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Ariel Kimber #5
Black as Midnight
Black as Midnight is the next full-length novel in the Ariel Kimber series.
Ariel Kimber has finally settled into her life. Not only does she have a safe place to call home, one she actually loves living at, but she’s got the best roommate a girl could ask for. Oh, and he comes with an adorable little black cat as well.
And that’s not all that’s looking bright and shiny in Ariel’s life.
She’s got a job now, working at Tyson’s shop - Fortune’s for the Unfortunate. Her job is awesome and it’s made even better by the fact she gets to work where her father, Rain Kimber, lives, who is also another bright spot in her life.
Life is golden, shiny, and the potential for happy days - endless.
Until it’s not.
When the Council comes to call, you pick up the phone and answer… Or you suffer the consequences.
Only a fool wouldn’t answer, and Ariel Kimber is no fool.
With her coven of guys, her psychotic father and the honorable Marcus Cole by her side, she can make it through anything… Even the Council.
Ariel Kimber reading order:
Brothers of the Flame
Love Potion
Blood Magic
The Ties That Bind
Tyson (Novella)
Good Witch, Bad Witch (Short Story)
Black as Midnight
Ariel Kimber has finally settled into her life. Not only does she have a safe place to call home, one she actually loves living at, but she’s got the best roommate a girl could ask for. Oh, and he comes with an adorable little black cat as well.
And that’s not all that’s looking bright and shiny in Ariel’s life.
She’s got a job now, working at Tyson’s shop - Fortune’s for the Unfortunate. Her job is awesome and it’s made even better by the fact she gets to work where her father, Rain Kimber, lives, who is also another bright spot in her life.
Life is golden, shiny, and the potential for happy days - endless.
Until it’s not.
When the Council comes to call, you pick up the phone and answer… Or you suffer the consequences.
Only a fool wouldn’t answer, and Ariel Kimber is no fool.
With her coven of guys, her psychotic father and the honorable Marcus Cole by her side, she can make it through anything… Even the Council.
Ariel Kimber reading order:
Brothers of the Flame
Love Potion
Blood Magic
The Ties That Bind
Tyson (Novella)
Good Witch, Bad Witch (Short Story)
Black as Midnight
332 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 29, 2019
187 people are currently reading
157 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
May 28, 2019
I feel so so disappointed right now...
May 30, 2019
The added two guys was too much, there’s already 6 guys for Ariel and now even more. Also I didn’t like how Julian and Damien were in a relationship together, I wish I knew there was gonna be m/m before starting this series. If I knew I would’ve never read it, I don’t particularly like reading books with m/m content in them. Not my cup of tea.
June 13, 2021
Ariel Kimber is one of my absolute favorite series and just continues to get better with each book. Black as Midnight is a fantastic continuation and definitely my favorite so far!
Ariel is now working at Fortune's for the Unfortunate, living with Dash and Binx, and continues to learn magic from the guys and her father. Even Marcus has come back into her life. But unfortunately her seemingly perfect new life is interrupted once again by the council and Ariel has no choice but to play their game.
I really liked Ariel in this book. I've always loved her character but I feel like this book really demonstrates the changes she's undergone since book 1. She is no longer a meek girl just getting through life with her head down. Gaining confidence both in her powers and her relationships with the guys has brought out the strength that we'd only been able to glimpse in the beginning. She is stronger- both mentally and with her magic- and much more assertive. I love when her feistiness comes out when she's irritated with the guys or Rain!
We also get introduced to a few new characters and a little bit of Rain's backstory in this book. I am really looking forward to getting to know more about them in the next books!
Black as Midnight is amazing. Quite a bit happens in this book between the council, Ariel's relationships with the guys (hellooooo we're finally getting somewhere haha), and a few other incidents that definitely keep these characters on their toes. I really liked getting to know Dash, Julian, and Damien more in these last few books, especially since the first few seemed to mostly be about Tyson, Quinton, and the Salt and Pepper Twins! But overall Mary Martel really does a great job of balancing Ariel's time and heart between these 7 men.
I absolutely cannot wait for the next book to come out. Mary Martel mentions at the end of the book that she has Dash's and maybe even Rain's novellas planned which I am beyond excited for!
Ariel is now working at Fortune's for the Unfortunate, living with Dash and Binx, and continues to learn magic from the guys and her father. Even Marcus has come back into her life. But unfortunately her seemingly perfect new life is interrupted once again by the council and Ariel has no choice but to play their game.
I really liked Ariel in this book. I've always loved her character but I feel like this book really demonstrates the changes she's undergone since book 1. She is no longer a meek girl just getting through life with her head down. Gaining confidence both in her powers and her relationships with the guys has brought out the strength that we'd only been able to glimpse in the beginning. She is stronger- both mentally and with her magic- and much more assertive. I love when her feistiness comes out when she's irritated with the guys or Rain!
We also get introduced to a few new characters and a little bit of Rain's backstory in this book. I am really looking forward to getting to know more about them in the next books!
Black as Midnight is amazing. Quite a bit happens in this book between the council, Ariel's relationships with the guys (hellooooo we're finally getting somewhere haha), and a few other incidents that definitely keep these characters on their toes. I really liked getting to know Dash, Julian, and Damien more in these last few books, especially since the first few seemed to mostly be about Tyson, Quinton, and the Salt and Pepper Twins! But overall Mary Martel really does a great job of balancing Ariel's time and heart between these 7 men.
I absolutely cannot wait for the next book to come out. Mary Martel mentions at the end of the book that she has Dash's and maybe even Rain's novellas planned which I am beyond excited for!
May 23, 2019
BaM was the best book in the series so far!!! Really, it was my absolute favorite. The ending tore me up in pieces. I love them all. Ariel is crawling out of her shell fast and claiming and her men as she goes. I love her. Her sweetness and vulnerability, especially when she doesn’t realize how pure and kind she is, truly is special in a main female character! She owns her guys, body, mind, and soul and she doesn’t even realize it yet. But I have a feeling they all are going to let her know for sure soon. What can I say, I’m a fan of Uncle Quint and I just love him so much more with each book. But in all honestly, I love every single one of her guys soo so much!! They’re all unique and give Ariel so much love and joy; it’s so beautiful to read. Thank you for such an amazing book, Mary Martel! I can’t wait for Dash and Rain’s novellas!! This series is really one of my favorite reverse harems, and I’ve read a lot. It makes me so happy when I get to read it and just knowing that with each book it gets better and better makes me excited to read the next books in this series, novellas included!!! I can’t wait for more!! This is a must read book and series!!! You won’t be disappointed! Love this book and series!
May 29, 2019
I didn’t think this series could get any better... but I was wrong. This has to be my favourite book of the series yet. Ariel has grown so much as a character and I think she is one of my favourite main characters of all time. I love how this series changes me one minute I’m team Tyson then team salt and pepper twins and now I’m just team Dash! 🧡 I love Ariel and Dash’s relationship it’s grown so much they have both been through so much crap in their past and it’s lovely how they both get each other.
But back to the book Ariel is working at the shop now, she has her dad back in her life which is great but now their are hunters after her and the coven. The council are still a holes... she now has two guards who have become part of the coven now, which is weird but great can’t wait to see what happens with them both. I just can’t wait to read the next book! ❤️ completely love this series
But back to the book Ariel is working at the shop now, she has her dad back in her life which is great but now their are hunters after her and the coven. The council are still a holes... she now has two guards who have become part of the coven now, which is weird but great can’t wait to see what happens with them both. I just can’t wait to read the next book! ❤️ completely love this series
May 23, 2019
Wow what a book! Definitely my favourite of the series so far (except for maybe Ty’s book). This series just gets better and better as it moves forward, I love the growth of these characters both individually and as a group.
There are so many exciting things happening that you won’t want to put it down and there are a couple of added twists even I didn’t see coming (but OMG are they the best kind).
Ariel has definitely grown up and is dealing better with her past and the insecurities that she has because of it.
Her relationship with her coven is moving forward and definitely heating up 🔥🖤 and she is now closer to all of them and has a different relationship with each of the guys all of which are moving at a different according to which guy it is and nothing is rushed or forced (everything moves and flows naturally).
I am so excited to see where the story of these amazing characters go and what happens next. I am super excited for Rain’s novella
There are so many exciting things happening that you won’t want to put it down and there are a couple of added twists even I didn’t see coming (but OMG are they the best kind).
Ariel has definitely grown up and is dealing better with her past and the insecurities that she has because of it.
Her relationship with her coven is moving forward and definitely heating up 🔥🖤 and she is now closer to all of them and has a different relationship with each of the guys all of which are moving at a different according to which guy it is and nothing is rushed or forced (everything moves and flows naturally).
I am so excited to see where the story of these amazing characters go and what happens next. I am super excited for Rain’s novella
May 29, 2019
Whoo finally i got to read this book, i have been soo excited for this. I just pushed the refreshing button 24/7, i could not sleep or think of any other book than this one.
This has to be my favourite in the whole series so far, i loved that the heat has leveled up, i am happy that it was Dash that got with her first and then later on Quinton. I mean she was the closest with those two.
And Damn the action is getting hotter, a lot of things is happening at the same time.
I live for the moments when the whole coven is together!
This has to be my favourite in the whole series so far, i loved that the heat has leveled up, i am happy that it was Dash that got with her first and then later on Quinton. I mean she was the closest with those two.
And Damn the action is getting hotter, a lot of things is happening at the same time.
I live for the moments when the whole coven is together!
Read
May 28, 202005/27/20 - I paid $4.99 for this one. I did not regret paying $4.99 for the previous 4 books, but I did regret paying $4.99 for book #5. This one was boring.
Two more guys are added to the seven in this mix.
There is M/M added in this one.
No OW drama. I am not sure how many books will complete the series, but at this point it feels drawn out. None of the books are on KU.
Two more guys are added to the seven in this mix.
There is M/M added in this one.
No OW drama. I am not sure how many books will complete the series, but at this point it feels drawn out. None of the books are on KU.
May 30, 2019
3.5 stars
This was honestly not as good as the other books, only because I don’t really like how the author keeps alluding to the fact that Ariel’s harem is going to get bigger
This was honestly not as good as the other books, only because I don’t really like how the author keeps alluding to the fact that Ariel’s harem is going to get bigger
January 2, 2023
Ok...what the fuck? This book was actually starting out pretty good and I was surprised to see the quality of writing had improved after all these other installments. But then, out of fucking NOWHERE we find out that Julian and Damien fuck each other and that news is just dropped on Ariel. This is BOOK FIVE and this bomb suddenly being dropped into the storyline the way it was was a major deal breaker for me.
Let me be clear: I love reading M/M romance and I love reading RH romance. Sometimes I can get into RH with M/M mixed in, but it HAS to be clear between the characters involved that there's potential for romance/lust between them, or it has to be mentioned that there's a history between them. Readers need to know what they're getting into in a romance; that's the whole fucking point of deciding what kind of romance to read. What if you're really into the series and thinking everything with Ariel's coven is running smoothly, but you're just not into M/M? That completely alters the course of the romance and you're going to close the book because you just can't get into it and it ruined the whole romance for you.
Not only the readers, but the fucking MAIN CHARACTER, THE CENTER OF THIS COVEN needs to be aware of what's going on between her harem. What if she wasn't ok with it? Frankly, I thought she jumped on the idea way too fast for just finding out. There she was, thinking all of her guys were straight and all for her, then suddenly finds out that two of them are lovers and NO ONE HAS MENTIONED THIS TO HER?! Are you fucking kidding me? Literally everone knows but her and she is the main romantic/sexual focus of the coven; she should've been told ages ago.
I have spent the last four books trudging through shitty writing for the sake of the plot and the characters, and this aspect coming out of nowhere just completely sealed the deal that I have wasted my time. The author did not handle this well at all. At the very least, put a fucking note at the bottom that lets readers know that M/M will be introduced to the storyline. Jesus Christ. I know this might seem like an overreaction, but after all of the awful writing I had to wade through, this coming out of nowhere and being handled so poorly just broke my patience with this author. The guys' characters weren't nearly developed enough, let alone developed enough to even give the readers a hint that there was potential for M/M romance. And I'll mention again, this is book FIVE and the guys are STILL underdeveloped because everything is way too centered on Ariel.
Let me be clear: I love reading M/M romance and I love reading RH romance. Sometimes I can get into RH with M/M mixed in, but it HAS to be clear between the characters involved that there's potential for romance/lust between them, or it has to be mentioned that there's a history between them. Readers need to know what they're getting into in a romance; that's the whole fucking point of deciding what kind of romance to read. What if you're really into the series and thinking everything with Ariel's coven is running smoothly, but you're just not into M/M? That completely alters the course of the romance and you're going to close the book because you just can't get into it and it ruined the whole romance for you.
Not only the readers, but the fucking MAIN CHARACTER, THE CENTER OF THIS COVEN needs to be aware of what's going on between her harem. What if she wasn't ok with it? Frankly, I thought she jumped on the idea way too fast for just finding out. There she was, thinking all of her guys were straight and all for her, then suddenly finds out that two of them are lovers and NO ONE HAS MENTIONED THIS TO HER?! Are you fucking kidding me? Literally everone knows but her and she is the main romantic/sexual focus of the coven; she should've been told ages ago.
I have spent the last four books trudging through shitty writing for the sake of the plot and the characters, and this aspect coming out of nowhere just completely sealed the deal that I have wasted my time. The author did not handle this well at all. At the very least, put a fucking note at the bottom that lets readers know that M/M will be introduced to the storyline. Jesus Christ. I know this might seem like an overreaction, but after all of the awful writing I had to wade through, this coming out of nowhere and being handled so poorly just broke my patience with this author. The guys' characters weren't nearly developed enough, let alone developed enough to even give the readers a hint that there was potential for M/M romance. And I'll mention again, this is book FIVE and the guys are STILL underdeveloped because everything is way too centered on Ariel.
April 4, 2022
Again... I apologize for the bad English.
My Review:
It was good though...
I've had enough of reading the same thing over and over again. Repeatedly.
"My heart filled at seeing that smile. A smile from Ariel was a rare thing to behold."
I've read this so many times in various variations that now I don't think Ariel's smile is so rare at all. I'm glad the most of the characters don't act as narrators, otherwise I'd read this twice as much. And this is not the only case. I know that, some issues will be discussed more than once and will be mentioned by more people, but even in real life, people are bored by it. It's not such a problem to write a book to be fun and interesting insted of boring, is it? Sometimes I'm tired of reading this series and I'm disappointed because I enjoyed it at first. But now I still have to read the same thing over and over again. Thank God, action already prevails over monologues (perhaps). But it just makes me realize how many there were when there are still so many. After all, the book had a few parts that drew me in and I enjoyed reading them.
I've read a few reviews that mention bringing more characters into the whole formula is a bad move. I don't think it's necessarily a bad move. I think it may seem bad to someone precisely because the author has not done a good job with other characters. She was doing other "things" than building relationships. Yes, she said that Ariel was selfish and blah blah blah. The author blamed poor Ariel. I didn't eat it anyway, and I think it's the author's fault, not Ariel's. And when I... again I... defend Ariel, that says something. Still, I like new brothers. I like that they know Rain. That they have history together. And another but... I'm not exactly happy with the way we found out. Because the easiest thing an author can do is change the narrator and go back in time. And I'm not entirely a fan of the new style of writing, where the authors switches between narrators when it suits them. I think the authors feel how interesting this is, but in reality it usually disrupts the feeling of being connected to the main narrator of the story (the main character). Suddenly readers know something extra and we are not on the same page with the main character. This is often done because the author wants to reveal the psyche of another character and his perspective. But especially here, author could do it through novelas. I thought that was their purpose.
Then there are a few things in the story that might go well, but the author buried them.
For example, the dinner party with the council at the end. This is probably how I would briefly describe my reactions. Why? What? How? I see? What? So why all this?
Although in this case I hope that it will develop in an interesting way in the next part of the series. I'm looking forward to it.
My Review:
It was good though...
I've had enough of reading the same thing over and over again. Repeatedly.
"My heart filled at seeing that smile. A smile from Ariel was a rare thing to behold."
I've read this so many times in various variations that now I don't think Ariel's smile is so rare at all. I'm glad the most of the characters don't act as narrators, otherwise I'd read this twice as much. And this is not the only case. I know that, some issues will be discussed more than once and will be mentioned by more people, but even in real life, people are bored by it. It's not such a problem to write a book to be fun and interesting insted of boring, is it? Sometimes I'm tired of reading this series and I'm disappointed because I enjoyed it at first. But now I still have to read the same thing over and over again. Thank God, action already prevails over monologues (perhaps). But it just makes me realize how many there were when there are still so many. After all, the book had a few parts that drew me in and I enjoyed reading them.
I've read a few reviews that mention bringing more characters into the whole formula is a bad move. I don't think it's necessarily a bad move. I think it may seem bad to someone precisely because the author has not done a good job with other characters. She was doing other "things" than building relationships. Yes, she said that Ariel was selfish and blah blah blah. The author blamed poor Ariel. I didn't eat it anyway, and I think it's the author's fault, not Ariel's. And when I... again I... defend Ariel, that says something. Still, I like new brothers. I like that they know Rain. That they have history together. And another but... I'm not exactly happy with the way we found out. Because the easiest thing an author can do is change the narrator and go back in time. And I'm not entirely a fan of the new style of writing, where the authors switches between narrators when it suits them. I think the authors feel how interesting this is, but in reality it usually disrupts the feeling of being connected to the main narrator of the story (the main character). Suddenly readers know something extra and we are not on the same page with the main character. This is often done because the author wants to reveal the psyche of another character and his perspective. But especially here, author could do it through novelas. I thought that was their purpose.
Then there are a few things in the story that might go well, but the author buried them.
For example, the dinner party with the council at the end. This is probably how I would briefly describe my reactions. Why? What? How? I see? What? So why all this?
Although in this case I hope that it will develop in an interesting way in the next part of the series. I'm looking forward to it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2021
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I received this book from the author for an honest review.
Friends…..This book….Jesus….so much happens. We finally see Ariel and the guys taking things “to the next level”. We learn more about the council and just how effing awful they are….why I was shocked I have no clue. We get at few more twists and turns thrown at us but most of all, we see the coven tightening up and getting ready for a war of sorts!!! Dude this book I told you was insane!!!
Dude this book!! First up, yes things progress for Ariel and some members of the coven but what I loved was her flat out admitting her fears about intimacy with some of the guys. I loved seeing the guys reassure her she is it and they are good with how thing progress. But I Floved hearing words being declared between Ariel and the guys!! Seriously this was a step in the right direction for everyone!!
The council….man oh man…we get a new council member who will be a good person for our coven to confide in but we also see the council being shady AF which is pretty much what they do right??? The stuff they stir up during a dinner party….grrrrrr…….things are not going to be smooth for Ariel and the guys but Damn Uncle Q didn’t punch anyone?? Could he be settling down now that the has his girl? LOL RIGHT!!! I highly doubt it.
Rain is still Rain….crazy and scary but head over heals for his daughter. But the new men in Ariel’s life, who also love Rain, will be an interesting mix to the story line!! I told ya TWISITS people.
What I am so worried about is what is in those manila folders? What did the guys find out about the OTHER major plot twist? What other plot twists can Mary throw at us?? FYI Plot Twist named Raven is a hottie buuuuuut yeah he can go away anytime now!!
www.Twinsietalk.com
www.Facebook.com/Twinsietalk
www.Twitter.com/Twinsietalk
www.Tsu.co/Twinsietalk
www.instagram.com/twinsietalk
Newsletter : http://eepurl.com/brwkPv
I received this book from the author for an honest review.
Friends…..This book….Jesus….so much happens. We finally see Ariel and the guys taking things “to the next level”. We learn more about the council and just how effing awful they are….why I was shocked I have no clue. We get at few more twists and turns thrown at us but most of all, we see the coven tightening up and getting ready for a war of sorts!!! Dude this book I told you was insane!!!
Dude this book!! First up, yes things progress for Ariel and some members of the coven but what I loved was her flat out admitting her fears about intimacy with some of the guys. I loved seeing the guys reassure her she is it and they are good with how thing progress. But I Floved hearing words being declared between Ariel and the guys!! Seriously this was a step in the right direction for everyone!!
The council….man oh man…we get a new council member who will be a good person for our coven to confide in but we also see the council being shady AF which is pretty much what they do right??? The stuff they stir up during a dinner party….grrrrrr…….things are not going to be smooth for Ariel and the guys but Damn Uncle Q didn’t punch anyone?? Could he be settling down now that the has his girl? LOL RIGHT!!! I highly doubt it.
Rain is still Rain….crazy and scary but head over heals for his daughter. But the new men in Ariel’s life, who also love Rain, will be an interesting mix to the story line!! I told ya TWISITS people.
What I am so worried about is what is in those manila folders? What did the guys find out about the OTHER major plot twist? What other plot twists can Mary throw at us?? FYI Plot Twist named Raven is a hottie buuuuuut yeah he can go away anytime now!!
May 3, 2022
At this point in the series, I am reading to see what happens with the guys! I just cannot seem to relate to Ariel….AT ALL! I have tried to like her, I have, but she is one annoying character. I am happy to see her grow up just a bit in this book, and starting to have and feel the connections with the seven! She is growing on me, but I was hoping by book 5 my thoughts about her would change, and they haven’t.
There were plenty of twists and turns to keep my interest going like – the addition of two new “bodyguards”, hooded men, a fire, a secret is revealed between Damien and Julian, a crazy dinner party, The Council and let’s not forgot – Ariel finally has sex!!! Another good thing to point out is that I felt there was less inner dialogue and that kept me from skimming over the story. Will continue on with the series as I want to see what happens with all the fellas and Rain.
There were plenty of twists and turns to keep my interest going like – the addition of two new “bodyguards”, hooded men, a fire, a secret is revealed between Damien and Julian, a crazy dinner party, The Council and let’s not forgot – Ariel finally has sex!!! Another good thing to point out is that I felt there was less inner dialogue and that kept me from skimming over the story. Will continue on with the series as I want to see what happens with all the fellas and Rain.
June 10, 2023
Wonderful
I think this installment may be my favorite. I didn't re-read the previous books in the series but never felt lost. There was some character and relationship growth which was fun to experience. Also, new characters were added. I am interested in seeing how they fit in future installments. The only aspect I didn't like was that this novel sets up M/M interaction for future books. I get jealous even when the heroine isn't so I don't prefer this set up. Even with that (and the jealous knot in my belly) I truly enjoyed this book and am looking forward to book 6!
I think this installment may be my favorite. I didn't re-read the previous books in the series but never felt lost. There was some character and relationship growth which was fun to experience. Also, new characters were added. I am interested in seeing how they fit in future installments. The only aspect I didn't like was that this novel sets up M/M interaction for future books. I get jealous even when the heroine isn't so I don't prefer this set up. Even with that (and the jealous knot in my belly) I truly enjoyed this book and am looking forward to book 6!
June 1, 2019
-So I would probably give this a 3.5*
-I enjoyed this book. I liked it more than book 3 and 4 where I felt that there was too much inner dialogue.
-While at lot of things did happen in this book , I feel like plot wise things are still moving tooooo slow.
- I still like Ariel, and like how the guys are with her. But, I feel like the addition of 2 new guys is too much. If they are just going to be her bodyguards. Okay. But to add them to her BF list.hmmmm. I like how in some RH books I read where some of the guys in the girl's harem dont have a sexual relationship with the girl. So maybe its going to be the same thing?
-Idk, I don’t want to give up on this series, because on the one hand I do enjoy it but the other hand I just want more things to happen in each book that are bigger and move the plot forward. I like books that are page turners. I don’t need to keep on hearing about Ariel’s insecurities. I feel like after each book I am left with a feeling of “that’s it?”. While it’s not my favorite RH in the world it is one that I like a lot and have hope in that it will keep getting better.
- I do like that the sex scenes were not overly descriptive and did not go on for a lot of pages. I do feel like sometimes RH writers tend to go overboard with how they write sex scenes. But, everyone is different with what they like, so that's okay.
- I do think MM is a good writer I just don't want her to keep dragging out the plot in attempts to make this series have like 20 books in it. I hope she keeps this series under 9 books. I prefer quality over quantity.
-I enjoyed this book. I liked it more than book 3 and 4 where I felt that there was too much inner dialogue.
-While at lot of things did happen in this book , I feel like plot wise things are still moving tooooo slow.
- I still like Ariel, and like how the guys are with her. But, I feel like the addition of 2 new guys is too much. If they are just going to be her bodyguards. Okay. But to add them to her BF list.hmmmm. I like how in some RH books I read where some of the guys in the girl's harem dont have a sexual relationship with the girl. So maybe its going to be the same thing?
-Idk, I don’t want to give up on this series, because on the one hand I do enjoy it but the other hand I just want more things to happen in each book that are bigger and move the plot forward. I like books that are page turners. I don’t need to keep on hearing about Ariel’s insecurities. I feel like after each book I am left with a feeling of “that’s it?”. While it’s not my favorite RH in the world it is one that I like a lot and have hope in that it will keep getting better.
- I do like that the sex scenes were not overly descriptive and did not go on for a lot of pages. I do feel like sometimes RH writers tend to go overboard with how they write sex scenes. But, everyone is different with what they like, so that's okay.
- I do think MM is a good writer I just don't want her to keep dragging out the plot in attempts to make this series have like 20 books in it. I hope she keeps this series under 9 books. I prefer quality over quantity.
May 25, 2019
Ariel may have found happiness with her coven, a home, and a newly found father but her life is still complicated. She has caught the Council's attention and the coven is in danger from Hunters. But with her father, Marcus, and a few new characters, Ariel and her coven are not witches to be taken lightly.
From the first paragraph of the first book, this series has captured my love and it just keeps getting better. So well-written, so entertaining. This book has it all. There's suspense, intrigue, and danger. There is plenty of love and some seriously sexy times. WOW! The coven makes a large harem and we are getting to know each of the men better. Relationships are advancing. The best part; they are advancing naturally; each relationship is moving forward at its own rate. Ariel's relationships with her dad and Marcus are precious. Every little girl dreams of being daddy's little girl, even if daddy is psychotic. Her ability to bring these two men to their knees is perfect. The two new additions are interesting. I look forward to seeing where this leads. And Ariel herself has changed quite a bit. Her power is growing, she is growing. She's figuring things out, figuring who she is, what she wants, and what means most to her. Her insecurity and vulnerability moved me. The doubts she has about herself, the guys make her so much more relatable. They also make me very protective of her character.
Obviously, I love the characters and the romance but the storyline is outstanding too. It's a roller coaster ride at times. Hunters, conniving female witches, and the creepy Council are all legitimate threats. The mystery surrounding new witches is provoking. Keeping Rain hidden and Marcus safe with the growing interest in Ariel is going to be problematic too. It feels like we are building towards something major. I can't wait!
From the first paragraph of the first book, this series has captured my love and it just keeps getting better. So well-written, so entertaining. This book has it all. There's suspense, intrigue, and danger. There is plenty of love and some seriously sexy times. WOW! The coven makes a large harem and we are getting to know each of the men better. Relationships are advancing. The best part; they are advancing naturally; each relationship is moving forward at its own rate. Ariel's relationships with her dad and Marcus are precious. Every little girl dreams of being daddy's little girl, even if daddy is psychotic. Her ability to bring these two men to their knees is perfect. The two new additions are interesting. I look forward to seeing where this leads. And Ariel herself has changed quite a bit. Her power is growing, she is growing. She's figuring things out, figuring who she is, what she wants, and what means most to her. Her insecurity and vulnerability moved me. The doubts she has about herself, the guys make her so much more relatable. They also make me very protective of her character.
Obviously, I love the characters and the romance but the storyline is outstanding too. It's a roller coaster ride at times. Hunters, conniving female witches, and the creepy Council are all legitimate threats. The mystery surrounding new witches is provoking. Keeping Rain hidden and Marcus safe with the growing interest in Ariel is going to be problematic too. It feels like we are building towards something major. I can't wait!
June 13, 2022
Definitely one of my favs of the series so far! I enjoyed seeing Ariel using more of her powers, getting more comfortable with her own body and with the guys. So many adorable moments (along with exasperation with some of the guys hahah) and the steam finally picked up! I loved the vulnerability we saw in this book but also the strength shown by Ariel and her guys. The coven is finally coming together as it should be.
The plot develops more in this one, especially regarding the Council and their plans moving forward. I wanted to scream at my phone as I was listening to this one because of the audacity of them and I hope we clean slate because a new regime is needed. I was so happy to see Marcus come back into the fold (I wonder when they are going to finally tell Ariel what Rain was doing to him) and I hope he can remain in Ariel's life because I think he keeps getting the shaft when it comes to Ariel (because of Rain). I was intrigued but confused by the 2 new characters in the coven, intrigued because their tie in with Rain (so heartbreaking!) but confused about their relationship because its not like the others. I do like how they have already proven themselves in this group and can't wait to see what happens next.
No new comments in regards to the audiobook. I think this series could have been more spectacular with a male narrator but I understand keeping it to a female narrator throughout the whole series. I think Melissa does a good job, but she isn't my favorite because of her rendition of some of the guy voices. Definitely a solid 4 stars though for the narration!
On to the novellas before diving into the next audiobook! Oh and make sure to go to the author's fb group because there are some extra scenes that really add to the story (like Christmas!).
The plot develops more in this one, especially regarding the Council and their plans moving forward. I wanted to scream at my phone as I was listening to this one because of the audacity of them and I hope we clean slate because a new regime is needed. I was so happy to see Marcus come back into the fold (I wonder when they are going to finally tell Ariel what Rain was doing to him) and I hope he can remain in Ariel's life because I think he keeps getting the shaft when it comes to Ariel (because of Rain). I was intrigued but confused by the 2 new characters in the coven, intrigued because their tie in with Rain (so heartbreaking!) but confused about their relationship because its not like the others. I do like how they have already proven themselves in this group and can't wait to see what happens next.
No new comments in regards to the audiobook. I think this series could have been more spectacular with a male narrator but I understand keeping it to a female narrator throughout the whole series. I think Melissa does a good job, but she isn't my favorite because of her rendition of some of the guy voices. Definitely a solid 4 stars though for the narration!
On to the novellas before diving into the next audiobook! Oh and make sure to go to the author's fb group because there are some extra scenes that really add to the story (like Christmas!).
May 28, 2019
I received a copy of this book for an honest review.
This series gets better and better with each book that comes out. I find myself falling harder and harder for each of Ariel guys. We get to see her relationships grow with the guys and her father.
Ariel is finally in a good spot she found her true family. These guys will do anything for her, anything to make her happy and protect her which is something she has never had in her lifetime. She is building relationships with all her guys and even her dad. She has a job she loves at Fortune's for the Unfortunate.
Ariel loves each of these guys and finds that she is just as overprotective of her guys as they are of her. She will do anything to keep them from hurting even if it means she hurts herself. There are some new characters introduced in this book some are going to be a good thing for Ariel and her family and others could be deadly for them.
Just like with Ariel I am falling more and more in love with each of these guys. Even though Ariel is closer to some of her guys than the others I am enjoying her learning more things about each one. I have to say I love when I get to see a different side of one of them I never saw before.
I am so ready for the next book. There are so many new developments and I want to know were things are going to go. I also want to see these relationships grow and evolve.
This series gets better and better with each book that comes out. I find myself falling harder and harder for each of Ariel guys. We get to see her relationships grow with the guys and her father.
Ariel is finally in a good spot she found her true family. These guys will do anything for her, anything to make her happy and protect her which is something she has never had in her lifetime. She is building relationships with all her guys and even her dad. She has a job she loves at Fortune's for the Unfortunate.
Ariel loves each of these guys and finds that she is just as overprotective of her guys as they are of her. She will do anything to keep them from hurting even if it means she hurts herself. There are some new characters introduced in this book some are going to be a good thing for Ariel and her family and others could be deadly for them.
Just like with Ariel I am falling more and more in love with each of these guys. Even though Ariel is closer to some of her guys than the others I am enjoying her learning more things about each one. I have to say I love when I get to see a different side of one of them I never saw before.
I am so ready for the next book. There are so many new developments and I want to know were things are going to go. I also want to see these relationships grow and evolve.
March 5, 2025
DNF at 62%. I have to say I agree with alot of the other 1 star reviewers. The Julian and Damien reveal was so out of left field it wasn't even funny. There are alot of RH/Why Choose Romances that will have a M/M mixed in (and I loved them), but those books have it spelled out for you in Book 1. There were 4 books prior that told us about Damien being a "ladies" man and also the one who did not want to be with Ariel in Book 1. I was really liking the building relationship with Dash, Damien and Julian, but it did take away from her building relationship with the other guys. This is why I don't care for RH's that are more than 5. Then the author brings in 2 more guys whom have a history with her father? Aerial was coming off as a Mary-Sue because she would have these bursts of power with no real training in the books. The training really didn't begin until the Epilogue of Book 4, so we are left to assume it was all done off Book in the 6 month time jump? Booo! This was a major let down to me and I am really sorry to the author for not liking it. I do feel her writing has been improving, but still needs an editor. We don't need to spend paragraphs of Ariel inner monologuing, just to have her repeating it in a conversation on the same page. There was an interesting concept within this series, but the execution for me fell flat.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2019
It was everything I wanted....and not enough.
Very rarely does a series come along that has me fully emotionally invested in EVERY character. Inevitably, there's one or two that I just can't connect with. Not so with this one. I feel all of their emotions....even the ones we just met. I think it's because each one of them is broken in some way, but don't choose to let that brokenness define who they are and the path their lives take. They are stronger than their damage. There's lots of talk of Ariel's scars in this book, and we get to see her start to view them differently. Two new characters are introduced, and it helps me frame another character in a more positive light. I'm certain these characters will have a HUGE impact at some point, and I'm afraid for their future due to some significant foreshadowing going on. Several plotlines were moved ahead significantly (THE SEX!), some were only nudged ahead (wtf Council?!), and some seemed to move backward (Dash's Cottage.) But I still need more. More Ariel. More Rain. More coven. And grudgingly, more Council. If you had asked me at the beginning of the series how many books I was expecting, I would have said four, maybe five, tops. Now here we are and I certainly hope we have many more to look forward to!
Very rarely does a series come along that has me fully emotionally invested in EVERY character. Inevitably, there's one or two that I just can't connect with. Not so with this one. I feel all of their emotions....even the ones we just met. I think it's because each one of them is broken in some way, but don't choose to let that brokenness define who they are and the path their lives take. They are stronger than their damage. There's lots of talk of Ariel's scars in this book, and we get to see her start to view them differently. Two new characters are introduced, and it helps me frame another character in a more positive light. I'm certain these characters will have a HUGE impact at some point, and I'm afraid for their future due to some significant foreshadowing going on. Several plotlines were moved ahead significantly (THE SEX!), some were only nudged ahead (wtf Council?!), and some seemed to move backward (Dash's Cottage.) But I still need more. More Ariel. More Rain. More coven. And grudgingly, more Council. If you had asked me at the beginning of the series how many books I was expecting, I would have said four, maybe five, tops. Now here we are and I certainly hope we have many more to look forward to!
June 10, 2019
Like black as midnight
Hope the new book comes out quicker than the last one. Would love to see Ariel finally get closer with Julian and also have physical moments with her salt and pepper twins. Really cementing her relationships with all her guys. Maybe becoming a little less prickly and scattered, learn more about her magic capability with all the guys teaching her different things about her magic. Preparing her for her life in magic and also better capable of defending her life and her magic. Like black as midnight Hope the new book comes out quicker than the last one. Would love to see Ariel finally get closer with Julian and also have physical moments with her salt and pepper twins. Really cementing her relationships with all her guys. Maybe becoming a little less prickly and scattered, learn more about her magic capability with all the guys teaching her different things about her magic. Preparing her for her life in magic and also better capable of defending her life and her magic.
Hope the new book comes out quicker than the last one. Would love to see Ariel finally get closer with Julian and also have physical moments with her salt and pepper twins. Really cementing her relationships with all her guys. Maybe becoming a little less prickly and scattered, learn more about her magic capability with all the guys teaching her different things about her magic. Preparing her for her life in magic and also better capable of defending her life and her magic. Like black as midnight Hope the new book comes out quicker than the last one. Would love to see Ariel finally get closer with Julian and also have physical moments with her salt and pepper twins. Really cementing her relationships with all her guys. Maybe becoming a little less prickly and scattered, learn more about her magic capability with all the guys teaching her different things about her magic. Preparing her for her life in magic and also better capable of defending her life and her magic.
May 30, 2019
This is the best book yet. It keeps getting better and better. I'm sort of more excited that Ariel is trying to be more open and able to say I love you with guys including her father. The guys never changed especially Quinton. Love them all to pieces. Ariel is having this attitude that suits her and she can dish out more to the guys. There were many conversations that I found hilarious but I'm shocked to find out about two of her covens. Never saw that coming. I wonder what it would mean for the two additional guys that showed up? In my perspective, it would be great for them to have their own female, not so certain they would be with Ariel though. I definitely love to see more interaction with the Salt and Pepper twins plus with Julien and Damien. It would be interesting especially with what she discovered in google. I like how she blurts out stuff and shocks the guys. I can't wait to read the next book but I've read that there would be Dash and Rain's book.
July 11, 2019
Another good write
I love this series and have a wee soft spot for dash and quinton. I feel like this book was a filler, a bit like when you have a series on tv and you get a filler episode before the good stuff happens. Yes there were a few events that I think will be key later on but I don't think there were any major events. A few typos but nothing that really interrupted the reading. I love reading ariels story. I just hope the author doesn't add anymore characters as it's already difficult to follow everyone. It is a brilliant series and I will continue to wait for the next one. I hate being so critical as I follow lots of authors and know many work hard, I was just slightly disappointed in this book in the series
I love this series and have a wee soft spot for dash and quinton. I feel like this book was a filler, a bit like when you have a series on tv and you get a filler episode before the good stuff happens. Yes there were a few events that I think will be key later on but I don't think there were any major events. A few typos but nothing that really interrupted the reading. I love reading ariels story. I just hope the author doesn't add anymore characters as it's already difficult to follow everyone. It is a brilliant series and I will continue to wait for the next one. I hate being so critical as I follow lots of authors and know many work hard, I was just slightly disappointed in this book in the series
May 7, 2021
Having to deal with witch hunters and creepy counsel members Ariel and her coven couldn’t catch a break. After Adrian brought Ariel 2 new bodyguards who had magical tattoos that had a flash of silver when they found the female which they were to protect lucky for Ariel she was the winner. Little did they all know that Rain knew these guys that were now swore to protect his daughter and he was glad she had them. A lot of crazy things happen in this covens life that you wonder if they will ever catch a break. Also our girl Ariel finally gets the D she’s been waiting for. I loved this book another amazing story and I found it at a faster pace which I loved I can’t wait to finish the rest of this series I love them all so much.
May 20, 2019
This was by far my favorite of the series.
Ariel's seems a lot more grown up to me in this book and I love it.
Ariel's relationships with her guys is steadily growing stronger. She is at a point now where she is learning what each of the guys need from her.
Quinton and Dash 😍😍🔥🔥
Her relationship with her father is absolutely beautiful. It warms my heart with happiness but at the same time is heartbreaking. (shoutout to Marcus as well!!!)
We also get a couple of new characters in this book that I am extremely curious about. Like...I really, really, really need to know more about them.
Just read this book. It's AMAZING!
Ariel's seems a lot more grown up to me in this book and I love it.
Ariel's relationships with her guys is steadily growing stronger. She is at a point now where she is learning what each of the guys need from her.
Quinton and Dash 😍😍🔥🔥
Her relationship with her father is absolutely beautiful. It warms my heart with happiness but at the same time is heartbreaking. (shoutout to Marcus as well!!!)
We also get a couple of new characters in this book that I am extremely curious about. Like...I really, really, really need to know more about them.
Just read this book. It's AMAZING!
May 30, 2019
Repetitive
Usually this series is REALLY GOOD but this time around everything about it seemed like it was running on a loop. This is book 5 and I would expect that on an emotional level Ariel would be further along, however except in one aspect she is stalled and so the story seems stalled. Also, her character very often acts and thinks more like a fifteen year old that a seventeen which is unexpected considering all she has been through; due to this I can respect her but I really don't like her. If it wasn't for the amazing men around her, I'm not sure I could keep up with the story. I hope she matures somewhat by the next book.
Usually this series is REALLY GOOD but this time around everything about it seemed like it was running on a loop. This is book 5 and I would expect that on an emotional level Ariel would be further along, however except in one aspect she is stalled and so the story seems stalled. Also, her character very often acts and thinks more like a fifteen year old that a seventeen which is unexpected considering all she has been through; due to this I can respect her but I really don't like her. If it wasn't for the amazing men around her, I'm not sure I could keep up with the story. I hope she matures somewhat by the next book.
June 8, 2019
Black as Midnight nailed it!! This one is the best of the series so far! And I cannot believe I have said this because I have enjoyed every single one. The story just keeps getting better and better!
Ariel is just a character that you cannot help but love. She is king, good and just one that is special. She has her guys firmly in her corner and together they make a good unit. What one of the unique things about this series is just not the writing, its the characters, the plot, the ever changing plot that keeps us hooked. This series is really a one of a kind. If you haven't read this series from the beginning, I highly suggest you do. It makes Black as Midnight that much better.
Ariel is just a character that you cannot help but love. She is king, good and just one that is special. She has her guys firmly in her corner and together they make a good unit. What one of the unique things about this series is just not the writing, its the characters, the plot, the ever changing plot that keeps us hooked. This series is really a one of a kind. If you haven't read this series from the beginning, I highly suggest you do. It makes Black as Midnight that much better.
May 30, 2019
Love!
I adore this series! I think right now my favorites are still Quint and Dash, but I want to know more about the others. It will come, but a girl gets impatient. 😊
The only complaint I have is that the last book released left us at Halloween. And when this book starts it is some time after Christmas. The author even mentions Ariel's gift to Quint changing something between them, but not what it was or any other details.
It's like you're torn between not wanting to miss a single detail and yet wanting desperately to know what happens next.
I adore this series! I think right now my favorites are still Quint and Dash, but I want to know more about the others. It will come, but a girl gets impatient. 😊
The only complaint I have is that the last book released left us at Halloween. And when this book starts it is some time after Christmas. The author even mentions Ariel's gift to Quint changing something between them, but not what it was or any other details.
It's like you're torn between not wanting to miss a single detail and yet wanting desperately to know what happens next.
May 31, 2019
This one is going to be one you eat up because you will be going in one direction than bam you will be thrown for a loop. This author knows how to captivate her readers with characters that claw their way in and stay a good while. Ones that give us their emotions and have us tore up inside. Ariel is that one that has us good with wanting to be by her side through thick and thin. Better like games because the ones played in here are deep. We are also given a bigger picture of her and a closer look inside having her come to life even more. Packed full leaving satisfied.
June 3, 2019
Thank you thank you
I think this was my favorite book of the series. There was so much action going on that I could not put this book down. This book will make you fall more in love with Ariel's guys especially Dash (swoon). I think that this is the book that that will put even Uncle Quentin in a more enduring light. The ending of this book will drive you crazy because now you have to wait to see what happens next. This was less description and more interaction than the previous books. I absolutely loved it.
I think this was my favorite book of the series. There was so much action going on that I could not put this book down. This book will make you fall more in love with Ariel's guys especially Dash (swoon). I think that this is the book that that will put even Uncle Quentin in a more enduring light. The ending of this book will drive you crazy because now you have to wait to see what happens next. This was less description and more interaction than the previous books. I absolutely loved it.
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