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The Children of the Gods #1-3
Dark Stranger Trilogy
Book 1—Dark Stranger The Dream:
Since the dawn of human civilization, two warring factions of near-immortals - the descendants of the gods of old - have been secretly shaping its destiny. Leading the clandestine battle from his luxurious L.A. high-rise, Kian is surrounded by his clan, yet alone. Descending from a single goddess, clan members are forbidden to each other. And as the only other immortals are their hated enemies, Kian and his kin have been long resigned to a lonely existence of fleeting trysts with human partners. That is, until his sister makes a game-changing discovery - a mortal seeress who she believes is a dormant carrier of their genes. Ever the realist, Kian is skeptical and refuses Amanda's plea to attempt Syssi's activation. But when his enemies learn of the Dormant's existence, he's forced to rush her to the safety of his keep. Inexorably drawn to Syssi, Kian wrestles with his conscience as he is tempted to explore her budding interest in the darker shades of sensuality.
When Syssi's paranormal foresight lands her a job at Dr. Amanda Dokani's neuroscience lab, it fails to predict the thrilling yet terrifying turn her life will take. Syssi has no clue that her boss is an immortal who'll drag her into a secret, millennia-old battle over humanity's future. Nor does she realize that the professor's imposing brother is the mysterious stranger who's been starring in her dreams.
Book 2—Dark Stranger Revealed:
While sheltered in the clan's stronghold, Syssi is unaware that Kian and Amanda are not human, and neither are the supposedly religious fanatics that are after her. She feels a powerful connection to Kian, and as he introduces her to a world of pleasure she never dared imagine, his dominant sexuality is a revelation. Considering that she's completely out of her element, Syssi feels comfortable and safe letting go with him. That is, until she begins to suspect that all is not as it seems. Piecing the puzzle together, she draws a scary, yet wrong conclusion...
Book 3—Dark Stranger Immortal:
When Kian confesses his true nature, Syssi is not as much shocked by the revelation as she is wounded by what she perceives as his callous plans for her. If she doesn't turn, he'd be forced to erase her memories and let her go. His family's safety demands secrecy - no one in the mortal world is allowed to know that immortals exist. Resigned to the cruel reality, Syssi is determined to enjoy what little time she has with Kian, one day at a time.
Since the dawn of human civilization, two warring factions of near-immortals - the descendants of the gods of old - have been secretly shaping its destiny. Leading the clandestine battle from his luxurious L.A. high-rise, Kian is surrounded by his clan, yet alone. Descending from a single goddess, clan members are forbidden to each other. And as the only other immortals are their hated enemies, Kian and his kin have been long resigned to a lonely existence of fleeting trysts with human partners. That is, until his sister makes a game-changing discovery - a mortal seeress who she believes is a dormant carrier of their genes. Ever the realist, Kian is skeptical and refuses Amanda's plea to attempt Syssi's activation. But when his enemies learn of the Dormant's existence, he's forced to rush her to the safety of his keep. Inexorably drawn to Syssi, Kian wrestles with his conscience as he is tempted to explore her budding interest in the darker shades of sensuality.
When Syssi's paranormal foresight lands her a job at Dr. Amanda Dokani's neuroscience lab, it fails to predict the thrilling yet terrifying turn her life will take. Syssi has no clue that her boss is an immortal who'll drag her into a secret, millennia-old battle over humanity's future. Nor does she realize that the professor's imposing brother is the mysterious stranger who's been starring in her dreams.
Book 2—Dark Stranger Revealed:
While sheltered in the clan's stronghold, Syssi is unaware that Kian and Amanda are not human, and neither are the supposedly religious fanatics that are after her. She feels a powerful connection to Kian, and as he introduces her to a world of pleasure she never dared imagine, his dominant sexuality is a revelation. Considering that she's completely out of her element, Syssi feels comfortable and safe letting go with him. That is, until she begins to suspect that all is not as it seems. Piecing the puzzle together, she draws a scary, yet wrong conclusion...
Book 3—Dark Stranger Immortal:
When Kian confesses his true nature, Syssi is not as much shocked by the revelation as she is wounded by what she perceives as his callous plans for her. If she doesn't turn, he'd be forced to erase her memories and let her go. His family's safety demands secrecy - no one in the mortal world is allowed to know that immortals exist. Resigned to the cruel reality, Syssi is determined to enjoy what little time she has with Kian, one day at a time.
822 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2015
3474 people are currently reading
828 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
August 30, 2018
I sometimes feel authors are paid by the word rather than the quality of their writing. This author took over 700 pages to say what could have been said in about 300. Then, when you finally get to the end, what happens??? The heroine has a premonition; the hero flies off in the dead of night; and - and - and?? That's how it ends. Unless, of course, you want to start the next 800 pages. I would only recommend this series if you have absolutely nothing else to do or to read.
October 7, 2018
There were so many things wrong with this book I cannot possibly list them all. I have NO IDEA how it got over 2,000 good reviews on Amazon. There were at least 8 POVs and they all had very similar voices. It was hard to distinguish some from others. The different POVs did not add to the story or progress it. Some felt random and unnecessary. The story dragged due to every character getting a chance to "speak." Just not my type of book.
May 28, 2018
A almost quit this series multiple times. The world building lost me multiple times as it seemed separate from the story at times, and other times certain stories were repeated over and over. Sometimes a chapter would run rampant with fact vomit. Which can weigh down a story. Also, I find it very hard to believe these people are pushing for equal rights, etc because it’s not evident in their actions. You know the saying if you want to change the world start by cleaning your own room. However after the first book the story really comes into play. It saved the series for me for a bit. The truth is the plot progression is just going so slow. And every book more characters are introduced and it’s getting so broad and sometimes there is a story within the story and it’s getting distracting and some of the original characters are getting lost. So unfortunately I think I’m going to have to call it quits. For now at least.
July 26, 2021
Was hoping for a decent fantasy story but after a chapter and a half looked very much like a trashy cross between 50 Shades, Twilight and a generic romance novel. No desire to waste any more time on it.
I guess if that's what you want, then the rating would likely be higher than the one star I have given it. Certainly seems to be popular enough.
Luckily got this for 'free' through Prime Reading so I haven't wasted any money.
I guess if that's what you want, then the rating would likely be higher than the one star I have given it. Certainly seems to be popular enough.
Luckily got this for 'free' through Prime Reading so I haven't wasted any money.
September 26, 2018
Good ending to Kian and Syssi story. But definitely makes you want to read more.
October 10, 2018
I read this book at the behest of a very smart friend. She could not stop raving about how sexy and entertaining this book was. After finishing, I am now very wary of her book recommendations. Now let me start ripping this book apart.
This author employs WAY too much exposition. She lays out the entire history of her "near-immortal" (a lame description) characters within the first chapter. Chapters which switch between characters willy-nilly. I know this technique was popularized with George R.R. Martin, but he uses multiple narrators for a REASON. I. T. Lucas (clearly a woman pretending to be a man for some dumb reason) just flip-flops between different characters without adding any new perspective to the narrative. Except for her supposed villain. *eye roll* I'll get to my feelings on him later. Oh and she retells the same full history MULTIPLE times instead of just saying "Kian explained his people's history to Syssi's wide-eyed gaze." Done!
If you have ever read any Sherrilyn Kenyon or even Laurell K. Hamilton, then you have read well-written versions of what this author was attempting to create. Long-lived, powerful men that have strong sex drives and fall head over heels for a human woman. Hell, even TWILIGHT had a better plot! This author shoehorns a stranger Stargate-esque "Ancients" backstory along with robot-style technology. Oh and all the near-immortals are tall and gorgeous, yet clueless at love.
One of my biggest issues: Syssi. The lead character's name is a dumb spelling of "Sissy". I've written middle school English papers with more symbolic subtlety. She is ridiculously passive and annoying in her reactions. Her relationship (if you can call it that) with Kian had me cringing. He does something overly possessive and borderline abusive and she just giggles "Pervert!". UGH!
Overall, the characters were entirely too witless for beings counting their age in centuries. (Also who keeps track of their age as closely as Kian when you're older than 1000?) Are they just now revising their Guardian recruitment? Haven't they shared any new technology with humans until now? The author just had a one-track mind for her story and then forgot to keep track of her own characters and their history.
Anyone picking up this book expecting hot sex scenes at the very least will also be disappointed. Syssi has an orgasm from barely holding hands with Kian and screams the second she's naked. Magic or not, no one wants to read that!
Tl;dr: too many characters having their actions spelled out surrounding romantic leads with no chemistry and dumb names and weird magic
This author employs WAY too much exposition. She lays out the entire history of her "near-immortal" (a lame description) characters within the first chapter. Chapters which switch between characters willy-nilly. I know this technique was popularized with George R.R. Martin, but he uses multiple narrators for a REASON. I. T. Lucas (clearly a woman pretending to be a man for some dumb reason) just flip-flops between different characters without adding any new perspective to the narrative. Except for her supposed villain. *eye roll* I'll get to my feelings on him later. Oh and she retells the same full history MULTIPLE times instead of just saying "Kian explained his people's history to Syssi's wide-eyed gaze." Done!
If you have ever read any Sherrilyn Kenyon or even Laurell K. Hamilton, then you have read well-written versions of what this author was attempting to create. Long-lived, powerful men that have strong sex drives and fall head over heels for a human woman. Hell, even TWILIGHT had a better plot! This author shoehorns a stranger Stargate-esque "Ancients" backstory along with robot-style technology. Oh and all the near-immortals are tall and gorgeous, yet clueless at love.
One of my biggest issues: Syssi. The lead character's name is a dumb spelling of "Sissy". I've written middle school English papers with more symbolic subtlety. She is ridiculously passive and annoying in her reactions. Her relationship (if you can call it that) with Kian had me cringing. He does something overly possessive and borderline abusive and she just giggles "Pervert!". UGH!
Overall, the characters were entirely too witless for beings counting their age in centuries. (Also who keeps track of their age as closely as Kian when you're older than 1000?) Are they just now revising their Guardian recruitment? Haven't they shared any new technology with humans until now? The author just had a one-track mind for her story and then forgot to keep track of her own characters and their history.
Anyone picking up this book expecting hot sex scenes at the very least will also be disappointed. Syssi has an orgasm from barely holding hands with Kian and screams the second she's naked. Magic or not, no one wants to read that!
Tl;dr: too many characters having their actions spelled out surrounding romantic leads with no chemistry and dumb names and weird magic
August 30, 2023
I am mystified by the 4 and 5 star ratings for this series. Maybe they read the Cliffs Notes version? This entire 3 book series could have been told in about 3/4 of one book. Instead, we have to wade through chapters of repetitive inner dialogue, completely unnecessary details, and ridiculous world building that was more humorous the enthralling. (Seriously, are we supposed to believe that the enemy “flew his aircraft and dropped an atomic bomb” in pre-biblical times!? And yet hundreds of years later the enemy’s followers hire and thrall pilots instead of just flying themselves to their super top secret private training island. Ridiculous in all aspects.) And Syssi's character gave me whiplash in book one--maddeningly incongruous actions and thoughts throughout! This set sat in my KU library for years so I felt compelled to read it if only to clear it out. So sad I did.
Do not fall for this series. It’s maybe 3 books worth of story spewed out with a load of garbage in order to fill too many more. Not worth the paper (or pixels) it took to print it on.
Do not fall for this series. It’s maybe 3 books worth of story spewed out with a load of garbage in order to fill too many more. Not worth the paper (or pixels) it took to print it on.
November 9, 2018
I can’t believe I read all the way to the end only to have the action stop-like a cliff hanger. I thought there was way to much relationship angst and not enough vampire action. I won’t be reading more. Kindle don’t recommend more! I feel scammed.
August 26, 2019
Nothing happens for forever...the characters gave no personality, nothing special or endearing...
August 21, 2023
Well written but...
I didn't find the characters likable or easy to connect with. No doubt, Ms. Lucas can write , but her tale didn't draw me in like I expected from all the other reviews.
It's hard for me to put my finger on it exactly, but the characters felt a little, erm, phony? Unbelievable. I also read the word "girl" used too much. I really despise reading books from male authors when they sling around the word "girl." It's disrespectful to women. Using the term for grown women is just another way to diminish the intelligence of women. You don't see the term "boy" used for grown men in real life or in novels, yet no one blinks at the term "girl." Everyone is just so used to it... most think nothing of it. But I suspect it's one of many ways men continue to keep the upper hand in equality. Not a big one, very subtle, but what is the first thing that comes to your mind when you think about it? Girls? It's one thing for women to call each other girls, but when men do it, it just sounds gross. I'll stop here with my tirade on the use of that term that far too many male authors use and this female author.
But then I guess I shouldn't expect too much from an author who uses a glamored cartoon caricature of her face on Amazon. It looks like something an 18 year old would use.
I also found the misspelling of trooper irritating. The explanation of the word "Amen" given by one of the immortal characters being derived from the Egyptian god Amun is just silly. There is enough debate out there to shed doubt, but I side with the Hebrews and believe it's a coincidence that the word looks like Amun. I know the author was trying to give the immortals a feel of authenticity - maybe next time, use something that can be proven, such as the material used in George Washington's teeth. Now housewives all over America probably believe it.
I'll be passing on Ms. Lucas's other books, including the sequel to this one. Reading the included sample chapter of the next set of books assured me I would not. I didn't like Kian's sister enough to care what happened to her.
And for those of you reading this review and thinking I'm just some sad unhappy bitter spinster...read my other book reviews. I assure you I love to read dystopian, other-worldy, time-travel, sci-fi kinda books, and hate it when there are too many writing mistakes. That's why I gave this book a 2 and not a 1 star.
The concept was interesting, and the writing skill good - I just wasn't expecting to read a book with smoking glamorized, near-rape fantasies acted out, and men with penises so big they popped out at the top/waist of the pants.
I'm guessing this book is like the uber popular "50 Shades of Gray." Started as fan fic on the Internet and became popular with so many women disappointed with what they married.
I didn't find the characters likable or easy to connect with. No doubt, Ms. Lucas can write , but her tale didn't draw me in like I expected from all the other reviews.
It's hard for me to put my finger on it exactly, but the characters felt a little, erm, phony? Unbelievable. I also read the word "girl" used too much. I really despise reading books from male authors when they sling around the word "girl." It's disrespectful to women. Using the term for grown women is just another way to diminish the intelligence of women. You don't see the term "boy" used for grown men in real life or in novels, yet no one blinks at the term "girl." Everyone is just so used to it... most think nothing of it. But I suspect it's one of many ways men continue to keep the upper hand in equality. Not a big one, very subtle, but what is the first thing that comes to your mind when you think about it? Girls? It's one thing for women to call each other girls, but when men do it, it just sounds gross. I'll stop here with my tirade on the use of that term that far too many male authors use and this female author.
But then I guess I shouldn't expect too much from an author who uses a glamored cartoon caricature of her face on Amazon. It looks like something an 18 year old would use.
I also found the misspelling of trooper irritating. The explanation of the word "Amen" given by one of the immortal characters being derived from the Egyptian god Amun is just silly. There is enough debate out there to shed doubt, but I side with the Hebrews and believe it's a coincidence that the word looks like Amun. I know the author was trying to give the immortals a feel of authenticity - maybe next time, use something that can be proven, such as the material used in George Washington's teeth. Now housewives all over America probably believe it.
I'll be passing on Ms. Lucas's other books, including the sequel to this one. Reading the included sample chapter of the next set of books assured me I would not. I didn't like Kian's sister enough to care what happened to her.
And for those of you reading this review and thinking I'm just some sad unhappy bitter spinster...read my other book reviews. I assure you I love to read dystopian, other-worldy, time-travel, sci-fi kinda books, and hate it when there are too many writing mistakes. That's why I gave this book a 2 and not a 1 star.
The concept was interesting, and the writing skill good - I just wasn't expecting to read a book with smoking glamorized, near-rape fantasies acted out, and men with penises so big they popped out at the top/waist of the pants.
I'm guessing this book is like the uber popular "50 Shades of Gray." Started as fan fic on the Internet and became popular with so many women disappointed with what they married.
August 10, 2023
My butt clenched when I saw there were 75 volumes, more or less, in this series. I’m sure that I’m not going to read them all without taking a break here and there. I do have other series I follow that will have new releases.
Cast of characters - Annani (sole surviving female goddess) Kian & Amanda (Two of Annani’s immortal children) Syssi & Andrew (human brother & sister) Michael (one of Amanda’s research participants) Navuh & Dalhu (Doomers) Anandur & Brundar (Guardian brothers) Shai (another Guardian) Mark (descendant of Annani) Onidu & Okidu (lifelike servants of Amanda & Kian)
1. The Dream: Syssi is an assistant at the college were Amanda is researching paranormal abilities in humans. Amanda is a direct descendant of the goddess Annani, as is her older brother, Kian. The reader is made aware of the history of the two immortal warring factions and their ongoing battle over the millennia. Dalhu is a warrior for Navuh and is sent on a mission to eliminate a tech wizard who could interfere with Navuh’s plan for world domination. He is delighted to discover that Mark is a member of Annani’s clan and sets out to discover if Amanda is too.
When Kian is made aware of Mark’s murder he immediately summons the California clan members to his fortress as the safest location until the threat is eliminated. Amanda had two students, Syssi and Michael, who tested with high paranormal abilities so they are included in the roundup. Kian is immediately overwhelmed by his attraction to Syssi and exhibits some pretty bizarre behavior around her. He is the man who appears in her dreams so she also feels drawn to him.
Kian or a different male could determine if Syssi is a latent immortal. Amanda is pressuring him to find out. He is hesitant to perform the necessary act but can’t stand the thought of another male touching her.
2. Revealed: Additional characters - Yamanu, Arwel, Bhathian, Kri/female (Guardians)
Questions - It seems that the coming of age ritual occurs at age at 13 for Guardians. How do they know who has potential? What determines Guardian status? Also, Kri seems to be the only female. How did they know to test her? Who was her mentor? I have the impression that Syssi and Andrew’s parents are missionaries or doctors without borders of some sort. Where does their wealth come from?
Reading further I discover that males are mortal until age 13. It seems they all have to go through the same ritual to become immortal. I still don’t understand how Guardians are selected at that young age. The females apparently inherit their immortality through Annani. Okay, I now understand that Guardians apply for the position and must qualify for it as with any other job.
Kian and Syssi become more enamored with one another. Both Syssi and Michael are apprised of the clan’s immortality and the hope that they can also become immortals. Michael willingly accepts his challenge but Syssi feels betrayed at not being given a choice from the beginning. She is also horrified at the idea of becoming addicted to Kian’s venom and having her memory wiped. Amanda attempts to smooth her ruffled feathers.
Dalhu is 800 years old and becoming dissatisfied with his life as a warrior for Navuh. His secret desire is to mate an immortal female, have children and live a peaceful HEA life. Since the only females he has access to are mortal prostitutes he knows this is an impossibility.
3. Immortal: Syssi introduces Amanda to her brother, Andrew. There appears to be some chemistry between the two. Syssi starts to feel ill at lunch so returns home while Amanda proceeds to continue shopping. Dalhu serendipitously happens to see Amanda and follows her into a store and then kidnaps her.
Meanwhile, Annani finds out that Syssi is ill and insists upon coming to see her. Her reason for doing so is later revealed.
Andrew loses his shit when he is unable to reach Syssi and shows up at the building where she is staying. He has to reveal that the necklace he gave her has a tracking device, much to her chagrin. Fortunately she had given this necklace to Amanda so they have a way to discern where she has been taken.
Amanda’s suspicion about Syssi and Michael’s potential as immortals pans out.
Cast of characters - Annani (sole surviving female goddess) Kian & Amanda (Two of Annani’s immortal children) Syssi & Andrew (human brother & sister) Michael (one of Amanda’s research participants) Navuh & Dalhu (Doomers) Anandur & Brundar (Guardian brothers) Shai (another Guardian) Mark (descendant of Annani) Onidu & Okidu (lifelike servants of Amanda & Kian)
1. The Dream: Syssi is an assistant at the college were Amanda is researching paranormal abilities in humans. Amanda is a direct descendant of the goddess Annani, as is her older brother, Kian. The reader is made aware of the history of the two immortal warring factions and their ongoing battle over the millennia. Dalhu is a warrior for Navuh and is sent on a mission to eliminate a tech wizard who could interfere with Navuh’s plan for world domination. He is delighted to discover that Mark is a member of Annani’s clan and sets out to discover if Amanda is too.
When Kian is made aware of Mark’s murder he immediately summons the California clan members to his fortress as the safest location until the threat is eliminated. Amanda had two students, Syssi and Michael, who tested with high paranormal abilities so they are included in the roundup. Kian is immediately overwhelmed by his attraction to Syssi and exhibits some pretty bizarre behavior around her. He is the man who appears in her dreams so she also feels drawn to him.
Kian or a different male could determine if Syssi is a latent immortal. Amanda is pressuring him to find out. He is hesitant to perform the necessary act but can’t stand the thought of another male touching her.
2. Revealed: Additional characters - Yamanu, Arwel, Bhathian, Kri/female (Guardians)
Questions - It seems that the coming of age ritual occurs at age at 13 for Guardians. How do they know who has potential? What determines Guardian status? Also, Kri seems to be the only female. How did they know to test her? Who was her mentor? I have the impression that Syssi and Andrew’s parents are missionaries or doctors without borders of some sort. Where does their wealth come from?
Reading further I discover that males are mortal until age 13. It seems they all have to go through the same ritual to become immortal. I still don’t understand how Guardians are selected at that young age. The females apparently inherit their immortality through Annani. Okay, I now understand that Guardians apply for the position and must qualify for it as with any other job.
Kian and Syssi become more enamored with one another. Both Syssi and Michael are apprised of the clan’s immortality and the hope that they can also become immortals. Michael willingly accepts his challenge but Syssi feels betrayed at not being given a choice from the beginning. She is also horrified at the idea of becoming addicted to Kian’s venom and having her memory wiped. Amanda attempts to smooth her ruffled feathers.
Dalhu is 800 years old and becoming dissatisfied with his life as a warrior for Navuh. His secret desire is to mate an immortal female, have children and live a peaceful HEA life. Since the only females he has access to are mortal prostitutes he knows this is an impossibility.
3. Immortal: Syssi introduces Amanda to her brother, Andrew. There appears to be some chemistry between the two. Syssi starts to feel ill at lunch so returns home while Amanda proceeds to continue shopping. Dalhu serendipitously happens to see Amanda and follows her into a store and then kidnaps her.
Meanwhile, Annani finds out that Syssi is ill and insists upon coming to see her. Her reason for doing so is later revealed.
Andrew loses his shit when he is unable to reach Syssi and shows up at the building where she is staying. He has to reveal that the necklace he gave her has a tracking device, much to her chagrin. Fortunately she had given this necklace to Amanda so they have a way to discern where she has been taken.
Amanda’s suspicion about Syssi and Michael’s potential as immortals pans out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 10, 2024
READ THIS REVIEW BEFORE STARTING THIS SERIES!!!!
WARNING……This is NOT A COMPLETE STORY!!!!
Each character story is supposedly a trilogy of 3 books (totaling almost 1000 pages😳) but it’s really just 1 continuous story throughout the ENTIRE 85+ BOOK SERIES- IT NEVER CONCLUDES!!!
THERE IS NEVER A HFN/ HEA EVER!!!!!!
These books are way toooooo long and you will find yourself skimming over half of it and not miss a thing. It is so freaking drawn out and uninteresting with history/ backstory plus constant repetitive inner dialogue where NOTHING happens, there’s zero point to 85% of the books.
This entire series is written from multiple peoples POV, NOT JUST THE MAIN CHARACTERS!! Even when some stranger is about to die, they get their own POV chapter which ends with ☠️. Unlike most romances, it is an interesting way to write and makes you more invested in ALL THE CHARACTERS not just MC’s. Unfortunately we get so little of the main couple, it’s hard to care about them or their boring relationship. We pretty much see them have 🥱boring *1🌶️* sex 🥱😴and then they are *in love*.
By 80% we have firmly moved onto the next couple. They are embroiled in a perilous situation and a rescue attempt is being planned by the book conclusion….. only to leave you hanging so you jump into the next book.
Honestly, I might read more **IF IT WAS CONDENSED** Each 3 book grouping could have EASILY fit in ONE 350 page book while the story keeps moving along. Instead, after 1000 pages we’ve only covered a week or 2 of time with very little happening. Not to mention too many character POV’s that you’ll start to lose track of who is who.
WARNING……This is NOT A COMPLETE STORY!!!!
Each character story is supposedly a trilogy of 3 books (totaling almost 1000 pages😳) but it’s really just 1 continuous story throughout the ENTIRE 85+ BOOK SERIES- IT NEVER CONCLUDES!!!
THERE IS NEVER A HFN/ HEA EVER!!!!!!
These books are way toooooo long and you will find yourself skimming over half of it and not miss a thing. It is so freaking drawn out and uninteresting with history/ backstory plus constant repetitive inner dialogue where NOTHING happens, there’s zero point to 85% of the books.
This entire series is written from multiple peoples POV, NOT JUST THE MAIN CHARACTERS!! Even when some stranger is about to die, they get their own POV chapter which ends with ☠️. Unlike most romances, it is an interesting way to write and makes you more invested in ALL THE CHARACTERS not just MC’s. Unfortunately we get so little of the main couple, it’s hard to care about them or their boring relationship. We pretty much see them have 🥱boring *1🌶️* sex 🥱😴and then they are *in love*.
By 80% we have firmly moved onto the next couple. They are embroiled in a perilous situation and a rescue attempt is being planned by the book conclusion….. only to leave you hanging so you jump into the next book.
Honestly, I might read more **IF IT WAS CONDENSED** Each 3 book grouping could have EASILY fit in ONE 350 page book while the story keeps moving along. Instead, after 1000 pages we’ve only covered a week or 2 of time with very little happening. Not to mention too many character POV’s that you’ll start to lose track of who is who.
October 24, 2018
I never thought I'd fall in love with such vampires besides the ones from The Originals (Vampire Diaries spin off) series. Kian is absolutely delicious and who can blame Syssi for falling for him instantly! I'm in the 7th book now and have a ways to go as there are at least 18 books in this series so far but it's worth it! I am not really into romance or sexually graphic books. This is a sort of a vampires meet 50 shades of grey kind of erotica (and I have not read the 50 shades books. Nor do I plan to) but I actually like the way ITL wrote these scenes. They were well written and I didn't skip through them like I have in other books. I tend to like just getting to the next scene of the stories and skip the whole raunchy swap of body fluid scenes. But I did enjoy ITL's writing. Enough so that I kept on reading the next book and the next book, etc..
I love how each book introduces the characters and the they get a whole book written to tell their story. She gives life to everyone she introduces to you. There aren't such thing as disposable extras that take the back seat to the main characters of the first book.
I'm still knee deep in this series and I've got away to go but I'm hooked and I have to say this series is definitely a must read.
I love how each book introduces the characters and the they get a whole book written to tell their story. She gives life to everyone she introduces to you. There aren't such thing as disposable extras that take the back seat to the main characters of the first book.
I'm still knee deep in this series and I've got away to go but I'm hooked and I have to say this series is definitely a must read.
March 6, 2022
A Fantastic Series That Might Make You Wonder?!
I start this series a year ago today and have been binge reading it. I'm now on book 54. I did a few ARC readings over the last couple of months but none of them compare to the world and people that I. T. Lucas takes you into in this series.
I am very open minded and about half way through the books I have read so far, my mind said, "Hey there really could be people living among us that are a different species and we might not know it. How cool would that be?" I. T. Lucas' characters and the world she weaves for us is that believable.
As soon as I'm done with one book I'm looking forward to digging into the next. As you get closer to the last book published don't get upset as it will be a VERY short time before the next one is ready. I love that all the books are free with Kindle Unlimited! This series will definitely not disappoint those who love fantasy set in reality. Each book centers on a different core character as well as bring in new ones.
Thank you I. T. Lucas for so many enjoyable hours with characters I've come to think of as friends. Also for opening my mind that there may be people like this or similar living among us!
I start this series a year ago today and have been binge reading it. I'm now on book 54. I did a few ARC readings over the last couple of months but none of them compare to the world and people that I. T. Lucas takes you into in this series.
I am very open minded and about half way through the books I have read so far, my mind said, "Hey there really could be people living among us that are a different species and we might not know it. How cool would that be?" I. T. Lucas' characters and the world she weaves for us is that believable.
As soon as I'm done with one book I'm looking forward to digging into the next. As you get closer to the last book published don't get upset as it will be a VERY short time before the next one is ready. I love that all the books are free with Kindle Unlimited! This series will definitely not disappoint those who love fantasy set in reality. Each book centers on a different core character as well as bring in new ones.
Thank you I. T. Lucas for so many enjoyable hours with characters I've come to think of as friends. Also for opening my mind that there may be people like this or similar living among us!
February 6, 2024
I am giving this book 3 stars because the actual story was a bit slow until finally into the third book. Not saying it was bad, just a bit slow waiting for something to actually happen besides the hooded eyes and slick folds. lol. The only thing that got on my nerves was making Syssi come across SO frugal. It was over the top and hard to believe. Especially if she wasn't raised poor and does have a brain.
She had to understand what a woman wears to a possible Michelin Restaurant.
I really don't mean to come across snarky. I love to read everything. Out of the 3 installments the 3rd had more. I was glad things finally started to really hold my attention because things finally started to happen.
I truly enjoyed the snippets the Author so graciously provided after this Trilogy ended. The pages about the 3 fates was hilarious and I give that a 5++. I loved the pages of the Origin story of THE Goddess and her true love. Both POV. That was a 5.
So, I am not sure if I want to go through so many pages again before something really happens. Just a guess, but Amanda is having the time of her life with her Big Boy, just like Syssi did with Rian. I'm just not afraid for her AT ALL!
She had to understand what a woman wears to a possible Michelin Restaurant.
I really don't mean to come across snarky. I love to read everything. Out of the 3 installments the 3rd had more. I was glad things finally started to really hold my attention because things finally started to happen.
I truly enjoyed the snippets the Author so graciously provided after this Trilogy ended. The pages about the 3 fates was hilarious and I give that a 5++. I loved the pages of the Origin story of THE Goddess and her true love. Both POV. That was a 5.
So, I am not sure if I want to go through so many pages again before something really happens. Just a guess, but Amanda is having the time of her life with her Big Boy, just like Syssi did with Rian. I'm just not afraid for her AT ALL!
January 30, 2018
The Children of the Gods series is an ingeniously crafted world of gods, vampires and mortals. Each story leads into the next and with the plot that the author builds you will find yourself rapidly reading the entire set. The characters are engaging and real (their paranormal natures notwithstanding), the plot is suspenseful and well developed and the suspense keeps you reading. Kian and Syssi sizzle and so to the rest of the vampire clan as they meet their fated mates and do battle against the Doomers..
These are extremely compelling stories that hook you for the long haul. Initially published as three separate novels, I anxiously awaited each new addition. Here, they are assembled into a great boxed set so the complete trilogy can be enjoyed all together. I am sure that any lover of paranormal romance will welcome this collection into her library. Add into the mix Annani’s story, Goddess, and its a dream come true.
These are extremely compelling stories that hook you for the long haul. Initially published as three separate novels, I anxiously awaited each new addition. Here, they are assembled into a great boxed set so the complete trilogy can be enjoyed all together. I am sure that any lover of paranormal romance will welcome this collection into her library. Add into the mix Annani’s story, Goddess, and its a dream come true.
September 12, 2023
3.5...
This is Kian and Syssi's story.
Kian is a demi-god worrying about the extinction of his race. Amanda, Kian's sister tests folks with clairvoyance and rates them on a scale from 1-10. Amanda believes that humans with ESP abilities are able to be turned into demi-gods for the continuation of the clan's line.
Syssi is a 10 on the clairvoyance scale, so Amanda mentions her to Kian and thus they meet. Kian wants to refuse because one, he doesn't want his sister match making, and two he is afraid of getting hurt. For the first half of the story, Syssi has no idea what Kian is and thus creates the conflict.
While, I wasn't really into the love story of Kian and Syssi I found the story intriguing. The book ends on a cliffhanger, and if the books are available on KU I will continue on with the series.
This is Kian and Syssi's story.
Kian is a demi-god worrying about the extinction of his race. Amanda, Kian's sister tests folks with clairvoyance and rates them on a scale from 1-10. Amanda believes that humans with ESP abilities are able to be turned into demi-gods for the continuation of the clan's line.
Syssi is a 10 on the clairvoyance scale, so Amanda mentions her to Kian and thus they meet. Kian wants to refuse because one, he doesn't want his sister match making, and two he is afraid of getting hurt. For the first half of the story, Syssi has no idea what Kian is and thus creates the conflict.
While, I wasn't really into the love story of Kian and Syssi I found the story intriguing. The book ends on a cliffhanger, and if the books are available on KU I will continue on with the series.
March 6, 2023
I haven’t read a book like this in a long time. Especially one that doesn’t seem to be widely talked about. It’s not all over YT. Your friends that read this genre, might’ve never heard of it, as mine hadn’t. And when you tell them about it, they might be disinterested for said reason that it’s not widely popular. But, wow. I’m glad I took a chance on this…as the reviews on kindle unlimited were awesome (it’s available via kindle unlimited). Perfect book to catch an escape. And said escape can easily be done by putting the book down, picking it up, & repeating when u have the chance. Or, completely binging it for 2hrs, straight. (It’s an easy read that puts u in an entirely diff world without the INTENSE, time consuming, world building). Yet, you’re in a world other than ur own & throughly enjoying it! Hahaha. Anyways. I’m stoked that I found this series and will be reading the rest of the trilogy, asap.
June 23, 2021
Great series
I enjoyed these first 3 books of the Children of the Gods saga. The writing and editing was good, the back story and world building interesting. The steam was just enough, and I enjoyed the occasional swear words. I'm really invested in all the characters now, and interested to see all their hea's. I thought there will be 3 or 4 more books, but to my utter astonishment, there are another 40+! My goodness. At least it is available on KU, otherwise I would not have been able to read them all. The box sets are really great, too. I'm going to binge as many as I can in the next few months. Oh, and the little short story at the end about the fates - loved it!
I enjoyed these first 3 books of the Children of the Gods saga. The writing and editing was good, the back story and world building interesting. The steam was just enough, and I enjoyed the occasional swear words. I'm really invested in all the characters now, and interested to see all their hea's. I thought there will be 3 or 4 more books, but to my utter astonishment, there are another 40+! My goodness. At least it is available on KU, otherwise I would not have been able to read them all. The box sets are really great, too. I'm going to binge as many as I can in the next few months. Oh, and the little short story at the end about the fates - loved it!
May 5, 2022
Oooohhh!! YIPEEEEEEE!!!
Have you ever read EVERY SINGLE WORD your favorite author has EVER WRITTEN? Then wondered how you could ever fill that gaping, yawning sinkhole in your chest???
Well, guess what? I've hit the jackpot!!!!!
I have a NEW FAVORITE AUTHOR!!! AND, to top it off, I.T. LUCAS is a seriously PROLIFERATE WRITER!!!! YAAAAY!! ALREADY LOST TRACK OF HOW MANY BOOKS ARE IN THIS SERIES!
The stories?? The characters??? Fully fleshed out (pardon the pun) and sooo engaging. In book number four and was totally hooked one chapter into the first...
My summer is set and steamy in more ways than one. Thank you, I.T. Lucas! 😍
Have you ever read EVERY SINGLE WORD your favorite author has EVER WRITTEN? Then wondered how you could ever fill that gaping, yawning sinkhole in your chest???
Well, guess what? I've hit the jackpot!!!!!
I have a NEW FAVORITE AUTHOR!!! AND, to top it off, I.T. LUCAS is a seriously PROLIFERATE WRITER!!!! YAAAAY!! ALREADY LOST TRACK OF HOW MANY BOOKS ARE IN THIS SERIES!
The stories?? The characters??? Fully fleshed out (pardon the pun) and sooo engaging. In book number four and was totally hooked one chapter into the first...
My summer is set and steamy in more ways than one. Thank you, I.T. Lucas! 😍
May 5, 2019
What a great beginning to this series. At already 26 books strong, and 27 already on pre-order, this is a series that a reader could easily lose themselves in. The world building and back story are quite amazing – and the originality is refreshing and this is not a story arc that has been written over and over in this genre. Although Syssi and Kian’s story continues into the next book, this is a true page-turner of a book. You won’t want to put it down long and getting to the next book will be a priority for many.
May 14, 2021
3 books in 1
I got the first three books in one, it has taken me far too long to read as the first two are so slow and dull.
I prevailed because of the good reviews and I have enjoyed the 3rd one much more, enough so that I'll give the 4th book a try.
I must say the end to each book is bad, you dont even know your finished as it ends abruptly and doesn't even feel like the end of a chapter.
3 stars due to intrigue, hoping the next book is as good if not better than the 3rd, if not I'll be finished with the series
I got the first three books in one, it has taken me far too long to read as the first two are so slow and dull.
I prevailed because of the good reviews and I have enjoyed the 3rd one much more, enough so that I'll give the 4th book a try.
I must say the end to each book is bad, you dont even know your finished as it ends abruptly and doesn't even feel like the end of a chapter.
3 stars due to intrigue, hoping the next book is as good if not better than the 3rd, if not I'll be finished with the series
October 17, 2021
Really enjoyed the start to this series. This book ended up being books 1-3 and an excerpt from two others. Despite the editing errors (character's names are often misspelled and other silly mistakes haven't been attended to) I really liked this story and the author's inspiration was pretty interesting. I didn't always like the struggles between Kian and Syssi and thought their inability to communicate with each other to be overplayed but I still got very invested. I've already bought the next omnibus off Amazon and look forward to indulging in this (thankfully) long series.
March 5, 2022
Explicit romance with a dash of story
The author is a good writer and the story has potential, but there’s just so little of it. It’s a string of sordid sex scenes with a sprinkle of a great plot. The first couple sex scenes were fine and definitely erotic, but by the sixth time reading about Syssi’s soaked panties I nearly quit. If you’re looking for a romance novel with an edge this is perfect, but if you’re looking for a well paced plot you might get frustrated. The story is pretty good and by the end I did care about the characters, but we’ll see how it goes from here.
The author is a good writer and the story has potential, but there’s just so little of it. It’s a string of sordid sex scenes with a sprinkle of a great plot. The first couple sex scenes were fine and definitely erotic, but by the sixth time reading about Syssi’s soaked panties I nearly quit. If you’re looking for a romance novel with an edge this is perfect, but if you’re looking for a well paced plot you might get frustrated. The story is pretty good and by the end I did care about the characters, but we’ll see how it goes from here.
September 8, 2022
Meh meh meh.
This series features a gazillion instalments, each trilogy in it featuring a different couple. But instead of focusing on the two MCs per trilogy, we get around seven or eight!!!! different POVs introducing future characters. The idea and set up is quite nice but I need more focus on the main story. Also, I like innocent blushing heroines, but this one reminded me of one of those bodice ripper personalities that couldn't stop anymore. Sometimes I needed to remind myself that this was NOT a medieval damsel of the castle. C-
This series features a gazillion instalments, each trilogy in it featuring a different couple. But instead of focusing on the two MCs per trilogy, we get around seven or eight!!!! different POVs introducing future characters. The idea and set up is quite nice but I need more focus on the main story. Also, I like innocent blushing heroines, but this one reminded me of one of those bodice ripper personalities that couldn't stop anymore. Sometimes I needed to remind myself that this was NOT a medieval damsel of the castle. C-
August 31, 2023
I pushed through after book one because I kept waiting for it to get better.
It didn't.
This was such an interesting premise, especially the blurring of gods/vampires. All the characters were flat. They have no interesting motivations or tensions. The writing was terrible. It was so much of, "Character likes/thinks/believes x. Not that blah blah blah, but just because blah blah blah." Why do your statements need so many qualifications?? The spice was also dull and uninspiring.
How there are over 50 books in this series I cannot fathom, nor why they are rated so highly.
It didn't.
This was such an interesting premise, especially the blurring of gods/vampires. All the characters were flat. They have no interesting motivations or tensions. The writing was terrible. It was so much of, "Character likes/thinks/believes x. Not that blah blah blah, but just because blah blah blah." Why do your statements need so many qualifications?? The spice was also dull and uninspiring.
How there are over 50 books in this series I cannot fathom, nor why they are rated so highly.
December 20, 2024
I do not take DNFing a book lightly, I will always try to finish the book. With this 3 book bundle I just couldn’t finish it making it 60% through. There were so many different POVs, and much of the wording was repetitive. The world building wasn’t that great.
I hated Syssi’s character and she’s suppose to be the FMC, I think. She seemed to think she was better than the other characters because she wasn’t a “slut” even tho she slept with Kain after only meeting him a handful of times.
I had high hopes for this book but was greatly disappointed.
I hated Syssi’s character and she’s suppose to be the FMC, I think. She seemed to think she was better than the other characters because she wasn’t a “slut” even tho she slept with Kain after only meeting him a handful of times.
I had high hopes for this book but was greatly disappointed.
November 4, 2018
Serial not a series.
I am giving this trip 3 stars mainly because it is a serial and not a series. I wouldn't want to read any of the books as a standalone since I would have missed too much of the story and, of course, because they don't end. The
The alternate use of fangs is a bit old, even if the use has changed.
The overall story is interesting enough and I will continue to read it for a while. The characters have good depth which promises some good stories ahead.
I am giving this trip 3 stars mainly because it is a serial and not a series. I wouldn't want to read any of the books as a standalone since I would have missed too much of the story and, of course, because they don't end. The
The alternate use of fangs is a bit old, even if the use has changed.
The overall story is interesting enough and I will continue to read it for a while. The characters have good depth which promises some good stories ahead.
February 1, 2019
Had avoided this author as I thought, mistakenly, it was just vampires. Boy was I wrong!! Loved this box set of three books in The Children of the Gods series. Kept my interest high and I was unhappy I was so busy and could not just read. Interesting premise and very good details to set up the story in the first book so that the other two books made sense right away. Truly enjoyed following the main characters through these three books. I have already gotten the next book in the series!
July 17, 2019
I haven't read a vampire book in a while and was really hoping to like this book (especially because I bought the audio too), but it offered no plot arc. The writing was promising, but it felt like the beginning of a story and then it ended. I don't mind small cliffhangers with a larger story arc, but we got introduced to all the players and that was it. I'm left not knowing if the next book will provide any closer or just more ... nothingness.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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