There is no escaping a Reaper. I am an elite assassin, part of a brotherhood that only answers to Death. And when Death says your time is up, I’m coming for you…
Reborn to serve, I have never once questioned Death’s directives. Until my mission leads me to a Halfling who stirs things within me that I’ve never felt before. Sorcha’s past intrigues me, but not as much as the gorgeous and stubborn Halfling herself. Though the Others are no more, our enemies still lurk around every corner. I can feel it. But for her, I will battle whatever comes my way—be it present dangers or ghosts of the past.
Donna is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over a hundred novels. Her most popular series is the breathtaking Dark King (aka Dragon King) series featuring dragons, immortal Highlanders, and the Fae.
In addition to her novels, Donna has written short stories, novellas, and novelettes for digital-first and print release. She has been dubbed as giving the “paranormal genre a burst of fresh air” by the San Francisco Book Review. Her work has been hailed as having “deft plotting and expert characterization” by Publisher’s Weekly and “sizzling” by RT Book Reviews.
She has been recognized with awards from both bookseller and reader contests including the National Reader’s Choice Award, Booksellers Best Award, as well as the coveted K.I.S.S. Award from RT Book Reviews.
Donna travels often for various speaking engagements, conferences, and book signings. She is also a frequent workshop presenter at national conferences such as RT Book Lovers Convention and Thrillerfest, as well as local chapters.
Born and raised in Texas, she also has ties across the border in Louisiana. Growing up with two such vibrant cultures, her Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding. She is never far from her faithful 80 pound dog, Sisko, or her three cats. She can often be found at the movies or bookstore with her children. Or buying makeup. And shoes.
Cathal and Sorcha: This one was particularly more exciting. I enjoyed the mystery behind why Sorcha was being targeted and Cathal's unwavering loyalty to her even when he didn't understand it. There is still so much to learn and that's why keeps me coming back to this series book after book.
A little over a week until DARK ALPHA'S CARESS releases. This story was so fun to write, and I can't wait for everyone to read it. Want the correct reading order for the Reapers? Or perhaps the reading order for the entire Dark Word? Head to www.MotherofDragonsBooks.com.
Ballycastle, Ireland July
She had officially lost her mind. That was the only thing she could think of that would have taken her from her home on the Isle of Skye and brought her to Northern Ireland. Sorcha wasn’t exactly courageous. In fact, she considered herself a hermit.
But because she preferred to be alone, it made it easier for her to do precisely what she was currently doing.
“Rhona, you owe me big for this,” she mumbled to herself as she walked the hilly landscape toward the coast.
The wind whipped her hair from its braid and into her eyes. She pulled the strands out of her lashes and tucked them behind her ears, but it did no good as the next gust tugged them free and put them right back.
Sorcha’s heart pounded more erratically with every step she took. She was the last person who should be here. She was a horrible liar. Not only that, but she also caved under pressure. Always. There was a reason she liked her solitude. She didn’t have to answer to anyone, and no one looked to her for anything.
Which meant she couldn’t let anyone down.
But this was bigger than her. It was bigger than the Skye Druids. That’s why she was here. No longer could she turn a blind eye to what was going on. What Usaeil had done to Corann, the leader of the Skye Druids, was enough to convince Sorcha to get off her arse.
It had been no surprise when Sorcha learned that Rhona had taken over as leader of the Druids. As soon as she heard the news, she went to Rhona and offered to do anything to help. It’d never entered her mind that Rhona might send her off on a dangerous mission that could very well get her killed.
Sorcha stopped walking. Her thighs burned from the incline. The sky had grown darker from an incoming storm. She turned and looked back the way she’d come. There hadn’t been anyone around, and that’s how this had been planned. The only way this would work was if she remained unseen. Even so, she and Rhona had come up with a story in case she was stopped.
She drew in a deep breath and zipped up her raincoat. Every fiber of her being wanted to return to Skye and the safety of her cottage. For so long, she had buried her head in the sand and let others handle things. All because she was too scared to actually live.
Bracing herself for whatever was to come, Sorcha began walking again. The climb up to the summit was for skilled climbers only. Spray from the sea coated everything in a fine mist, making the rocks and the grass slippery. She had to watch every step she took. And she wasn’t even to the most dangerous part yet.
Climbing such cliffs and mountains had been something Sorcha had grown up doing with her mother and sister. She was an expert, but that didn’t mean she liked what was happening. She didn’t know these cliffs like she did the ones on Skye.
A crack of lightning followed closely by a boom of thunder made her jump. Loose sediment slipped beneath her feet and caused her to slide. She quickly grabbed hold of an outcropping of rock and a clump of grass to stop herself.
“Bloody hell,” she murmured and paused long enough to gather herself.
Then she continued. She didn’t look back again. Little by little, she progressed over the terrain. She covered a lot of ground before the first raindrop landed on her. Sorcha ignored it as the path became narrower. She glanced up and saw a group of people ahead. The moment she saw them, she ducked down, afraid that they might have seen her, as well.
When no shout of warning or the sound of anyone coming for her followed, Sorcha slowly rose up enough to see ahead. Only then did she continue on. The fat raindrops came down more readily. She lifted up the hood of her raincoat as she inched closer, using the footholds and handholds to keep herself anchored to the cliff. Then—finally—she was there.
Sorcha pressed her forehead to the damp rocks of the cliff and let out a relieved breath. She’d worry about getting back once she was finished here. She strained her ears to listen, but she couldn’t make out any of the words being said by the group. She had come this far. There was no way she would leave without something.
DARK ALPHA’S CARESS is the tenth instalment in Donna Grant’s contemporary, adult THE REAPERS paranormal, romance / fantasy series focusing on Death’s Reapers. This is Reaper Cathal, and Halfling Sorcha’s story line. The REAPERS is a spin off from Donna’s DARK KINGS series which is a spinoff from Donna’s DARK WARRIOR series which in turn is a spin off from Donna’s DARK SWORD series- all set in the Highlands of Scotland. You do not have to have read any of the previous series to understand the premise but many of the events overlap with the events of the Dark Kings. DARK ALPHA’S CARESS is the beginning of a new series arc and can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading the series in order for back story and cohesion.
SOME BACKGROUND: The Reapers (believed to be a folk lore amongst the Fae) are a group of Dark and Light Fae, selected by Death (aka Erith), on their own deathbed, to do her bidding-Death is the judge and jury; the Reapers are the executioners. The Reapers are not harbingers of death, but are tasked with destroying the Light and Dark Fae who have crossed a line from which there is no return. All Reapers must follow two rules: never to fall in love; and never to reveal their existence to anyone.
Told from third person perspective DARK ALPHA’S CARESS focuses on Halfling Sorcha as she has become the target of a number of fae. Reaper Cathal is tasked with uncovering the who and why of the influx of fae near the Isle of Skye but it is Sorcha who reveals there is something more dangerous developing within the fae community. As Cathal remains cloaked in an effort to follow our story line heroine, Sorcha struggles with ten years of guilt, and her refusal to use the magic with which she was born. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Sorcha and Cathal, and the potential fall-out when the couple discover there is a bounty on our story line heroine’s head, a bounty connected to sins of the past.
Sorcha has been in virtual seclusion for close to ten years since the death of her mother and sister. Blaming herself for the loss of her family, Sorcha battles between head and heart but a request from her cousin finds our heroine stepping out of her comfort zone to uncover the truth about a potential threat to the Isle of Skye. Cathal had been following a group of fae and in this he will come up close and personal with our story line heroine. Having no idea if Sorcha is involved in the potential threat to the supernatural world, Cathal and fellow Reaper Aisling begin to uncover the truth about Sorcha, the influx of fae, and a new threat to the supernatural world.
Meanwhile, the Reapers continue to search for Xaneth, former Fae queen Useail’s nephew, a light Fae who went missing as the war between the Light and Dark Fae, and the Dragon Kings came to fruition.
The relationship between Sorcha and Cathal is one of immediate attraction but Cathal knows that to fall in love goes against the Reaper’s code. As guardian and protector of our story line heroine, Cathal finds himself falling for a woman who is unaware of her true nature, and the power she is able to wield. The $ex scenes are passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Erith (Death) and her mate Cael, Aisling, Rordan, Eoghan, and Sorcha’s cousin Rhona. The requisite evil has many faces.
DARK ALPHA’S CARESS is a story of family, betrayal and vengeance; relationships, friendships and love. The premise intriguing, imaginative and entertaining; the romance is seductive and captivating; the characters are strong, energetic and colorful.
The Others may have been destroyed by the Dragon Kings, but possible new enemies are trying to come out of the ashes. Picking up where events in Inferno left off, the latest Reaper entry kicks things off with an intriguing opening, as well as introducing another group of Reapers.
Cathal was a quiet one, lethal when necessary, but devoted and loyal to those he cares for. His second chance at life as a Reaper has brought many opportunities, but meeting Sorcha is fast becoming the most important one for living. Sorcha locked herself away from life and my heart broke for her when all was revealed. I enjoyed watching her stretch her emotional muscles with Cathal, but moreover, I really cheered her on for taking control and getting her life in order.
Dark Alpha’s Caress was an enjoyable read, equally balancing Cathal and Sorcha’s sweet and smexy romance with new snippets of information for the Reapers to pursue. Once again, Grant sums up events fairly quick, so if you haven’t read previous books, don’t be deterred. You’ll be up to date in no time!
I also wanted to mention Cathal’s partner, Aisling. She was a total trip! Sarcastic, direct, and just as lethal as Cathal...I am hoping her story is coming soon. I cannot wait for the chance to delve in to her background and secrets.
I received an advance reader copy from the author and this is my honest review.
I feel like these Reaper “novels” are just thrown together. They are really novellas that could and should be full length novels given the storylines and the backstory of the Reapers. Maybe I just expect too much from the authors I choose to read.
Oh my, this book made me tear up. All the things this couple went through in their lives and and their journey to sharing their love and lives. On to the mystery of the new enemy. Great story.
Dark Alpha's Caress comes after Inferno of the Dark Kings series. Since I did not read these in order, and it's been a long time since I read Inferno, there are a few things I'm kind of behind on. For instance, I think something happens in Inferno that makes Dark Alpha's Caress start off on another story arc. I can sort of guess what happened, so I'm just going to flow into this story.
We start off with the Skye Druids. We have seen them here and there along the series, but Dark Alpha's Caress will really bring them out. Sorcha is a halfling who has been in her house alone for the last 10 years. She does not practice her magic at all since she blames herself for the loss of her mother and sister. Rhona, her cousin has heard some things about Druids forming their own group like the Others. She really needs someone to investigate. Rhona believes the best way to spy on these Druid's meeting is to have Sorcha climb up the ridge and listen in. She has some trouble coming down because of a storm, but a big, handsome guy just happens to be at the bottom of the ridge to catch her.
The Reapers have also heard the rumors about the Druids and therefore send Cathal out to investigate. He spies Sorcha and has the pull to follow her. He blames it on the need to find out what she knows. But he becomes very protective of her. Aisling makes an appearance to try and help Cathal be able to keep watch over Sorcha without questions.
As he watches, interesting things happen, besides the attraction between them. Fae seem to be coming from everywhere with this weird attraction to Sorcha. The story that evolves from this phenomenon really had me glued. Little by little Sorcha's world is blown apart by revelation after revelation. During one skirmish Cathal & Aisling find themselves in dealing with what seems to be a new threat.
I truly enjoyed Dark Alpha's Caress. Everything was so new to Sorcha. She is tough though and I feel like a great match for Cathal. I loved the way everything played out throughout the book. It built step by step each it's own revelation. Great way to keep me from putting the book down.
WE ARE BACK IN MY FAVORITE BOOK REALITY! I have been waiting for this book ever since Inferno came out and it was everything I had hoped for. But instead of the "period of peace" I thought was going to take place, Donna Grant threw us a curveball that I was not expecting. And this is why the Dark Kings series is so amazing!
It begins with Sorcha, a Skye Druid, who is tasked with spying on others to gain information. Having been a recluse for a decade, she is doing this as a favor for her cousin, Rhona, the new leader of the Skye Druids. Unbeknownst to her, Cathal, a Reaper, is on the same mission from Death. Both learn that the Druids are making some not so good changes...that I still can't believe! Cathal immediately becomes curious about Sorcha and learns that she is a halfling and that she is being stalked by multiple Fae. I would love to say more, but then I would get into spoilers and it would just have a much bigger impact if you would read the book.
I'm serious. This book had angst, romance, and suspense, and just when you thought you had it figured out...BAM...you know nothing. While I was hoping that the Reapers, and eventually the Kings, were going to be able to have a relaxation period, deep down in the darkest part of my soul I am ecstatic that they are still in a pile of steaming dog doo. And I mean this with the upmost sincerity. I love my Kings, Reapers, and Warriors and I never want them to end! Now back to the characters, I loved Sorcha! Donna shows her vulnerability perfectly and while her story was tragic, I knew there had to be more to it. And Cathal, my poor baby, I never would have guessed his story in a million years. It was every bit as disturbing as the other Reapers but something about it hit me in the feels. I hope with the next books we get to travel back to Skye because I have a huge feeling that the Kings and their mates are going to need them! Oh and I'm like so ready to know about Xaneth and Aisling because, um hello! I'm still reeling about the new Big Bad...I just can't believe it...
I've received this book as an ARC Angel for an honest review.
Dark Alpha’s Caress ARC Review every time I start reading one of Donna Grants books I can not put them down! Donna Grant’s amazingly wonderful imagination takes us on Cathal’s investigation into a mysterious halfling who has caught the attention of Death/Erith and this lethal Reaper!
With The Others destroyed and unrest within the Fae and Druids why all of a sudden has the Fae turned their attention to a Halfling? Throughout this book there are twists and turns to discover the mystery of Sorcha and why she is so important! With a possible new set of problems for the Fae, Druids and Reapers will Cathal find out the answers he seeks? Will Cathal fall for the beautiful halfling who has caught his attention from the first time he laid eyes on her?
This is book 10 in the Reapers series and will leave you reaching for the caffeine to keep you awake and read the whole book! This amazing book takes us on an adventure with these 2 characters and their undeniable attraction. The question in this book with a Halfling why is she so important and can they find the answers behind why Dark and Light Fae are so interested in getting to her. Is her heart safe with Cathal or because he is a Reaper will he have to leave her you will have to read and find out!!!
All I can say is Donna Grant you are an amazing Author you have nailed it again. Now a lot more of the puzzle pieces are coming together and we get a slight glimpse of what’s going to happen in the next book. I am giving this book 5 stars Donna Grant’s books are so easy to read and if you haven’t read her books before this one it will certainly leave you wanting more. Pre order or buy now you will not be disappointed I am so looking forward to all the future novels as the stories continue.
Thank you so much Donna Grant for taking our imaginations on this new adventure.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This is book 10 the Reaper's series and I would absolutely read the previous books in this series along with the Dark King's series as they have become intertwined in the greater story ARC in the later books. Sorcha lives a quiet life on Skye. After losing the people she loved the most, she vowed to not use magic again or to leave her quiet cottage and land. Until she asked to go on a mission that she seems to be perfect for. Cathal is a Reaper whose mission has just diverged into figuring out why a halfling was watching the same group that he was. And finding a mystery that he was never expecting, that leads to him making the choice to keep her safe when he least expected it.
I always know that when I pick up this author's book to read it that I will love it, and this book was no exception! I was sucked in right from the start and wanted to know more about Sorcha's background and the things that made her decide to live the way she does. Especially knowing what we know about Druids and the Fae from previous books. I loved the interactions not only between Sorcha and Cathal but also between Cathal and his team. The level of trust and the feeling of family between them after everything that they have gone through just made me like them even more. I wish we could have know more about what happened to Cathal's family after he became a Reaper especially because his story was so heartbreaking. But then so was Sorcha's in ways that I definitely wasn't expecting. I don't know if these stories are already in the works but I really hope that we get more stories for the Druid's on Skye (like Sorcha's cousin) and a certain female Reaper because I definitely want to know her story after reading this one!! Another great read by a great author!
This is the story of Sorcha, a halfling, and Cathal, a Reaper. This story tells of Sorcha’s guilt over the deaths of her mother and sister 10 years ago. She became a recluse because she feels that she caused their deaths. Forced by her cousin to make a trip to Ireland to look for information that the Skye druids need, she draws the attention of not only Cathal, but the Fae. Cathal feels the need to follow her, and in the course of the story, they fall in love with each other. But not all is flowers and sunshine. The Fae want to make Sorcha a pawn in their machinations. Donna Grant fills her stories with twists and turns, and each of these series of books, Warriors, Dragon Kings, and Reapers builds on the previous books. This book is no different, Sorcha and Cathal must resolve several things before the end of the book, and the resolution of their problems brings back a question of a missing Fae, whom they have been searching for, one who has been missing for months. And the hints of a new enemy are scattered through the story. All of these books could be read as a stand-alone story, but Ms. Grant has produced an all-consuming story line that once you start, you have to keep reading. I’ve read many books, but found that the world created by the author has brought me back again and again to enjoy all her many books. I was given an ARC by the author to read, and this is my honest opinion.
This book was received as an ARC from Donna Grant’s ARC Angels, the following opinions and commentary are my own and no way reflect the greater DG Groupie Community. Dark Alpha’s Caress is a Reaper book, and is a part of the Greater Dark World—Fae, Druids, Warriors and Dragon Kings. This book is a part of series of books and really should not be read as a stand-alone book, long story arcs and character dynamics have been building over this sub-series and in the main series.
Sorcha is not just any halfling, she a hybrid of Fae and Druid. Extremely powerful and highly secretive, she is wanted by a powerful Fae for what at first is unknown reasons. Cathal takes notice of this halfling when she spies on a meeting of Druids. He takes her under his wing to protect her, then he falls for her.
This book takes place after the battle for the Light Throne. The Others are gone, and there is a power vacuum. The wheels are turning to start the next story arc, but where it is going is up in the air at the moment. This novella isn’t a must read, but a you really really want to read it. More of the second group of Reapers characters are shown. Five stars- Donna Grant doesn’t disappoint.
In this episode.... Sorcha is a Skye Druid. She hasn't left her house in the ten years after the death of her mother and sister. Now she's on a mission in Ireland to get some information for her cousin Rhona.
Cathal is a Reaper. He spots Sorcha hanging off a cliff trying to spy on the Irish Druids. It seems some are getting the idea of forming their own version of The Others.
Now here is where our mystery starts. Sorcha, as I mentioned earlier, hasn't left her home in 10 years. All of a sudden we have all sorts of fae looking for her. Why? Does it have something to do with the fact she's a halfling? Or some obscure story about having to impregnate her in order to stay on Earth? Erith isn't sure what's going on but with the interest shining in Cathal's eyes she assigns him and Aisling to watch and learn more about her.
What we get is a prominent fae family keeping secrets. Her dad, the fae half of her bloodline, is from a powerful family and married to someone he doesn't love. He tried to leave her for Sorcha's mother but that went all kinds of wrong. Now with him dying he can no longer protect her....and fae destroy halflings.
Can he help her find out about all her past? Will she be willing to be his and move to Death's realm with him?
Ooh and don't miss the Epilogue....Rhona let's Cathal know they inspected the house where Ubitch kept Corann and they found no signs of Xaneth but gives them the location so they can look for themselves. They finally find signs that yes, he was there. Now, who knows where he is. A man who was locked in his own mind is now on the loose and looking for someone to punish.
Just when the Reapers thought their lives could be settled and they could concentrate on finding Xaneth, they find out there is more and new enemies to deal with.
Scorcha live in the Isle of 5kye. She was a loner and preferred it that way. After losing everyone she loved the most and believing it was her fault she decida that she will never use magic and live a quiet life. Her Aunt and her enemies she never knew she had other ideas. In the process of spying for her aunt she meets Cathal and the moment they meet they both feel the pull.
Cathal is a Reaper and Is a Reaper, he is the executioner for Death. He knows he can not tell Sorcha who he is or she will die. Throughout the story Sorcha. Learns who she truly is and just how much power she has. The questions are will their new enemies destroy them before they both can be together or will they fine the happiness that they want and be together? Will their past destroy the love they feel or will it make their love stronger?
Throughout this story you learn that their is strength in numbers and trust is important for their survival. Just when you feel you can let your guard down and enjoy a love story Donna Grant goes and adds another twist to the story. There is love, sadness, twisted and turns and even more questions. I love how she builds the story up and than at the end leaves you wanting more.
Cannot wait for the next story. Donna Grant has done it again.
Dark Alpha’s Caress is a beginning to an all new world for these folks, but at the same time we get to see that there is always carry over and unhappiness no matter how hard you try to give everyone what they want or need. The drama and intrigue that remains in the Fae as well as the Druid populations show that they are just as human as the rest of us and can never truly embrace peace without first pushing back a bit. Cathal is a dangerous and deadly warrior that is faced with the most intriguing woman he has ever met and he is unable to resist her draw when he gets deeper into her world. His willingness to do just about anything to get her the safety and peace she craves and deserves shows that he truly is a great mate and a good man. Sorcha has been so isolated for so long, trusting anyone is a major challenge, but once he begins to break down her walls, the darkness inside her is washed away by the light of love that Cathal inspires in her. The heat between them burns intensely from the very beginning, though they both denied it, even to themselves, until the point that it was no longer deniable. I am dying to find out what happens next in this arc and see where this world will take us next, but I know that no matter what happens Grant will not let her readers down and we will enjoy every moment of the adventure.
Why can we not get rid of these Others, or should I say Others take two.
Sorcha has lived by herself for so long, not even leaving her house until her aunt asks for a favor. Cathal saves her several times, before she's willing to listen to what he wants/needs. He falls quick and hard. It takes her a little longer. These new Others have some tricks that we haven't seen before. Where did they learn this and who behind them. Xaneth's holding place is finally found, but he's still missing. I got a feeling Aisling is going to fall for him.
Hmmm, I wasn't impressed with this novel in the Dark World. My rating is actually 2.75. Since Goodreads hasn't updated their rating system, this will have to do. I found this novel boring and the writing not up to par with Ms. Grants earlier work. Which is unusual for this series. I found it difficult to get through and this novel doesn't have the normal steady flow and enjoyable easy read they normally have. I'm disappointed in this one. I normally love reading about the Reapers and loved them as a spin off in the Dark World. I was happy to learn we have a new threat to the Reapers which still involves the "Others." Why keep this storyline going with Moreann now gone? Hopefully this will be resolved or a hint given in the next novel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Cathal and Sorcha... Wow... I could not put their story down! They are both quiet loners who have so much to give. Neither understands how strong they truly are until they come together to learn about Sorcha's background... And what a backstory... This story will keep you riveted until the very end.
Another fantastic read, as usual, from Donna Grant. I love this continuing series, where we get more of the Fae, with mention of the Dragon Kings and even the warriors. This story had action and emotion, and sexy romance. Always looking forward to the next installment.
Absolutely loved this story. Cathal has always been a favorite of mine. I am so happy to see him get his leading lady. Sorcha is a powerful Halfling but she doesn't know her power. Cathal and Aisling will protect Sorcha from the evil Fae. DG gives us more answers but as well as more questions. Another hit with The Reapers. Happy Reading!!
Despite the fact that pretty much nothing happens here and the main story doesn't move forward until the epilogue, I still mostly enjoyed this. I still haven't read Con's book, which wraps up the Dragon Kings, (because there's no way I'm paying $8 for a kindle book) so I still don't know how big of a role that Erith and her Reapers played in that final battle but it's apparent that what went down there has a huge impact here.
If you disregard the insta-love between these two, I liked how Cathal and Sorcha were together. They both acted like adults, respected the other's decisions, and listened when the other had something to say. And I really liked how Sorcha knew that she would only be a hindrance in a fight against those trying to kill her so she hung back and had faith in those protecting her. I absolutely hate when the female character doesn't know a damn thing about fighting but insists on being in the middle of it. So fucking stupid. Thank you Sorcha for using your brain.
Cathal and Sorcha meet after Sorcha had just been spying on a group of Druids that want to make their group the new Others and she hurts herself when she is leaving the place. When I say inta-love, I mean instant as in that one moment is all it took for these two to have the other become all that they think about. Up until that point, Sorcha had not left her property for 10 years and she completely stopped using her Druid magic because she blames herself for the death of her mother and sister. Cathal is convinced there is more to her, so he follows her all the way back to her home in Scotland. Which is a good thing because all of a sudden she has both light and dark fae after her. And that's what most of this book is. Cathal had been paired up with Aisling, so the two of them and Sorcha are trying to figure out why the fae want her and if it has anything to do with her father who she has never known.
It doesn't take long at all for them all to learn the truth because, as luck would have it, Sorcha's uncle on her father's side is one of the fae that have taken to surrounding her property. And wow, that's some serious family drama. When the root of this drama makes one last big move to kill Sorcha, Cathal and Aisling have their work cut out for them because within this enemy is someone that seems to know what they are and are able to injure them with more power than they should have.
Despite Cathal and Sorcha only knowing each other for maybe two days, they're so in love they can't imagine their lives without the other. Gawd I hate that.... But whatever, it's off to Death's realm to live now. Like I mentioned, the epilogue is really the only headway we made with the overall story line with Xaneth. And I can't say it's a good thing.
The Other’s are not really gone…. This is the 10th book in Donna Grant’s Reaper series and like all the previous stories, it does not disappoint. Sorcha, a Skye Druid who has not left her home in 10 years, goes to Ireland to spy on Druids there who want to continue on even after The Other’s defeat. Trying to not be discovered, she injures herself and is saved by a mysterious Irishman. Cathal, along with 2 other Reapers, had been sent by Death on this mission to observe. He doesn’t know why he lowered his veil to help the Halfling, but he did and it changed his life forever. He is inexplicably drawn to Sorcha he saves her again from a Light Fae. Sorcha did not know she was a Halfling until Cathal told her and it turns out there are a lot of Fae, both Light & Dark, who are very interested in her. Cathal & Sorcha, helped by Aisling, attempt to discover why they are so interested in her now. Aisling leaves them to see what she can discover about Sorcha’s Fae father, leaving Cathal & Sorcha time to give into their growing attraction to each other. The Fae after Sorcha are part of the group who want to continue the work of The Other’s. Now, the Reapers have to worry about what these Fae Others are planning while still searching for Xaneth. I am a faithful fan of Donna Grant’s many series. Even if the Reapers were not tied to the Dragon Kings, I would love them. There is something about these Fae who were betrayed that just grabbed me right from the start. Cathal and Sorcha’s story touched me a lot and had me very emotional when they shared with each other how they lost their families. The Reapers are strengthened by the bonds they share and these grow with each new member added to the family. They will continue to do what they need to do to find Xaneth but they will keep these Fae Others from hurting their growing family. I can’t wait to read the next story to see what Fate throws at the Reapers next!
Full disclosure: I still don't enjoy audio books, so sometimes I fell asleep, often I just didn't pay enough attention, occasionally I even tuned things out completely, sometimes I forgot things rather too easily, and usually I didn't care enough to want to try to understand what's going on. And often I got frustrated when I didn't get the names of the characters. So yes, I missed a lot.
Sorcha is sent to a mission by her cousin Rhona to uncover...something. After she finds a rally of Druids who are thinking of forming a group to fight against the Fae (or at least that's what I think the book says), she gets caught in a storm, injures her ankle, and gets rescued by a stranger. The stranger is Cathal, a reaper in Eoghan's group. Instead of looking for Xaneth who, for some reason, is still missing, Cathal and Aisling are sent by Erith (a.k.a. Death) to spy on Sorcha. Naturally Cathal and Sorcha end up having a thing.
There is a scene at the Fairy Pool that I completely missed (I was probably asleep), but it appears that there is something about Fae going after Sorcha to impregnate her, because they'd get something out of it. Later on, there is another theory that someone has a bounty on her head. Well, anyway, at the end, it is not clear to me if we're dealing with the Fae going after Sorcha or the formation of Fae and Druid groups.
Sorcha is kind of annoying at the beginning. Guilt kept her in hiding for ten years, but as she starts to understand what's going on around her, she wakes up and decides to fight back. What I really like about her is how she doesn't push Cathal to reveal his secrets to her. I also can't help but admire her willingness to give away all her material possession.
Cathal himself is OK. He is probably not the most intriguing character, but he perfectly complements Sorcha.
Dark Alpha’s Caress is a story of grief, loss, and reconciliation that was a punch in the feels.
Both Sorcha and Cathal loved and lost their family in tragic ways. They’ve carried a high level of grief and guilt for years.
Sorcha has lived in self-isolation for the past ten years and refuses to do magic after losing her mother and sister in a climbing accident that she feels was totally her fault.
Cathal feels responsible for his broken family and the disastrous decisions he made. He is grateful for the second chance at life Death gifted him but has kept his heart closed off. He is perplexed yet curious about Sorcha and how she fits in with new threats emerging.
They fall in love hard and fast. I liked how they learned to trust the other with the heavy burden they’ve been carrying for a long time. How they form a connection with someone who truly understands them. How far they’re willing to go to protect this newfound happiness.
I liked the mystery that encompasses the story. An unusual amount of fae are gathering on Skye. Sorcha is being targeted for reasons linked to her lineage and the father she never knew. This led to great action scenes and suspenseful moments.
The only thing that bothered me was why neither Cathal or Aisling didn’t call for backup to help guard Sorcha or fight the fae when it was clearly needed. Nor did I understand why Sorcha never told her cousin Rhona (who is also the leader of the Skye Druids) what was happening until much much later.
I otherwise enjoyed Dark Alpha’s Caress. I think many will relate to Sorcha and/or Cathal’s struggles. I loved their romance and how they reconciled with their pasts. I look forward to reading the next installment.
Dark Alpha's Caress is Book 10 in Donna Grant's Reaper series. I would caution that this book contains spoilers from Inferno (final book in Dark Kings series) so please be forewarned.
In Dark Alpha's Caress, Donna Grant continues the intriguing chapter to the Skye Druids story with Sorcha and the mystery surrounding her. For the last 10 years Sorcha bound herself to her home, not leaving it but at the urge of her cousin (Rhona) she left her home and went on a mission to Ireland. It is in Ireland that Cathal, our Reaper found her as she was hanging by the cliff trying to spy on the Irish Druids.
I enjoyed reading this book, Donna Grant kept her readers engaged with a solid storyline and strong characters. The attraction between Sorcha and Cathal was hot and didn't feel forced at all. I also enjoyed reading the interaction between Cathal and his partner Aisling whom I think is quite a character. I couldn't wait for Donna Grant to come up with her book, for I'm sure there will be one in the future.
There is no cliffhanger, of course Sorcha and Cathal will get their HEA but the over arching storyline continues and Donna Grant left us with quite a delicious morsel in the epilogue,so do not miss it!
Dark Alpha’s Caress is the tenth book in Donna Grant’s Reaper series.
Sorcha is a druid who has lived on the Isle of Skye her whole life. Until recently, she has not left her property in ten years since the death of her mother and sister. Sorcha left to spy on a meeting of druids for her cousin. She had to scale up the side of a mountain in order to hear them better and on the way down she slipped in the rain and twisted her ankle. A mysterious stranger offered to help her. His body was amazing, his voice sexy. What little did she know who or what Cathal is and what meeting him would do to change her life. Cathal is a reaper who works for death and was immediately pulled to Sorcha and he did not understand the reason why. He was sent to find out more about what the druids were up to. The more he dug into her past the more he was drawn to her. Sorcha is a halfling and with Cathal’s help they will uncover the truth of her mother and her father. Their love story is sweet and emotional. While they both harbor deep secrets, it appears that both knowledge and trust will help them overcome their past. I received this novella as an ARC from the author in lieu of my honest opinion.
The Reaper series may be favorite series by Donna Grant. Sorry Dragon Kings, but it's true!!! And just when we thought that the Reapers could have a "normal" life after the Others were defeated, it turned out to be a cruel joke.
Sorcha has not left the Isle of Skye in ten years. But a secret mission for the Druids puts her on a path, Cathal's path. Cathal is Reaper who rescues Sorcha, and has an immediate attraction to the fiery Druid. As the story develops, we learn that Sorcha is not who or what she thought she was. This discovery creates more drama and tension for the characters and the reader!
This book is so full of twists and turns that you're afraid to put the book down! You don't want to miss a single moment of Sorcha and Cathal's story because they are meant to be together. They are meant to live happily ever after.... but will a new faction of the Others allow any of the Reapers peace. Just when we thought life had settled down for this tight group of men and women, Donna Grant takes us on a wild ride. So buckle up, folks, because there are more adventures to come!!
I receive an Advance Readers Copy (ARC) of Dark Alpha's Caress by Donna Grant in return for my honest review.
Dark Alpha's Caress, the 10th book in the Reaper series, can be read as a standalone but the readers' enjoyment will be best served by reading the series in order. In the latest installment of the story of the Skye Druids, the reader is introduced to Sorcha, a woman that has locked herself away for ten years after a horrible tragedy. She leaves the safety of her home to assist her cousin in unraveling what is happening among the Druids, and that decision sets off a chain of events that bring her into contact with the Reapers. Sorcha, with the help of Cathal and Aisling, begins to uncover family secrets, and eventually learns to accept her place in the world of magic. As this is a shorter story (I was able to read it in under 3 hours), I don't want to give anything else away. I will say that Aisling stole the show in this book, at least from this readers' perspective. I appreciated how willing she was to help Sorcha and Cathal, and really look forward to seeing her find her own HEA, especially after the breadcrumb the author dropped in the epilogue! This book was easy to read and a fun continuation of the Druid/Fae storyline and I'm looking forward to seeing where the author heads next in this saga.
Sorcha is a great character who carries a lot of guilt with her about family. She keeps to herself and even though she lives on Skye and is a Skye Druid, she doesn't interact with anyone except for her cousin and she doesn't participate in any rituals. A chance meeting though changes her life. Cathal is a Reaper and he is a great one at that. When he meets Sorcha he knows that he is a attracted to her, but he fights the temptation. He wants to protect her, but the the more time they spend together, the deeper their connection grows and soon neither of them can fight what they are feeling for one another.
Sorcha was a strong character, even though she didn't think it. I loved seeing Sorcha overcome her guilt and fears with Cathal by her side. Sorcha had a very sassy side and it was good to see. She didn't trust easy, but with Cathal, she knew she would always be safe with him. Cathal has made a family with the Reapers, and learning about his past was heartbreaking, just like Sorcha's. He was so protective of Sorcha and she always came first for him. Together, these characters gave each other love and a family that both of these characters deserved. I am very excited for the next book!!