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Midnight Breed #13
Bound to Darkness
Carys Chase is accustomed to making her own rules and letting her heart lead the way—no matter what anyone else has to say about it. A rare Breed female and a daywalker as well, headstrong, beautiful Carys is one of the most powerful of her kind. She lives passionately and loves without limits, especially when it comes to the lethal cage-fighting Breed warrior called Rune.
Unbeatable in the ring, Rune exists in a brutal world of blood and bone and death. He’s made his share of enemies both in and out of the arena, and his secrets run as deep and turbulent as his past. A dangerous loner who has survived by his fists and fangs, Rune has never allowed anyone to get too close to him…until Carys. But when the bodies buried in his past rise up to threaten his present, Rune must choose between betraying Carys’s trust or putting her in the crosshairs of a battle neither of them can hope to win on their own.
Unbeatable in the ring, Rune exists in a brutal world of blood and bone and death. He’s made his share of enemies both in and out of the arena, and his secrets run as deep and turbulent as his past. A dangerous loner who has survived by his fists and fangs, Rune has never allowed anyone to get too close to him…until Carys. But when the bodies buried in his past rise up to threaten his present, Rune must choose between betraying Carys’s trust or putting her in the crosshairs of a battle neither of them can hope to win on their own.
275 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 30, 2015
429 people are currently reading
5918 people want to read
About the author
Lara Adrian
94 books11k followersLARA ADRIAN is a New York Times and #1 internationally best-selling author with nearly 4 million books in print and digital worldwide and translations licensed to more than 20 countries. Her books have been named among Amazon’s Top Ten Romances of the Year, and have also been nominated by readers multiple times as finalists for the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Romance of the Year. Reviewers have called Lara’s books “addictively readable” (Chicago Tribune), “extraordinary” (Fresh Fiction), “strikingly original” (Booklist), and “one of the best vampire series on the market” (Romantic Times).
Writing as TINA ST. JOHN, her historical romances have won numerous awards including the National Readers Choice; Romantic Times Magazine Reviewer’s Choice; Booksellers Best; and many others. She was twice named a Finalist in Romance Writers of America’s RITA Awards, for Best Historical Romance (White Lion’s Lady) and Best Paranormal Romance (Heart of the Hunter). More recently, the German translation of Heart of the Hunter debuted on Der Spiegel bestseller list.
With an ancestry stretching back to the Mayflower and the court of King Henry VIII, the author lives with her husband in New England, where she is working on her next novel. Visit Lara’s website and sign up for new release announcements at http://bit.ly/LaraAdrianNews
Writing as TINA ST. JOHN, her historical romances have won numerous awards including the National Readers Choice; Romantic Times Magazine Reviewer’s Choice; Booksellers Best; and many others. She was twice named a Finalist in Romance Writers of America’s RITA Awards, for Best Historical Romance (White Lion’s Lady) and Best Paranormal Romance (Heart of the Hunter). More recently, the German translation of Heart of the Hunter debuted on Der Spiegel bestseller list.
With an ancestry stretching back to the Mayflower and the court of King Henry VIII, the author lives with her husband in New England, where she is working on her next novel. Visit Lara’s website and sign up for new release announcements at http://bit.ly/LaraAdrianNews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 455 reviews
September 18, 2018
4.5 Who's Rune's Daddy Stars
In Bound To Darkness we get Rune and Carys Chase's love story. At the end of the last book we knew that Carys was dating bad boy Cage fighter Rune and that her family was very unhappy about it. I really enjoyed this book. I loved both Rune and Carys. I also really enjoyed the plot. Rune had some issues. His father was an evil pos that abused Rune and forced him to cage fight to the death from the age of 7. As soon as Rune could he ran away and started a new life hiding his past from everyone including Carys. Rune was very protective of Carys. I loved how much he grew in this book. He started to really open up and let Carys in.
Carys was amazing. She was smart, sweet, and completely kick-ass when she needed to be. She loved Rune and didn't care what anyone else thought. I love that Carys really took on a bigger role with the Order in this book. I also loved how much she protected Rune. She had no problem killing to keep him safe. Rune and Carys had a strong connection and raw passion. I loved them together as a couple and was rooting for them all the way. I was really glad that Carys family came around and gave Rune a chance. The best part of the whole book for me was when Carys killed Rune's dad sooooo Good! Overall another great book in this series!
In Bound To Darkness we get Rune and Carys Chase's love story. At the end of the last book we knew that Carys was dating bad boy Cage fighter Rune and that her family was very unhappy about it. I really enjoyed this book. I loved both Rune and Carys. I also really enjoyed the plot. Rune had some issues. His father was an evil pos that abused Rune and forced him to cage fight to the death from the age of 7. As soon as Rune could he ran away and started a new life hiding his past from everyone including Carys. Rune was very protective of Carys. I loved how much he grew in this book. He started to really open up and let Carys in.
Carys was amazing. She was smart, sweet, and completely kick-ass when she needed to be. She loved Rune and didn't care what anyone else thought. I love that Carys really took on a bigger role with the Order in this book. I also loved how much she protected Rune. She had no problem killing to keep him safe. Rune and Carys had a strong connection and raw passion. I loved them together as a couple and was rooting for them all the way. I was really glad that Carys family came around and gave Rune a chance. The best part of the whole book for me was when Carys killed Rune's dad sooooo Good! Overall another great book in this series!
December 4, 2017
Love this series! Book #13 and still going strong! This is one of my top five paranormal series of all time!! Lara Adrian has created a vampire romance that has evolved into an amazing action packed story that I devour every time I pick up an instalment! It has been awhile for me but what I had forgotten was the intense passion that “BreedMates” feel for each other! The love, devotion, and friendship that these couples feel for one another is very unique and I rarely have found it in other paranormal romances!
If you are looking for a series that is unique , sexy, and action packed; give this a go! This is one of those series that just keeps getting better!!
If you are looking for a series that is unique , sexy, and action packed; give this a go! This is one of those series that just keeps getting better!!
February 4, 2018
Breed (warrior) Rune
Special ability: Withstanding extreme pain
Age: Around 30 years old
Breed mate Carys
Special abilities: Daywalker, being able to wrap herself in shadows, photographic memory
Occupation: Working at the museum, assistant to collection curator
Mark place:Left side of neck
Settings: Boston, Washington, London, Dublin
This is my favourite book from midnight breed - next generation.
Carys is Harvard's and Tavia's daughter. She is the twin sister of Aric and she is pretty special since she is the first female breed born and not created.
Rune is not a warrior. He is an original bad boy, a cage fighter. He was fighting all his life, he has never lost a fight. He is ruthless and feared by everybody.
Carys and Rune together are hot. Both are breeds, both don't want to hold back and as a result the sex scenes are over the top. BUT their relationship stops there. Rune is keeping a distance, he is holding back, he is full of secrets from where he comes from to what is his real name. He excludes Cary from his decisions (he decided to buy the club where he fights without telling her) and he refuses to exchange blood with her.
Chase. I love Chase! As a father figure, I think he is very cool considering the fact his precious little girl is dating a bad boy.
Mathias and Nova. Yes! They are back. And now we have a chance to learn more about Nova's story. They also have great news to share with us. I need to point out here that "bound to darkness" is tight to "marked by midnight". I suggest that you read this book beforehand.
Brynn and Zael. There is definitely something there. From one short scene they shared, they seem to be attracted to each other. A lot.
Enemies. They are all around. There is Opus Nostrum. A new drug which tranforms breeds to rogues. New UV weapons. Order will never get bored.
What I missed from the book:
-Brynn being discovered and joining the Order. Her appearence was too sudden.
-Cary and Rune seeing each other for the first time, their first kiss, the first time they made love. We learn about all these from their memories, but I missed the real thing in real time.
The end of the book. It left me feeling happy and content with strong emotions. The story was well developed and added a lot to the series.
Special ability: Withstanding extreme pain
Age: Around 30 years old
Breed mate Carys
Special abilities: Daywalker, being able to wrap herself in shadows, photographic memory
Occupation: Working at the museum, assistant to collection curator
Mark place:Left side of neck
Settings: Boston, Washington, London, Dublin
This is my favourite book from midnight breed - next generation.
Carys is Harvard's and Tavia's daughter. She is the twin sister of Aric and she is pretty special since she is the first female breed born and not created.
Rune is not a warrior. He is an original bad boy, a cage fighter. He was fighting all his life, he has never lost a fight. He is ruthless and feared by everybody.
Carys and Rune together are hot. Both are breeds, both don't want to hold back and as a result the sex scenes are over the top. BUT their relationship stops there. Rune is keeping a distance, he is holding back, he is full of secrets from where he comes from to what is his real name. He excludes Cary from his decisions (he decided to buy the club where he fights without telling her) and he refuses to exchange blood with her.
Chase. I love Chase! As a father figure, I think he is very cool considering the fact his precious little girl is dating a bad boy.
Mathias and Nova. Yes! They are back. And now we have a chance to learn more about Nova's story. They also have great news to share with us. I need to point out here that "bound to darkness" is tight to "marked by midnight". I suggest that you read this book beforehand.
Brynn and Zael. There is definitely something there. From one short scene they shared, they seem to be attracted to each other. A lot.
Enemies. They are all around. There is Opus Nostrum. A new drug which tranforms breeds to rogues. New UV weapons. Order will never get bored.
What I missed from the book:
-Brynn being discovered and joining the Order. Her appearence was too sudden.
-Cary and Rune seeing each other for the first time, their first kiss, the first time they made love. We learn about all these from their memories, but I missed the real thing in real time.
The end of the book. It left me feeling happy and content with strong emotions. The story was well developed and added a lot to the series.
April 1, 2017
Lara Adrian has created an appealing formula for her paranormal/urban romance in her Midnight Breed Series. Take sexy alpha-male Breed Warrior, a beautiful and strong female, thrown in an intriguing history of vampire and other supernatural aliens living in secret in the human realm, add some heart-stopping battles between good and evil and of course some amazingly steamy sex scenes…..how could one not be fascinated by the world and characters she has created!!!!
The Midnight Breeds Series ended in the climatic Darker After Midnight, the 10th book in the series and I was so excited when I heard that the series would continue but with new characters and twenty years after this book. It would focus on the Breeds children and the continued battle against the evil forces that surround the Breeds.
Bound by Darkness is the 3rd book in the new Breed world and the 13th in the Midnight Breed Series.
I wondered how the author would integrate characters from the previous books in the series as parents of the new generation. I should have expected that she would never disappoint her fans.
Carys Chase, rare day-walker Breed female, daughter of powerful Breed warrior, Sterling Chase and his Breedmate, Tavia, is beautiful, passionate, and headstrong and her heart rules her life. I was kind of iffy about Carys in the beginning…but wow…when she came into using her powers…it was like watching the movie Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon!!!!! This was my kind of woman!!!!! I fell in love with her forever!!!!
Living the life she wants with her own rules…what else could we expect from her…the totally unexpected. Fall in love with most people feel is the wrong person…hell, the guy is a huge and dangerous cage fighter Breed Warrior!!!!
Rune….okay, so I wasn’t that dazzled by this guy at first!!! A brutal cage fighter…so not my kind of my hero…but then Carys saw something else behind that façade…so why not me!!!
This is such a broken, lonely and tortured Breed warrior, with some very dark secrets….no wonder Carys’s family has a problem with accepting someone like him being with their adored and beloved daughter!!! But Rune knows that Carys has brought something special into his life….
Whilst this book is described as being Carys & Rune’s story, their romance actually takes second place to what is happening in the Breeds world. New enemies, old enemies, new threats, secrets revealed….totally awesome.
I loved the inclusion of characters from the previous books that I have become very attached to, and absolutely amazing seeing them in a new role…as parents of the new Breed age!!! Catching up with their lives was a real treat. And discovering Rune’s secret of his past, just blew me away……it was a very emotional part in the story.
A really great addition to this series.
Lara Adrian continues to draw me deeper and deeper into the mesmerizing and exciting world that she has created.
I am so looking forward to the next book.
The Midnight Breeds Series ended in the climatic Darker After Midnight, the 10th book in the series and I was so excited when I heard that the series would continue but with new characters and twenty years after this book. It would focus on the Breeds children and the continued battle against the evil forces that surround the Breeds.
Bound by Darkness is the 3rd book in the new Breed world and the 13th in the Midnight Breed Series.
I wondered how the author would integrate characters from the previous books in the series as parents of the new generation. I should have expected that she would never disappoint her fans.
Carys Chase, rare day-walker Breed female, daughter of powerful Breed warrior, Sterling Chase and his Breedmate, Tavia, is beautiful, passionate, and headstrong and her heart rules her life. I was kind of iffy about Carys in the beginning…but wow…when she came into using her powers…it was like watching the movie Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon!!!!! This was my kind of woman!!!!! I fell in love with her forever!!!!
Living the life she wants with her own rules…what else could we expect from her…the totally unexpected. Fall in love with most people feel is the wrong person…hell, the guy is a huge and dangerous cage fighter Breed Warrior!!!!
Rune….okay, so I wasn’t that dazzled by this guy at first!!! A brutal cage fighter…so not my kind of my hero…but then Carys saw something else behind that façade…so why not me!!!
This is such a broken, lonely and tortured Breed warrior, with some very dark secrets….no wonder Carys’s family has a problem with accepting someone like him being with their adored and beloved daughter!!! But Rune knows that Carys has brought something special into his life….
I did admire Carys’s belief and love for Rune and the deep love he had for her despite feeling not worthy of her…..
Whilst this book is described as being Carys & Rune’s story, their romance actually takes second place to what is happening in the Breeds world. New enemies, old enemies, new threats, secrets revealed….totally awesome.
I loved the inclusion of characters from the previous books that I have become very attached to, and absolutely amazing seeing them in a new role…as parents of the new Breed age!!! Catching up with their lives was a real treat. And discovering Rune’s secret of his past, just blew me away……it was a very emotional part in the story.
A really great addition to this series.
Lara Adrian continues to draw me deeper and deeper into the mesmerizing and exciting world that she has created.
I am so looking forward to the next book.
October 14, 2015
4.5 Breedmate Warrior Stars!!
I really love this series! I was unsure how I would feel about the next generation but I have to say I'm loving them and I love the glimpses into the lives of the original warriors and their mates and the roles they carry out today.
Carys Chase is the daughter of Sterling (aka Harvard) and Tavia. She's not only a breedmate but she's also a rare female Breed and Daywalker like her mother and she also possesses her father's gift of creating shadows to cloak herself. She's completely devoted and in love with Rune, a Breed male who makes a living by being brutal as an underground cage fighter. He's also in love Carys but he has vile secrets and demons from a brutal childhood, he doesn't come from the best of lines and he feels unworthy of Carys so he refuses to complete their blood bond. When Rune's secrets are revealed I was shocked, I truly didn't see that revelation coming (along with a couple others to be honest).
The Order is still fighting Opus Nostrum but we get some major answers in this book and Jordana's Atlantean friend Kael makes an appearance so I'm hoping we'll learn more about the Atlanteans and it looks like Kael and Tavia's sister Brynne are definitely attracted to one another and there was a revelation and connection between Keal & one of the original Order Warriors mate, so I'm anxious to see where that relationship goes so we definitely need a book for Keal...he's very intriguing and there is definitely a story there.
I love that Lara Adrian writes strong, empowering women who are still soft and sometimes vulnerable, yet are on the frontlines standing by their warriors. Carys is definitely a force to be reckoned with, she was a great heroine. When it came time to fight she proved to Rune, her brother, and especially her overprotective father that not only could she hold her own, she could annihilate...she was AWESOME!! There were a couple more revelations that took me by surprise which goes to show that LA is a master storyteller if she can still manage to surprise me thirteen books later!! Looking forward to the next book in the series...wonder who it will be? I'm anxious to find out!!
I really love this series! I was unsure how I would feel about the next generation but I have to say I'm loving them and I love the glimpses into the lives of the original warriors and their mates and the roles they carry out today.
Carys Chase is the daughter of Sterling (aka Harvard) and Tavia. She's not only a breedmate but she's also a rare female Breed and Daywalker like her mother and she also possesses her father's gift of creating shadows to cloak herself. She's completely devoted and in love with Rune, a Breed male who makes a living by being brutal as an underground cage fighter. He's also in love Carys but he has vile secrets and demons from a brutal childhood, he doesn't come from the best of lines and he feels unworthy of Carys so he refuses to complete their blood bond. When Rune's secrets are revealed I was shocked, I truly didn't see that revelation coming (along with a couple others to be honest).
The Order is still fighting Opus Nostrum but we get some major answers in this book and Jordana's Atlantean friend Kael makes an appearance so I'm hoping we'll learn more about the Atlanteans and it looks like Kael and Tavia's sister Brynne are definitely attracted to one another and there was a revelation and connection between Keal & one of the original Order Warriors mate, so I'm anxious to see where that relationship goes so we definitely need a book for Keal...he's very intriguing and there is definitely a story there.
I love that Lara Adrian writes strong, empowering women who are still soft and sometimes vulnerable, yet are on the frontlines standing by their warriors. Carys is definitely a force to be reckoned with, she was a great heroine. When it came time to fight she proved to Rune, her brother, and especially her overprotective father that not only could she hold her own, she could annihilate...she was AWESOME!! There were a couple more revelations that took me by surprise which goes to show that LA is a master storyteller if she can still manage to surprise me thirteen books later!! Looking forward to the next book in the series...wonder who it will be? I'm anxious to find out!!
November 26, 2015
I adore this series which gives vampires believable origins. The Breed are not created by Gods or mysterious beings, nor are they created by evil or demonic forces. Instead the author offers the idea of aliens with DNA that has the power to truly transform their offspring into something decidedly "other". Yet with the aftermath of what could have been a climactic novel Darker after Midnight Ms Adrian has taken her series up a notch to encompass a whole new generation with an even older force to reckon with!
So here we are twenty years after the outing of the Breed to humans. Somethings never change and the Warriors that follow Lucan still find themselves distrusted and feared by many. Add in the fact that a shadowy group is working to overpower the Order and yes now is the time to pool all their resources even if it means calling in a rather elusive fellow called Zael!
Carys is not the usual breedmate, no she is something far more rare with the ability to not only walk in daylight but with her own unique power . Life changed irrevocably just a few weeks ago when she met the enigmatic cage fighter Rune. He's a dangerous loner with secrets but there's nothing Carys won't do for this passionate male.
Rune has never let anyone get close to him and yet when it comes to Carys he can't not love her. Trouble is her family are powerful members of the Order and protective as anything but stubborn wilful Carys is determined to fight for her male. Yet she has no idea just how twisted and messed up Runes past is but unfortunately it's all about to come to light leaving this couple fighting for their lives!
Like many I enjoy seeing the original cast of characters pop up and here we do see quite a lot of the original Warriors. I'm just about getting used to the new generation but hasten to reassure others that these are still typical Breed males with all their badass growling ways. Yes alpha and Breed do go together! If frank I thought the first half of the book lacked action as it's mainly about the passionate relationship the couple share . I also wasn't too impressed by the secret Rune revealed initially as other books often feature a similar storyline. Then bang bang bang the author upped the ante with action aplenty and an even bigger secret which truly was a game changer. Rune was without a doubt a fabulous hero but Carys was a cross between Wonder Woman and Supergirl towards the end . Another amazing instalment and a worthy addition to the series.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review
So here we are twenty years after the outing of the Breed to humans. Somethings never change and the Warriors that follow Lucan still find themselves distrusted and feared by many. Add in the fact that a shadowy group is working to overpower the Order and yes now is the time to pool all their resources even if it means calling in a rather elusive fellow called Zael!
Carys is not the usual breedmate, no she is something far more rare with the ability to not only walk in daylight but with her own unique power . Life changed irrevocably just a few weeks ago when she met the enigmatic cage fighter Rune. He's a dangerous loner with secrets but there's nothing Carys won't do for this passionate male.
Rune has never let anyone get close to him and yet when it comes to Carys he can't not love her. Trouble is her family are powerful members of the Order and protective as anything but stubborn wilful Carys is determined to fight for her male. Yet she has no idea just how twisted and messed up Runes past is but unfortunately it's all about to come to light leaving this couple fighting for their lives!
Like many I enjoy seeing the original cast of characters pop up and here we do see quite a lot of the original Warriors. I'm just about getting used to the new generation but hasten to reassure others that these are still typical Breed males with all their badass growling ways. Yes alpha and Breed do go together! If frank I thought the first half of the book lacked action as it's mainly about the passionate relationship the couple share . I also wasn't too impressed by the secret Rune revealed initially as other books often feature a similar storyline. Then bang bang bang the author upped the ante with action aplenty and an even bigger secret which truly was a game changer. Rune was without a doubt a fabulous hero but Carys was a cross between Wonder Woman and Supergirl towards the end . Another amazing instalment and a worthy addition to the series.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review
January 4, 2019
DNF at 30%
Nop, I don't care for this book.
It didn't grab my interest one single second. I couldn't bring myself to keep listening. It is hard to believe how a book can be so unentertaining and dull from the very first few words. It might get more interesting later on, but that is already too late for me.
I am out.
Nop, I don't care for this book.
It didn't grab my interest one single second. I couldn't bring myself to keep listening. It is hard to believe how a book can be so unentertaining and dull from the very first few words. It might get more interesting later on, but that is already too late for me.
I am out.
August 16, 2015
Mostly Positive Review To Come....
January 25, 2016
This review has also been posted at Carole's Random Life.
I have mixed feelings about this book. I loved the second half of the story but the first half just didn't do a lot for me. I realize that a big part of my problem could be that I haven't read every single book in this series. I have read the first two books in the series and the last book published, Crave the Night. I was never confused while I was reading this book but seeing all the characters from other books just didn't excite me. I do think that this is a series best read in order and this book would not work well as a stand alone novel. I was able to follow the story pretty well because I wasn't completely blind since I have read some of the early books in the series. I would suggest that readers new to the series start with the first book, Kiss of Midnight.
The first half of the book went back and forth between two different plot lines. The continuing story arc from the previous book about the Atlanteans and other enemies was one part of the book. The other main focus was on the romance between Carys and Rune. I have to say that the romance between the pair started in the beginning of the book seemed like it was just a whole lot of sex. I like the sexy parts but wanted to see some connection as well. There wasn't a lot of talking between the pair. I wasn't really seeing a lot of connection between the two parts of the story.
When everything started to come together, the book really started to pick up for me. Rune's true identity and heritage made things much more interesting. When the pair started interacting out of bed just as much as in it, I started to actually see that they cared for each other. I liked the kick ass Rune that was willing to make sacrifices for the woman that he loves. Carys was more than awesome. I loved that she isn't a weak character waiting to be saved. She has abilities beyond that of the men in this story and she puts them to good use. Hands down, Carys was the most fierce of all of the fighters in this book.
I would recommend this book to fans of the series. I do wish that the excitement of the second half of the book would have been present for the first half as well. I actually considered giving up on this book at about the 50% mark because I just couldn't get into it. Then boom...I couldn't put it down. I am so glad that I stuck with it in the end. I do plan to continue to read this series and hopefully read the earlier books that I skipped very soon.
I received an advance reader edition of this book from Lara Adrian, LLC via NetGalley for the purpose of providing an honest review.
Initial Thougths
I liked the second half of this book a whole lot more than the first half. It seemed to take forever for any real action to happen and everything to come together. I actually thought about not finishing this book at the halfway point but really ended up enjoying the end.
I have mixed feelings about this book. I loved the second half of the story but the first half just didn't do a lot for me. I realize that a big part of my problem could be that I haven't read every single book in this series. I have read the first two books in the series and the last book published, Crave the Night. I was never confused while I was reading this book but seeing all the characters from other books just didn't excite me. I do think that this is a series best read in order and this book would not work well as a stand alone novel. I was able to follow the story pretty well because I wasn't completely blind since I have read some of the early books in the series. I would suggest that readers new to the series start with the first book, Kiss of Midnight.
The first half of the book went back and forth between two different plot lines. The continuing story arc from the previous book about the Atlanteans and other enemies was one part of the book. The other main focus was on the romance between Carys and Rune. I have to say that the romance between the pair started in the beginning of the book seemed like it was just a whole lot of sex. I like the sexy parts but wanted to see some connection as well. There wasn't a lot of talking between the pair. I wasn't really seeing a lot of connection between the two parts of the story.
When everything started to come together, the book really started to pick up for me. Rune's true identity and heritage made things much more interesting. When the pair started interacting out of bed just as much as in it, I started to actually see that they cared for each other. I liked the kick ass Rune that was willing to make sacrifices for the woman that he loves. Carys was more than awesome. I loved that she isn't a weak character waiting to be saved. She has abilities beyond that of the men in this story and she puts them to good use. Hands down, Carys was the most fierce of all of the fighters in this book.
I would recommend this book to fans of the series. I do wish that the excitement of the second half of the book would have been present for the first half as well. I actually considered giving up on this book at about the 50% mark because I just couldn't get into it. Then boom...I couldn't put it down. I am so glad that I stuck with it in the end. I do plan to continue to read this series and hopefully read the earlier books that I skipped very soon.
I received an advance reader edition of this book from Lara Adrian, LLC via NetGalley for the purpose of providing an honest review.
Initial Thougths
I liked the second half of this book a whole lot more than the first half. It seemed to take forever for any real action to happen and everything to come together. I actually thought about not finishing this book at the halfway point but really ended up enjoying the end.
January 6, 2019
4 1/2 "Stand by your man."Stars!
I loved this one too! This has become one of my favorite vampire series!
It is a wee bit slow on the action until maybe 60%, then it picks up a lot. The romance in the beginning makes up for the lack of action. Carys and Rune are both great main characters. I absolutely loved them both. Particularly Carys. She's a BA! I enjoyed their story.
I see a very interesting pairing on the horizon. Can't wait for what's next.
Side note, this one has spoilers for the novella Marked by Midnight, so if you care about that kind of thing, read that one before this one. Happy reading!
I loved this one too! This has become one of my favorite vampire series!
It is a wee bit slow on the action until maybe 60%, then it picks up a lot. The romance in the beginning makes up for the lack of action. Carys and Rune are both great main characters. I absolutely loved them both. Particularly Carys. She's a BA! I enjoyed their story.
I see a very interesting pairing on the horizon. Can't wait for what's next.
Side note, this one has spoilers for the novella Marked by Midnight, so if you care about that kind of thing, read that one before this one. Happy reading!
August 25, 2016
Done. Done. Done. Done. Done. (For now at least, until a new book comes out.)
Thankfully, I enjoyed Carys and Rune as a couple much more than I enjoyed Nathan and Jordana in the previous book. I have no problem with sweet, virginal characters, but I like the rebellious girls so much more. Sure, Carys was an angsty brat at times, but she was stubborn in a good way. AND she picked a good 'un. So I might have said more than once or twice in the past that underground fighting is completely overdone by now, but at least Rune wasn't drinking the typical Breed stick-up-the-ass cocktail that the other men seem to love to partake in. Of course, it's only inevitable that Rune will get sucked into doing something for "the greater good," but at least we got to see him be bad(ish) for a little while.
Oh, and #teamZael. I have the feeling that he'll either be a side story in one of the main books, or he'll be given a novella. Am I selfish for wanting him to be the star of his own book, even though he's not Breed? He's the most dynamic character to show up in a while, so I'd like to see him get real screen time. A girl can dream.
Thankfully, I enjoyed Carys and Rune as a couple much more than I enjoyed Nathan and Jordana in the previous book. I have no problem with sweet, virginal characters, but I like the rebellious girls so much more. Sure, Carys was an angsty brat at times, but she was stubborn in a good way. AND she picked a good 'un. So I might have said more than once or twice in the past that underground fighting is completely overdone by now, but at least Rune wasn't drinking the typical Breed stick-up-the-ass cocktail that the other men seem to love to partake in. Of course, it's only inevitable that Rune will get sucked into doing something for "the greater good," but at least we got to see him be bad(ish) for a little while.
Oh, and #teamZael. I have the feeling that he'll either be a side story in one of the main books, or he'll be given a novella. Am I selfish for wanting him to be the star of his own book, even though he's not Breed? He's the most dynamic character to show up in a while, so I'd like to see him get real screen time. A girl can dream.
November 22, 2015
In the thirteenth installment to the Midnight Breed series, Lara Adrian continues her story arc, which began in Edge of Dawn where the Breeds and the vampires try to co-exist. Of course, it’s not an easy task as several issues pop up along the way. What is different about this book is that the hero and heroine are actually already in a relationship. Carys and Rune are total opposites and though their relationship is heavily frowned upon, nothing stops them from being together.
Rune is your typical Breed hero. He’s a fighter through and through and as you learn more about his past, you really begin to enjoy his character some more. Carys is the daughter to Chase and well, if you know anything about the guy then you know this book will be interesting based on that alone. What I liked about Carys and Rune’s relationship was that its already pretty solid in the beginning so when it gets tested, you can really see how unshakeable they really are.
Another thing I’ve loved about this series from the very beginning is that Adrian spends some time in the enemy’s head. While this can be boring for some readers, I think it’s integral to the series and brings so much added suspense and thrills. It really strengthens the conflict and creates that much needed tension in the series.
While I’ve enjoyed the Midnight Breed series as a whole, I will say that the second cast of characters haven’t been holding my attention as much as the original books have. I don’t know what it is but while I like the characters, I haven’t obsessed over them like I used to do with the others. All the elements are still very much there but I think I’m looking for something that will make the characters really stand out amongst a sea of already great characters.
I look forward to seeing what Lara Adrian comes up with next!
July 12, 2025
Bound to Darkness by Lara Adrian
Genres: Adult, Mystery, Paranormal, Romance, Suspense
4 Stars
Did Not Reach its Full Potential
While I really enjoyed it, I also found some parts to be a bit dry and repetitive. This & a few other small items cost the story a star.
More later...
Carys & Rune are great characters.
The adult romance, suspense and action is very intense.
There are some awesome intense moments.
Cary's can kick butt and Rune is no slouch by any stretch of the imagination.
The supporting characters had very little involvement. Some was noteworthy, some not.
Genres: Adult, Mystery, Paranormal, Romance, Suspense
4 Stars
Did Not Reach its Full Potential
While I really enjoyed it, I also found some parts to be a bit dry and repetitive. This & a few other small items cost the story a star.
More later...
Carys & Rune are great characters.
The adult romance, suspense and action is very intense.
There are some awesome intense moments.
Cary's can kick butt and Rune is no slouch by any stretch of the imagination.
The supporting characters had very little involvement. Some was noteworthy, some not.
August 1, 2015
Love, love, LOVED this book! I admit the last couple of books about the kids of the Midnight Breed originals didn't really capture me like the firsts in the series. But I loved Rune and Carys and the deep love they had for each other from the first page. The plot took me a little to get into because barely remembered it from the last book, but LA did a good enough job to recap without being bogged down in the details. I also liked how she didn't make it overly complicated. I'm already looking forward to reading the next one.
July 31, 2015
Carys single handedly added the fifth star to my rating. As for Rune, he isn't just a cage fighter we've seen the entire time we've been reading about him. I love visiting with my favorite characters, the more the happier. I also need to read Nova's story NOW! No clues I've been missing it! No doubt in my mind that you will love Bound to Darkness too.
August 18, 2015
I had a hard time remembering stuff from the last book about Opus Nostrum, The Atlanteans etc. I also felt like this story was a bit similar to Jordana and Nathan's story. Despite those, the story was still solid. I liked Rune's story and who he really was.
I like that this is a good mix between PNR and UF and everyone was contributing to the fight. this is still one of the best series out there.
I like that this is a good mix between PNR and UF and everyone was contributing to the fight. this is still one of the best series out there.
October 15, 2015
I love the Midnight Breed series, I just can't help myself I'm totally addicted to these books. Things have changed a huge amount since the dramatic outing of the Breed in Darker After Midnight and I'm really enjoying getting to know the younger generation of the Order. It's really interesting to see how some of the previous couples are coping with parenthood, especially now that the older children are starting to find their mates and that was especially true here.
Carys is the daughter of Chase and Tavia she's a rare female vampire and a daywalker to boot thanks to her mother's genetics so she really does have the best of both worlds. We've already seen Carys and cage fighter Rune together over the last couple of books so their relationship is well established even if they haven't fully committed and made a blood bond. Poor Chase is struggling to see his daughter as a grown up and Rune is definitely not the sort of guy he feels is worthy of dating his precious girl. Carys's twin Aric is also dead set against the match and that's before he starts finding out about Rune's background and the secrets he has been keeping. Carys isn't one to back down though, she wants Rune and she's determined to keep him no matter what anyone else thinks. Rune is the one who is holding back on the blood bond, he knows that his past will catch up with him eventually and he doesn't want Carys to get caught in the crossfire.
I love these two together, they have fantastic chemistry and the sex is off the charts hot (I'd expect nothing less from a book in this series!) but they also have a much deeper connection and are obviously crazy about each other. We already knew they were head over heels before going in but it was nice to see a couple in an established relationship get their chance to shine. I loved the fact that Carys was so stubborn and refused to let Rune walk away from her and I was really pleased to see how kickass she was when she stood by her man when he needed it the most. She more than proves herself as a tough cookie and I'm looking forward to seeing much more of her working alongside the other warriors in the Order. Rune is a bit different to the other guys in the series, he's still all alpha male but he takes things less seriously and is more willing to fight for what he wants. He may worry about his past catching up with him but he is more than happy to have Carys on his side when he is facing a life or death battle and he didn't mind her taking an active role in protecting them both.
Alongside the romance we also get to find out more about both the Opus Nostrum and the Atlanteans and I can't wait to see what happens next with both groups. One things for sure things aren't going to slow down for the Order any time soon. We get to catch up with previous couples as well as see a bit more of Zael (please, please someone tell me he's getting a book of his own - I already have a feeling about who he'll be paired up with!). I was slightly disappointed we didn't see more of Aric, since he's Carys's twin I was expecting him to have quite a bit of page time, but hopefully he'll get his own story soon enough. Lara Adrian is definitely managing to keep things interesting, she's always adding to her world and she ties things together in surprising ways which always keeps me guessing. This series has been a favourite for a long time now and it looks set to stay that way for a long time to come.
Carys is the daughter of Chase and Tavia she's a rare female vampire and a daywalker to boot thanks to her mother's genetics so she really does have the best of both worlds. We've already seen Carys and cage fighter Rune together over the last couple of books so their relationship is well established even if they haven't fully committed and made a blood bond. Poor Chase is struggling to see his daughter as a grown up and Rune is definitely not the sort of guy he feels is worthy of dating his precious girl. Carys's twin Aric is also dead set against the match and that's before he starts finding out about Rune's background and the secrets he has been keeping. Carys isn't one to back down though, she wants Rune and she's determined to keep him no matter what anyone else thinks. Rune is the one who is holding back on the blood bond, he knows that his past will catch up with him eventually and he doesn't want Carys to get caught in the crossfire.
I love these two together, they have fantastic chemistry and the sex is off the charts hot (I'd expect nothing less from a book in this series!) but they also have a much deeper connection and are obviously crazy about each other. We already knew they were head over heels before going in but it was nice to see a couple in an established relationship get their chance to shine. I loved the fact that Carys was so stubborn and refused to let Rune walk away from her and I was really pleased to see how kickass she was when she stood by her man when he needed it the most. She more than proves herself as a tough cookie and I'm looking forward to seeing much more of her working alongside the other warriors in the Order. Rune is a bit different to the other guys in the series, he's still all alpha male but he takes things less seriously and is more willing to fight for what he wants. He may worry about his past catching up with him but he is more than happy to have Carys on his side when he is facing a life or death battle and he didn't mind her taking an active role in protecting them both.
Alongside the romance we also get to find out more about both the Opus Nostrum and the Atlanteans and I can't wait to see what happens next with both groups. One things for sure things aren't going to slow down for the Order any time soon. We get to catch up with previous couples as well as see a bit more of Zael (please, please someone tell me he's getting a book of his own - I already have a feeling about who he'll be paired up with!). I was slightly disappointed we didn't see more of Aric, since he's Carys's twin I was expecting him to have quite a bit of page time, but hopefully he'll get his own story soon enough. Lara Adrian is definitely managing to keep things interesting, she's always adding to her world and she ties things together in surprising ways which always keeps me guessing. This series has been a favourite for a long time now and it looks set to stay that way for a long time to come.
September 9, 2016
Bound to Darkness was another good read in this series. I loved Rune and Carys together. Like another reviewer stated I wasn't surprised by the story, I had everything figured out rather quickly because it was all very predictable. I have to say that I loved Carys the badass, since she is a breed female I loved how she transformed when her mate was in danger. My only disappointment was a scene in the book with Zael, I hope to get more information in his book.
August 31, 2015
This has been a long incredible journey with the Midnight Breed series. Lara Adrian doesn't disappoint, with every book she brings there is heart stopping action, excitement and dangers in the vampire realm. As for claiming a favorite, hell I wouldn't know where to begin as I love them all and eagerly await for the next release! Brilliantly written, captivating storyline, damn sure a five star read, what more could a person ask for? Ooooh I know, one of the Order guys to bite me hahahahahahah!
August 11, 2015
A cool story, I really loved the parts with Zael, I hope he's getting a book as well :)
August 2, 2015
“She’s the reason I’m alive. She is my reason for everything.”
Absolutely fantastic! 5 stars
I’m a huge Midnight Breed fan, and I’ve been so excited for this book! And bless you, Lara Adrian, you haven’t let me down! This book is a wild ride! Exciting and action-packed with some great twists and surprises, it’s also beautifully romantic and steaming hot! I absolutely loved it!
I need to throw in that you need to read this series in order. There’s a lot going on and if you go skipping books or novellas you’re not going to know who everybody is or what’s happening. Adrian does give us a recap of some of the key players and events, but in order to fully absorb the awesome, make sure you read it in the order the author intended – especially the novellas which add important insight, and impact on the main story in a big way.
This book features Carys Chase, the daughter of Chase and Tavia Sterling, and one of only a handful of Breed females in existence. Carys is wild and uninhibited, strong, stubborn and brave, and I absolutely love her! She’s doesn’t put up with crap from anybody, and does what she believes is right, without fail and with no questions asked.
In the last book of the series, we saw that she had fallen hard for Breed cage fighter, Rune, so when this book starts they are already well involved and very much in love with each other. I was curious where the story was going seeing as though the romance was already well established and we’d be missing out on all of the ‘falling for each other’ part of a romance that I love. But I was immediately sucked into the story, and loved that we got to see so much development with them – both individually and as a couple.
Carys and Rune are happy together, in love and completely sexed up (So. Freaking. Hot!!!!). But all is not perfect in their world. Carys’ family are not happy with her relationship, and Rune himself is holding something back from Carys. He has a shady past that he doesn’t want her exposed to, and as much as he loves her, he refuses to bond with her – knowing that she deserves better and not wanting to put her in danger should the evil from his past come back to claim him.
But their relationship is truly beautiful! Rune is a dangerous, lethal fighter, but he has a huge heart and he is nothing but gentle and tender with Carys (except for the odd up-against-the-wall roughness…. *phew!*). He absolutely worships her, and she adores him in return. They go through a lot in this book, but their relationship is never in doubt. They love each other fiercely, and I loved watching them stand strong together – they are an absolute powerhouse!
In the meantime, danger is brewing for The Order – they are continuing to investigate dangerous terror group, Opus Nostrum, and a more mysterious threat is beginning to emerge that threatens not only The Order, but all of the Breed. There’s a lot of mystery and intrigue and some absolutely sensational plot twists, and an absolutely kickass ending with heaps of action that had me on the edge of my seat. And the growing danger lures the entire Order out into the field once again to take on the bad guy.
OMG, I love seeing this group together! And with their mates by their sides, their grown children around them and the add-ons that have accumulated throughout the series, it’s like a huge big reunion, and it’s total book porn to Breed fans such as myself! I lapped up every moment of it.
I loved being back in the Breed world and I loved this book! Lara Adrian has given us another wonderful adventure full of everything that makes this series so awesome. I was enthralled from start to finish and couldn’t put it down. I can’t wait for whoever and whatever is coming up next.
5 stars.
Absolutely fantastic! 5 stars
I’m a huge Midnight Breed fan, and I’ve been so excited for this book! And bless you, Lara Adrian, you haven’t let me down! This book is a wild ride! Exciting and action-packed with some great twists and surprises, it’s also beautifully romantic and steaming hot! I absolutely loved it!
I need to throw in that you need to read this series in order. There’s a lot going on and if you go skipping books or novellas you’re not going to know who everybody is or what’s happening. Adrian does give us a recap of some of the key players and events, but in order to fully absorb the awesome, make sure you read it in the order the author intended – especially the novellas which add important insight, and impact on the main story in a big way.
This book features Carys Chase, the daughter of Chase and Tavia Sterling, and one of only a handful of Breed females in existence. Carys is wild and uninhibited, strong, stubborn and brave, and I absolutely love her! She’s doesn’t put up with crap from anybody, and does what she believes is right, without fail and with no questions asked.
In the last book of the series, we saw that she had fallen hard for Breed cage fighter, Rune, so when this book starts they are already well involved and very much in love with each other. I was curious where the story was going seeing as though the romance was already well established and we’d be missing out on all of the ‘falling for each other’ part of a romance that I love. But I was immediately sucked into the story, and loved that we got to see so much development with them – both individually and as a couple.
Carys and Rune are happy together, in love and completely sexed up (So. Freaking. Hot!!!!). But all is not perfect in their world. Carys’ family are not happy with her relationship, and Rune himself is holding something back from Carys. He has a shady past that he doesn’t want her exposed to, and as much as he loves her, he refuses to bond with her – knowing that she deserves better and not wanting to put her in danger should the evil from his past come back to claim him.
But their relationship is truly beautiful! Rune is a dangerous, lethal fighter, but he has a huge heart and he is nothing but gentle and tender with Carys (except for the odd up-against-the-wall roughness…. *phew!*). He absolutely worships her, and she adores him in return. They go through a lot in this book, but their relationship is never in doubt. They love each other fiercely, and I loved watching them stand strong together – they are an absolute powerhouse!
His hand came up to cup her cheek, his thumb smoothing over her lips. “You deserve more than I can ever give you.”
“You’re all I want, Rune.”
In the meantime, danger is brewing for The Order – they are continuing to investigate dangerous terror group, Opus Nostrum, and a more mysterious threat is beginning to emerge that threatens not only The Order, but all of the Breed. There’s a lot of mystery and intrigue and some absolutely sensational plot twists, and an absolutely kickass ending with heaps of action that had me on the edge of my seat. And the growing danger lures the entire Order out into the field once again to take on the bad guy.
OMG, I love seeing this group together! And with their mates by their sides, their grown children around them and the add-ons that have accumulated throughout the series, it’s like a huge big reunion, and it’s total book porn to Breed fans such as myself! I lapped up every moment of it.
I loved being back in the Breed world and I loved this book! Lara Adrian has given us another wonderful adventure full of everything that makes this series so awesome. I was enthralled from start to finish and couldn’t put it down. I can’t wait for whoever and whatever is coming up next.
5 stars.
August 1, 2015
I really enjoyed this story. I love that Rune and Carys were in a relationship prior to this book, and seeing that relationship grow as Rune opens up and his past is revealed (omg) is a great journey. Loved Rune and Carys together and watching Carys prove how much of a badass she is opened up a lot of eyes, especially those of her overprotected father Chase.
I always fall back into this world so easily, I can't wait to see what Adrian brings us next.
I always fall back into this world so easily, I can't wait to see what Adrian brings us next.
October 19, 2019
Bound to Darkness is one of my favorites in the Midnight Breed series. Carys is the daughter of two warriors of the order (Sterling and Tavia Chase), who treat her like the baby girl of the family even though she is a rare and powerful day walker and a female of the breed.
Rune is a massive breed gladiator who annihilates all comers in the nightly illegal cage fights at the basement club of La Notte. Carys defies her family to follow her attraction to the dark, damaged male who adores her but never opens up to her completely. Rune has a terrible secret past that sent him into hiding, and he’ll to anything to make sure that Carys is never touched by it—even if he has to break her heart to keep her safe.
The anonymous villains of Opus Nostrum become an increasing threat to the Order and the tenuous peace between humankind and the breed. When evildoers appear in La Notte, Carys and Rune suddenly find themselves in the crosshairs and faced with choices that would have lasting consequences.
No spoilers except to say that I love seeing Carys come into her own as a kick-ass heroine. Also we finally get to learn the back story of Nova that was left a mystery at the conclusion of story 11.5, Marked by Midnight. Some amazing fight and action scenes make me wish I could see it on a movie screen. It is the action, adventure, and hot romance of the Midnight Breed that keeps me reading on for more.
Rune is a massive breed gladiator who annihilates all comers in the nightly illegal cage fights at the basement club of La Notte. Carys defies her family to follow her attraction to the dark, damaged male who adores her but never opens up to her completely. Rune has a terrible secret past that sent him into hiding, and he’ll to anything to make sure that Carys is never touched by it—even if he has to break her heart to keep her safe.
The anonymous villains of Opus Nostrum become an increasing threat to the Order and the tenuous peace between humankind and the breed. When evildoers appear in La Notte, Carys and Rune suddenly find themselves in the crosshairs and faced with choices that would have lasting consequences.
No spoilers except to say that I love seeing Carys come into her own as a kick-ass heroine. Also we finally get to learn the back story of Nova that was left a mystery at the conclusion of story 11.5, Marked by Midnight. Some amazing fight and action scenes make me wish I could see it on a movie screen. It is the action, adventure, and hot romance of the Midnight Breed that keeps me reading on for more.
August 21, 2015
I Loved Rune's and Carys story, it was strong and powerful like the two Breed Warriors that they are.
I am so pleased that I continued with this series, I thought after Edge of Dawn that I was losing my grip but then I should have kept my faith in Lara Adrian, she pulled it off and now I await eagerly for future stories as I did in the beginning.
A fabulous series all round!
I am so pleased that I continued with this series, I thought after Edge of Dawn that I was losing my grip but then I should have kept my faith in Lara Adrian, she pulled it off and now I await eagerly for future stories as I did in the beginning.
A fabulous series all round!
May 16, 2021
Bound to Darkness
3 Stars
Series note: The 2nd arc of the series continues with the romance between Rune, a Breed cage fighter, and Carys Chase, daughter of Breed warrior Sterling Chase and his mate, Tavia Fairchild (book #10). Important backstory is provided in two preceding novellas, Marked by Midnight and Tempted by Midnight.
While this installment provides significant developments in the ongoing arc focusing on Opus Nostrum, the romance between Rune and Carys is rather lackluster for two reasons.
To begin with, Rune and Carys are already an established couple. Even though details are given on how they met and became involved, this is told rather than shown. Consequently, the emotion associated with their interactions is missing and the sex scenes are mechanical rather than intimate and sexy.
Second, Carys is an exceedingly annoying heroine. She is childish, immature, and whinny in the extreme because Rune, a man who has made it clear that he is not interested in commitment, refuses to reveal his secrets to her. Grow up, woman!
Despite these issues with the relationship, the developments in the plot are compelling. They resolve unanswered questions from previous books and also move the story in a new and interesting direction. Moreover, the action scenes during the climax and resolution are intense and exciting and compensate for the slow pacing in the beginning.
My recommendation - read this for the action not for the romance.
3 Stars
Series note: The 2nd arc of the series continues with the romance between Rune, a Breed cage fighter, and Carys Chase, daughter of Breed warrior Sterling Chase and his mate, Tavia Fairchild (book #10). Important backstory is provided in two preceding novellas, Marked by Midnight and Tempted by Midnight.
While this installment provides significant developments in the ongoing arc focusing on Opus Nostrum, the romance between Rune and Carys is rather lackluster for two reasons.
To begin with, Rune and Carys are already an established couple. Even though details are given on how they met and became involved, this is told rather than shown. Consequently, the emotion associated with their interactions is missing and the sex scenes are mechanical rather than intimate and sexy.
Second, Carys is an exceedingly annoying heroine. She is childish, immature, and whinny in the extreme because Rune, a man who has made it clear that he is not interested in commitment, refuses to reveal his secrets to her. Grow up, woman!
Despite these issues with the relationship, the developments in the plot are compelling. They resolve unanswered questions from previous books and also move the story in a new and interesting direction. Moreover, the action scenes during the climax and resolution are intense and exciting and compensate for the slow pacing in the beginning.
My recommendation - read this for the action not for the romance.
January 14, 2016
I have been waiting for this story since I encountered Carys and Rune earlier in the series. While I love each installment that comes out, there are some that I anticipate more than others. This is definitely one of them. Carys is a rare Vampire Breed female who can day walk and she is the daughter of one of formidable, Sterling Chase, one of her people's leaders. And Carys is in love with rough underground fighter, Rune, who is a mystery.
This is part of an ongoing series and should be read in order so that the series storylines and even the ongoing inter-personal storylines make sense. And, for this particular book, it would be best to makes sure to read the novella, Marked by Midnight, even if the reader normally skips the novellas because that one has a direct bearing on parts of this story.
The story opens with the Breed working to keep the uneasy peace with the humans even while trying to find out more about this newly revealed race, the Atlanteans, who pose a dangerous threat alongside the shadow organization that would annihilate them as well. All the older generation of warriors and many of the younger ones work to gain intel and protect their own, but things are getting desperate and they need to hunt down their enemies who are developing powerful weapons and drugs to use against them.
Against this backdrop, Carys is focused on Rune. Her family disapproves of her moving out on her own and ignoring all, but what she wants. She hates hurting them, but knows they will never accept the male she has chosen and then there is the fact that Rune will not give her anything more. He will not take her as a mate. He has a hidden past and she is certain that this is what is coming between them so she will take what she can get, for now. What is he hiding and why does he feel that it will destroy everything when it comes out? To save everything she cares for, Carys will have to come into her own as the unique Breed Female that she is.
Rune does have a torturous past and knows after what he has done and where he comes from that he cannot have Carys. In fact, he knows the day will come when he will need to break things off even if it will crush him to do it. But she doesn't know- can't know- and a mating would reveal everything to her. Then his past finally catches up to him and Carys is caught in the crossfire. He will do whatever it takes to keep her safe even if it means going back to what he left behind.
This was a riveting story. There is so much going on. There is the ongoing battle behind the scenes of the Breed vs. the secret organization that would destroy them and grab for world power along with the emerging threat of the other alien race as they seek a way to put them in check. And then for Carys, she rejects her connections believing that she can't have Rune and her heritage at the same time even as her family struggles with her unique place as a Breed female. Carys is on precarious ground with Rune because of his secrets and need to hold her at arm's length. And then Rune has a past that makes his present circumstances as a cage fighter seem like nothing.
The pacing was fast, but steady. I enjoyed the balance of character driven and action driven scenes. Carys and Rune are explosive together, but their circumstances are interesting, too. The twist that comes when Rune's secret is out just ramped up the tension to high. Carys is pushed to trust in Rune right about the time things look really bad.
The inclusion of many recognizable characters and their ongoing presence is a big part of what I love about this series. The author is tackling the younger generation in the romances, but the development of the relationships include development of older to younger as well. Love that extra connection and the reunion feeling I have with each time the group comes together as a team to stop a dangerous threat.
There was some forward progression with the overall series arc and I look forward to seeing where things go particularly with the intro to the next pair to get their story.
I can easily recommend this series to Paranormal Romance fans who love action-packed, gritty, passionate and intrigue-filled stories.
I received this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
This is part of an ongoing series and should be read in order so that the series storylines and even the ongoing inter-personal storylines make sense. And, for this particular book, it would be best to makes sure to read the novella, Marked by Midnight, even if the reader normally skips the novellas because that one has a direct bearing on parts of this story.
The story opens with the Breed working to keep the uneasy peace with the humans even while trying to find out more about this newly revealed race, the Atlanteans, who pose a dangerous threat alongside the shadow organization that would annihilate them as well. All the older generation of warriors and many of the younger ones work to gain intel and protect their own, but things are getting desperate and they need to hunt down their enemies who are developing powerful weapons and drugs to use against them.
Against this backdrop, Carys is focused on Rune. Her family disapproves of her moving out on her own and ignoring all, but what she wants. She hates hurting them, but knows they will never accept the male she has chosen and then there is the fact that Rune will not give her anything more. He will not take her as a mate. He has a hidden past and she is certain that this is what is coming between them so she will take what she can get, for now. What is he hiding and why does he feel that it will destroy everything when it comes out? To save everything she cares for, Carys will have to come into her own as the unique Breed Female that she is.
Rune does have a torturous past and knows after what he has done and where he comes from that he cannot have Carys. In fact, he knows the day will come when he will need to break things off even if it will crush him to do it. But she doesn't know- can't know- and a mating would reveal everything to her. Then his past finally catches up to him and Carys is caught in the crossfire. He will do whatever it takes to keep her safe even if it means going back to what he left behind.
This was a riveting story. There is so much going on. There is the ongoing battle behind the scenes of the Breed vs. the secret organization that would destroy them and grab for world power along with the emerging threat of the other alien race as they seek a way to put them in check. And then for Carys, she rejects her connections believing that she can't have Rune and her heritage at the same time even as her family struggles with her unique place as a Breed female. Carys is on precarious ground with Rune because of his secrets and need to hold her at arm's length. And then Rune has a past that makes his present circumstances as a cage fighter seem like nothing.
The pacing was fast, but steady. I enjoyed the balance of character driven and action driven scenes. Carys and Rune are explosive together, but their circumstances are interesting, too. The twist that comes when Rune's secret is out just ramped up the tension to high. Carys is pushed to trust in Rune right about the time things look really bad.
The inclusion of many recognizable characters and their ongoing presence is a big part of what I love about this series. The author is tackling the younger generation in the romances, but the development of the relationships include development of older to younger as well. Love that extra connection and the reunion feeling I have with each time the group comes together as a team to stop a dangerous threat.
There was some forward progression with the overall series arc and I look forward to seeing where things go particularly with the intro to the next pair to get their story.
I can easily recommend this series to Paranormal Romance fans who love action-packed, gritty, passionate and intrigue-filled stories.
I received this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
April 3, 2016
This is the best book in the Midnight Breeds series I have read in a long time. The last few romances haven’t been big hits for me, but I am happy to say that Carys and Rune’s story lived up to its potential. I had hoped this book would give us some flashbacks to the beginning of their relationship. It didn’t, but even joining the romance in progress, I still felt invested.
We met this couple a few books back. Rune is a cage fighter with a mysterious past. Carys is the daywalker daughter of Sterling Chase and his mate Tavia. Unlike her twin, Carys isn’t part of the Order, but she can kick butt if she has to. She desperately wants a deeper connection with Rune. It’s clear they love one another, but he doesn’t want a blood bond with her. Carys has no idea why, but readers know its because he doesn’t want to reveal his dark history to her.
Meanwhile, the Order is going after their latest target in the war against Opus Nostrum. It’s Riordan, father of the heroine, Nova, in “Marked By Midnight.” One of my beefs about that novella is that it felt like Nova’s backstory was all build and no payoff. That payoff comes here, as her father’s machinations come to light as part of the bigger picture series arc. And let’s not forget the Atlanteans. Zael is back with some interesting revelations –and an obvious set up for his romance with Tavia’s sister, Brynne.
I liked Rune. I always enjoy a hero who thinks he is not good enough for his heroine, but at the same time, he is a fighter. He can’t give her up. And she won’t give him up either. I appreciated how strong both of these characters were –how they fought for each other. And the big climax where Carys faces off with the bad guy made me cheer out loud. What an empowering scene!
I will acknowledge that my copy had a couple of spelling errors I am not used to seeing from this series. And at times, it felt like there was just too much backstory getting squeezed in, especially at the beginning. But overall, I enjoyed this one, I think largely because of the romance. But I also really enjoyed seeing so many first generation characters and couples playing a part in the story.
I hope that Adrian starts to drill down more on the Atlanteans if they are to be the Big Bad of this arc. At this point, Opus Nostrum feels like a red herring. A complicated red herring. And I hope the next romance is as engaging as I found this one.
Rating: B
*Book provided by author for review
We met this couple a few books back. Rune is a cage fighter with a mysterious past. Carys is the daywalker daughter of Sterling Chase and his mate Tavia. Unlike her twin, Carys isn’t part of the Order, but she can kick butt if she has to. She desperately wants a deeper connection with Rune. It’s clear they love one another, but he doesn’t want a blood bond with her. Carys has no idea why, but readers know its because he doesn’t want to reveal his dark history to her.
Meanwhile, the Order is going after their latest target in the war against Opus Nostrum. It’s Riordan, father of the heroine, Nova, in “Marked By Midnight.” One of my beefs about that novella is that it felt like Nova’s backstory was all build and no payoff. That payoff comes here, as her father’s machinations come to light as part of the bigger picture series arc. And let’s not forget the Atlanteans. Zael is back with some interesting revelations –and an obvious set up for his romance with Tavia’s sister, Brynne.
I liked Rune. I always enjoy a hero who thinks he is not good enough for his heroine, but at the same time, he is a fighter. He can’t give her up. And she won’t give him up either. I appreciated how strong both of these characters were –how they fought for each other. And the big climax where Carys faces off with the bad guy made me cheer out loud. What an empowering scene!
I will acknowledge that my copy had a couple of spelling errors I am not used to seeing from this series. And at times, it felt like there was just too much backstory getting squeezed in, especially at the beginning. But overall, I enjoyed this one, I think largely because of the romance. But I also really enjoyed seeing so many first generation characters and couples playing a part in the story.
I hope that Adrian starts to drill down more on the Atlanteans if they are to be the Big Bad of this arc. At this point, Opus Nostrum feels like a red herring. A complicated red herring. And I hope the next romance is as engaging as I found this one.
Rating: B
*Book provided by author for review
December 13, 2015
I love the Midnight Breed series. I love it so much that I remember most of the characters and their stories from the earlier books and that's a very rare thing for me!
I went to the story not expecting much because of what I had read from this couple in the previous books. They were already together for the last 2 books and they loved each other, I thought it might be a bit boring. But I was so wrong and I'll never doubt Lara Adrian again.
As it turned out the story was exciting and Carys's and Rune's story was one of the best in series. Rune was a great hero , he wasn't reluctant to confess his love to Carys.
The heroine ,Carys, was one of the best thing about this book. She was a strong determined woman that didn't need to be rescued, she was the one who came to the rescue!
I can't wait to read #14 in the series. I know it's going to be great.
From Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I went to the story not expecting much because of what I had read from this couple in the previous books. They were already together for the last 2 books and they loved each other, I thought it might be a bit boring. But I was so wrong and I'll never doubt Lara Adrian again.
As it turned out the story was exciting and Carys's and Rune's story was one of the best in series. Rune was a great hero , he wasn't reluctant to confess his love to Carys.
The heroine ,Carys, was one of the best thing about this book. She was a strong determined woman that didn't need to be rescued, she was the one who came to the rescue!
I can't wait to read #14 in the series. I know it's going to be great.
From Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 18, 2019
“Dare, Gideon e Savannah avevano smesso di raccogliere informazioni su Riordan non appena erano venuti a sapere che il guerriero Brock era arrivato prima dell’alba da Atlanta con la sua straordinaria compagna. Le visite dalla coppia a Washington erano frequenti, a causa del lavoro di Jenna sulla collezione crescente degli archivi della Stirpe, ma la sua presenza presso il quartier generale era sempre un evento. Era anche più difficile per Lucan non rimanere a bocca aperta e stupito di fronte al miracolo genetico che rappresentava Jenna Tucker-Darrow. Nata umana e completamente mortale, solo quando fu attaccata dall’ultimo padre vivente della razza della Stirpe, un Antico ultraterreno, iniziò la sua incredibile metamorfosi. Invece di ucciderla, la creatura aliena innestò in lei un minuscolo pezzo di biotecnologia. Quel chip, che ancora oggi si trovava sotto la pelle della nuca di Jenna, conteneva i ricordi dell’Antico e il suo DNA. Quando attecchì dentro il suo corpo, il materiale genetico cominciò a trasformare la donna da Homo sapiens a qualcosa… d’altro. Insensibile a lesioni, malattie o età, Jenna era anche veloce e forte in modo disumano. Ma la sua trasformazione non si era fermata lì.”
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Il libro di cui vi parlo oggi è Bound to Darkness di Lara Adrian, purtroppo inedito in Italia. Terzo libro dopo la svolta epocale avvenuta vent’anni prima, quando i Vampiri della Stirpe si sono mostrati al mondo.
Carys Chase e il suo gemello Aric sono figli di Chase Sterling e Tavia, i protagonisti del libro che ha concluso la serie principale ne “Il bacio ribelle”. Carys è una delle pochissime femmine della Stirpe, una donna forte e determinata, attualmente in lotta col padre che non vede di buon occhio l’uomo di cui si è innamorata. Rune, infatti, è un vampiro della Stirpe che lotta nella gabbia in crudeli incontri clandestini. Il suo passato è avvolto nel mistero, e la violenza ha sempre fatto parte della sua vita. È innamorato di Carys, ma nonostante la giovane lo desideri ardentemente e sia convinta di amarlo, il giovane vampiro si rifiuta categoricamente di creare con lei un legame di sangue. Da una parte se ne sente indegno, mentre dall’altra è terrorizzato che il suo passato venga alla luce, e che la giovane donna, bevendo il suo sangue, scopra cosa è stato costretto a fare fin da bambino per sopravvivere. Carys soffre per questa barriera che sente fra loro, è convinta di potergli perdonare ogni cosa, ma la verità è ben peggiore di quanto creda. Mentre lei tenta con tutte le sue forze di convincere la famiglia di essere in grado di vivere la sua vita come crede, per l’Ordine si profila all’orizzonte non solo una guerra con gli Atlantidei, guidati dalla loro vendicativa regina, ma anche una nuova organizzazione potente e spietata, “Opus Nostrum”, che ha nuove potentissime armi, e i cui adepti portano tatuato uno scarabeo sul corpo. E mentre gli avvenimenti incalzano, e i grandi guerrieri dei primi libri si apprestano a sferrare un attacco a sorpresa, per Carys ci sarà una scoperta spaventosa e la giovane guerriera dovrà lottare per salvare la sua vita e il suo amore.
Raramente un’autrice riesce a rinnovarsi, capitolo dopo capitolo, in modo così magistrale come è riuscita a fare la Adrian con questa serie strepitosa. Se i guerrieri di prima generazione erano straordinari, i loro figli non sono da meno. Carys ha preso da entrambi i genitori il meglio, la capacità di usare le ombre come nascondiglio, ereditata padre, ed una grande memoria fotografica che le permette di ricordare ogni cosa letta o sentita anche a distanza di molto tempo. All’inizio della storia la vediamo lavorare al museo con Jordana, ma durante la narrazione la vedremo diventare sempre più interessata a fare qualcosa di più, aiutando l’Ordine con le sue doti e la sua forza non comune. Testarda come il padre non si arrende, consapevole di essere innamorata di Rune, nonostante il giovane le celi molte cose e la escluda spesso, senza rendersene conto, dalle decisioni che prende. Pur sapendo che il suo passato non è uno specchio di onestà, è convinta che il suo animo sia nobile, e che ciò che ha fatto è stato necessario per la sua sopravvivenza. E quando Rune, pur celandole la sua identità, le rivela parte del suo passato, si rende conto di quanto il giovane abbia sofferto e si sia abituato a contare solo su se stesso. Rune è in fuga, il suo passato gli è alle costole e il giovane si guarda sempre alle spalle, ma questo non basterà a fermare l’uomo che ha reso la sua vita un inferno e ha distrutto innumerevoli vite. Non intende permettere che Carys venga toccata da quella parte della sua vita, e per questo, pur amandola, non intende permetterle mai di bere il suo sangue e creare un legame che le faccia conoscere ciò che cela nel suo animo. Ma nonostante le cautele, si troverà costretto a confrontarsi con il passato in una lotta all’ultimo sangue.
Un capitolo davvero bellissimo questo, con personaggi meravigliosi, strettamente legato al libro precedente Marked by Midnight in cui abbiamo conosciuto Nova, che qui ritroveremo assieme a Mathias e a moltissimi dei personaggi che hanno reso bellissima questa serie. Avremo così occasione di vedere prepararsi alla battaglia Lucan Dante, Nathan e Brock ed è stata davvero molto bello rivederli con le loro compagne della Stirpe ancora innamorati come il primo giorno.
È un libro pieno di colpi di scena, che conclude ciò che è cominciato in Marked by Midnight, dando a Nova una grande gioia e raccontando una storia d’amore incredibilmente sensuale e appassionata. Le scene erotiche sono tante e hanno grande intensità, e la trama regala momenti davvero emozionanti; è sempre bello vedere i malvagi perire in modo così spettacolare. La scrittura della Adrian ancora una volta convince, l’Ordine ha ancora tanti nemici e la guerra con gli Atlantidei è solo agli inizi, ma molte cose si stanno mettendo in moto, e nuovi amori sembrano sul punto di sbocciare. Ancora una volta sono rimasta deliziata da questa serie davvero stupenda.
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Lucia63 - per RFS
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Il libro di cui vi parlo oggi è Bound to Darkness di Lara Adrian, purtroppo inedito in Italia. Terzo libro dopo la svolta epocale avvenuta vent’anni prima, quando i Vampiri della Stirpe si sono mostrati al mondo.
Carys Chase e il suo gemello Aric sono figli di Chase Sterling e Tavia, i protagonisti del libro che ha concluso la serie principale ne “Il bacio ribelle”. Carys è una delle pochissime femmine della Stirpe, una donna forte e determinata, attualmente in lotta col padre che non vede di buon occhio l’uomo di cui si è innamorata. Rune, infatti, è un vampiro della Stirpe che lotta nella gabbia in crudeli incontri clandestini. Il suo passato è avvolto nel mistero, e la violenza ha sempre fatto parte della sua vita. È innamorato di Carys, ma nonostante la giovane lo desideri ardentemente e sia convinta di amarlo, il giovane vampiro si rifiuta categoricamente di creare con lei un legame di sangue. Da una parte se ne sente indegno, mentre dall’altra è terrorizzato che il suo passato venga alla luce, e che la giovane donna, bevendo il suo sangue, scopra cosa è stato costretto a fare fin da bambino per sopravvivere. Carys soffre per questa barriera che sente fra loro, è convinta di potergli perdonare ogni cosa, ma la verità è ben peggiore di quanto creda. Mentre lei tenta con tutte le sue forze di convincere la famiglia di essere in grado di vivere la sua vita come crede, per l’Ordine si profila all’orizzonte non solo una guerra con gli Atlantidei, guidati dalla loro vendicativa regina, ma anche una nuova organizzazione potente e spietata, “Opus Nostrum”, che ha nuove potentissime armi, e i cui adepti portano tatuato uno scarabeo sul corpo. E mentre gli avvenimenti incalzano, e i grandi guerrieri dei primi libri si apprestano a sferrare un attacco a sorpresa, per Carys ci sarà una scoperta spaventosa e la giovane guerriera dovrà lottare per salvare la sua vita e il suo amore.
Raramente un’autrice riesce a rinnovarsi, capitolo dopo capitolo, in modo così magistrale come è riuscita a fare la Adrian con questa serie strepitosa. Se i guerrieri di prima generazione erano straordinari, i loro figli non sono da meno. Carys ha preso da entrambi i genitori il meglio, la capacità di usare le ombre come nascondiglio, ereditata padre, ed una grande memoria fotografica che le permette di ricordare ogni cosa letta o sentita anche a distanza di molto tempo. All’inizio della storia la vediamo lavorare al museo con Jordana, ma durante la narrazione la vedremo diventare sempre più interessata a fare qualcosa di più, aiutando l’Ordine con le sue doti e la sua forza non comune. Testarda come il padre non si arrende, consapevole di essere innamorata di Rune, nonostante il giovane le celi molte cose e la escluda spesso, senza rendersene conto, dalle decisioni che prende. Pur sapendo che il suo passato non è uno specchio di onestà, è convinta che il suo animo sia nobile, e che ciò che ha fatto è stato necessario per la sua sopravvivenza. E quando Rune, pur celandole la sua identità, le rivela parte del suo passato, si rende conto di quanto il giovane abbia sofferto e si sia abituato a contare solo su se stesso. Rune è in fuga, il suo passato gli è alle costole e il giovane si guarda sempre alle spalle, ma questo non basterà a fermare l’uomo che ha reso la sua vita un inferno e ha distrutto innumerevoli vite. Non intende permettere che Carys venga toccata da quella parte della sua vita, e per questo, pur amandola, non intende permetterle mai di bere il suo sangue e creare un legame che le faccia conoscere ciò che cela nel suo animo. Ma nonostante le cautele, si troverà costretto a confrontarsi con il passato in una lotta all’ultimo sangue.
Un capitolo davvero bellissimo questo, con personaggi meravigliosi, strettamente legato al libro precedente Marked by Midnight in cui abbiamo conosciuto Nova, che qui ritroveremo assieme a Mathias e a moltissimi dei personaggi che hanno reso bellissima questa serie. Avremo così occasione di vedere prepararsi alla battaglia Lucan Dante, Nathan e Brock ed è stata davvero molto bello rivederli con le loro compagne della Stirpe ancora innamorati come il primo giorno.
È un libro pieno di colpi di scena, che conclude ciò che è cominciato in Marked by Midnight, dando a Nova una grande gioia e raccontando una storia d’amore incredibilmente sensuale e appassionata. Le scene erotiche sono tante e hanno grande intensità, e la trama regala momenti davvero emozionanti; è sempre bello vedere i malvagi perire in modo così spettacolare. La scrittura della Adrian ancora una volta convince, l’Ordine ha ancora tanti nemici e la guerra con gli Atlantidei è solo agli inizi, ma molte cose si stanno mettendo in moto, e nuovi amori sembrano sul punto di sbocciare. Ancora una volta sono rimasta deliziata da questa serie davvero stupenda.
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Lucia63 - per RFS
August 5, 2020
Time has passed and we meet the daughter of two of our favorite people, Sterling Chase and Tavia. She has inherited her father's reckless stubbornness and her mother's ability to walk in the day. So what is the pampered but reckless daughter of two aristocrats to do? She hooks up with the Bad Boy. These are Breed Warriors, bad boys are around every corner. Around this corner is a cage fighter.
Their passion is awesome and their enemies keep growing. Excellent story with enough of the old crew to keep us up on their lives and the overall story line.
Their passion is awesome and their enemies keep growing. Excellent story with enough of the old crew to keep us up on their lives and the overall story line.
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