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Flame Born #1
Dark Flame
"I know who you are because you belong to me. You were born to be mine." ~ Prince Alexei Vasiliev
Haunted by the death of his parents, Michael Blakeley wants answers. The twenty-six-year-old martial artist seeks their killer, but he also wants to know why electronics short out at his touch, and why his libido is a raging fire.
So when a group of soldiers calling themselves Guardians rescue him from a back alley ambush and claim to have the answers he needs, he agrees to go with them. Especially when they tell him the attackers were vampires. But nothing in this supernatural underworld is as it seems, and when the silver-eyed commander cages him instead, Michael's answers slip further away.
Can Michael find safety from the vampire prince who claims him? Can he escape the dark destiny he discovers is written into his blood? And will he break the chains of the commander who keeps him captive? The one man he has no desire to leave?
Dark Flame is the first pulse-pounding book in the Flame Born LGBT urban fantasy series. If you like enemies to lovers, shifters, sexy vampire princes, and scorching heat, you'll love this smoldering tale of bloodlust and magic. There is content some readers may find distressing. Meant for mature audiences.
Haunted by the death of his parents, Michael Blakeley wants answers. The twenty-six-year-old martial artist seeks their killer, but he also wants to know why electronics short out at his touch, and why his libido is a raging fire.
So when a group of soldiers calling themselves Guardians rescue him from a back alley ambush and claim to have the answers he needs, he agrees to go with them. Especially when they tell him the attackers were vampires. But nothing in this supernatural underworld is as it seems, and when the silver-eyed commander cages him instead, Michael's answers slip further away.
Can Michael find safety from the vampire prince who claims him? Can he escape the dark destiny he discovers is written into his blood? And will he break the chains of the commander who keeps him captive? The one man he has no desire to leave?
Dark Flame is the first pulse-pounding book in the Flame Born LGBT urban fantasy series. If you like enemies to lovers, shifters, sexy vampire princes, and scorching heat, you'll love this smoldering tale of bloodlust and magic. There is content some readers may find distressing. Meant for mature audiences.
262 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 6, 2021
135 people are currently reading
2328 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 263 reviews
June 9, 2021
I have more chemistry with my mailman.
She's such a flirt!
She's such a flirt!
May 30, 2022
✅ Action
✅ Sexual tension and a little bit of smut
✅ Paranormal creatures and magic
✅🆗 Characters
✅🆗 Romance
✅🆗 Plot
This is definitely not what I was expecting, but I still enjoyed this book. The premises led me to believe that this would be similar to Silk & Steel or King of the Dark, but it was not really the same type of story.
There are many paranormal creatures in this book: shifters, vampires, witches, werewolves, and even faes. They all live because of the Flame, a paranormal energy that sustains paranormal creatures. There are also the Channelers who can store the Flame within their bodies and use it whenever they want to, and the Grounders that can siphon the flame from someone. Channelers and grounders usually work together so the grounder can make sure that the channeler doesn't die from an excess of Flame in them.
Michael is a straight and ordinary guy who's been wondering why he has such a high libido lately, and why he seems to mess up electronic devices whenever he touches them. After almost being kidnapped by vampires, and rescued by guardians, Michael learns that he is actually a Channeler, someone who is able to produce and control Flame. As if that was not enough of a revelation, he also meets Alexei, the dark vampire prince that somehow enthralls Michael and can control him with a mere thought... That is how Michael finds himself a "prisoner" of the guardians because they think that Michael is either working for Alexei, or needs to be saved from him, but still do not know what he is and if they can trust him.
At last! An ordinary character that gets thrown into the paranormal world, and does not take everything in stride, or blindly accepts everything he is told. Poor Michael asks questions, and thinks he is crazy or that the people who rescued him are, and it made him more vulnerable, but it also made it easier to connect to his character (even though he is not an exceptional character). I also found it particularly funny that he was wondering if the flame suddenly made him attracted to men because he was attracted to Gabriel Flanagan big time!
The romance is not the most elaborate, and I wouldn't call this a hate-to-love or enemies-to-lovers romance. It's more of an "I don't like men but somehow I am attracted to you, WTF dude?!" relationship that ends up being a "Well, it appears that I love men now so let's roll with it!". There are some sexy and heated moments between Michael and Flanagan, but their relationship and chemistry could definitely be more developed.
Although I laughed many times, thanks to Michael's snarky personality, both characters could also use some improvement as they lacked a certain depth and complexity. Michael is very resilient, strong, and funny, and I admit that Flanagan's steadiness, protectiveness, and fierceness were nice and appealing, but honestly, it's Alexei who was the most intriguing character. Sadly, contrary to what I first thought, he is not one of the main characters yet and does appear only twice in the book. Hopefully, we will see more of him in the next book.
My main complaint (and the reason why I'm not giving this book 4 stars) is that, even though this book was interesting to read and there was action in it, the plot does not really move forward until the last stretch of the book. The world-building is simple and well made, but everything is explained in the first 30% of the book or so, and then it's just everyday life (granted with a lot of action and sexual tension) and we're waiting for something significant to happen, for a big revelation about Michael's identity, or for Alexei to make his move... And we keep on waiting...
It just gets long after the first half, while still being a quick read and entertaining... I realized after reading it a second time that as the book progresses, there is no new information about anything really. We would get the same piece of information over and over again, only said in a slightly different way, or explained by a different person. I still have many questions, as does the main character, but all the questions were just pushed aside for now and it is a little frustrating.
The last quarter of the book is full of action and intense, and I had a hard time putting it down though so at least there's that. I am intrigued enough to want to read the next book, and hopefully, we will get more information about Alexei and his grand plan, Michael's genealogy, and all the scheming going on. I have a lot of questions that need answers...
There is also a steamy hot novella about what happened while Michael was locked in Flanagan's bedroom and in full Haze mode: Two Nights and a Day ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Follow me on Instagram 🙂
✅ Sexual tension and a little bit of smut
✅ Paranormal creatures and magic
✅🆗 Characters
✅🆗 Romance
✅🆗 Plot
This is definitely not what I was expecting, but I still enjoyed this book. The premises led me to believe that this would be similar to Silk & Steel or King of the Dark, but it was not really the same type of story.
“How would I know anything about this crazy shit before I met the Guardians? I knew nothing. Now, though. Now I know I’m channeling an energy I don’t want. Fairies aren’t just a fairy tale. Witches are a thing.” I glance at the door. “And giant Scandinavian arseholes exist.”
There are many paranormal creatures in this book: shifters, vampires, witches, werewolves, and even faes. They all live because of the Flame, a paranormal energy that sustains paranormal creatures. There are also the Channelers who can store the Flame within their bodies and use it whenever they want to, and the Grounders that can siphon the flame from someone. Channelers and grounders usually work together so the grounder can make sure that the channeler doesn't die from an excess of Flame in them.
Funny how life can kiss you one day and punch you in the balls the next.
Michael is a straight and ordinary guy who's been wondering why he has such a high libido lately, and why he seems to mess up electronic devices whenever he touches them. After almost being kidnapped by vampires, and rescued by guardians, Michael learns that he is actually a Channeler, someone who is able to produce and control Flame. As if that was not enough of a revelation, he also meets Alexei, the dark vampire prince that somehow enthralls Michael and can control him with a mere thought... That is how Michael finds himself a "prisoner" of the guardians because they think that Michael is either working for Alexei, or needs to be saved from him, but still do not know what he is and if they can trust him.
Vampires. Werewolves. Fairies. Fucking vampire fairy princes. I’m living in a fairy tale.
At last! An ordinary character that gets thrown into the paranormal world, and does not take everything in stride, or blindly accepts everything he is told. Poor Michael asks questions, and thinks he is crazy or that the people who rescued him are, and it made him more vulnerable, but it also made it easier to connect to his character (even though he is not an exceptional character). I also found it particularly funny that he was wondering if the flame suddenly made him attracted to men because he was attracted to Gabriel Flanagan big time!
All I can see are silver eyes. I’m fixated—on a man. On a six-foot-seven Scandinavian werewolf man with King Kong pecs. Either I’m not as straight as I always assumed, or the Flame has it bad for True Grounders.
The romance is not the most elaborate, and I wouldn't call this a hate-to-love or enemies-to-lovers romance. It's more of an "I don't like men but somehow I am attracted to you, WTF dude?!" relationship that ends up being a "Well, it appears that I love men now so let's roll with it!". There are some sexy and heated moments between Michael and Flanagan, but their relationship and chemistry could definitely be more developed.
I raise my fists. I assume Belanger means for Adams to take another run at me, maybe show me some fancy Guardian moves, but the man begins to strip. He unties his leather vest, drops it to the floor with a thud, and unbuckles his trousers. What the hell is he gonna do? Slap me with his dick?
Although I laughed many times, thanks to Michael's snarky personality, both characters could also use some improvement as they lacked a certain depth and complexity. Michael is very resilient, strong, and funny, and I admit that Flanagan's steadiness, protectiveness, and fierceness were nice and appealing, but honestly, it's Alexei who was the most intriguing character. Sadly, contrary to what I first thought, he is not one of the main characters yet and does appear only twice in the book. Hopefully, we will see more of him in the next book.
My main complaint (and the reason why I'm not giving this book 4 stars) is that, even though this book was interesting to read and there was action in it, the plot does not really move forward until the last stretch of the book. The world-building is simple and well made, but everything is explained in the first 30% of the book or so, and then it's just everyday life (granted with a lot of action and sexual tension) and we're waiting for something significant to happen, for a big revelation about Michael's identity, or for Alexei to make his move... And we keep on waiting...
It just gets long after the first half, while still being a quick read and entertaining... I realized after reading it a second time that as the book progresses, there is no new information about anything really. We would get the same piece of information over and over again, only said in a slightly different way, or explained by a different person. I still have many questions, as does the main character, but all the questions were just pushed aside for now and it is a little frustrating.
The last quarter of the book is full of action and intense, and I had a hard time putting it down though so at least there's that. I am intrigued enough to want to read the next book, and hopefully, we will get more information about Alexei and his grand plan, Michael's genealogy, and all the scheming going on. I have a lot of questions that need answers...
There is also a steamy hot novella about what happened while Michael was locked in Flanagan's bedroom and in full Haze mode: Two Nights and a Day ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Follow me on Instagram 🙂
November 23, 2021
Reread before starting book 2. Still no clue who to trust. Still loving this.
--------------original review-------------
4.5 Stars
I have no idea who to trust. And. So. Many. Secrets. Fuckity fuck fuck fuck. When's book two out?
--------------original review-------------
4.5 Stars
I have no idea who to trust. And. So. Many. Secrets. Fuckity fuck fuck fuck. When's book two out?
February 6, 2021
5+++ stars. Whoa, what a story!! It’s extremely intense and thrilling, freaking awesomeness!!
“Why would some shadow guy watch a twenty-six-year-old nobody?”
Michael is twenty-six, a martial artist, strong, in search of his parents' killers. For three months strange things are happening with Michael, he’s been watched, he got three new mobiles because they just died in his hands. And more devices around him are cracking up.
In a bar a huge Viking approach and warns him, he’s in danger. Escaping the man he ends up in an alley where six mountain of men want to restrain and hostage him.
Gabriel Flanagan is a giant and looks like a Viking, he seems to be the commander of a team of fighters, he saves Michael and takes him with them.
Some forces want to take Michael from Gabriel, the following battle is thrilling, exciting, I was enchanted by all the fighting creatures.
Michael may think he’s just a regular guy, but oh my goodness he something special. Several parties want him. He doesn’t understand why, and he doesn’t understand why he got to his knees and thinks ‘master’ when beautiful vampire Prince Alexei appears, he wants to obey when Alexei is calling for him.
Gabriel is a glorious man, collected, with a strength of... I’m not sure, inhumanly strong, he’s a werewolf. He’s enchanted by the human and will help him solve the mystery of his past and find answers.
Michael is confused, obstinate, and angry, why kept him chained to a wall is helping him?
But Gabriel will protect him with his life and do what’s necessary. The sexual energy between them is intense, utterly intense.
“Jumalatar auta minua,”
Michael is a pion, everyone wants to use him and Gabriel is his guardian. There are secrets and not everybody tells the truth.
“Is there anybody who can’t read my blasted mind?”
I’m not gonna spoil who Michael is and what he’s capable of. Read it yourself!
A lot is going on. Immensely entertaining, super hot, and super exciting.
The blurb says pulse-pounding and omg it was, extremely!
A masterly written story, I can’t praise it enough, you’ll find enemies to lovers, shifters, vampires, bloodlust, magic, and an amazingly intriguing plot. All highly enthralling.
The story ended at a calm moment, thank goodness, but it’s not finished there will be a continuation. Can’t wait!!
Highly recommended my first 5+++ read of 2021
“Why would some shadow guy watch a twenty-six-year-old nobody?”
Michael is twenty-six, a martial artist, strong, in search of his parents' killers. For three months strange things are happening with Michael, he’s been watched, he got three new mobiles because they just died in his hands. And more devices around him are cracking up.
In a bar a huge Viking approach and warns him, he’s in danger. Escaping the man he ends up in an alley where six mountain of men want to restrain and hostage him.
Gabriel Flanagan is a giant and looks like a Viking, he seems to be the commander of a team of fighters, he saves Michael and takes him with them.
Some forces want to take Michael from Gabriel, the following battle is thrilling, exciting, I was enchanted by all the fighting creatures.
Michael may think he’s just a regular guy, but oh my goodness he something special. Several parties want him. He doesn’t understand why, and he doesn’t understand why he got to his knees and thinks ‘master’ when beautiful vampire Prince Alexei appears, he wants to obey when Alexei is calling for him.
Gabriel is a glorious man, collected, with a strength of... I’m not sure, inhumanly strong, he’s a werewolf. He’s enchanted by the human and will help him solve the mystery of his past and find answers.
Michael is confused, obstinate, and angry, why kept him chained to a wall is helping him?
But Gabriel will protect him with his life and do what’s necessary. The sexual energy between them is intense, utterly intense.
“Jumalatar auta minua,”
Michael is a pion, everyone wants to use him and Gabriel is his guardian. There are secrets and not everybody tells the truth.
“Is there anybody who can’t read my blasted mind?”
I’m not gonna spoil who Michael is and what he’s capable of. Read it yourself!
A lot is going on. Immensely entertaining, super hot, and super exciting.
The blurb says pulse-pounding and omg it was, extremely!
A masterly written story, I can’t praise it enough, you’ll find enemies to lovers, shifters, vampires, bloodlust, magic, and an amazingly intriguing plot. All highly enthralling.
The story ended at a calm moment, thank goodness, but it’s not finished there will be a continuation. Can’t wait!!
Highly recommended my first 5+++ read of 2021
February 14, 2021
Enemies to lovers? Eh, that's debatable. More like 'I don't know you but I might be attracted to you'.
This was a good book in a way. I got it because it said enemies to lovers and that didn't deliver. The plot was very intriguing, I thought I had a Captive style book in the making. Unfortunately it didn't pan out.
I kept thinking Alexei was the main character, that's how dull Michael and Gabriel were together. Even past the 50% mark I kept waiting for a change.
You are given all the information you need at the first 45% and then the rest is just there waiting for the other foot to drop, that time could have been better used for their relationship dynamic.
I found it funny though, I laughed when Michael wondered if the flame was making him gay.
This was a good book in a way. I got it because it said enemies to lovers and that didn't deliver. The plot was very intriguing, I thought I had a Captive style book in the making. Unfortunately it didn't pan out.
I kept thinking Alexei was the main character, that's how dull Michael and Gabriel were together. Even past the 50% mark I kept waiting for a change.
You are given all the information you need at the first 45% and then the rest is just there waiting for the other foot to drop, that time could have been better used for their relationship dynamic.
I found it funny though, I laughed when Michael wondered if the flame was making him gay.
March 3, 2021
THIS is a book of 4 stars, I know it but my subconscious doesn't because I have a really serious book hangover with this story. The next one comes out when? 🥲🥲
In Dark Flame we have all types of creatures: werewolves, vampires, witches, shifters, fairies, zombies etc, what they all have in common (except the zombies) is the FLAME, wich is divided in three types: magical creatures who are Channelers have the flame within them and store it in their bodies to use it later in battle, they can call it. Grounders are needed by the Channelers to siphon the flame so they don't die of excess of energy, they literally fry themselves without a Grounder. And a True Grounder is just a Grounder but with more power. Sorry for the repetitive use of words.
Anyways! Channelers are used and exploited by the bad guys in the book and our male lead Michael is a really powerful one, but he didn't know he was one until the Flame woke in him. So we have all this clusterfuck, two sides fighting for him, many confusing stuff happening and the laaave. 🥰🥰🥰
I loved the worldbuilding, the tropes, the drama and even the situations that I hated because they had to happen (FUCK YOU ALEXEI). And the characters? Jesus I'm IN LOVE WITH THEM!!!!
Michael is the most funny and resilient character I've ever met, being in his head was a trip! A good one! And I consider that Gabriel is the BEST counterpart that he could get!! He was really calm, accepting and protective of him without choking him, he is the perfect bear. I loved the witch and the other two have potential even though they don't like Michael much. I do worry about Alexei's involvement in the future but I have to live with it.
A really fun, intriguing and exciting story with action, machinations and fucked up stuff happening. So again... WHEN DOES THE NEXT ONE COME OUTT?!!! 🥲🥲❤
In Dark Flame we have all types of creatures: werewolves, vampires, witches, shifters, fairies, zombies etc, what they all have in common (except the zombies) is the FLAME, wich is divided in three types: magical creatures who are Channelers have the flame within them and store it in their bodies to use it later in battle, they can call it. Grounders are needed by the Channelers to siphon the flame so they don't die of excess of energy, they literally fry themselves without a Grounder. And a True Grounder is just a Grounder but with more power. Sorry for the repetitive use of words.
Anyways! Channelers are used and exploited by the bad guys in the book and our male lead Michael is a really powerful one, but he didn't know he was one until the Flame woke in him. So we have all this clusterfuck, two sides fighting for him, many confusing stuff happening and the laaave. 🥰🥰🥰
I loved the worldbuilding, the tropes, the drama and even the situations that I hated because they had to happen (FUCK YOU ALEXEI). And the characters? Jesus I'm IN LOVE WITH THEM!!!!
Michael is the most funny and resilient character I've ever met, being in his head was a trip! A good one! And I consider that Gabriel is the BEST counterpart that he could get!! He was really calm, accepting and protective of him without choking him, he is the perfect bear. I loved the witch and the other two have potential even though they don't like Michael much. I do worry about Alexei's involvement in the future but I have to live with it.
A really fun, intriguing and exciting story with action, machinations and fucked up stuff happening. So again... WHEN DOES THE NEXT ONE COME OUTT?!!! 🥲🥲❤
March 11, 2021
Not my flavor...
I’m didn’t like this book as much as others seemed to do. Here’s why:
Immature MC
Bratty MC
His oppositional defiance thing got old fast
No chemistry between him and the love interest
WAIT! Who was the love interest? The vamp or the werewolf? Hard to tell since: no chemistry
This appears to be a debut.
Congrats, author.
But I could tell.
This holds promise for better laid out characters and world-building in the future.
My rec? Read other reviews and make up your own mind. NOT on KU, so you’ll have to shell out some cash.
I’m didn’t like this book as much as others seemed to do. Here’s why:
Immature MC
Bratty MC
His oppositional defiance thing got old fast
No chemistry between him and the love interest
WAIT! Who was the love interest? The vamp or the werewolf? Hard to tell since: no chemistry
This appears to be a debut.
Congrats, author.
But I could tell.
This holds promise for better laid out characters and world-building in the future.
My rec? Read other reviews and make up your own mind. NOT on KU, so you’ll have to shell out some cash.
October 19, 2021
4.25 stars!!
Wow I was completely immersed in this book, despite not being able to read it as quickly as I wanted. #RealLife
Let's start qith I loved:
The world building was so good! I loved how the author took traditional lore and weaved her own touch into it.
Gabriel was such an enormous presence in the book. Not just because of his size, but because of his larger than life personality, his devotion to Micheal, and the shere volume of his power. Also he's a Scandinavian Viking dude. Let's just say.... #Drool
The UST: Dude Micheal is horny for most of the book because of the "Flame" and It was GLORIOUS.
The Plot:
Michael finds out about the PNR world, gets thrust into this world and discovers he's one of the most powerful creatures of this world all in one breathe. That and the fact that a vampire prince has power over him. Micheal surely didn't have a good day. But... he's strong and resilient and perseveres until he acceots his identity.
Steam-o-meter:
We mentioned the UST, and the two men certainly get physical with each other, although it is kind of a slow burn because of the situation. I mean, Micheal isn't even gay... #YeahRight and Gabriel struggles to curb his attraction to Micheal because his wolf is all grrr and growl and mine and bite. #SoHot
Angst-o-meter: Low angst for most of the time. Most of the angst stems from Michael's confusion and The Vampire Prince's hold on him.
The Ending: HFN betwen the MCs, but the plot continues in book 2!
Now onto the erotica novella... Yum
Niggles:
Michael took a while to grow on me. I didn't love him in the beginning snd I struggled to connect with him.
Also the kisses he shared with the vamp Prince.... my monogomous heart was weeping. But I allowed it since Micheal was compelled.
Wow I was completely immersed in this book, despite not being able to read it as quickly as I wanted. #RealLife
Let's start qith I loved:
The world building was so good! I loved how the author took traditional lore and weaved her own touch into it.
Gabriel was such an enormous presence in the book. Not just because of his size, but because of his larger than life personality, his devotion to Micheal, and the shere volume of his power. Also he's a Scandinavian Viking dude. Let's just say.... #Drool
The UST: Dude Micheal is horny for most of the book because of the "Flame" and It was GLORIOUS.
The Plot:
Michael finds out about the PNR world, gets thrust into this world and discovers he's one of the most powerful creatures of this world all in one breathe. That and the fact that a vampire prince has power over him. Micheal surely didn't have a good day. But... he's strong and resilient and perseveres until he acceots his identity.
Steam-o-meter:
We mentioned the UST, and the two men certainly get physical with each other, although it is kind of a slow burn because of the situation. I mean, Micheal isn't even gay... #YeahRight and Gabriel struggles to curb his attraction to Micheal because his wolf is all grrr and growl and mine and bite. #SoHot
Angst-o-meter: Low angst for most of the time. Most of the angst stems from Michael's confusion and The Vampire Prince's hold on him.
The Ending: HFN betwen the MCs, but the plot continues in book 2!
Now onto the erotica novella... Yum
Niggles:
Michael took a while to grow on me. I didn't love him in the beginning snd I struggled to connect with him.
Also the kisses he shared with the vamp Prince.... my monogomous heart was weeping. But I allowed it since Micheal was compelled.
August 15, 2023
"Funny how life can kiss you one day and punch you in the balls the next."
I loved this! Dark Flame by Kat Silver is the first in a series and I can’t wait for book two, Dark Fate, which is hopefully out later this year.
I am currently inhaling the bonus story Two Nights and a Day, which is all about the steam 🔥🔥🔥 between Michael and Gabriel.
If you’re into PNR, slow burn, enemies to lovers, vampires, Lycan, witches and fae, then this is the series for you.
Great job Kat Silver 😍.
Highly recommended.
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I loved this! Dark Flame by Kat Silver is the first in a series and I can’t wait for book two, Dark Fate, which is hopefully out later this year.
I am currently inhaling the bonus story Two Nights and a Day, which is all about the steam 🔥🔥🔥 between Michael and Gabriel.
If you’re into PNR, slow burn, enemies to lovers, vampires, Lycan, witches and fae, then this is the series for you.
Great job Kat Silver 😍.
Highly recommended.
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 24, 2021
Some spoilers.
I have some serious feelings about this. The writing was decent but so much of the premise is tied up in owning and claiming and "destiny" and control. It gives me goddamn heebie-jeebies. I did read just about all of it, but skimmed the last chapter or so, so I guess I was interested enough to see what happened. That being said, pretty much the whole time I was reading I felt unsettled, anxious, and like there was something uncomfortable just beneath my skin. Michael's lack of choices, despite him being self aware of that, was awful to read. This isn't really a romance. It's depressing. Upsetting.
I didn't like either Flanagan or Alexie. I liked the girl witch character, but that was it. Ever since being betrayed by reading Tokyo Babylon I have never been the same and anything that smacks of manipulation, betrayal, and this whole superior sense of knowing and ownership over a person I cannot stand. This pretty much hit all of my buttons. The whole "I own you" coupled with Michael's lack of ability to say no to either of them! Nowhere is safe for this poor son of a bitch! Eugh, so damn gross! It's in scenarios like these I wish the characters would die just so they could get some relief.
I have some serious feelings about this. The writing was decent but so much of the premise is tied up in owning and claiming and "destiny" and control. It gives me goddamn heebie-jeebies. I did read just about all of it, but skimmed the last chapter or so, so I guess I was interested enough to see what happened. That being said, pretty much the whole time I was reading I felt unsettled, anxious, and like there was something uncomfortable just beneath my skin. Michael's lack of choices, despite him being self aware of that, was awful to read. This isn't really a romance. It's depressing. Upsetting.
I didn't like either Flanagan or Alexie. I liked the girl witch character, but that was it. Ever since being betrayed by reading Tokyo Babylon I have never been the same and anything that smacks of manipulation, betrayal, and this whole superior sense of knowing and ownership over a person I cannot stand. This pretty much hit all of my buttons. The whole "I own you" coupled with Michael's lack of ability to say no to either of them! Nowhere is safe for this poor son of a bitch! Eugh, so damn gross! It's in scenarios like these I wish the characters would die just so they could get some relief.
March 4, 2021
This book isn’t amazing by any means but it was actually pretty fun to read. I got sucked into the magic and the main character is low key funny. I also liked that the author included a little bit of diversity with a few people of color and women in it
Ok, so a big problem I had with the book is the world building. Maybe this is my issue rather than the book’s , but it didn’t entirely make sense to me. I had to keep rereading paragraphs regarding how the magic works, what species does what etc. at some points I just got fed up, skipped & didn’t even bother trying to figure it out.
(Spoiler so skip this following paragraph) Also.. did anyone else think the love interest was going to be Alexei?? I don’t think Flanagan and Michael had ANY KIND of chemistry and was honestly shocked when they got together.
Anyway, I’m regardless of criticism I actually had a pretty fun time reading and will be coming back for the sequel.
Ok, so a big problem I had with the book is the world building. Maybe this is my issue rather than the book’s , but it didn’t entirely make sense to me. I had to keep rereading paragraphs regarding how the magic works, what species does what etc. at some points I just got fed up, skipped & didn’t even bother trying to figure it out.
(Spoiler so skip this following paragraph) Also.. did anyone else think the love interest was going to be Alexei?? I don’t think Flanagan and Michael had ANY KIND of chemistry and was honestly shocked when they got together.
Anyway, I’m regardless of criticism I actually had a pretty fun time reading and will be coming back for the sequel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 28, 2021
A wonderful debut novel from the author, it had me captivated, I couldn’t put it down, even when I’d tell myself I’ll just finish up the chapter and go do something it wouldn’t be until halfway through the next one that I remembered. It was written in a smooth and easily consumable way which pulled us through each scene with ease and I found myself having to finish it.
However,
However,
October 21, 2021
4.5 ★
“You already have me, Michael. You’ve had me since the moment I met you. Since ‘Dude, I’m not into men.’”
I grin at the memory. “I’m not!”
He leans down to my ear. “You’re into me,”
I was afraid I wouldn’t like this book because my expectations were really high. I mean there is a vampire prince who also has a fae heritage. I’m so glad that I liked it and couldn’t stop reading it. I can take it when a contemporary book is not of my liking but when a paranormal story, with all the tropes that I love in it, end up being bad I could be devastated. All the action, the secrets unveiled, the ones still occult and some heated moments made this a great start of a series.
The story is told from Michael’s POV and thankfully I liked him as an MC. Sometimes the character that just finds out that there are monsters living among people can be a little too annoying for me. But, luckily, that wasn’t his case.
If I’m being honest I didn’t care much about Gabriel until the last chapters. Mainly because Prince Alexei occupied all of my thoughts. What can I say, I just can't resist the unscrupulous villain justifying his actions and being all mysterious. All the dialogues between Alexei and Gabriel got me wanting to know about their past. Also, I’ve got to admit that the bonus chapter, from Gabriel’s POV, was super hot and made me appreciate him more.
A man stumbling into a paranormal world. Secrets. Lies. I’m hoping the next installment doesn’t crush my theories in the romance department.
February 28, 2021
4.25 HEARTS--Can I let you in on a little secret? The first line in the blurb is what sold me on reading Dark Flame.
That one sentence can be really magical if the character can back it up. And after reading, I am a fan of Prince Alexei....though he doesn't have much page time in the overall book, his presence was definitely there. I do enjoy a good villain.
Debut novel Dark Flame is told in first person POV. Our protagonist is 26 y.o. orphan martial artist, Michael. He has no idea of his background other than being found as an infant with his slaughtered parents. He wants answers but doesn't know where to start. And strange things keep happening to him. He shorts out electronics and it's difficult to hold a job. Plus, he sees a shadow that no one else can see. A late night hook up with a lady (there's only a brief M/F encounter) changes his entire world.
For the rest of my review on the blog (later on GR):
A copy provided for an honest review.
"I know who you are because you belong to me. You were born to be mine." ~ Prince Alexei Vasiliev
That one sentence can be really magical if the character can back it up. And after reading, I am a fan of Prince Alexei....though he doesn't have much page time in the overall book, his presence was definitely there. I do enjoy a good villain.
Debut novel Dark Flame is told in first person POV. Our protagonist is 26 y.o. orphan martial artist, Michael. He has no idea of his background other than being found as an infant with his slaughtered parents. He wants answers but doesn't know where to start. And strange things keep happening to him. He shorts out electronics and it's difficult to hold a job. Plus, he sees a shadow that no one else can see. A late night hook up with a lady (there's only a brief M/F encounter) changes his entire world.
For the rest of my review on the blog (later on GR):
A copy provided for an honest review.
February 12, 2021
3.5 overall rating. This was a great introduction to a new world by a new author and I enjoyed it, but something was missing.
From the overview of the book, I was uncertain if this was going to be an MM romance or an MMM romance. However through reading this book, I'm still a little uncertain.
In the overview of this book, it's mentioned that there is some content some readers may find disturbing, but to my knowledge there was nothing stating any trigger warnings or anything in the actual book for what you should look out for and be aware of. Trigger warning for chapter 13 for attempted rape. Other triggers include violence and what some may view as potential non-con during any of the times Michael falls into the "Haze".
Overall this has great potential, and I'm eagerly awaiting the next book.
From the overview of the book, I was uncertain if this was going to be an MM romance or an MMM romance. However through reading this book, I'm still a little uncertain.
In the overview of this book, it's mentioned that there is some content some readers may find disturbing, but to my knowledge there was nothing stating any trigger warnings or anything in the actual book for what you should look out for and be aware of. Trigger warning for chapter 13 for attempted rape. Other triggers include violence and what some may view as potential non-con during any of the times Michael falls into the "Haze".
Overall this has great potential, and I'm eagerly awaiting the next book.
June 2, 2022
My friend lent me this book bc currently it’s unavailable. For a debut novel it was good, however a bit rushed and a bit too reminiscent to another series, but it was a promising start. MJ gave me a pro tip, I’d read the smutty short story between the 14&15th chapters 😃 that helped a lot😊
February 22, 2021
Fantasy
M/M Romance
Fascinating from start to finish!
This book had lots of fun things, filled to the brim, actually. My fun being, blood suckers, shape shifters, witches, fae, and if I'm correct, humans that can control flame. Ancient forbidden bloodlines, secrets, and a shit ton of suspense. What I absolutely loved was the "known" villain. I mean, it's said, but I feel like we've just scratched the surface of this world. I don't want to be quick to point fingers, plus I'm digging said "villain." I can't help who I lust after. 🤣
That being said, we also have Gabriel, sex on a stick. Protective and loyal. His attention seems genuinely good. Could this turn into a poly? My kinky heart hopes. Michael definitely has it hard. No pun intended.
There's a whole slew of characters I'd like to get to know. The world-building was mysterious, yet extremely interesting. The author has enough bones here to expand this world and beyond. And for this to be a debut? I'm shocked. This read like a seasoned author wrote it.
The romance is slow burning. But I was too caught up in the action and adventure, I didn't really notice. Crazy. The author makes up for it in the end. 🔥🔥🔥 And there's a free short that she gifts for us hussies to enjoy.
If you like M/M fantasy, I highly recommend! This book will keep you on your toes in suspense!
A huge thank you to Kat Silver for offering an ARC.
M/M Romance
Fascinating from start to finish!
This book had lots of fun things, filled to the brim, actually. My fun being, blood suckers, shape shifters, witches, fae, and if I'm correct, humans that can control flame. Ancient forbidden bloodlines, secrets, and a shit ton of suspense. What I absolutely loved was the "known" villain. I mean, it's said, but I feel like we've just scratched the surface of this world. I don't want to be quick to point fingers, plus I'm digging said "villain." I can't help who I lust after. 🤣
That being said, we also have Gabriel, sex on a stick. Protective and loyal. His attention seems genuinely good. Could this turn into a poly? My kinky heart hopes. Michael definitely has it hard. No pun intended.
There's a whole slew of characters I'd like to get to know. The world-building was mysterious, yet extremely interesting. The author has enough bones here to expand this world and beyond. And for this to be a debut? I'm shocked. This read like a seasoned author wrote it.
The romance is slow burning. But I was too caught up in the action and adventure, I didn't really notice. Crazy. The author makes up for it in the end. 🔥🔥🔥 And there's a free short that she gifts for us hussies to enjoy.
If you like M/M fantasy, I highly recommend! This book will keep you on your toes in suspense!
A huge thank you to Kat Silver for offering an ARC.
June 27, 2021
Dark Flame, was hands down, one of the best books I’ve read this year. It was so freaking good, that I stayed up to the wee hours to finish this amazing book. The storyline was unique, captivating and engaging. I was hooked from the very first page right to the very end.
Michael’s world turns upside down in a matter of minutes and things don’t exactly get any better for him. There was so much mystery surrounding Michael and his background.
Flanagan was sexy, protective and badass. He was intense especially, when he stared at Michael, like he was looking into his soul. The magnetic pull between Michael and Flanagan was strong and intoxicating. I enjoyed watching Michael getting frazzled, confused around Flanagan. Michael’s mind was pretty much in the gutter when he looked at Flanagan and I couldn’t blame him.
Michael doesn’t know who to trust; some want to use him and others want to kill him. His road ahead is full of obstacles and challenges and Alexei’s hold on him only adds to his long list of problems. Can he trust Flanagan? My heart says yes and I hope I’m right.
Fantastic world building with a unique storyline that left me wanting more. I’m looking forward to book 2.
Highly recommend!
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
Michael’s world turns upside down in a matter of minutes and things don’t exactly get any better for him. There was so much mystery surrounding Michael and his background.
Flanagan was sexy, protective and badass. He was intense especially, when he stared at Michael, like he was looking into his soul. The magnetic pull between Michael and Flanagan was strong and intoxicating. I enjoyed watching Michael getting frazzled, confused around Flanagan. Michael’s mind was pretty much in the gutter when he looked at Flanagan and I couldn’t blame him.
Michael doesn’t know who to trust; some want to use him and others want to kill him. His road ahead is full of obstacles and challenges and Alexei’s hold on him only adds to his long list of problems. Can he trust Flanagan? My heart says yes and I hope I’m right.
Fantastic world building with a unique storyline that left me wanting more. I’m looking forward to book 2.
Highly recommend!
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
April 2, 2021
So what should I say about this book. It has a good and interesting story and has some interesting characters. However I felt that the chemistry between Micheal and Flanagan was lacking something.
Also this felt way longer then it actually was, which might also be because quite a few scenes were really hard to read. The hero of the story has claustrophobia and there are so many scenes were he is forced in such a situation and I really had a problem reading that.
Besides that I guess I just expected something more steamy and well there wasn’t much steam.
I think I might still give the second book a chance and I think many could enjoy this more then I did.
Also this felt way longer then it actually was, which might also be because quite a few scenes were really hard to read. The hero of the story has claustrophobia and there are so many scenes were he is forced in such a situation and I really had a problem reading that.
Besides that I guess I just expected something more steamy and well there wasn’t much steam.
I think I might still give the second book a chance and I think many could enjoy this more then I did.
February 9, 2021
Wow! This is a must-read fantasy novel. Incredible world building, interesting characters, intriguing plot, and super hot, off the charts chemistry, means this easily will be a top read for 2021. If you enjoy fantastic writing and want a new world to fall into then this is definitely the book for you. Highly recommended!
October 27, 2021
So I didn't expect to enjoy this as much as I did when I first started reading, it took me almost halfway through to get into it because of the first-person present tense. Ugh. But once that became easier to read I actually really liked this urban fantasy/paranormal romance. It's not groundbreaking - we've all read this story before - normal guy with latent powers gets sucked into an epic battle between good and evil and turns into a lynchpin, upon whose shoulders rest the fate of many. It's pretty cliche, but like it works for a reason, and there was push and pull here that was intriguing. Not a huge fan of Michael, our 'hero', but I really liked big, growly badass Flanagan. It is definitely not a standalone novel, it ends on something very close to a cliffhanger. I am eagerly awaiting the next one.
February 8, 2021
I received a free copy of this title to read and review for Wicked Reads
5 Stars
Dark Flame is the debut in the Flame Born series, and I'd do just about anything to get my paws on the next installment.
Orphaned and abandoned, raised in the foster care system until he was ultimately adopted, but then his adopted father passed of a heart attack, Michael is alone in this world. Worse still, for the past three months, unexplained occurrences have been happening around him. Electronics shorting out, a dark shadow following him, almost being able to hear this shadow within his head.
Michael is floundering in confusion, until it all comes to a head, drawing him in a war between different supernatural factions.
Michael is confused as to what is happening, who he can trust, as he takes the reader on a journey of discovering not only who he is but what he is.
I'm not going to lie. I still don't have a firm grasp on the world building and magic system of the Flame, yet neither does Michael have a good grasp. The reader is to learn alongside our hero.
A mix of supernatural creatures contributed to his DNA, a Whisperer of unknown origin, Michael is held hostage no matter which faction he chooses to align himself. Both sides wishing to use him, where it's a struggle for Michael to not only come to terms with who and what he is, where he may have came from, but also torn between his heart and head and the call of his kind.
Who can Michael trust when they're all using him?
The pages flew by, engrossed as I learned of this intriguing universe alongside the narrator. Not only was Michael confused on his lineage but also his sexuality. Complimentary beings, Michael is drawn to Gabriel, in more ways than one, confused as he has never once had sexual urges for the same sex before.
Layers and layers of intriguing tropes, hooked from page one, where I read the book in a single sitting. I highly recommend to MM Fantasy fans and I cannot wait for the next installment.
Trigger warning: on page sexual assault
5 Stars
Dark Flame is the debut in the Flame Born series, and I'd do just about anything to get my paws on the next installment.
Orphaned and abandoned, raised in the foster care system until he was ultimately adopted, but then his adopted father passed of a heart attack, Michael is alone in this world. Worse still, for the past three months, unexplained occurrences have been happening around him. Electronics shorting out, a dark shadow following him, almost being able to hear this shadow within his head.
Michael is floundering in confusion, until it all comes to a head, drawing him in a war between different supernatural factions.
Michael is confused as to what is happening, who he can trust, as he takes the reader on a journey of discovering not only who he is but what he is.
I'm not going to lie. I still don't have a firm grasp on the world building and magic system of the Flame, yet neither does Michael have a good grasp. The reader is to learn alongside our hero.
A mix of supernatural creatures contributed to his DNA, a Whisperer of unknown origin, Michael is held hostage no matter which faction he chooses to align himself. Both sides wishing to use him, where it's a struggle for Michael to not only come to terms with who and what he is, where he may have came from, but also torn between his heart and head and the call of his kind.
Who can Michael trust when they're all using him?
The pages flew by, engrossed as I learned of this intriguing universe alongside the narrator. Not only was Michael confused on his lineage but also his sexuality. Complimentary beings, Michael is drawn to Gabriel, in more ways than one, confused as he has never once had sexual urges for the same sex before.
Layers and layers of intriguing tropes, hooked from page one, where I read the book in a single sitting. I highly recommend to MM Fantasy fans and I cannot wait for the next installment.
Trigger warning: on page sexual assault
February 10, 2021
This book is so damn good, when do we get the next one?
February 13, 2022
The story has potential - it's got an interesting premise and engaging characters. There's action, there's supernatural intrigue which is good...
BUT - the whole book is awkwardly written!
First of all, the author has chosen to write the whole thing in present continuous tense instead of past tense which majority of the authors use. For me this was supremely uncomfortable to read! My mind kept supplying the past tense for most of the sentences. Sentence structure - either the characters spoke in ridiculously elaborate sentences that was highly unnatural or they spoke in extremely casual banter that had the danger of almost being OOC...attributing again to the awkwardness!
"Shhh", "Shh" Shh", "Shhh" - holy moly does the author like to overly "Shush" our protagonist - the characters are grown men not 2 month old babies...smh!
The author gives us
Too many "faints at the end of one chapter and wakes up in the next chapter" as plot devices!
It's hard to write a book and then bring it out into the world. I get it. But, perhaps this book needed some experienced guidance from a good editor/beta reader maybe...it needed more massaging and finesse...IMHO
Uhhh...yeah I don't think this will make it to my re-read list...Sad to see a good idea awkwardly executed!
BUT - the whole book is awkwardly written!
First of all, the author has chosen to write the whole thing in present continuous tense instead of past tense which majority of the authors use. For me this was supremely uncomfortable to read! My mind kept supplying the past tense for most of the sentences. Sentence structure - either the characters spoke in ridiculously elaborate sentences that was highly unnatural or they spoke in extremely casual banter that had the danger of almost being OOC...attributing again to the awkwardness!
"Shhh", "Shh" Shh", "Shhh" - holy moly does the author like to overly "Shush" our protagonist - the characters are grown men not 2 month old babies...smh!
The author gives us
Too many "faints at the end of one chapter and wakes up in the next chapter" as plot devices!
It's hard to write a book and then bring it out into the world. I get it. But, perhaps this book needed some experienced guidance from a good editor/beta reader maybe...it needed more massaging and finesse...IMHO
Uhhh...yeah I don't think this will make it to my re-read list...Sad to see a good idea awkwardly executed!
February 5, 2021
I received a free copy to read and review for Wicked Reads.
I think I am probably one of a few that didn't like this book. I can't put my finger on why, I just didn't. I couldn't connect to the characters and it felt like too much was going on at times. I had to keep rereading things to see who was who and what they were doing. It probably didn't help that I just read an amazing series and was still in awe over that one. I am sure it's a great start to a new series, it just wasn't for me right now.
I think I am probably one of a few that didn't like this book. I can't put my finger on why, I just didn't. I couldn't connect to the characters and it felt like too much was going on at times. I had to keep rereading things to see who was who and what they were doing. It probably didn't help that I just read an amazing series and was still in awe over that one. I am sure it's a great start to a new series, it just wasn't for me right now.
February 12, 2021
I really enjoyed this story. I loved the world building, the attention to detail, the tension between the three main characters. It had a HFN ending so there is more to come, but I have theories of how this will play out as the story progresses. I won't spoil your reading enjoyment by giving specifics or even what I think may happen in later books. Read it for yourself and come up with your own theories. :)
February 27, 2021
Great start to a new series about an interesting world with.... everything. Vampires, shifters, witches, fae. Up is down and down is up and I’m not sure I understand what is going on but I love what I’ve read and can’t wait for the next one.
November 16, 2021
Urban Fantasy with strapping MCs and lots of steam. What’s not to like?
Michael discovers a world of the mythical and magical and navigates his draw towards Gabriel who helps ground Michael and the flame contained within him.
This was a great start to a new series . Fantastic world building and intriguing plot.
I am liking Gabriel a lot and am intrigued by Alexei.
Lots of potential .
Oh and read the short after this which is essentially pure erotica and pure perfection 😆
Michael discovers a world of the mythical and magical and navigates his draw towards Gabriel who helps ground Michael and the flame contained within him.
This was a great start to a new series . Fantastic world building and intriguing plot.
I am liking Gabriel a lot and am intrigued by Alexei.
Lots of potential .
Oh and read the short after this which is essentially pure erotica and pure perfection 😆
February 11, 2021
Très difficile à croire que c’est le,premier livre écrit par cette auteure. Tout est maitrisé du début à la fin, la mais en place du contexte et de l’intrigue, les personnages et le fil conducteur de la série. C’est clair, un style incisif partagé entre des dialogues et des paragraphes de narration qui dévoilent juste ce qu’il faut.
Même si nous retrouvons des espèces surnaturelles connues, la mythologie créée est différente et assez surprenante ce qui donne toute l’originalité à cette série.
Même si nous retrouvons des espèces surnaturelles connues, la mythologie créée est différente et assez surprenante ce qui donne toute l’originalité à cette série.
February 17, 2021
Fantasy world. Witches, shifters, and vamps....Slow burn, not really enemies to lovers and a bit of a triangle, but for now there is 1 guy who leads....I liked it!
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