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After Darkness Falls #4
Blood and Hexes
Seven names. Seven families of royal vampires on Night Hill.
One stands above all.
After centuries of freedom, no one is happy to kneel to a new Eirikrson.
Diana intended to stop by Oldcrest for a pit stop. Catch up with her brother, meet his mate, maybe convince them to name their firstborn after her.
She’ll soon learn, as a Helsing, she must pick a side. Before one is picked for her.
Mikar has spent centuries following Levi, to thank him for saving his life, but when all hell breaks loose, he has to decide: get the freedom he’s earned, or die with the rest of his friends.
Was there even a choice?
One stands above all.
After centuries of freedom, no one is happy to kneel to a new Eirikrson.
Diana intended to stop by Oldcrest for a pit stop. Catch up with her brother, meet his mate, maybe convince them to name their firstborn after her.
She’ll soon learn, as a Helsing, she must pick a side. Before one is picked for her.
Mikar has spent centuries following Levi, to thank him for saving his life, but when all hell breaks loose, he has to decide: get the freedom he’s earned, or die with the rest of his friends.
Was there even a choice?
280 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 29, 2020
320 people are currently reading
405 people want to read
About the author
May Sage
143 books1,921 followersMay Sage is a USA Today Bestselling romance writer dabbling in different genres.
When she isn’t writing, she spends her time with her German Shepherd and her two Savannahs. She loves reading, ballet, running, and cake. Mostly, cake.
May Sage also writes longer fantasy romance novels as Alexi Blake.
When she isn’t writing, she spends her time with her German Shepherd and her two Savannahs. She loves reading, ballet, running, and cake. Mostly, cake.
May Sage also writes longer fantasy romance novels as Alexi Blake.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
October 17, 2021
Re-read 15th - 16th October 2021
I really enjoyed this one. Diana is a breathe of fresh hair and adds a fresh touch to Oldcrest. Mikar is more than we realised and definitely deserves love.
I like all the characters and they add a depth to the story.
I’m totally intrigued by Eirikr and want more of him. I have to say this book really won me over. There’s a risk with any series that it will become repetitive and dull. I worried this would happen here. And yes the fated mates not recognising each other at first does become old but I’m liking where the story is heading. So I’m in it for the long haul
I really enjoyed this one. Diana is a breathe of fresh hair and adds a fresh touch to Oldcrest. Mikar is more than we realised and definitely deserves love.
I like all the characters and they add a depth to the story.
I’m totally intrigued by Eirikr and want more of him. I have to say this book really won me over. There’s a risk with any series that it will become repetitive and dull. I worried this would happen here. And yes the fated mates not recognising each other at first does become old but I’m liking where the story is heading. So I’m in it for the long haul
March 6, 2023
Enjoyable read
I liked this story. I like the ongoing plot and the characters but it wasn't my favorite in the series. I had a hard time with the romance or lack of romance between Diana and Mikar. They said very little to each other, and when they did, it was hostile. I just didn't feel any chemistry.
The book was worth reading for the ongoing storyline.
I liked this story. I like the ongoing plot and the characters but it wasn't my favorite in the series. I had a hard time with the romance or lack of romance between Diana and Mikar. They said very little to each other, and when they did, it was hostile. I just didn't feel any chemistry.
The book was worth reading for the ongoing storyline.
June 17, 2025
This is the first time EVER that this author has made me cry, but what was done to Ruby was truly awful and disturbing! So I'm taking a star for it, I really liked Ruby and Luke too! The love story was fantastic, I love the way how they keep bickering and how she was a warrior princess! There's another thing I've been having and issue with from the beginning of the series, what's up with Chloe's eyes? I know they're supposed to change when she's using vamp powers, but even before that one time they were supposed to be blue and later they said brown! Earlier in the series it was said that Ruby was a redhead, but here she was a brunette! It's confusing!
Also, at first Diana's rationale and behavior was really stupid to me! The way she decided don't have any contact with Lex was idiotic and just plain mean to him, then she arrives there and is all hurt because nobody took her in consideration after almost a thousand years! Like I said, she acts like petulant entitled moronic brat! I'm glad she moved past that pretty quickly!
Also, at first Diana's rationale and behavior was really stupid to me! The way she decided don't have any contact with Lex was idiotic and just plain mean to him, then she arrives there and is all hurt because nobody took her in consideration after almost a thousand years! Like I said, she acts like petulant entitled moronic brat! I'm glad she moved past that pretty quickly!
February 10, 2022
DNF ⚠️ I have thoroughly enjoy reading Maya’s books, she captures the audiences attention each time with her eloquent dialogue so that we just want more but I just didn’t get it with this one.
The general storyline plot remains consistent throughout we gain different perspectives which adds to the richness of the overall young adult storyline, continuing the themes of action, suspense and fantasy BUT I just couldn’t bring myself to read on anymore.
I would definitely encourage you to read these books as they are an easy and lovable book to read however, I feel that my time with this series has ended.
It wouldn’t be fair to rate the book solely as I didn’t finish it though I would give the saga a strong 4/5.
The general storyline plot remains consistent throughout we gain different perspectives which adds to the richness of the overall young adult storyline, continuing the themes of action, suspense and fantasy BUT I just couldn’t bring myself to read on anymore.
I would definitely encourage you to read these books as they are an easy and lovable book to read however, I feel that my time with this series has ended.
It wouldn’t be fair to rate the book solely as I didn’t finish it though I would give the saga a strong 4/5.
April 10, 2021
Spectacular
The 4th in the after darkness falls series and it is amazing. Brilliantly written plot encompassing the next stage of a main storyline from previous books and the smaller but significant personalised line of our main characters. Diana is a hoot, quirky and adventurous complementing Mikars serious but loveable nature. I cannot get enough of these books some much heart, emotion and intrigue. Number 5 preordered! Definitely worth diving into these books and immersing yourself in the lives of Oldcrest.
The 4th in the after darkness falls series and it is amazing. Brilliantly written plot encompassing the next stage of a main storyline from previous books and the smaller but significant personalised line of our main characters. Diana is a hoot, quirky and adventurous complementing Mikars serious but loveable nature. I cannot get enough of these books some much heart, emotion and intrigue. Number 5 preordered! Definitely worth diving into these books and immersing yourself in the lives of Oldcrest.
December 19, 2020
Good
I like this series but I found this book a little lacking. The characters were not as real as past books and a lot of action takes place off scene. This book lacked the charm of the previous books. It felt like the author had lost interest in this series. I will still read the next book but I hope that it will have more of what the previous books had.
I like this series but I found this book a little lacking. The characters were not as real as past books and a lot of action takes place off scene. This book lacked the charm of the previous books. It felt like the author had lost interest in this series. I will still read the next book but I hope that it will have more of what the previous books had.
December 10, 2020
I really liked this book! 4.5 STARS !!!!
Mikar was a character I was so very curious about. He seemed too ordinary to actually be ordinary, you know? Sometimes with certain characters, you start to just get suspicious about their actual backstory because they seemed too normal. At least it's like that for me.
And I was right! Mikar is more. He's more than your average, run of the mill, Jasper Cullen. And this book delivered every little answer I needed.
Diana, on the other hand, was a total delight. She was everything I thought she'd be and more. She kicked ass, loved her quirky boots, and was absolutely Alexius's little sister.
She and Mikar were a perfect fit.
I'm so looking forward to the next book. I didn't think I would be this excited again but Eirikr, plots, bitch queen, plots, and the reason for that blue amulet (OMGOMGOMG), plots, everyone, and plots HAS GOT ME EXCITED AGAIN !
I hope the next one will be sooner than originally intended hehehe but if not then I guess re-reads will have to tide me til then. I can't wait for the next one! I love May Sage's heroines, I don't think I've said that enough.
Mikar was a character I was so very curious about. He seemed too ordinary to actually be ordinary, you know? Sometimes with certain characters, you start to just get suspicious about their actual backstory because they seemed too normal. At least it's like that for me.
And I was right! Mikar is more. He's more than your average, run of the mill, Jasper Cullen. And this book delivered every little answer I needed.
Diana, on the other hand, was a total delight. She was everything I thought she'd be and more. She kicked ass, loved her quirky boots, and was absolutely Alexius's little sister.
She and Mikar were a perfect fit.
I'm so looking forward to the next book. I didn't think I would be this excited again but Eirikr, plots, bitch queen, plots, and the reason for that blue amulet (OMGOMGOMG), plots, everyone, and plots HAS GOT ME EXCITED AGAIN !
I hope the next one will be sooner than originally intended hehehe but if not then I guess re-reads will have to tide me til then. I can't wait for the next one! I love May Sage's heroines, I don't think I've said that enough.
March 9, 2023
This to me was more of a history lesson. Not that I minded.
Diana was a breath of fresh air. She also brought with her another level of supernaturals. Could have been my reading time (2:00 - 3:00 am) but I had moments where I was a little bit concerned. It's not just gibberish after all, the author is pulling some of these things from mythology, etc.
Yes. I am a scaredy cat.
I never wanted or needed Mikar's story if I am being honest and I don't even care much for this love interest. But I did like that the war was progressing at a steady pace and that we ended with more allies and a more offensive plan.
As promised, we continue to see Chloe and Levi's relationship develop and we, unfortunately, lose some friends. I imagine that void will be felt in upcoming novels.
The battle continues and that is all I am really here for. I don't care much for the next couple but I do want to see who or what we will meet next in this series.
It is really quite a world being built here.
Diana was a breath of fresh air. She also brought with her another level of supernaturals. Could have been my reading time (2:00 - 3:00 am) but I had moments where I was a little bit concerned. It's not just gibberish after all, the author is pulling some of these things from mythology, etc.
Yes. I am a scaredy cat.
I never wanted or needed Mikar's story if I am being honest and I don't even care much for this love interest. But I did like that the war was progressing at a steady pace and that we ended with more allies and a more offensive plan.
As promised, we continue to see Chloe and Levi's relationship develop and we, unfortunately, lose some friends. I imagine that void will be felt in upcoming novels.
The battle continues and that is all I am really here for. I don't care much for the next couple but I do want to see who or what we will meet next in this series.
It is really quite a world being built here.
August 30, 2020
I don't even know where to start with how awesome this book was because it was everything!!! I love that while we get Diana and Mikar's story we still get to see a continuation of Chloe and Levi's. May sage keeps you in suspense as what will happen next there was action and some moments when I wanted to throw my kindle because I couldn’t believe what Mage was doing to her poor characters but of course she always delivers and then some. I will be keeping my fingers crossed that we get another books soon because I need to know more about the mysterious Eirikr who started as somewhat of a villain but has become so much more.
While you could read this as a standalone I highly suggest you start with the first book. If I could give this book more then five stars ✨ I totally would. While did purchase the ebook I will definitely be getting a paperback copy because the covers for this series are so pretty!
While you could read this as a standalone I highly suggest you start with the first book. If I could give this book more then five stars ✨ I totally would. While did purchase the ebook I will definitely be getting a paperback copy because the covers for this series are so pretty!
October 20, 2020
I love this series! I wanted to punch Mikar sometimes, how do you not recognise your mate? Though he is not the first in this series to be guilty of this (Bash). But I still enjoyed the story, and Diana Helsing can seduce death himself!
I cannot wait for the next book to come out, and fingers crossed it won’t take years!
I want to see more of Chloe’s ANCIENT ancestor, I find him so HOT, hotter than Levi. I hope he gets out of that cave and he gets a mate, and I secretly hope it will be Greer. If he does get a mate, I hope it won’t be a slow burn like this one...I want to see him tame whoever he gets!
I cannot wait for the next book to come out, and fingers crossed it won’t take years!
I want to see more of Chloe’s ANCIENT ancestor, I find him so HOT, hotter than Levi. I hope he gets out of that cave and he gets a mate, and I secretly hope it will be Greer. If he does get a mate, I hope it won’t be a slow burn like this one...I want to see him tame whoever he gets!
September 7, 2020
I have been waiting for this for ages. The wait was worth it, i only wished it wasn't over so quickly. I felt though that we missed a lot of the main couple getting together in favour of advancing the overall story arc.. but i'm not gonna complain as i wanted to see where the story was going and hoping it was moving ahead.
Interesting, exciting challenging times ahead for those on Hillcrest. Another battle and some near misses and some losses took it's toll here. I hope the author has got the other book started at least as i need more i tell you, more.
Read in KU
Interesting, exciting challenging times ahead for those on Hillcrest. Another battle and some near misses and some losses took it's toll here. I hope the author has got the other book started at least as i need more i tell you, more.
Read in KU
October 18, 2020
I love this series. I was excited to read this book. The story line was expanded, with lots of our favourite characters showing up on every page. But that lead to my only disappointment too. The focus of the book was a little to much on the continuing story and not so much on the two love interests. I think both could have been accomplished if the book was longer. It still gets a 5 star because the writing is good, the secondary characters are awesome and I love May Sage’s writing style! Hoping the next in the series is released soon!
August 31, 2020
Sooo good!
In this book we Diana Helsing, the sister to Alexius who hasnt been to Oldcrest in over 900 years and Miktar. This book was so good! When these two met, wow. Its not enimies tonlovers but extreme dislike to mates. Lots of action! Diana was kick butt as she had lots of fighting experience and attitude to be a strong female lead! Loved the side eye. Got real emotional and there is a slow burn. You will not want to this book or series! These are sooo good!
In this book we Diana Helsing, the sister to Alexius who hasnt been to Oldcrest in over 900 years and Miktar. This book was so good! When these two met, wow. Its not enimies tonlovers but extreme dislike to mates. Lots of action! Diana was kick butt as she had lots of fighting experience and attitude to be a strong female lead! Loved the side eye. Got real emotional and there is a slow burn. You will not want to this book or series! These are sooo good!
September 13, 2020
I can’t get enough
I’ve been waiting for this book for what seems like 10 years but probably was really just one, and it did not disappoint. The twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat. I couldn’t put it down, I was almost late for work! I can’t wait for the next book! Wondering for ....myself will there be a prequel to tell Eriker’s story or maybe what’s going on between him and Geer?
I’ve been waiting for this book for what seems like 10 years but probably was really just one, and it did not disappoint. The twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat. I couldn’t put it down, I was almost late for work! I can’t wait for the next book! Wondering for ....myself will there be a prequel to tell Eriker’s story or maybe what’s going on between him and Geer?
October 2, 2020
Fated Mates
Diana returns to Oldcrest & Mikar is immediately drawn to her even though she seems to be ignoring him.
Old enemies are drawing closer & a battle is coming bringing everyone together.
I loved that we got to see more of previous characters & what powers they actually have. There was more of the normal witty dialogue that we are used to in this series & that makes it such a good read
Diana returns to Oldcrest & Mikar is immediately drawn to her even though she seems to be ignoring him.
Old enemies are drawing closer & a battle is coming bringing everyone together.
I loved that we got to see more of previous characters & what powers they actually have. There was more of the normal witty dialogue that we are used to in this series & that makes it such a good read
November 3, 2020
Blood and Hexes
I'm really enjoying this series and I like how it focuses on different characters each time. Yet continuing with the story. Very clever. You grow to love all the characters too. They are getting closer to the queen, who keeps coming at them. They've lost some friends this time. And now they have another reason to be even more determined to defeat her. Good story, well written.
I'm really enjoying this series and I like how it focuses on different characters each time. Yet continuing with the story. Very clever. You grow to love all the characters too. They are getting closer to the queen, who keeps coming at them. They've lost some friends this time. And now they have another reason to be even more determined to defeat her. Good story, well written.
August 30, 2020
Great addition to the series
This is much more of a slow burn in terms of the romance aspect of the story, but it’s a wonderful entry in the After Darkness Falls series and left me yearning for the next one. We catch up with the main residents of Old Crest and some of the newer ones too.
This is much more of a slow burn in terms of the romance aspect of the story, but it’s a wonderful entry in the After Darkness Falls series and left me yearning for the next one. We catch up with the main residents of Old Crest and some of the newer ones too.
August 31, 2020
I really love the series
I really loved it when finally this book came out. And another one in March of next year. May sage is a great writer. My hope one day is a book about chloe's ancistrail father comes out of the cave he is in forever. One can hope she will write more after darkness. So many characters and I like them all.
I really loved it when finally this book came out. And another one in March of next year. May sage is a great writer. My hope one day is a book about chloe's ancistrail father comes out of the cave he is in forever. One can hope she will write more after darkness. So many characters and I like them all.
September 7, 2020
Love this series
I enjoy the way each book focuses on different characters while continuing to include the major players. I really liked the final chapter when Chloe delivers her bombshell news and Levi’s reaction to it. I’m glad she has become less of a doormat. But most of all I like Diana the new female character.
I enjoy the way each book focuses on different characters while continuing to include the major players. I really liked the final chapter when Chloe delivers her bombshell news and Levi’s reaction to it. I’m glad she has become less of a doormat. But most of all I like Diana the new female character.
October 3, 2020
I love the world that May has built with this series. Every character is so intriguing that I want to learn more and more about them. The way she blends in past stories from other books in the series is genius, I feel like I could read them in no order at all. Even with that said, I can’t wait for the next one.
October 7, 2020
Absolutely good read
I absolutely love the series. I enjoy how each book has its own story but it also goes back to the previous books and highlights the story that comes together in all of them. I’m waiting on pins and needles for the next book to arrive. Thank you for writing an amazing series.
I absolutely love the series. I enjoy how each book has its own story but it also goes back to the previous books and highlights the story that comes together in all of them. I’m waiting on pins and needles for the next book to arrive. Thank you for writing an amazing series.
October 10, 2020
Love it!
I love the romance and adventure May offers in each book. I can say I knew from the moment Mikar chocked out Diana at the borders that they were fated mates. The battle scene was a little boring. I would like to see Erikir released in the future books. He’s been painted as a tyrant. Which he could have been in ancient years but has not learned his lesson.
I love the romance and adventure May offers in each book. I can say I knew from the moment Mikar chocked out Diana at the borders that they were fated mates. The battle scene was a little boring. I would like to see Erikir released in the future books. He’s been painted as a tyrant. Which he could have been in ancient years but has not learned his lesson.
June 13, 2022
Home
Diana has been away from Oldcrest for over nine centuries but with her brother's curse broken it is time to go home. She doesn't expect to find acceptance and friendship with the clan at Oldcrest nor does ahe expect to find her mate Mikar. This is a twisted and action packed read.
Diana has been away from Oldcrest for over nine centuries but with her brother's curse broken it is time to go home. She doesn't expect to find acceptance and friendship with the clan at Oldcrest nor does ahe expect to find her mate Mikar. This is a twisted and action packed read.
December 20, 2024
Loved this book!
The characters are so well developed! The chemistry is amazing! Makes me wish to be in some of these ladies place in this book.
There are moments of comedy & sadness but that's only because the author did so well in making you comfortable with her characters. I can't wait to read the next book from this author. This whole series was absolutely amazing!
The characters are so well developed! The chemistry is amazing! Makes me wish to be in some of these ladies place in this book.
There are moments of comedy & sadness but that's only because the author did so well in making you comfortable with her characters. I can't wait to read the next book from this author. This whole series was absolutely amazing!
August 29, 2020
Love this series
I love all the characters and the fact that more are added every book. The world building mixing the real with supernatural and the continuing battles for supremacy, clearly split into good and evil.
I love all the characters and the fact that more are added every book. The world building mixing the real with supernatural and the continuing battles for supremacy, clearly split into good and evil.
August 30, 2020
Very well written
I choose this rating because it was interesting from beginning to end. I really enjoy the interactions between the characters. I would recommend it to anyone who likes characters from different races
I choose this rating because it was interesting from beginning to end. I really enjoy the interactions between the characters. I would recommend it to anyone who likes characters from different races
August 30, 2020
Magic
Brilliant read loved all four so far looking forward to five bring it on 📘📘❤️❤️❤️ cool vamps witches magic and mayhem and catching up with all the previous inhabitants of the hill soooo good roll on next one ❤️❤️
Brilliant read loved all four so far looking forward to five bring it on 📘📘❤️❤️❤️ cool vamps witches magic and mayhem and catching up with all the previous inhabitants of the hill soooo good roll on next one ❤️❤️
September 6, 2020
Amazing
This series has kept me hooked from the very first page!! I read them all in about 2 weeks!! The characters are amazing and its just an all around awesome storyline!! Keep them coming!!!
This series has kept me hooked from the very first page!! I read them all in about 2 weeks!! The characters are amazing and its just an all around awesome storyline!! Keep them coming!!!
September 6, 2020
I love this series
The world is so fun, full of characters with personality. I pre ordered this one and I'll pre order book 5 as well. May Sage is one of my favorite authors. Hell, I'd read her shopping list!
The world is so fun, full of characters with personality. I pre ordered this one and I'll pre order book 5 as well. May Sage is one of my favorite authors. Hell, I'd read her shopping list!
September 7, 2020
Diana is Badass
I absolutely loved Diana. She a badass female who doesn't take no one's crap. I love this series especially since it has so many strong amazing women in charge who don't need a man to save them
I absolutely loved Diana. She a badass female who doesn't take no one's crap. I love this series especially since it has so many strong amazing women in charge who don't need a man to save them
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews