
The ending is surprising. Yep, didn’t expect that to happen. I didn’t want this book to finish. After all, it’s the final novel of the Darkness series. I feel like my friends are moving away. Please, don’t go. Luckily, Reus has promised us more novels with our favorite characters in a spin-off series.
June 9, 2019
Darkness Rising is the last book in the Darkness series and Katie Reus has definitely gone out with a bang. Reaper is an ancient dragon who has been asleep for thousands of years but premonitions of coming fire and destruction have caused him to stir.
Greer is the healer of her pack and the first person Reaper sets eyes on after coming out of his hibernation and, even though he is unable to communicate vocally with her, there is no hiding the attraction he feels towards Greer. After all, one look is worth a thousand words. The road to their eventual mating will be rocky however. First of all they have to deal with whatever it is on the horizon that had the power to rouse not only the Dragon of War but other ancients as well.
I did enjoy the second half of this book more than I did the first half which I felt was a bit slow. I loved the whole caveman attitude of Reaper towards Greer and how he took everything anyone said quite literally with colloquialisms going right over his head. I should feel sad that this is the end of a fantastic series but I’m not. I know we’ll catch up with everyone and find out how they’re coping in this ‘new earth’ as well as meet new characters in the spin off series hopefully coming soon.
Greer is the healer of her pack and the first person Reaper sets eyes on after coming out of his hibernation and, even though he is unable to communicate vocally with her, there is no hiding the attraction he feels towards Greer. After all, one look is worth a thousand words. The road to their eventual mating will be rocky however. First of all they have to deal with whatever it is on the horizon that had the power to rouse not only the Dragon of War but other ancients as well.
I did enjoy the second half of this book more than I did the first half which I felt was a bit slow. I loved the whole caveman attitude of Reaper towards Greer and how he took everything anyone said quite literally with colloquialisms going right over his head. I should feel sad that this is the end of a fantastic series but I’m not. I know we’ll catch up with everyone and find out how they’re coping in this ‘new earth’ as well as meet new characters in the spin off series hopefully coming soon.
June 1, 2019
Dragon warrior Reaper is ready to fulfill his destiny…until one glimpse of Greer irrevocable changes everything. She’s the polar opposite of Reaper and thinks he’s obnoxious and annoying, until Greer sees how fierce, protective, magnificent and mate worthy he is. With a menace threatening to tear the city apart, Greer and Reaper can only hope to live long enough to find out if opposites attract.
The final book in the ‘Darkness’ series is a ‘Wykedly Wild,’ stunning and nail biting read that has really gets readers blood pounding. The characters are strong and full of energy with some magnetic chemistry that pulls readers into their story. The romance between these two is a bit rocky but that just makes their relationship so much more spicy because the sparks fare flying and the heat is building.
The plot is faced past with lots of thrilling suspense, exhilarating action and magnificent battles that has readers’ jaws dropping in disbelief. The suspense steadily builds throughout the story so that readers are edge as they know something big is going to happen and then BAM! it happens and the readers is in no way prepared for the world changing events that has readers’ hair standing on end. The New Orleans setting for this major twist in the ‘Darkness’ series is a perfect back drop that really adds to the stupendous reading experience, so while readers are sad that it is ending, they are thoroughly pleased with Reaper and Greer’s story.
The final book in the ‘Darkness’ series is a ‘Wykedly Wild,’ stunning and nail biting read that has really gets readers blood pounding. The characters are strong and full of energy with some magnetic chemistry that pulls readers into their story. The romance between these two is a bit rocky but that just makes their relationship so much more spicy because the sparks fare flying and the heat is building.
The plot is faced past with lots of thrilling suspense, exhilarating action and magnificent battles that has readers’ jaws dropping in disbelief. The suspense steadily builds throughout the story so that readers are edge as they know something big is going to happen and then BAM! it happens and the readers is in no way prepared for the world changing events that has readers’ hair standing on end. The New Orleans setting for this major twist in the ‘Darkness’ series is a perfect back drop that really adds to the stupendous reading experience, so while readers are sad that it is ending, they are thoroughly pleased with Reaper and Greer’s story.
June 4, 2019
Three and a half stars - three stars for the first half but four stars for the second half.
Ancients are awakening everywhere but arguably the most formidable is Reaper, in hibernation for millennia he was one of the most feared dragon shifters, known as the Dragon of War. Greer is a Dragon healer, after a long ago romance with an aggressive warrior who tried to control her she knows her future is with a gentler shifter, maybe a healer like herself and certainly not like the uber-alpha Reaper.
The first part of the novella dragged a bit for me, it was all "me alpha you mate", "mine, mine, mine", "let me pleasure you" blah, blah, blah. Greer resists the dominant male and he doesn't understand modern technology and slang.
Then suddenly in the second half the plot really took over as a group of rogue Dragons try to decimate New Orleans and create a new world order. There were epic battles, plots, twists, and a stunning finale to what has been a wonderful series - fear not there will be a spin-off.
If you love PNR with pushy alpha males strolling around shirtless as much as possible and growling if other males so much as smile at their mate, alphas who are eventually tamed by their feisty females, then I'm sure you will adore everything about this novel. I still enjoyed it despite my initial concerns and look forward to seeing what this spin-off series brings to this strange new world.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Ancients are awakening everywhere but arguably the most formidable is Reaper, in hibernation for millennia he was one of the most feared dragon shifters, known as the Dragon of War. Greer is a Dragon healer, after a long ago romance with an aggressive warrior who tried to control her she knows her future is with a gentler shifter, maybe a healer like herself and certainly not like the uber-alpha Reaper.
The first part of the novella dragged a bit for me, it was all "me alpha you mate", "mine, mine, mine", "let me pleasure you" blah, blah, blah. Greer resists the dominant male and he doesn't understand modern technology and slang.
Then suddenly in the second half the plot really took over as a group of rogue Dragons try to decimate New Orleans and create a new world order. There were epic battles, plots, twists, and a stunning finale to what has been a wonderful series - fear not there will be a spin-off.
If you love PNR with pushy alpha males strolling around shirtless as much as possible and growling if other males so much as smile at their mate, alphas who are eventually tamed by their feisty females, then I'm sure you will adore everything about this novel. I still enjoyed it despite my initial concerns and look forward to seeing what this spin-off series brings to this strange new world.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
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