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Dark Kings #3
Burning Desire: A Dark Kings Novel
The Dark Kings have fought for centuries to preserve their dragon magic. But can one warrior resist the greatest temptation of all. . .?
A DESIRE THIS POWERFUL
In his quest to destroy the Dark Fae—his nemesis—the Dragon King known as Kiril goes to Ireland as a spy. When a gorgeous, mysterious woman tries to seduce him, Kiril instantly sees through her glamour to the Dark Fae beneath. Shara isn't just any Dark; she's from one of the most powerful bloodlines—and despite the dangers, Kiril can't stay away from her. He's enthralled by her smile, enslaved by the undeniable passion…
IS A WAR WORTH FIGTING FOR
Shara has one chance to make things right with her family—and to prove her worth. It seemed like such an easy mission…until she actually meets Kiril. His charm, his sexual magnetism is too much for her to ignore. Shara knows that falling into Kiril's arms can bring her nothing but trouble. Yet she discovers an inner strength she didn't know she had…and an attraction that knows no bounds. But is her desire for Kiril worth the risk of eternal doom for them both?...in Burning Desire by Donna Grant
A DESIRE THIS POWERFUL
In his quest to destroy the Dark Fae—his nemesis—the Dragon King known as Kiril goes to Ireland as a spy. When a gorgeous, mysterious woman tries to seduce him, Kiril instantly sees through her glamour to the Dark Fae beneath. Shara isn't just any Dark; she's from one of the most powerful bloodlines—and despite the dangers, Kiril can't stay away from her. He's enthralled by her smile, enslaved by the undeniable passion…
IS A WAR WORTH FIGTING FOR
Shara has one chance to make things right with her family—and to prove her worth. It seemed like such an easy mission…until she actually meets Kiril. His charm, his sexual magnetism is too much for her to ignore. Shara knows that falling into Kiril's arms can bring her nothing but trouble. Yet she discovers an inner strength she didn't know she had…and an attraction that knows no bounds. But is her desire for Kiril worth the risk of eternal doom for them both?...in Burning Desire by Donna Grant
352 pages, Paperback
First published September 30, 2014
154 people are currently reading
2159 people want to read
About the author
Donna Grant
299 books4,767 followersDonna is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over a hundred novels. Her most popular series is the breathtaking Dark King (aka Dragon King) series featuring dragons, immortal Highlanders, and the Fae.
In addition to her novels, Donna has written short stories, novellas, and novelettes for digital-first and print release. She has been dubbed as giving the “paranormal genre a burst of fresh air” by the San Francisco Book Review. Her work has been hailed as having “deft plotting and expert characterization” by Publisher’s Weekly and “sizzling” by RT Book Reviews.
She has been recognized with awards from both bookseller and reader contests including the National Reader’s Choice Award, Booksellers Best Award, as well as the coveted K.I.S.S. Award from RT Book Reviews.
Donna travels often for various speaking engagements, conferences, and book signings. She is also a frequent workshop presenter at national conferences such as RT Book Lovers Convention and Thrillerfest, as well as local chapters.
Born and raised in Texas, she also has ties across the border in Louisiana. Growing up with two such vibrant cultures, her Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding. She is never far from her faithful 80 pound dog, Sisko, or her three cats. She can often be found at the movies or bookstore with her children. Or buying makeup. And shoes.
You an find her at www.DonnaGrant.com
as well as her website devoted entirely to the Dragon Kings and all series that encompass the Dark World at www.MotherOfDragonsBooks.com.
In addition to her novels, Donna has written short stories, novellas, and novelettes for digital-first and print release. She has been dubbed as giving the “paranormal genre a burst of fresh air” by the San Francisco Book Review. Her work has been hailed as having “deft plotting and expert characterization” by Publisher’s Weekly and “sizzling” by RT Book Reviews.
She has been recognized with awards from both bookseller and reader contests including the National Reader’s Choice Award, Booksellers Best Award, as well as the coveted K.I.S.S. Award from RT Book Reviews.
Donna travels often for various speaking engagements, conferences, and book signings. She is also a frequent workshop presenter at national conferences such as RT Book Lovers Convention and Thrillerfest, as well as local chapters.
Born and raised in Texas, she also has ties across the border in Louisiana. Growing up with two such vibrant cultures, her Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding. She is never far from her faithful 80 pound dog, Sisko, or her three cats. She can often be found at the movies or bookstore with her children. Or buying makeup. And shoes.
You an find her at www.DonnaGrant.com
as well as her website devoted entirely to the Dragon Kings and all series that encompass the Dark World at www.MotherOfDragonsBooks.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 175 reviews
October 9, 2019
I really loved this book! So much going on it kept me intrigued the entire time!
September 1, 2014
I’m finding this review difficult to write. I’ve enjoyed the Dark Kings and all of their books. While I enjoyed Burning Desire I found that it was not Kiril and Shara that kept me vested in their book. I actually love this dragon filled Scotland enough to have still enjoyed this installment in one of my favorite paranormal romance series while not having much thoughts towards the main couple or their romance.
Kiril has been one of the dragons that have had a very tiny role in a couple of the books. There has never been enough information about him to have left me curious about where his life has been or where it will take him. Shara is completely new. She did bring insight of the Dark Fae world to the pages. I liked that about her. The Fae as a whole and how their politics work is turning out to be very interesting. As for the romance that blossomed between Shara and Kiril, it was hot. I just could get interested in them as a couple.
Now let me tell you what did keep me thoroughly interested in Burning Desire. Rhi, Balladyn, and Ulrik, I’m dying to know everything about where Donna plans on going with these three. All three of these characters have some messed up things from their past that is effecting everything with their present and I can only imagine that it will wreak havoc on the Dragon Kings future. I’m also wondering if there will be some form of redemption for them down the road. Constantine and all of his secrets and the scheming to keep them buried have me wanting the next book in the series in my hands now.
Kiril has been one of the dragons that have had a very tiny role in a couple of the books. There has never been enough information about him to have left me curious about where his life has been or where it will take him. Shara is completely new. She did bring insight of the Dark Fae world to the pages. I liked that about her. The Fae as a whole and how their politics work is turning out to be very interesting. As for the romance that blossomed between Shara and Kiril, it was hot. I just could get interested in them as a couple.
Now let me tell you what did keep me thoroughly interested in Burning Desire. Rhi, Balladyn, and Ulrik, I’m dying to know everything about where Donna plans on going with these three. All three of these characters have some messed up things from their past that is effecting everything with their present and I can only imagine that it will wreak havoc on the Dragon Kings future. I’m also wondering if there will be some form of redemption for them down the road. Constantine and all of his secrets and the scheming to keep them buried have me wanting the next book in the series in my hands now.
May 29, 2016
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales
Quick & Dirty: A Dragon King and Dark Fae. Will they be able to beat all the odds against them and find a lasting love?
Opening Sentence: “Pretending.”
The Review:
The Dragon Kings are back, this one focuses on Kiril, whom is introduced for the first time in book 2 if I remember correctly! Don’t quote me on that because I read so much, I could very well be wrong. Kiril goes to Ireland to spy on the Dark Fae, after the capture and escape of two other Dragon Kings. The war is definitely escalating and Shara is a Dark Fae recently released from her prison with one last chance to do good for her. Or bad depending on how you want to look at it. Her mission is to seduce Kiril so that her family can capture him.
However, Kiril isn’t fooled by her glamour for one moment, but he is intrigued by her, and so he sets out to figure out what the Dark Fae are up to. Shara is attracted as well, and soon begins to war within herself about what she should do. After a disastrous attempt to free herself from her family she turns to the one person she can trust, Kiril. Together will they be able save each other and help the other Dragon Kings?
This is a great addition to the series. While each book focuses on a particular Dragon King, I am glad that I went ahead and read the first books before I reviewed this one. There is a ton of backstory and information that is conveyed in each book, so if you haven’t read this I suggest you start with the prequel books and go from there! Seriously, though I mean you could pick and choose but you would really not know what or why things are happening. I really enjoyed Shara being different from the other Dark Fae or as another character in the books subtly pointed out maybe she isn’t that different. Things are changing, and I think Donna Grant laid the groundwork in this book in a major way. She has a bigger picture with this series than just some romance between Dragons and humans and Fae.
I really liked that about this book, in the earlier books you don’t quite get the sense that all the background stuff is important. But, here she makes it really clear that just like any other series she has a goal and ending in site! I love Dragons and I will be the first to admit that they are the most underused shifters out there, but I think because it is so challenging, because are they humans who shift or are they dragons that shift to human? Sometimes author’s make it clear and then blur the lines, which I think loses the fascination for me. I want Dragons who shift, I do mind certain attributes, and I could clearly care who they love (okay that isn’t true) but honestly who doesn’t love Dragons when they are done right.
I think Donna Grant does them right, their true form is Dragons, and while they love, they aren’t necessarily human in their actions or thoughts. They are powerful and while they do hide quite a bit of that to maintain their secrecy they make no bones about what they want or prefer! So if you haven’t checked out this series and you are looking for a good one about Dragons then hurry up and get reading!
Notable Scenes:
“However, eons ago, it had been a human female who had made a vow to one of them, only to betray him and set in motion a war that could have destroyed them all.”
“They had asked her to play a part in bringing down a Dragon King, and she wouldn’t fail them.”
“Her father thought confining her for six hundred years would rein her in, and for the most part it did.”
“He was in his true form, and that alone helped alleviate most of what bothered him.”
“If they knew how deeply Shara had wormed her way into his psyche, they would be more than willing to use it against him.”
FTC Advisory: St. Martin’s Press/Macmillan provided me with a copy of Burning Desire. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: A Dragon King and Dark Fae. Will they be able to beat all the odds against them and find a lasting love?
Opening Sentence: “Pretending.”
The Review:
The Dragon Kings are back, this one focuses on Kiril, whom is introduced for the first time in book 2 if I remember correctly! Don’t quote me on that because I read so much, I could very well be wrong. Kiril goes to Ireland to spy on the Dark Fae, after the capture and escape of two other Dragon Kings. The war is definitely escalating and Shara is a Dark Fae recently released from her prison with one last chance to do good for her. Or bad depending on how you want to look at it. Her mission is to seduce Kiril so that her family can capture him.
However, Kiril isn’t fooled by her glamour for one moment, but he is intrigued by her, and so he sets out to figure out what the Dark Fae are up to. Shara is attracted as well, and soon begins to war within herself about what she should do. After a disastrous attempt to free herself from her family she turns to the one person she can trust, Kiril. Together will they be able save each other and help the other Dragon Kings?
This is a great addition to the series. While each book focuses on a particular Dragon King, I am glad that I went ahead and read the first books before I reviewed this one. There is a ton of backstory and information that is conveyed in each book, so if you haven’t read this I suggest you start with the prequel books and go from there! Seriously, though I mean you could pick and choose but you would really not know what or why things are happening. I really enjoyed Shara being different from the other Dark Fae or as another character in the books subtly pointed out maybe she isn’t that different. Things are changing, and I think Donna Grant laid the groundwork in this book in a major way. She has a bigger picture with this series than just some romance between Dragons and humans and Fae.
I really liked that about this book, in the earlier books you don’t quite get the sense that all the background stuff is important. But, here she makes it really clear that just like any other series she has a goal and ending in site! I love Dragons and I will be the first to admit that they are the most underused shifters out there, but I think because it is so challenging, because are they humans who shift or are they dragons that shift to human? Sometimes author’s make it clear and then blur the lines, which I think loses the fascination for me. I want Dragons who shift, I do mind certain attributes, and I could clearly care who they love (okay that isn’t true) but honestly who doesn’t love Dragons when they are done right.
I think Donna Grant does them right, their true form is Dragons, and while they love, they aren’t necessarily human in their actions or thoughts. They are powerful and while they do hide quite a bit of that to maintain their secrecy they make no bones about what they want or prefer! So if you haven’t checked out this series and you are looking for a good one about Dragons then hurry up and get reading!
Notable Scenes:
“However, eons ago, it had been a human female who had made a vow to one of them, only to betray him and set in motion a war that could have destroyed them all.”
“They had asked her to play a part in bringing down a Dragon King, and she wouldn’t fail them.”
“Her father thought confining her for six hundred years would rein her in, and for the most part it did.”
“He was in his true form, and that alone helped alleviate most of what bothered him.”
“If they knew how deeply Shara had wormed her way into his psyche, they would be more than willing to use it against him.”
FTC Advisory: St. Martin’s Press/Macmillan provided me with a copy of Burning Desire. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
June 6, 2016
4 Stars.
Read in 4 separately released instalments.
Reviews for each part can be found on the below links -
Part 1 - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Part 2 - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Part 3 - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Part 4 - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
All provided via Netgalley, for review.
Read in 4 separately released instalments.
Reviews for each part can be found on the below links -
Part 1 - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Part 2 - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Part 3 - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Part 4 - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
All provided via Netgalley, for review.
November 1, 2020
Re-listened on 7-8/1-2020.
First listened on 6/12-2019.
Review from 6/12-2019:
I'm loving this series. It's addicting!
First listened on 6/12-2019.
Review from 6/12-2019:
I'm loving this series. It's addicting!
February 17, 2017
My favourite book in the series thus far.
But I cannot give it more than 3 stars, mainly because the characters are making stupid decisions and acting like they don't know what they're doing. Something like this:
Still, I can't stop reading it! It's addicting, dammit!! Want to read Rhi's book already!
But I cannot give it more than 3 stars, mainly because the characters are making stupid decisions and acting like they don't know what they're doing. Something like this:
Still, I can't stop reading it! It's addicting, dammit!! Want to read Rhi's book already!
September 20, 2019
Kiril is in Ireland trying to find any information about where Rhi is being kept. While there he meets Shara, a reluctant dark fae who is being used by her family to trap him.
Kiril and Shara's relationship was filled with danger and longing. I really enjoyed this book. It was full of suspense and emotion. Shara is a very strong female who wants to be free of the dark fae. Kiril is the perfect male for her because he loved her no matter what and was willing to let her leave if she wanted.
I hope these two show up in the rest of the series. Now to find out if Rhi will let her imprisonment destroy her.
Kiril and Shara's relationship was filled with danger and longing. I really enjoyed this book. It was full of suspense and emotion. Shara is a very strong female who wants to be free of the dark fae. Kiril is the perfect male for her because he loved her no matter what and was willing to let her leave if she wanted.
I hope these two show up in the rest of the series. Now to find out if Rhi will let her imprisonment destroy her.
August 1, 2018
I enjoyed this book but I didn’t like it as much as some of the other dragon kings. Overall the series and the characters are still great so I’ll definitely keep reading.
August 27, 2020
This was good. But tbh, I really just want to get to Constantine's book because I have a big suspension I know who his love will be. They are the two most interesting people so far. But I'm a sucker for reading in order. 15 books to go...
Happy reading!
Happy reading!
November 11, 2014
4.5 round-ups to 5 stars
What I liked.
I loved Shara. Despite she's a Dark Fae, she's resilient, kickass, and compassionate. Amongst all female lead in this series, she's the top most favourite. Also she's not human and it's refreshing as previously Dragon Kings before Kiril mated all to human. I wanted variety, I had it, and I'm thankful. The romance between Kiril and Shara, it was overwhelming and scorching hot. I loved the author's writing style. She's thorough and very detailed. Also the way the author's describing the awesomeness of these Dragon Kings, the feeling is ultimately amazing! I just love, love dragons IMMENSELY.
What I disliked.
A few questions in previous book(s) are answered but then more and more new questions arise. Admittedly, I'm more pissed than I was before because the mystery, especially the important ones, still wondering and not knowing the answer, drives me crazy. To make matters worst, I have to get through every new installment up until it is to be revealed who knows when. It's madness, truly. Next, I do enjoy the author's writing style but to be honest, I don't like it that she's repeating the 5W1H of Dragon Kings in every book in this series. It's tiresome. Also my happiness cut short after I read the excerpt to upcoming novel. Suffice to say, I'm not impressed with it.
Recommended, if you love dragon shifter as much as I do.
Main characters: Kiril (Dragon King of Burnt-Orange) + Shara (Dark Fae of Blackwood)
p/s IMHO, this series should be renamed to Dragon Kings so that I won't confuse the 'Dark' term with Dark Fae because Dragon Kings I know are all but dark. Well, except one dragon...or two. Maybe more. In the future. No clue. Ok I should stop. That's all. Bye.
What I liked.
I loved Shara. Despite she's a Dark Fae, she's resilient, kickass, and compassionate. Amongst all female lead in this series, she's the top most favourite. Also she's not human and it's refreshing as previously Dragon Kings before Kiril mated all to human. I wanted variety, I had it, and I'm thankful. The romance between Kiril and Shara, it was overwhelming and scorching hot. I loved the author's writing style. She's thorough and very detailed. Also the way the author's describing the awesomeness of these Dragon Kings, the feeling is ultimately amazing! I just love, love dragons IMMENSELY.
What I disliked.
A few questions in previous book(s) are answered but then more and more new questions arise. Admittedly, I'm more pissed than I was before because the mystery, especially the important ones, still wondering and not knowing the answer, drives me crazy. To make matters worst, I have to get through every new installment up until it is to be revealed who knows when. It's madness, truly. Next, I do enjoy the author's writing style but to be honest, I don't like it that she's repeating the 5W1H of Dragon Kings in every book in this series. It's tiresome. Also my happiness cut short after I read the excerpt to upcoming novel. Suffice to say, I'm not impressed with it.
Recommended, if you love dragon shifter as much as I do.
Main characters: Kiril (Dragon King of Burnt-Orange) + Shara (Dark Fae of Blackwood)
p/s IMHO, this series should be renamed to Dragon Kings so that I won't confuse the 'Dark' term with Dark Fae because Dragon Kings I know are all but dark. Well, except one dragon...or two. Maybe more. In the future. No clue. Ok I should stop. That's all. Bye.
July 10, 2014
Book three of the Dark Kings series takes us to Ireland where Kiril has been living amongst the enemy, the Dark Fae, in hopes of learning who they are conspiring with to destroy the Dragon Kings. He is also hoping to get an indication of where they are holding Rhi so that he can rescue her and hopefully avoid capture.
Shara is trying to get back in her family’s good graces by helping them capture Kiril. She shamed her family and has been under house arrest for over six hundred years. She knows that if she fails to capture Kiril, her family, more specifically her brother, will not hesitate to kill her.
Shara is sent to seduce Kiril and he knows it but neither of them expected to actually fall for the other. However, past betrayals and old insecurities hinder their budding romance and almost cost both of them their lives.
Donna Grant has written another wonderful addition to the series. She expands of the world of the Dark Fae in this installment and provides more insight into Ulrik, who is believed to be the mastermind behind the burgeoning war with the Dragon Kings. The series is propelled forward by the Dark Fae’s obsession with finding a mysterious object the Kings hid and another King taking a mate in spite of Con’s attempts to prevent it.
Shara is trying to get back in her family’s good graces by helping them capture Kiril. She shamed her family and has been under house arrest for over six hundred years. She knows that if she fails to capture Kiril, her family, more specifically her brother, will not hesitate to kill her.
Shara is sent to seduce Kiril and he knows it but neither of them expected to actually fall for the other. However, past betrayals and old insecurities hinder their budding romance and almost cost both of them their lives.
Donna Grant has written another wonderful addition to the series. She expands of the world of the Dark Fae in this installment and provides more insight into Ulrik, who is believed to be the mastermind behind the burgeoning war with the Dragon Kings. The series is propelled forward by the Dark Fae’s obsession with finding a mysterious object the Kings hid and another King taking a mate in spite of Con’s attempts to prevent it.
July 20, 2019
Another fun installment! Kiril and Shara were great characters
September 18, 2014
Overall Rating: 4.5 Rockin’ ★★★★☆
Kiril is a Dragon King and has sworn to protect all of mankind. It is becoming more difficult to stay hidden from human eyes with the development of technology and its use by them. The Dark Fae has aligned themselves with MI5 and a banished dragon king that wants to destroy all of mankind and the dragon kings. It is a perilous time for everyone especially the kings who are under siege by these forces. This is Kiril’s mission, to find Rhi a Light Fae and rescue her before it is too late and she is turned to the dark side. Shara was born into a Dark Fae family and has always felt that she didn’t belong. She has spent the last six hundred years in a virtual prison because of her actions. Her family has agreed to give her one last chance to prove herself worthy of being a part of them. The job she is given is to seduce and help capture the Dragon King, Kiril. When Shara sees Kiril the attraction is immediate and she is confused by the feelings that run rampant within her.
Shara is trapped between not wanting to help capture Kiril a Dragon King and her family who will kill her if she doesn’t succeed in trapping him. She knows that if she stays with her family that her brother will either kill her or give her to another Dark Fae as a mate. Shara wants to choose her own destiny and not be controlled by anyone. Balladyn would be a perfect husband, one that even her family would not dare to offend. She would be safe if aligned with him and the only thought that taunted her was that of her beloved dragon and how she would never see him again. Kiril is tormented by his feelings for a Dark Fae, Shara. He knows that if he stays in Cork he will try to find her, to hold her, to see her again. His mission from the beginning has been to locate Rhi and free her from the Dark Fae.
Kiril and Shara have started to bond. She tells him where Rhi is being held and offers her help. Kiril has decided to go into Balladyn’s fortress and rescue Rhi by himself. He has communicated with Con the Dragon King and his friend Phelam that he will be returning home but plans instead to go to the Fae Realm and try to rescue Rhi. Kiril wants to protect those he cares about and not take a chance of them being harmed if things go wrong. He has carefully planned with Shara how things will go during the rescue. . She will not betray Kiril regardless of what happens to her, he is her one love. Everything is going according to plan until Balladyn tells her that she will be with him at his side from now on and will not be returning to her parents.
Kiril believes that Shara has betrayed him and the since of loss is overwhelming. He cannot believe that she had helped trap him and had worked to keep him from freeing Rhi. Has she been involved with Balladyn the whole time, seducing him into believing her and waiting for the chance to capture him? How did she see his dragon magic? How can Kiril believe that she would betray him even though she is a Dark Fae? He is the love of her life and she would gladly die for him. Shara knows that he will never believe her innocence now, so the only choice she has is to help free Rhi regardless of what happens to her!
Hero –Kiril: 4.5 stars
Heroine –Shara: 4.5 stars
Steam: 4.5 stars
Plot: 4.5 stars
Cliffhanger: No
Would I recommend this book: Yes! This book has it all! It is a Sci-Fi, paranormal romance with hot sexy dragons, dark dangerous fae, lust, betrayal and out of this world dragon sex! Check out the Dragon Kings and their fight against an evil that wants to destroy humankind. This book also tells a story of true love that does not fit into what is considered normal between a Dark Fae and a Dragon King. Great read for those that enjoy paranormal romance with a twist.
Would I recommend this author: Yes! The world of the dragon comes alive with this remarkable author’s words. Read and submerge yourself in a world of romance, adventure, loyalty and magic. You will not be disappointed in this author’s ability to tell a story! This is paranormal romance at its best!
***Received an ARC of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review***
Burning Desire
Donna Grant
Kiril is a Dragon King and has sworn to protect all of mankind. It is becoming more difficult to stay hidden from human eyes with the development of technology and its use by them. The Dark Fae has aligned themselves with MI5 and a banished dragon king that wants to destroy all of mankind and the dragon kings. It is a perilous time for everyone especially the kings who are under siege by these forces. This is Kiril’s mission, to find Rhi a Light Fae and rescue her before it is too late and she is turned to the dark side. Shara was born into a Dark Fae family and has always felt that she didn’t belong. She has spent the last six hundred years in a virtual prison because of her actions. Her family has agreed to give her one last chance to prove herself worthy of being a part of them. The job she is given is to seduce and help capture the Dragon King, Kiril. When Shara sees Kiril the attraction is immediate and she is confused by the feelings that run rampant within her.
Shara is trapped between not wanting to help capture Kiril a Dragon King and her family who will kill her if she doesn’t succeed in trapping him. She knows that if she stays with her family that her brother will either kill her or give her to another Dark Fae as a mate. Shara wants to choose her own destiny and not be controlled by anyone. Balladyn would be a perfect husband, one that even her family would not dare to offend. She would be safe if aligned with him and the only thought that taunted her was that of her beloved dragon and how she would never see him again. Kiril is tormented by his feelings for a Dark Fae, Shara. He knows that if he stays in Cork he will try to find her, to hold her, to see her again. His mission from the beginning has been to locate Rhi and free her from the Dark Fae.
Kiril and Shara have started to bond. She tells him where Rhi is being held and offers her help. Kiril has decided to go into Balladyn’s fortress and rescue Rhi by himself. He has communicated with Con the Dragon King and his friend Phelam that he will be returning home but plans instead to go to the Fae Realm and try to rescue Rhi. Kiril wants to protect those he cares about and not take a chance of them being harmed if things go wrong. He has carefully planned with Shara how things will go during the rescue. . She will not betray Kiril regardless of what happens to her, he is her one love. Everything is going according to plan until Balladyn tells her that she will be with him at his side from now on and will not be returning to her parents.
Kiril believes that Shara has betrayed him and the since of loss is overwhelming. He cannot believe that she had helped trap him and had worked to keep him from freeing Rhi. Has she been involved with Balladyn the whole time, seducing him into believing her and waiting for the chance to capture him? How did she see his dragon magic? How can Kiril believe that she would betray him even though she is a Dark Fae? He is the love of her life and she would gladly die for him. Shara knows that he will never believe her innocence now, so the only choice she has is to help free Rhi regardless of what happens to her!
Hero –Kiril: 4.5 stars
Heroine –Shara: 4.5 stars
Steam: 4.5 stars
Plot: 4.5 stars
Cliffhanger: No
Would I recommend this book: Yes! This book has it all! It is a Sci-Fi, paranormal romance with hot sexy dragons, dark dangerous fae, lust, betrayal and out of this world dragon sex! Check out the Dragon Kings and their fight against an evil that wants to destroy humankind. This book also tells a story of true love that does not fit into what is considered normal between a Dark Fae and a Dragon King. Great read for those that enjoy paranormal romance with a twist.
Would I recommend this author: Yes! The world of the dragon comes alive with this remarkable author’s words. Read and submerge yourself in a world of romance, adventure, loyalty and magic. You will not be disappointed in this author’s ability to tell a story! This is paranormal romance at its best!
***Received an ARC of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review***
Burning Desire
Donna Grant
March 13, 2016
Donna Grant had already completely convinced me with the first two books of the saga, and here she embarks me one more time in the universe of the dragons, faë and other supernatural warriors. The cover is always also splendid and keep gives desire to read the story. But I would acknowledge that this time, it is especially the blurb which left me on burning coals during one good moment. A dragon and Dark Fae? It is unthinkable and yet Desired Burning is the best book of the series until now!
Kiril is a dragon which we saw a little until now, but he seemed more open and tolerant than the others, a little like his best friend Rhys. We understood immediately that he cares a lot about his kind, that he is ready to do everything to conclude his mission and especially to find Rhi. Unfortunately for him, or not, he will encounter a splendid enemy on the way. It's at Shara side that he really will be revealed, let us see certain attractive facets of his personality. But he is also one of the revolving parts of the general intrigue and how the things will become complicated once more.
Shara is on her side, and by far, most interesting, complex and captivating than the female protagonists of the series. We discover the life of Dark Fae since her point of view. We are, on several occasions, astonishes with her past, her ambitions, her desires, her choices. She is characters attaching, whom we can only love and support. Because in spite of her appearance and her entourage, Shara fights more for the rigthness than for another thing. Unfortunately she will have to make many sacrifices and become hardened in order to obtain what she wants.
The others principals characters are Balladyn, Con and Ulrik. Those three fight for the same thing: Rhi. Rhi becomes irremediably darker, depressive after all that arrived to her and I am in a hurry to see more of her thereafter. Con appears more human, less hard and manipulator. Whereas on the contrary, Ulrik does not stick any more to his victime's image, he passes to the offensive and in a rather aggressive way. When in Balladyn side, we starts to know him now, and yet, he astonishes us with the wire by the chapters, although certain revelations were expected.
The intrigue turns primarily around the war between the dragons and Dark Faes, which becomes more violent and more open. They do not make any more the things in lace and there will be victims. It should be said that this book is really rhythmed, because we follows several intrigues at the same time. There is, of course, the lovestory between Kiril and Shara, which is in the center of all. It is boiling between these two but not only that. They will have to cope with many a priori and obstacles in order to be happy together. There are then the war in Dark Fae world. The choice of alliance between Shara and Balladyn shows the difficulties and the dangerousness of the sets of powers. There is obviously all the part centered on Ulrik, his next movements. Everything becomes more and more complex in this opus and we will not complain about it.
Donna Grant has succeeds in holding us in breath to the last page with bounces and with the shovel, expected or not. But also by introducing new characters and the evolutions of the others, which make the things more scheming. It's a pity that I must expect 2015 to have Rhys book… Dark Kings is a series which I adore and who is, for me, inevitable this year. If there is a new paranormal series to read this year, it is this one!
Kiril is a dragon which we saw a little until now, but he seemed more open and tolerant than the others, a little like his best friend Rhys. We understood immediately that he cares a lot about his kind, that he is ready to do everything to conclude his mission and especially to find Rhi. Unfortunately for him, or not, he will encounter a splendid enemy on the way. It's at Shara side that he really will be revealed, let us see certain attractive facets of his personality. But he is also one of the revolving parts of the general intrigue and how the things will become complicated once more.
Shara is on her side, and by far, most interesting, complex and captivating than the female protagonists of the series. We discover the life of Dark Fae since her point of view. We are, on several occasions, astonishes with her past, her ambitions, her desires, her choices. She is characters attaching, whom we can only love and support. Because in spite of her appearance and her entourage, Shara fights more for the rigthness than for another thing. Unfortunately she will have to make many sacrifices and become hardened in order to obtain what she wants.
The others principals characters are Balladyn, Con and Ulrik. Those three fight for the same thing: Rhi. Rhi becomes irremediably darker, depressive after all that arrived to her and I am in a hurry to see more of her thereafter. Con appears more human, less hard and manipulator. Whereas on the contrary, Ulrik does not stick any more to his victime's image, he passes to the offensive and in a rather aggressive way. When in Balladyn side, we starts to know him now, and yet, he astonishes us with the wire by the chapters, although certain revelations were expected.
The intrigue turns primarily around the war between the dragons and Dark Faes, which becomes more violent and more open. They do not make any more the things in lace and there will be victims. It should be said that this book is really rhythmed, because we follows several intrigues at the same time. There is, of course, the lovestory between Kiril and Shara, which is in the center of all. It is boiling between these two but not only that. They will have to cope with many a priori and obstacles in order to be happy together. There are then the war in Dark Fae world. The choice of alliance between Shara and Balladyn shows the difficulties and the dangerousness of the sets of powers. There is obviously all the part centered on Ulrik, his next movements. Everything becomes more and more complex in this opus and we will not complain about it.
Donna Grant has succeeds in holding us in breath to the last page with bounces and with the shovel, expected or not. But also by introducing new characters and the evolutions of the others, which make the things more scheming. It's a pity that I must expect 2015 to have Rhys book… Dark Kings is a series which I adore and who is, for me, inevitable this year. If there is a new paranormal series to read this year, it is this one!
February 2, 2015
Burning Desire is the 3rd book in the Dark Kings Series. With Hal, Guy, Banan, Kellan, and Tristan mated, oit was only a matter of time before Con's attempt at blocking out the ability to have deep feelings for another would break apart a little further... Only this time, it's different...
She's not human.. She SHOULD be an enemy. But from the second that he gazed into her blood red eyes.. Kiril was in for a hell of a ride. Shara, Kiril and fate all had different plans, multiple times for Shara and Kiril.. haha! Who won> You find out soon enough through reading but not until after Donna sends you through a couple tunnels and loopy upside down twists causing you to feel the world spinning out from under these two!
Shara is a Dark Fae. Born into one of the most powerful and strongest Dark Fae families known to their kind. Though, she's not always been their idea of a model daughter. But when her family needed someone to help them gain more power and attempt becoming legend within the Fae realm, it was Shara who was sent out. Sent to seduce. To trick. To toy with none other than a Kiril, a formidable Dragon King. But she couldn't resist the plans that fate had in store for her...
Kiril is only still IN Ireland because of Rhi's being kidnapped. He knows she would help if it was one of them, and he intends on making sure that she doesn't stay with the Dark Fae anymore time than has already passed. Rhi deserved no less in return for what she had done for his bretheren countless times already. Kiril didn't expect to get lost in red eyes, awestruck by long coal black hair, and he surely didn't expe ct most of what happened to him thoughout this book! Kiril, as many other kings are currently and previously, was in denial as well... LOL
So, I think that my favorite part of this book was the meeting Usaiel had with the Kings. Watching Shara change her fate by standing up for herself, not only with Balladyn, but her family as well. and OH the twist!! Oh, Emm, Gee!! I got all teary-eyed when she looked in the mirror!!
At the end of this book, I can say a few things about how I feel...
1.) I'm so "awwwwww" for the newly mated couple ^_^
2.) I still don't trust Kiril, but I no longer think he was Rhi's Dragon Lover.. I don't know why, but I think it's someone we may not have been introductd in depth to yet. I'm sure all will come out in the wash, but I am so on the edge, i can't wait!! I think Ulrik has an ace up his sleeve and he's waiting for the exact right point to start laying down cards. I don't think he will do it all at once though. I think that his intent will trickle down a little at a time and feed us just as much information as we need to get to the next book leaving all us Donnaddicts gasping for air and begging for more! :)
3.) I'm worried. Worried about Rhys, and Rhi as well. As for Rhys, I'm scared that Ulrik is going to get to him. I also am afraid that whatever's inside of him from the battle is going to break him down slowly... On second note.. I wonder why nobody thought to drink Phelan's blood and try if it'd work.. jussayin.. lol (But where's the fun in an instant coffee heal hmm?) I didn't like the first outburst Rhi had, and I sure as hell didn't like the second. It made me fear that she's not going to be that same bubbly "poke the bear(Con)" Fae we have come to know and love anymore. I hope I am wrong, but again, the only way to find out is to keep reading... right?
I give this book 5 out of 5 shields!!
She's not human.. She SHOULD be an enemy. But from the second that he gazed into her blood red eyes.. Kiril was in for a hell of a ride. Shara, Kiril and fate all had different plans, multiple times for Shara and Kiril.. haha! Who won> You find out soon enough through reading but not until after Donna sends you through a couple tunnels and loopy upside down twists causing you to feel the world spinning out from under these two!
Shara is a Dark Fae. Born into one of the most powerful and strongest Dark Fae families known to their kind. Though, she's not always been their idea of a model daughter. But when her family needed someone to help them gain more power and attempt becoming legend within the Fae realm, it was Shara who was sent out. Sent to seduce. To trick. To toy with none other than a Kiril, a formidable Dragon King. But she couldn't resist the plans that fate had in store for her...
Kiril is only still IN Ireland because of Rhi's being kidnapped. He knows she would help if it was one of them, and he intends on making sure that she doesn't stay with the Dark Fae anymore time than has already passed. Rhi deserved no less in return for what she had done for his bretheren countless times already. Kiril didn't expect to get lost in red eyes, awestruck by long coal black hair, and he surely didn't expe ct most of what happened to him thoughout this book! Kiril, as many other kings are currently and previously, was in denial as well... LOL
So, I think that my favorite part of this book was the meeting Usaiel had with the Kings. Watching Shara change her fate by standing up for herself, not only with Balladyn, but her family as well. and OH the twist!! Oh, Emm, Gee!! I got all teary-eyed when she looked in the mirror!!
At the end of this book, I can say a few things about how I feel...
1.) I'm so "awwwwww" for the newly mated couple ^_^
2.) I still don't trust Kiril, but I no longer think he was Rhi's Dragon Lover.. I don't know why, but I think it's someone we may not have been introductd in depth to yet. I'm sure all will come out in the wash, but I am so on the edge, i can't wait!! I think Ulrik has an ace up his sleeve and he's waiting for the exact right point to start laying down cards. I don't think he will do it all at once though. I think that his intent will trickle down a little at a time and feed us just as much information as we need to get to the next book leaving all us Donnaddicts gasping for air and begging for more! :)
3.) I'm worried. Worried about Rhys, and Rhi as well. As for Rhys, I'm scared that Ulrik is going to get to him. I also am afraid that whatever's inside of him from the battle is going to break him down slowly... On second note.. I wonder why nobody thought to drink Phelan's blood and try if it'd work.. jussayin.. lol (But where's the fun in an instant coffee heal hmm?) I didn't like the first outburst Rhi had, and I sure as hell didn't like the second. It made me fear that she's not going to be that same bubbly "poke the bear(Con)" Fae we have come to know and love anymore. I hope I am wrong, but again, the only way to find out is to keep reading... right?
I give this book 5 out of 5 shields!!
November 10, 2017
I've been in such a paranormal mood that I dived right into the next of the Dark Kings novels as soon as I finished that last. And this one had a different twist that I was excited to read about.
To this point, the Dragon Kings have been drawn to human women but this story involves a Dragon King and a Dark Fae. Definitely different dynamics there. Add to that the worry about Ry. Her story seems to be unfolding a piece at a time in each book. Really want to know the answers for her.
The characters in this series continue to draw me. I loved Kiril at once though I was concerned about Shara. She a dark fae after all. But I ended up loving her too. I was intrigued with Shara's story. She's got compassion for humans that dark's don't have but she also wants very much to fit in with her dark fae family. Her being sent to her room for hundreds of years hasn't changed the fact that she wants to be accepted by them. But it becomes clear that to be accepted by her family, Shara would have to be someone she isn't. I found that a pretty profound story in a paranormal book.
I enjoy this dragon world and the series overarching story that continues through each book. I'm doubting some of the assumptions the kings are making about their enemies. I do wish this part of the story would move a bit faster. Oh course, if it did, there might not be as many books. Sigh. But I want to know what's up with Rhys. It's making me crazy.
The writing is good and the story sometimes went in directions I wasn't expecting. Both good things. I've been listening to the audiobooks and the narrator isn't my favorite but I do enjoy his accent. Definitely jumping into the next book and probably the one after that. Gonna devour them all and then be waiting impatiently for more.
If you enjoy paranormal, then this is a great story with hot protective guys!
To this point, the Dragon Kings have been drawn to human women but this story involves a Dragon King and a Dark Fae. Definitely different dynamics there. Add to that the worry about Ry. Her story seems to be unfolding a piece at a time in each book. Really want to know the answers for her.
The characters in this series continue to draw me. I loved Kiril at once though I was concerned about Shara. She a dark fae after all. But I ended up loving her too. I was intrigued with Shara's story. She's got compassion for humans that dark's don't have but she also wants very much to fit in with her dark fae family. Her being sent to her room for hundreds of years hasn't changed the fact that she wants to be accepted by them. But it becomes clear that to be accepted by her family, Shara would have to be someone she isn't. I found that a pretty profound story in a paranormal book.
I enjoy this dragon world and the series overarching story that continues through each book. I'm doubting some of the assumptions the kings are making about their enemies. I do wish this part of the story would move a bit faster. Oh course, if it did, there might not be as many books. Sigh. But I want to know what's up with Rhys. It's making me crazy.
The writing is good and the story sometimes went in directions I wasn't expecting. Both good things. I've been listening to the audiobooks and the narrator isn't my favorite but I do enjoy his accent. Definitely jumping into the next book and probably the one after that. Gonna devour them all and then be waiting impatiently for more.
If you enjoy paranormal, then this is a great story with hot protective guys!
November 23, 2014
Burning Desire is the 3rd book in the Dark Kings series by Donna Grant. This is Kiril’s story and I really enjoyed it. Kiril is a Dragon King and his love interest is Shara, a Dark Fae. The Dark Fae are enemies to the Dragon Kings. I always find it intriguing when an unlikely pairing comes together and this one doesn’t disappoint. Kiril was powerfully drawn to Shara even though he knew she was a Dark Fae sent to try and trap him. At least that was how it began, but Shara isn’t all bad and part of her rebels against the nature of the Dark Fae.
Burning Desire is a fast paced, interesting story set in a world that is both magical and dark. The romance was one I found myself rooting for. I liked Kiril and Shara and it was a joy to tag along on their journey to happily ever after. There is more than one storyline in play within this fantastical world that Donna Grant has created. We get teasing glimpses about Rhi and her mysterious Dragon King lover. I’ve had a theory from the beginning of the series of who it might be and I’m looking forward to eventually finding out if I’m right or if I’m totally off track. But, it looks like I’ll have to wait awhile longer to find out. It appears that Laith's story is next.
I really liked Burning Desire. The characters and the story held my attention and kept me intrigued for future stories. I cared about the characters and the world building drew me in. I look forward to future books. The Dark Kings series should be read in order as it has ongoing storylines.
I would recommend the entire Dark King series to fans of Paranormal Romance.
*ARC (Advanced Review Copy) received from St. Martin's Press via NetGalley.
Burning Desire is a fast paced, interesting story set in a world that is both magical and dark. The romance was one I found myself rooting for. I liked Kiril and Shara and it was a joy to tag along on their journey to happily ever after. There is more than one storyline in play within this fantastical world that Donna Grant has created. We get teasing glimpses about Rhi and her mysterious Dragon King lover. I’ve had a theory from the beginning of the series of who it might be and I’m looking forward to eventually finding out if I’m right or if I’m totally off track. But, it looks like I’ll have to wait awhile longer to find out. It appears that Laith's story is next.
I really liked Burning Desire. The characters and the story held my attention and kept me intrigued for future stories. I cared about the characters and the world building drew me in. I look forward to future books. The Dark Kings series should be read in order as it has ongoing storylines.
I would recommend the entire Dark King series to fans of Paranormal Romance.
*ARC (Advanced Review Copy) received from St. Martin's Press via NetGalley.
October 1, 2014
In his quest to destroy the Dark Fae, Kiril goes to Ireland as a spy, what he finds is an enemy that he can’t stay away from. Trying to make things right with her family, Shara is supposed to seduce and trap the Dragon King, but she discovers an attraction that knows no bounds. They will have to decide who their real enemy is in this thrilling paranormal romance.
This fast paced and smooth flowing plot captivates readers with lots of suspense, action and romance. The author brings the story to life with well written scenes and details that capture the imagination and the strong compelling characters draw the reader deeper into the story, while the believable action scenes add excitement and ensure that there is never a dull moment.
The attraction that Kiril and Shara feel for each other is undeniable, but the relationship has a major obstacle, they are on opposite sides of the coming war. The reader can’t help but get caught up in all the emotional drama that surrounds the couple as they try to work through their feelings to decide if they can trust that what they feel is real and then if there is any way they could make a relationship work. Anticipation builds and keeps the reader on the edge of their seat as the danger escalates and the couple becomes caught up in the enemy’s snare.
This fascinating world gets better and better with every book and I was completely spellbound by this one from the very beginning. The series is full of enthralling characters and I can’t really decide which Dragon King is my favorite but Kiril just took a big chunk of my heart with this story and Shara definitely deserves her HEA with the sexy dragon. I can’t wait to read the next one and find out what happens next in the upcoming war.
This fast paced and smooth flowing plot captivates readers with lots of suspense, action and romance. The author brings the story to life with well written scenes and details that capture the imagination and the strong compelling characters draw the reader deeper into the story, while the believable action scenes add excitement and ensure that there is never a dull moment.
The attraction that Kiril and Shara feel for each other is undeniable, but the relationship has a major obstacle, they are on opposite sides of the coming war. The reader can’t help but get caught up in all the emotional drama that surrounds the couple as they try to work through their feelings to decide if they can trust that what they feel is real and then if there is any way they could make a relationship work. Anticipation builds and keeps the reader on the edge of their seat as the danger escalates and the couple becomes caught up in the enemy’s snare.
This fascinating world gets better and better with every book and I was completely spellbound by this one from the very beginning. The series is full of enthralling characters and I can’t really decide which Dragon King is my favorite but Kiril just took a big chunk of my heart with this story and Shara definitely deserves her HEA with the sexy dragon. I can’t wait to read the next one and find out what happens next in the upcoming war.
September 29, 2014
Kiril is a Dragon King and one of the most powerful ones at that. He goes to Ireland, into the nest of his greatest enemies, the Dark alone to try and locate a kidnapped friend. There is he seduced by a Dark named Shara, a woman who belongs to one of the most influential families. She was punished for six hundred years for a mistake she made and now that she is released, she must complete a mission to try and gain the respect of her family once again. The mission involves seducing the Dragon King, Kiril so that they can capture him.
Interestingly, Kiril knows that she is his enemy and takes her out to dinner anyways. It begins a little romance between the two, yet Shara isn’t done with her family. Another character enters that complicates things a little bit and that’s when the book truly takes off.
As usual, many of the past characters are involved in the story as well, playing important parts even as their books and romances have been told. I really enjoy that about this series because after forming a bond with those characters, it’s always nice to see them again as well as get an update on their lives after their HEA.
BURNING DESIRE is a solid iinstallmentto the Dark Kings series. With fiery passion at its finest, this book does not disappoint!
*ARC provided by publisher
August 5, 2014
Powerful.....Icy and down right sinful.... What more would you want, oh wait how about a sexy scottish Dragon king? In Donna Grants third
Installment of the Dragon Kings series we have Burning Desire, here we learn more about the enticing Dragon King Kiril, whom has decided to remain in Ireland to spy on the Dark Fae, his mission? To learn as much as he can without being caught by the evil beings, but what Kiril doesn't plan for is the alluring sensual Shara Blackwood to appear and calm the beast within. With the Dark closing in and Shara torn between her dragon king and her dark fae family, things heat up and emotions are sizzling, Donna Grant delivers one amazing story and still manages to keep some secrets for the next Installment in this captivating series.
I received a complimentary copy of the book as gift from Donna Grant in exchange for an honest review.
Installment of the Dragon Kings series we have Burning Desire, here we learn more about the enticing Dragon King Kiril, whom has decided to remain in Ireland to spy on the Dark Fae, his mission? To learn as much as he can without being caught by the evil beings, but what Kiril doesn't plan for is the alluring sensual Shara Blackwood to appear and calm the beast within. With the Dark closing in and Shara torn between her dragon king and her dark fae family, things heat up and emotions are sizzling, Donna Grant delivers one amazing story and still manages to keep some secrets for the next Installment in this captivating series.
I received a complimentary copy of the book as gift from Donna Grant in exchange for an honest review.
September 13, 2014
Kiril I loved him, "the operative word is try, sweetheart." He's really caring and he cares for Shara, "other things that they will do to you to break me. They will bring you in to see if I give any response. I wouldno, but they will keep trying. I doona know how long I could hold back seeing harmed. As soon as I do, they'll do whatever's needed to try and break me." He is kind of conservative and well I personally just think he doesn't want anyone else seeing his woman naked, "he wanted to stip her right there and fill her. What stopped him were his brethren flying around and watching them." This book was an okay read it sometimes got confusing because there were just to many point of views.
July 17, 2014
Thanks netgalley for a free read in exchange for a review. I loved it! Five awesome stars. So many questions and so little answers. This book was so exciting, all the action, and the chemistry between characters.......unbelievable. I devoured this book. Why won't anyone tell us who Rhi's dragon king lover is.....aaaaugh! I'm betting on Con but it's aggravating. I thought Shara was an exceptional character, and the lore of the dark Fae really increased the world building in this book. So many misconceptions, and they all boiled down to an unbelievable climax. Thanks so much for allowing me this title.
September 9, 2016
Well this was a up all night to finish. Loved Kiril's character and the situation he found himself in. I'm loving the world state of this series and the heroes and heroines. Can't wait to read more of this series.
May 12, 2016
THis book is AMAZING!!!! I am in Love with this series... it is a MUST read!!! Thank You DG for an amazing story!!
August 16, 2015
Can't wait for the next one
August 22, 2016
3.5 stars. The story arc is getting much more interesting now...
July 30, 2019
Loved it.
February 8, 2019
3.5-4 stars - Paranormal Romance
June 14, 2021
“It was just the two of them.
He wasn’t a Dragon King.
And she wasn’t a Dark Fae.
They were a man and a woman, desire thick between them.” - Chapter 2, Burning Desire
If the hero and heroine weren’t a factor when rating this book, I would’ve given it 4 stars. I didn’t dislike them but I didn’t feel a connection as a reader nor did I feel any real romance between them. Dragon King Kiril was lacking character development and so I didn’t really get to know him well enough. Dark Fae Shara I liked marginally better but she wasn’t a strong female lead character. Steamy times were definitely sizzling but also of the ‘hard and fast’ variety whereas I personally prefer more sensual scenes.
Initially I wasn’t sure how a romantic relationship between a Dark King and a Dark Fae would work considering they are seen as enemies. However, it became apparent that Shara’s situation is comparable to that of Isla or Aisley, two Druids introduced in the previous Dark Sword/Dark Warrior series. Although both heroines were technically ‘droughs’ (dark druids), they were eventually accepted as ‘mies’ (good druids) because the ‘drough’ ceremony had been forced upon them against their will. Evil had no claim on the Druids as they truly possessed goodness in their hearts, evident as they had redeemed themselves and proved their worth time and again. Shara Blackwood seems to be in a similar predicament, the difference being that she’s not turned but born into a Dark Fae family and, therefore, ignorant of the fact that her bloodline isn’t necessarily a predictor of her destiny. Understandable, due in large part to the untruths that Shara is told by those around her, not to mention the harsh disciplinary punishments meted out to her for essentially not properly fulfilling her role as a Dark Fae should.
As for all other aspects of the story - Balladyn, the attempted rescue of Rhi, Ulrik’s suspected involvement with the Dark Fae and MI5, Queen of the Light Usaeil’s more prominent role in this book, Constantine’s secrets, the ever present suspense and action, the Warriors and Dark Kings once again combining forces, and everything else in between - I thoroughly enjoyed. I also found a parallel between the unusual wound Rhys sustained near the end of the book with the near fatal injury that Warrior Charon Bruce survived in ‘Midnight’s Kiss’ and continued as part of Charon’s story in ‘Midnight’s Captive’. As with the Warrior, the Dragon King had a hard time healing, raising questions as to who was responsible for such an injury that seems so ‘other’.
Despite a rocky start, at this point I find myself entrenched in the Dark Kings world and look forward to the next novel in the series. Especially because of three words that continue to remain a mystery.
Dark King lover.
He wasn’t a Dragon King.
And she wasn’t a Dark Fae.
They were a man and a woman, desire thick between them.” - Chapter 2, Burning Desire
If the hero and heroine weren’t a factor when rating this book, I would’ve given it 4 stars. I didn’t dislike them but I didn’t feel a connection as a reader nor did I feel any real romance between them. Dragon King Kiril was lacking character development and so I didn’t really get to know him well enough. Dark Fae Shara I liked marginally better but she wasn’t a strong female lead character. Steamy times were definitely sizzling but also of the ‘hard and fast’ variety whereas I personally prefer more sensual scenes.
Initially I wasn’t sure how a romantic relationship between a Dark King and a Dark Fae would work considering they are seen as enemies. However, it became apparent that Shara’s situation is comparable to that of Isla or Aisley, two Druids introduced in the previous Dark Sword/Dark Warrior series. Although both heroines were technically ‘droughs’ (dark druids), they were eventually accepted as ‘mies’ (good druids) because the ‘drough’ ceremony had been forced upon them against their will. Evil had no claim on the Druids as they truly possessed goodness in their hearts, evident as they had redeemed themselves and proved their worth time and again. Shara Blackwood seems to be in a similar predicament, the difference being that she’s not turned but born into a Dark Fae family and, therefore, ignorant of the fact that her bloodline isn’t necessarily a predictor of her destiny. Understandable, due in large part to the untruths that Shara is told by those around her, not to mention the harsh disciplinary punishments meted out to her for essentially not properly fulfilling her role as a Dark Fae should.
As for all other aspects of the story - Balladyn, the attempted rescue of Rhi, Ulrik’s suspected involvement with the Dark Fae and MI5, Queen of the Light Usaeil’s more prominent role in this book, Constantine’s secrets, the ever present suspense and action, the Warriors and Dark Kings once again combining forces, and everything else in between - I thoroughly enjoyed. I also found a parallel between the unusual wound Rhys sustained near the end of the book with the near fatal injury that Warrior Charon Bruce survived in ‘Midnight’s Kiss’ and continued as part of Charon’s story in ‘Midnight’s Captive’. As with the Warrior, the Dragon King had a hard time healing, raising questions as to who was responsible for such an injury that seems so ‘other’.
Despite a rocky start, at this point I find myself entrenched in the Dark Kings world and look forward to the next novel in the series. Especially because of three words that continue to remain a mystery.
Dark King lover.
July 13, 2017
Title: Burning Desire - Dark Kings Book 3
Author: Donna Grant
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Published: 9-30-1024
Pages: 320
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Sub-Genre: Shifters; Dragons;
ISBN: 9781250060709
ASIN: B01OMZEC5G
Reviewed For NetGalley and St. Martin's Press
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: Stars
The Dark Kings have fought for centuries to preserve their dragon magic. But can one warrior resist the greatest temptation of all?
A DESIRE THIS POWERFUL
In his quest to destroy the Dark Fae—his nemesis—the Dragon King known as Kiril goes to Ireland as a spy. When a gorgeous, mysterious woman tries to seduce him, Kiril instantly sees through her glamour to the Dark Fae beneath. Shara isn’t just any Dark; she’s from one of the most powerful bloodlines—and despite the dangers, Kiril can’t stay away from her. He’s enthralled by her smile, enslaved by the undeniable passion…
IS A WAR WORTH FIGHTING FOR
Shara has one chance to make things right with her family—and to prove her worth. It seemed like such an easy mission…until she actually meets Kiril. His charm, his sexual magnetism is too much for her to ignore. Shara knows that falling into Kiril’s arms can bring her nothing but trouble. Yet she discovers an inner strength she didn’t know she had…and an attraction that knows no bounds. But is her desire for Kiril worth the risk of eternal doom for them both?
Kiril & Shara come from two different fractions of the war. Shara is sent to bring Kiril down but instead falls for Kiril and eventually must decide which path to follow. Stay loyal to the Dark Fae, a people who had tortured and kept her imprisoned, or tell all to Kiril and hope for a possible future with him?
With well developed characters and scenes so well described the reader can picture them in their mind's eye. I like to see the characters and scenes come to life. Imagine a place inhabited by dragons, Fae and other supernatural beings.. I wouldn't want to live there, but I sure would like to visit from time to time.
My rating of "Burning Desire - Dark Kings Book 3" is 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B010MZEC5G/...
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Author: Donna Grant
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Published: 9-30-1024
Pages: 320
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Sub-Genre: Shifters; Dragons;
ISBN: 9781250060709
ASIN: B01OMZEC5G
Reviewed For NetGalley and St. Martin's Press
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: Stars
The Dark Kings have fought for centuries to preserve their dragon magic. But can one warrior resist the greatest temptation of all?
A DESIRE THIS POWERFUL
In his quest to destroy the Dark Fae—his nemesis—the Dragon King known as Kiril goes to Ireland as a spy. When a gorgeous, mysterious woman tries to seduce him, Kiril instantly sees through her glamour to the Dark Fae beneath. Shara isn’t just any Dark; she’s from one of the most powerful bloodlines—and despite the dangers, Kiril can’t stay away from her. He’s enthralled by her smile, enslaved by the undeniable passion…
IS A WAR WORTH FIGHTING FOR
Shara has one chance to make things right with her family—and to prove her worth. It seemed like such an easy mission…until she actually meets Kiril. His charm, his sexual magnetism is too much for her to ignore. Shara knows that falling into Kiril’s arms can bring her nothing but trouble. Yet she discovers an inner strength she didn’t know she had…and an attraction that knows no bounds. But is her desire for Kiril worth the risk of eternal doom for them both?
Kiril & Shara come from two different fractions of the war. Shara is sent to bring Kiril down but instead falls for Kiril and eventually must decide which path to follow. Stay loyal to the Dark Fae, a people who had tortured and kept her imprisoned, or tell all to Kiril and hope for a possible future with him?
With well developed characters and scenes so well described the reader can picture them in their mind's eye. I like to see the characters and scenes come to life. Imagine a place inhabited by dragons, Fae and other supernatural beings.. I wouldn't want to live there, but I sure would like to visit from time to time.
My rating of "Burning Desire - Dark Kings Book 3" is 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B010MZEC5G/...
B&N Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/burn...
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
The Reading Room Link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
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