Darkest Temptation (The Dark Ones)

Losing a mate has shaped the way that Mason leads his life. Shunning the status of King to his fellow wolves, and trying his hardest to ignore urges that clearly are not suited to his kind. It’s a battle that rages in the depths of Mason’s soul. A fight that he is slowly losing.

When Serenity comes into Mason’s life, the urges that he has pushed aside begin to fight to the surface. Healing Serenity is only the beginning. Mason quickly finds himself drawn to the vampire in ways that a wolf should never discover. Causing the rest of the ‘family’ to realize that Mason is hiding from much more than his tainted past.

What a tangled web of intrigue surrounds Mason and Serenity. Both learning that secrets surround their every move. A fate that neither could predict will shape the course of the future. Bringing with it a future that will alter a destiny that was inevitable.

Darkest Temptation is the latest installment in the Dark Ones Saga. An unexpected journey that was only fitting for the King of the Wolves. Fans of the series will follow the path between good and evil through Mason’s revelations. The only question is which side will prevail….the light or the darkness??

Mason is a werewolf King who stepped down when he lost his mate. Serenity is a vampire who was found badly beaten and she was taken to the Immortals home. From the first interaction with these two, you can see that there is a long and painful past between them. Mason is battling the monster within himself but just can’t stay away from Serenity.

“His bark, I imagined, was just about as bad as his bite - worse, since he was a healer.”

All of the books in this series have featured a different couple with an interconnected storyline. While Darkest Temptation is a stand-alone, it is recommended that you read the first 3 books to fully understand the storyline.

Rachel has me addicted to this paranormal romance series. This is coming from someone who isn’t necessarily a fan of the genre. She pulls you in with her words and holds you there by her storylines. Everything flows seamlessly, along with the “original” cast of characters along with the introduction of a few new characters, makes this series a definite must-read for fans of the genre and Rachel.

Darkest Temptation is the latest installment of The Dark Ones series. For those of us who are fans of the series, we've been waiting for Mason's story! Mason is the definition of the secretive, sexy, tortured, brooding man that we all have a soft spot for. Mason has been blaming himself for many years since he lost his human mate. Mason lives a life void of all pleasure, even down to his diet of pinecones and berries. When a mysterious Vampire girl named Genesis is taken into the home of the Immortals for healing and protection, Mason is appointed to mate with her. Upon meeting and healing her wounds, Mason's dormant blood lust is triggered and opens up a mystery to his past that will impact his position in the wolf pack and the war with the fallen angels. While exploring Mason's mysterious past, Genesis finds answers to the visions that have haunted her her whole life. Can Mason move past his guilt from the past and allow himself to move on with someone else? Will his mysterious connection to Genesis, and the subsequent blood lust, derail his path, or strengthen him in ways he never knew?

My sweet, troubled, pine-cone and berry eating Mason. Watcher of The Bachelor and Disney Movies. He has always been my favorite and I can honestly, one hundred percent say without fail that Rachel Van Dyken has given Mason the story that he deserves. There were a lot of assumptions made by the reader going into this book on Mason's story, the little that has been fed to us throughout the previous stories and what we had been led to expect. But you know what they say about assumptions, and I've got to say that RVD has made Mason's story my absolute favorite. The life he's lived, the things he's seen, his struggles, and now it's time for his love story.

Superb writing kept me glued to the pages and I was like a junkie needing my next fix. This. Mason's and Serenity's story is the ultimate love story and I am truly amazed once again by the fact that RVD creates these characters that flow so easily off the pages and into your heart. I. Loved. It. And I honestly didn't think I could adore Mason more but found myself becoming more and more endeared to him as the chapters passed.

As I remember the first three books in this series, I am very upset to see that it seems like something was lost along the way in this one. And just as unfortunate for the reader, although there is a beginning, a middle and an end to this story, without having read the first three in the series, I feel as though a new to the series reader would be utterly lost. They just won't be able to grasp not only the characters, but what is truly going on in the story.

As it was, I found myself at times more than a little lost. I know who the characters are, I know what they are. So when bloodlines begin to cross, as in people are said to have wolf/vampire/angel blood and vampire/goddess blood for example, it becomes really confusing. And to be quite honest, it seems like even the author forgot what she was doing and tried to fit too much into one story. Don't get me wrong, I typically really enjoy Rachel's books, and when this series first began it was one of my favorite paranormal series. But I feel like the more time has gone on, the less true to "its roots" this story has gotten. It feels less original and more... fan fiction.

The romance between Mason and Serenity again felt a bit rushed. It seemed like they went from enemies, (or at least people who didn't care for each other), to lovers too quickly. Even though I can completely understand the "soulmate" aspect and one person being destined for you, I still am selfish and I want to see the romance evolve.

The ending was.... dang. On one hand there are some aspects that may turn people off as being "religious" (unfortunately I can't say much because of spoilers), I also feel like it was unnecessary. It felt like it tied up most of the previous plot, while opening it up for another book. And honestly? I don't see how the author can pull another story into this series and still keep it fresh and interesting. I guess I will just have to wait and see what she has up her sleeve!

Overall, I am sure this story will appeal those who enjoy paranormal stories. I would read more from this author.

DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.

This series just gets better and better. I think it is funny that my two absolute favorite series by Rachel Van Dyken (This and The Eagle Elite series) both had first books that were not my favorites. Both books were good in their own right but still were not favorites of mine and yet here we are on book four and I cannot stop singing the praises for The Dark Ones Saga, not to mention the ton of books in the Eagle Elite series which I love with all my soul.

Mason and Serenity’s story is emotional and heartfelt. From the moment we met the broken hearted, pinecone eating werewolf in The Dark Ones I have been desperate to get the story of the wolf who lost his mate. I knew it would be hard since wolves don’t usually mate but one and for life but I had no idea the depth and heart that would fill these pages.

If you want a story that will touch your heart while making you smile (with the trademark Rachel Van Dyken wit) then grab this one. It doesn’t matter if you are reading it as a standalone or as part of the series you won’t regret reading it!

5 Star Review by Jodi

I love Rachel Van Dyken. She is one of my favorite authors. I hate to say this, but I have only read things from her as a Contemporary author, never a Paranormal author...until now. Rachel knocked it out of the park with Darkest Temptation.

I'm newer to Paranormal romance. I find some books harder to get into than others, but I had no issues with Darkest Temptation. The whole idea behind the story was amazing. Wolf and Vampire meet. Wolf falls for Vampire. I love Mason and Serenity. They have such great chemistry. I was rooting for them the whole time. Mason has had enough heartache and it was time for him to have something good in his life. 

Darkest Temptation was my first book of this series to read. I have already one-clicked the first book and will be getting the second and third books soon. I really loved Darkest Temptation. And can I just add...I have no idea how Rachel Van Dyken does it, but every book she writes is amazing. 

In this series of standalones from The Dark Ones Saga, we meet Mason King of The Wolves, and Serenity a vampire. I really enjoyed this book I was pulled into the action straight away and had to read this in one go. At one time I only read paranormal romance, but I’ve given it a break for a few years except for select authors.
So I was really pleased to see this series from Rachel because I enjoy her contemporaries. I am so glad I decided to read this series. As it so easy to read everything flows effortlessly that it becomes a joy to read.
Without giving anything away we have two broken people who begin to heal through their bond of love. It was an enthralling journey Serenity and Mason go on to become who they are meant to be.
I can’t recommend this enough, if you love paranormal you’ll love this. If you enjoy romance give it a go.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review

DARKEST TEMPTATION by Rachel Van Dyken is the Fourth book in The Dark Ones Saga. This is the story of Serenity and Mason. I haven't yet read the other books in this series, so for me this was a standalone book. Although I do wish I read the books in order since this one was so good and I would like to have more background on this series.
Mason we learned has lost his mate and he has taken it very hard. But he is starting to feel and want things he thinks he shouldn't want. Those feeling increase when he helps save Serenity. Serenity is a vampire where Mason is a wolf shifter. So the two should not be mates nor should they have the desire to do so...but that doesn't seem to be the case with them. They each have there own stuff to work through and Vampires an Wolves don't get along. But for how long can they fight the need to be together?
I really enjoyed having the chance to read their story...loved it!

I have been waiting patiently for Mason's story. I fell in love with Mason when we first met this group of friends in The Dark Ones. I am not usually a fan of the paranormal genre, but knowing Rachel's writing style and how I LOVE anything and everything she writes, I threw caution to the wind and said, "what the heck, why not."

From the other books in the series, I knew Mason's story was going to break my heart. I loved seeing WHY Mason acted the way he did, what made him make the decisions he did, why he felt the need to punish himself. I loved seeing Mason, the wolf, fall in love. I loved seeing Mason take back what was rightfully his.

I will be honest with you, there is a lot of back story that you MUST pay attention to. Rachel gives a lot of details on who each character came to be where they are in their lives. So PAY ATTENTION.

The highly much anticipated story of Mason was worth the wait. Rachel Van Dyken couldn’t have orchestrated a more perfect story line of a shape shifter werewolf and his chosen one, a vampire. Two complete different species and yet the electric charge and connection Mason felt for Serenity was an electric pulsating charge that made this romance and connection stand out. Darkest Temptation was a great blend of temptation, romance, and mystery. So if you are looking for a PNR that included every element of surprise, allure, and passion then this book is for you.

Mason, dear sweet, protective Mason. I was so looking forward to this book. Mason has been my favorite since the beginning of this series. It was so nice to get all the back ground on his story. I always felt so bad that his mate had died and he constantly tortured and denied himself because of that. Thankful Mason finds Serenity. Serenity is a great partner for Mason. She is strong and independent. This book has it all action, suspense, all while seeing these to characters fall for each other. We also get to see all the characters from the previous books in this one. I love how it all ends up tied together in the end and I can't wait for Timber's book. This book is a fast read. I couldn't put it down until I was done so don't start this book right before bed unless you plan on staying up until your done.

When his mate died Mason’s grief was inconsolable and he tries to hide his inner self. He doesn’t understand so how he expect others to understand so he chooses to live a solitary existence.

Serenity is a vampire who needs to heal and Mason is helping her with that endeavor however vampires and wolves don’t mate so why is he so drawn to her?

Mason fights his feelings for Serenity but some things are too strong to be denied and once all the secrets are revealed nothing ever be the same for either one of them?

I don’t read a lot of paranormal but for this author I made an exception and I am so glad I did. Their adventure is filled with laughs, twists but especially a connection that overrules everything. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

Review for Darkest Temptation

Darkest Temptation is the fourth book in The Dark Ones saga. The story focuses on Mason, the handsome, grumpy, pinecones and berry eating wolf and Serenity, the beautiful, timid, and insecure vampire.

Mason and Serenity are thrust together because it has been decreed that Mason must take a mate. Both are reluctant to seal their fates together. But as stones get unturned and the story begins to unravel, there is a truth that comes to the surface that no one was expecting.

Darkest Temptation is a well written story of grief, abandonment, fate, truth, and love. Rachel did a beautiful job of bringing Jason’s story to life and I look forward to the next installment.

*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.*

"Because when you lose your purpose, you lose your very soul."

This addition to The Dark Ones Saga is INTENSE. That's the main word that comes to mind. Mason's character is intense in this book, and it's cool to see him come completely undone by Serenity as opposed to his usual calm and peaceful demeanor. Mason and Serenity's relationship is so intensely passionate and adds to the heat of the story. Their situations and conflicts are intense, which I enjoyed; it was hard to put the book down. It spiked my heart rate with every turn of the page. This world that Rachel Van Dyken creates is so imaginative and detailed that I easily got lost in it. Loved it!

Darkest Temptation is book 4 in The Dark Ones Saga, although it can be read as a standalone I'd recommend reading the other books first.

This was a really amazing paranormal story, I guess I shouldn't be surprised because I’ve loved everything that I've read by this author so far. There's so many twists in this book, the characters are thrilling and loveable and yet some are scary at times. There's more to most of the characters than even they themselves know, and I loved being shocked speechless!

Can't wait for more from this series! Five stars!

Darkest Temptation had a good story plot and great characters. Rachel Van Dyken did a great job on this book. The story was well written. Mason and Serenity were great characters. They were perfect together. I enjoyed their journey. They had a strong connection and the chemistry was great. This is a good book. I enjoyed it. Thank you, Rachel Van Dyken. Great work :)

Rachel's mind is a magnificent wonder. She's wound not only a story, but an entire life of intricate tales that feels so much more than a mere Paranormal book. It feels like legend, myth, a deep rooted history that's been in this world since forever, and she continues to blow my mind as this series progresses. Never did I see Mason's story unveiled this way, but it's perfect, as if this was Rachel's plan for him from the very beginning, and I can't wait to see more of the Dark Ones unfold. Bring on TIMBER!

Oh Mason! Every since beginning this series I have needed Mason's story. He was so tortured The way he fights against his connection with Serenity, gosh. Could you not love him more? Their story is fast paced, and the way their stories are inter-connected is truly amazing. This could be read as a stand alone, but the relationships with the other characters are more enjoyable if you read their books first. Amazing job Rachel Van Dyken, as always!

Excellent addition to this series. I am so thankful our berry and pine cone beast got his own book!

Although this can be read all by itself, i think you get a better appreciation for who everyone is if you start at book 1, then you will grow attached to each person (character) in the series and love these books even more!

I have adore Mason from the beginning. He was the story I have anticipated most of all and it was so worth the wait. I like that you can read each book in this series as a stand-alone and all are 5 star books so you can read as you wish. This one is my favorite (as of now).

If I was to tell you what I would have imagined for Masons book I would have been so far off (which is why I’m a reader not a writer), it’s better! I never would have guessed at everything that came about. I not only was clueless to Mason but also Serenity’s story as well. It was just an amazing book. Great job Rachel. You’ve just added another one to my favorites list.

This book was amazing! The series just keeps getting better and better and I'm so glad mason got his happy ending! Darkest Temptation has everything you could want in a paranormal romance. It's emotional and sexy with some suspense thrown in. I can't recommend it enough!

Another amazing read from Miss Rachel Van Dyken. It seems I have been waiting forever for Masons story and as always she does not disappoint. This book will keep you on your toes I definitely recommend picking it up the first chance you get.

Excellent addition to this series. I am so thankful our berry and pine cone beast got his own book!

Although this can be read all by itself, i think you get a better appreciation for who everyone is if you start at book 1, then you will grow attached to each person (character) in the series and love these books even more!

I have adore Mason from the beginning. He was the story I have anticipated most of all and it was so worth the wait. I like that you can read each book in this series as a stand-alone and all are 5 star books so you can read as you wish. This one is my favorite (as of now).

If I was to tell you what I would have imagined for Masons book I would have been so far off (which is why I’m a reader not a writer), it’s better! I never would have guessed at everything that came about. I not only was clueless to Mason but also Serenity’s story as well. It was just an amazing book. Great job Rachel. You’ve just added another one to my favorites list.

This book was amazing! The series just keeps getting better and better and I'm so glad mason got his happy ending! Darkest Temptation has everything you could want in a paranormal romance. It's emotional and sexy with some suspense thrown in. I can't recommend it enough!

Another amazing read from Miss Rachel Van Dyken. It seems I have been waiting forever for Masons story and as always she does not disappoint. This book will keep you on your toes I definitely recommend picking it up the first chance you get.

I loved this book!! I always thought Mason was meant for greatness and so happy he found his one. He is my favorite immortal but love all the characters in the Dark Ones series. Can't wait to read what happens next.