Gathering Storm (Knights of Black Swan Book 5)

I've certainly enjoyed the Black Swan series, but this was the second book (after Moonlight) that had me getting irritated at what seemed like sloppy editing. Did we meet 2 or 3 versions of Storm? 1 or 2 versions of Angel? If 3, why was the third included at all? If 2, who did the eager woman in the bar hallway take vengeance on? Both replacement Angel and unnecessary-placeholder Angel seem to come from Halcyon Dimension in my copy (Kindle Unlimited). Chapters 7, 9, and 14 left me unable to settle back into that comfortable suspension of disbelief. I kept waiting for an explanation of a redundant snuff, and it never came. It simply seemed forgotten. Nevermind Hal apparently being familiar with Angel, and not doing a double take when Storm arrives. Perhaps a simple mistake of forgetting to rename a dimension.

Finally, have we completely forgotten what Litha did in her first job with Storm? She found someone snatched away into another dimension. Then, she accidentally tumbled across. Why couldn't her seeking abilities be put to use, combined with now being trained for the passes? I understand that this couldn't have been a story if she'd simply located and retrieved Storm the same way she located Katrina (sp?). I simply wish we had been offered a plausible explanation for why that original gift she exhibited was of no use, and that either the dimensions Angel was in were never named, or the placeholder Angel never came up (learning the Demon blood would make a difference was good, but forgetting that placeholder Angel came from Halcyon which was also where replacement Angel originated was hard for me to forgive).

Still enjoying the series. Danann's inventiveness with the different types of beings is fun and refreshing, and keeps me coming back for more. I just wish the editor was more on top of things. It may seem like I'm nitpicking, but these two issues proved to be huge stumbling blocks for this reader.

Victoria Danann has once again gifted us with an engaging continuation of her Order of the Black Swan series in book 5, "Gathering Storm"... I liken her ingenious writing style to a glass of fine wine.....you want to slowly savor it, to enjoy the way it coats your taste buds with its flavor and the pleasure you feel as it slides down your throat and warms you from the inside out...only to find yourself pouring another glass until the bottle is empty.....and you want more!
"Gathering Storm" was just that....a real page turning pleasure....the characters you have come to love are there, and we are introduced to ones we hope to know better in books yet to be written.
These books are so not your usual paranormal reads.....you rub elbows with sexy vampire slayers, vampire, aliens,demons, elfin hotties and breath taking witches....you fall in love with their humor, their love for one another,and even their sometimes crazy antics..."Great Paddy"!
If you haven't started reading the Order of the Black Swan series, you are truly missing out on a thrilling and exciting adventure!

Another great edition to a fantastic series! I have loved this series from the first book My Familiar Stranger to the just released Gathering Storm, which came out today, September 19th. The books must be read in order and it's quite a wild ride! Especially for a newer indie author Victoria Dannan has shown major writing chops as she continues to skillfully develop this incredible world of the Order of the Black Swan. Gathering Storm picks up shortly after Moonlight ends and again takes us in a direction that I never saw coming! This time around instead of a central romance, we are able to catch up with past favorite characters and enjoy watching them, their relationships and kids grow. I look forward to learning more about Z team in the next book (I hope!) but LOVED the addition of the teenage trainees. This book pulled me in in the beginning and never let go! It had everything: great dialogue, romance, action and surprises. It was laugh out loud funny in some areas while brought you to tears in others. Seriously cannot wait until the next installment!! And as My Familiar Stranger is permanently free on the store, you MUST check out this series!! I received a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review

"Gathering Storm" was an interesting and entertaining read. The reason I didn't give it 4 stars is because the author never explained how the "Lost" incident occurred, she never specified to which dimension our lost hero landed, she failed to make it clear exactly in which dimension and what time period certain crucial events took place, i.e. woman scorned shoots character in the face. I actually reread certain passages in an attempt to gain some clarity regarding the last two issues without success. It was something that as a reader I shouldn't have had to do, it was irritating and it was a waste of my time. For an author who has consistently focused on providing detailed descriptions, sometime irritatingly so, the lack of clarity on such an important plot thread/detail, to say the least, was frustrating.
Despite these short comings, I still managed to enjoy the story well enough. The plot was fairly imaginative and intriguing. The characters were likable and believable. However, I didn't find all the events surrounding Rosie completely feasible even for fiction. As usual, reading the story elicited a wide range of emotions, e.g. laughter, sadness, concern, sympathy, anger.... The lost of a one of my favorite "cornerstone" characters was both shocking and saddening. The storyline moved along at a faster pace than the last book. Just about all of the characters from previous books at least made an appearance. The story contained action, adventure, a wee bit of suspense, humor and romance. There are a couple of love scenes that some might consider explicit. Overall, it was a complimentary edition to the Series. Although, this last plots felt just a wee bit "thin", I do plan to read the next book.

You don't read Victoria's books, you experience them. The tapestry that Victoria has woven with these stories and people is so stunningly brilliant and at the same time rich with deep undertones that you can not help but fall in love.

Victoria's books get under your skin. They work their way into your heart and you fall in love...
in love with these honorable Knights and Ladies...
in love with the depth of love that is shared between husbands and wives...
in love with their too adorable babies...
in love with young men training and learning about honor...
in love with people who don't know the meaning of the word...

The honor of these Knights, and Knights in training, is astounding. I finished this book through a haze of tears that I was constantly batting away so I could continue reading about some of my most favorite characters... no people, to call them characters cheapens the experience.

Then before you know it they get into your head and make you think...
This book has me thinking about honor and what it means to me and what I have passed on to my own sons... I believe if my sons were transported to this dimension they would be right at home with the Black Swans (especially my second son). And this is another reason I love these books, when I have read the last page I am no where near done...

Now I am going to go blow my nose and dry my eyes and meditate some more on honor and bravery and love.

Once again Victoria Danann DOES NOT CEASE TO AMAZE. they fifth book in her series The Order Of The Black Swan, is the best one yet!

The journey that was started with My Familiar Stranger continues with Gathering Storm. (To truly enjoy this series you will want to read the books in order. 1. My Familiar Stranger, 2. The Witch's Dream, 3. A Summoner's Tale, 4. Moonlight, and last but not least 5. Gathering Storm)

As I finished reading Gathering Storm my first words were; "Wow! Blow me away!" This book took me on an emotional roller coaster ride. I laughed, I cried and even did both at the same time. All of my favorite characters are back along with some new ones. I loved seeing the way the relationships continue to grow and mature. This book was a fast paced page turner with action that does not seem to stop.

Come join us on the journey that Victoria Danann has so lovingly, wonderfully created. I know you will love it as much as her devoted readers do.

One of the strongest most emotional books I've ever read. While I have occasionally shed tears over small parts of one, this one had me emotionally involved from the very beginning. It's so hard to write a good review for this book that doesn't give anything away because I definitely don't want to lessen the impact on a new reader. It's definitely on my must read again list.

This was a book with many threads/story lines that twined through each other and impacted each other. It showed the impact that several people had on the lives of many that they contacted over time and the depth of that impact. One of the story lines also showed the truth of the Einstein quote: "Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results."

I strongly recommend reading Books 1 thru 4 of the series before reading this one as the story lines that are woven through the whole series are better understood.

I have read and thoroughly enjoyed each book in this series: the characters burrow into your head and heart, and each new book is like meeting old friends. While you certainly should read this series in order, you will not find it at all difficult: the characters are living, breathing beings who love, laugh and live with a solidity that feels real and present.

The fifth in the series, it picks up not long after the end of 4: each of the main characters is settling into family life with babies and family worries taking precedence. Ellora, Ram and Helm have returned to take up temporary living quarters at Jefferson Unit because the Raglenclan is still a threat, and the best place for them to be safe is within the Unit. There are big changes there as well, changing from a fight-training facility to one more heavily focused on Research, with only a small group of new trainees.

With Storm and Lithia new parents to their special daughter and living at their vineyard, until Storm finds himself stranded in another dimension and they team can't locate him. A story laden with alternate dimensions and action happening in each one, there are few moments when danger doesn't have potential to wreak havoc on our characters.

There are moments with each character that we have come to know, some laugh out loud funny, others will bring you to tears in this roller-coaster ride: the few moments of `quiet time' are full of perfectly developed interactions, emotions and conversation between characters that reinforce for the reader the loyalty and dependence these characters have developed with one another.

With each story Victoria Danann shows her skill for character development, dialogue and plotting: there are so many twists and turns, new characters to enjoy and new worlds to discover that there was never a dull moment: in fact it made this book an all in one sitting read, spurring my desire to go back and start the story from the beginning. This is how clever this series is: you are remembering bits and pieces from earlier stories with some input from the author, and some from your memory, yet you want to go back and see if somewhere, somehow, she left a clue to the events here.

I received an eBook copy from the author for purpose of honest review for Booked and Loaded. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

Victoria Danann is an author for the ages, creating scenes so real, so honestly hilarious one moment and heart breaking the next, readers find themselves completely immersed in Danann's world of breathtakingly sexy Knights and beautifully strong Ladies, all revolving within an intertwining universe that is uniquely her own.

Gathering Storm is a beautiful addition to the Black Swan series. All of our favorite characters are back as they get pulled, yet again, out of retirement to save one of their own. Throughout the novel, beautiful and intelligent Rosie is growing quickly and not in the way you'd expect, sexy werewolf Glen is under a lot of pressure as acting bossman and Elora is once again on the verge of losing it all.

Although at times hard to navigate, Gathering Storm is definitely one of my favorites in the series. All of the raw sexiness of novels past mixed with the emotional development and character building we have come to expect from Danann is delivered in spades. I loved the addition of young Knights throughout this story as well as the dimension exploration, each adding more heart strings to tug and a bit of extra intrigue in the setting Danann so carefully and poetically constructs.

I have been so looking forward to some sexy time with Glen and *spoiler alert* we finally get some! And man, after being dog watcher, Z-team escorter, and acting sovereign for the Black Swan Knights, he deserved a little tension release! ;)

Simply put, I don't know how Victoria Danann does it! Gathering Storm is amazingly creative, romantic and action-packed. It develops relationships both old and new while skillfully taking readers through dimensions, introducing us to new characters and setting us up for what I expect will be the sixth astounding addition to the Black Swan series. This series is a must-read for paranormal romance lovers everywhere - take the plunge, it's well worth it!

You don't read Victoria's books, you experience them. The tapestry that Victoria has woven with these stories and people is so stunningly brilliant and at the same time rich with deep undertones that you can not help but fall in love.

Victoria's books get under your skin. They work their way into your heart and you fall in love...
in love with these honorable Knights and Ladies...
in love with the depth of love that is shared between husbands and wives...
in love with their too adorable babies...
in love with young men training and learning about honor...
in love with people who don't know the meaning of the word...

The honor of these Knights, and Knights in training, is astounding. I finished this book through a haze of tears that I was constantly batting away so I could continue reading about some of my most favorite characters... no people, to call them characters cheapens the experience.

Then before you know it they get into your head and make you think...
This book has me thinking about honor and what it means to me and what I have passed on to my own sons... I believe if my sons were transported to this dimension they would be right at home with the Black Swans (especially my second son). And this is another reason I love these books, when I have read the last page I am no where near done...

Now I am going to go blow my nose and dry my eyes and meditate some more on honor and bravery and love.

*Highly recommend reading this series in order if you want to follow the storyline*

Victoria did exactly what I was praying for and fleshed out one of my emerging favorite characters. We get to watch Glen become a major player in the storyline and I loved every minute of it. His character really shines and we get to see what kind of man he is when the head of Jefferson Unit takes a vacation - and leaves the rookie in charge. Of course this is just setting up disaster and it strikes in several forms - Storm goes missing between dimensions, an invasions from another dimension out to assassinate Elora, and sweet little Rosie.

Sweet little Rosie is growing by leaps and bounds - literally. We get to watch her grow up - all the way and it's amazing how well Victoria Danann wrote this. She is another character that I know I am going to love as she works her way into the storyline.

A perfect addition to the fantastic series - book six is coming soon and I'm itching to get my hands on it.

Gathering Storm is the fifth installment of the Black swan Series. There is a lot going on at the Jefferson Unit. The Z team, a team of misfits, is being transferred to Jefferson unit. Young Glen is filling the shoes of Sovereign Sol while he learns what it is to actually take a vacation. Ram and Elora are living at Jefferson Unit with baby Helm. As for Storm and Litha...well, you dear reader will have to find that out for yourself!

I believe I have mentioned in previous reviews that I love the fact that although B company are now retired these wonderful characters are still a central part to the story. I have grown very fond of Elora, Ram, Storm, Baka and Kay I could not imagine a book without them there; Danann created some fascinating characters that any reader would be hesitant to let go of. Danann also introduces fresh blood with a more formal introduction of Zed Company. She gives just enough to pique the reader's curiosity with the hopes of seeing their stories in the future.

Danann starts off Gathering Storm with fascination and curiosity which builds into a story of frenzied excitement making it a read that is hard to put down. I won't go into great detail about the story because I want to save the surprise for the readers, but believe me when I say you will not be disappointed and the characters we have grown to love are here in full force. I thoroughly enjoy these books they are sexy, very exciting, but humorous moments makes them a really fun read.

Danann hits another one out of the park with Gathering Storm which in my opinion is a five star read. If you are new to the series, this is a continuing story and I highly recommend you start the series from book one. As luck would have it Danann has been generous and listed the first book My Familiar Stranger as a freebie! After reading Gathering Storm I am chomping at the bit to read the next book, and I can only hope Black Swan will be a long running series!

**Reviewed by Teresa D. for VampireRomanceBooks.com**

When I was little, Superman was my favorite because he was really the only superhero I knew. I was an only child, so I didn’t have an elder brother to show me the ropes of comic books. But then I got older and a family friend showed me the world of X-Men and I was a goner; Superman forgotten. I like my superheroes to be a bit on the dark side, you see, maybe a little tattered around the edges, but stark and strong and uncompromising.

Engel Storm is Superman. He stands unbowed in the face of whatever comes at him. He shines like the light to vanquish all darkness. And now that he can travel the passes with Litha, he can fly as well. I’ve always liked Stormy, he’s affable and effective and he always rises to the occasion. But I’ve never done anything more than just like him, really. I much prefer some of the more colorful characters in this series. Elora and Ram have been my favorites. I’ve got a hefty crush on Sol and Glen both. Kay and his affinity for disco just makes me giggle. I’ve already waxed poetic about how much I adore Baka. And now I’m utterly infatuated with sweet Rosie. The list goes on, but Storm has never really been on it.

Until now. Permit me a moment to publicly state that after this book, I am officially a giant fan of Engel Storm. Not because he shows a dark side in this book, but because he is so utterly possessed of such awe-inspiring grace in the face of, well, pretty much anything you could possibly imagine to put in front of him. He is Superman and I don’t think I’ve ever loved him more.

I can’t really tell you much about what happens in this book except that Elora is tested, yet again, against her heritage and those around her find new and previously unknown strength in the face of adversity in order to help protect her. We get to meet a new motley crew of Knights that are more than a little intriguing. And there is so much lost and so much gained.

This book is an epic song. It absolutely entranced me right from the start. You know those songs that reach in with fingers made of wishes and wrap around your heart and before you know it, you’re a different person with a different point of view? This book is one of those.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, probably every time I write a review for her, but Victoria Danann is brilliant and she has absolutely outdone herself with this book. To say that it’s gorgeous is vastly inadequate. To say that this is one of those books that I will want to keep with me, right up next to the skin, for the rest of my life, comes closer.

When elite Black Swan Knight, Sir Engel Storm, is lost in another dimension, he learns firsthand that there's really no place like home.

Gathering Storm is the fifth book in the Knights of Black Swan by Victoria Danann.

Litha, Storm's wife lost him. Yes she lost him in another dimension. And now she has to live with his double and raise his daughter all alone.
Don't get me wrong, the writing is great and I love the story, but Litha and I we don't klick.
I give 4 stars and can't wait for the next book in the series.

Victoria Danann is an author for the ages, creating scenes so real, so honestly hilarious one moment and heart breaking the next, readers find themselves completely immersed in Danann's world of breathtakingly sexy Knights and beautifully strong Ladies, all revolving within an intertwining universe that is uniquely her own.

Gathering Storm is a beautiful addition to the Black Swan series. All of our favorite characters are back as they get pulled, yet again, out of retirement to save one of their own. Throughout the novel, beautiful and intelligent Rosie is growing quickly and not in the way you'd expect, sexy werewolf Glen is under a lot of pressure as acting bossman and Elora is once again on the verge of losing it all.

Although at times hard to navigate, Gathering Storm is definitely one of my favorites in the series. All of the raw sexiness of novels past mixed with the emotional development and character building we have come to expect from Danann is delivered in spades. I loved the addition of young Knights throughout this story as well as the dimension exploration, each adding more heart strings to tug and a bit of extra intrigue in the setting Danann so carefully and poetically constructs.

I have been so looking forward to some sexy time with Glen and *spoiler alert* we finally get some! And man, after being dog watcher, Z-team escorter, and acting sovereign for the Black Swan Knights, he deserved a little tension release! ;)

Simply put, I don't know how Victoria Danann does it! Gathering Storm is amazingly creative, romantic and action-packed. It develops relationships both old and new while skillfully taking readers through dimensions, introducing us to new characters and setting us up for what I expect will be the sixth astounding addition to the Black Swan series. This series is a must-read for paranormal romance lovers everywhere - take the plunge, it's well worth it!

You don't read Victoria's books, you experience them. The tapestry that Victoria has woven with these stories and people is so stunningly brilliant and at the same time rich with deep undertones that you can not help but fall in love.

Victoria's books get under your skin. They work their way into your heart and you fall in love...
in love with these honorable Knights and Ladies...
in love with the depth of love that is shared between husbands and wives...
in love with their too adorable babies...
in love with young men training and learning about honor...
in love with people who don't know the meaning of the word...

The honor of these Knights, and Knights in training, is astounding. I finished this book through a haze of tears that I was constantly batting away so I could continue reading about some of my most favorite characters... no people, to call them characters cheapens the experience.

Then before you know it they get into your head and make you think...
This book has me thinking about honor and what it means to me and what I have passed on to my own sons... I believe if my sons were transported to this dimension they would be right at home with the Black Swans (especially my second son). And this is another reason I love these books, when I have read the last page I am no where near done...

Now I am going to go blow my nose and dry my eyes and meditate some more on honor and bravery and love.

*Highly recommend reading this series in order if you want to follow the storyline*

Victoria did exactly what I was praying for and fleshed out one of my emerging favorite characters. We get to watch Glen become a major player in the storyline and I loved every minute of it. His character really shines and we get to see what kind of man he is when the head of Jefferson Unit takes a vacation - and leaves the rookie in charge. Of course this is just setting up disaster and it strikes in several forms - Storm goes missing between dimensions, an invasions from another dimension out to assassinate Elora, and sweet little Rosie.

Sweet little Rosie is growing by leaps and bounds - literally. We get to watch her grow up - all the way and it's amazing how well Victoria Danann wrote this. She is another character that I know I am going to love as she works her way into the storyline.

A perfect addition to the fantastic series - book six is coming soon and I'm itching to get my hands on it.

Gathering Storm is the fifth installment of the Black swan Series. There is a lot going on at the Jefferson Unit. The Z team, a team of misfits, is being transferred to Jefferson unit. Young Glen is filling the shoes of Sovereign Sol while he learns what it is to actually take a vacation. Ram and Elora are living at Jefferson Unit with baby Helm. As for Storm and Litha...well, you dear reader will have to find that out for yourself!

I believe I have mentioned in previous reviews that I love the fact that although B company are now retired these wonderful characters are still a central part to the story. I have grown very fond of Elora, Ram, Storm, Baka and Kay I could not imagine a book without them there; Danann created some fascinating characters that any reader would be hesitant to let go of. Danann also introduces fresh blood with a more formal introduction of Zed Company. She gives just enough to pique the reader's curiosity with the hopes of seeing their stories in the future.

Danann starts off Gathering Storm with fascination and curiosity which builds into a story of frenzied excitement making it a read that is hard to put down. I won't go into great detail about the story because I want to save the surprise for the readers, but believe me when I say you will not be disappointed and the characters we have grown to love are here in full force. I thoroughly enjoy these books they are sexy, very exciting, but humorous moments makes them a really fun read.

Danann hits another one out of the park with Gathering Storm which in my opinion is a five star read. If you are new to the series, this is a continuing story and I highly recommend you start the series from book one. As luck would have it Danann has been generous and listed the first book My Familiar Stranger as a freebie! After reading Gathering Storm I am chomping at the bit to read the next book, and I can only hope Black Swan will be a long running series!

**Reviewed by Teresa D. for VampireRomanceBooks.com**

When I was little, Superman was my favorite because he was really the only superhero I knew. I was an only child, so I didn’t have an elder brother to show me the ropes of comic books. But then I got older and a family friend showed me the world of X-Men and I was a goner; Superman forgotten. I like my superheroes to be a bit on the dark side, you see, maybe a little tattered around the edges, but stark and strong and uncompromising.

Engel Storm is Superman. He stands unbowed in the face of whatever comes at him. He shines like the light to vanquish all darkness. And now that he can travel the passes with Litha, he can fly as well. I’ve always liked Stormy, he’s affable and effective and he always rises to the occasion. But I’ve never done anything more than just like him, really. I much prefer some of the more colorful characters in this series. Elora and Ram have been my favorites. I’ve got a hefty crush on Sol and Glen both. Kay and his affinity for disco just makes me giggle. I’ve already waxed poetic about how much I adore Baka. And now I’m utterly infatuated with sweet Rosie. The list goes on, but Storm has never really been on it.

Until now. Permit me a moment to publicly state that after this book, I am officially a giant fan of Engel Storm. Not because he shows a dark side in this book, but because he is so utterly possessed of such awe-inspiring grace in the face of, well, pretty much anything you could possibly imagine to put in front of him. He is Superman and I don’t think I’ve ever loved him more.

I can’t really tell you much about what happens in this book except that Elora is tested, yet again, against her heritage and those around her find new and previously unknown strength in the face of adversity in order to help protect her. We get to meet a new motley crew of Knights that are more than a little intriguing. And there is so much lost and so much gained.

This book is an epic song. It absolutely entranced me right from the start. You know those songs that reach in with fingers made of wishes and wrap around your heart and before you know it, you’re a different person with a different point of view? This book is one of those.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, probably every time I write a review for her, but Victoria Danann is brilliant and she has absolutely outdone herself with this book. To say that it’s gorgeous is vastly inadequate. To say that this is one of those books that I will want to keep with me, right up next to the skin, for the rest of my life, comes closer.

When elite Black Swan Knight, Sir Engel Storm, is lost in another dimension, he learns firsthand that there's really no place like home.

Gathering Storm is the fifth book in the Knights of Black Swan by Victoria Danann.

Litha, Storm's wife lost him. Yes she lost him in another dimension. And now she has to live with his double and raise his daughter all alone.
Don't get me wrong, the writing is great and I love the story, but Litha and I we don't klick.
I give 4 stars and can't wait for the next book in the series.

Gathering Storm is the fifth book in the series, and just like all of the previous books, it doesn't disappoint. In fact, Danann breaks away from her usual pattern of featuring one main couple falling in love. Instead she parallels multiple story threads evenly throughout the book, and romance doesn't play as heavy of a role as it has in the past.

I interpreted the book's title to indicate that the focus of this book would be about a central conflict affecting Storm, but I don't think his situation dominates the book. In many cases, there books tend to have one major plot and one or more subplots. I didn't see that happening here. Storm, Litha, Rosie, Elora, Glen, and the Z Team all face major struggles that are central to the plot's progression. Danann uses multiple POVs to develop the plot, and this can be tricky. Too many shifts in characters' POVs can cause confusion to the point that you can just end up with a muddled mess of a plot. However, Danann skillfully provides multiple perspectives in a way that doesn't disrupt the smooth flow of the story.

I experienced a range of emotions as I read the book, and if you have been following the series, there are some surprises in store for you. One of the biggest shockers deals with Litha and Storm's daughter Rosie. Another shocker is the arrival of Angel, a character who isn't very likable at first, but I enjoyed watching the physical and emotional changes he experiences in the new dimension he's found himself in. He certainly turns Litha's world upside down.

All of the characters stay true to their established personalities; Ram is just as charming as ever with his good natured teasing, and beautifully lilting accent that Danann voices so well. He's still and probably always will be my favorite knight. That may change, though, with the addition of the Z Team, an unruly group of knights who don't play well with others and have a reputation for going rogue.

Deliverance has also become a favorite character. I haven't really cared for him in the past. He was always amusing, but in this story, he is downright hilarious! Demon Daddy gets into so much trouble with his daughter, Litha, and even though the situation is grave, it's also funny as well.

The danger and action really kick in during the latter part of the book, and the drama is intense! Thank goodness the young knight-in-training Spaz is there to ease some of the tension. I will say that I think he could have a successful career as a DJ if things don't work out with the Black Swan Knights. He is "The Voice of the Fray" and plays a critical role when danger comes swooping in to the Jefferson Unit. His choice of music is clever (Victoria has a wicked sense of humor in putting the playlist together) even though it annoys the heck out of the B Team.

There are also some sad moments in the book as well, but I won't give them away.

Even though I really enjoyed the book, I was disappointed that the romance between certain couples wasn't as detailed and descriptive as I would have liked. I missed the flirting and descriptive scenes that lead to falling in love. I also wish the Z Team had played a more prominent role in the book, but I expect their characters will become more fully developed, and they will play a more significant role as the series continues.

I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Gathering Storm is the fifth book in the Black Knight Saga, and it’s as fun and exciting as books 1-4. Each book begins where the last book ends and each book is so unique.
Victoria has created many world in parallel dimensions, she has made it so much fun to see the small difference in each world. I loved traveling between the dimensions.
I am enjoying watching the heroes living their lives, falling in love, being married, having children and dealing with crazy, scary, sad adventures throughout this series.
There is never a dull moment it’s defiantly a roller coast ride, there is intense drama, loads of action, romance, and there are many moments of humor.

Gathering Storm, by Victoria Danann, is one of those rare books that can honestly draw a reader into the story and not let go. From the first page on, it was impossible to put down. Ever since the first book in the series, My Familiar Stranger, I've been addicted to the Order of the Black Swan series. The characters are delightful and enchanting, the stories and worlds are vast and full of adventure and intrigue. Gathering Storm just continues to build on that perfect platform.
Engel Storm is missing. He's lost in another dimension, courtesy of his beautiful wife's troublesome father, the demon Deliverance. And things are going crazy at Jefferson Unit. Everything is changing. Everything is in a state of upheaval. This is no time for one of the strongest knights in Black Swan history to be lost. To make matters worse, the notorious Z Team is in residence for the time being, and no one knows what kind of chaos they can cause. And there's another attempt on Elora's life. So I don't spoil the best parts of the story, I'll stop there. But this book has it all. A sexy as hell demon, gorgeous elves, a doppelganger, multiple dimensions, unearthly beautiful angels and more. What more can you ask for in a novel?

Book provided by author for review. No remuneration exchanged and all opinions presented herein are my own unless noted otherwise.

If you haven't read The Black Swan series you really, really should and as pointed out above, the first book in the series is free (the store, Barnes and Noble) so you can even check it out before you invest anything other than your time. I haven't been a huge fan of Indy or Self Publishing but Victoria and a couple other writers are converting me.

The Order of the Black Swan is a complex series set in an alternate world where a secret order of knights has worked to eradicate vampires. Recently, an alien has arrived from a different dimension and there are demons who can pass between one dimension and another at will. This is both helpful and problematic. The series centers on this order of knights, their adventures, lives and loves. It is highly recommended that you read the series in order, even though there is a synopsis of prior volumes at the start of this one.

This entire series swept me away; I was lost in its adventure, its unique storylines and its steamy romance. Each book sucked me deeper into the world of the Black Swan.

The pace in GATHERING STORM had me moving from page to page, gobbling the words as fast as my brain could take them in. But, do take time to notice the intricate use of dimensions in the story. Victoria looks at how there could be many dimensions filled with other versions of ourselves; but then not really ourselves. It can make for interesting thoughts about the nature of self and existence. If there is another me in another dimension then who is that person in relation to me; is she me?
This is a quantum universe of multiple dimensions -- infinite dimensions really. That means anything can and will happen. Let your guard down for just a minute and....

Well, that guard gets let down a bit here in a few ways. One, an interesting mode of travel goes a bit awry and the results could be somewhat disastrous. Two, the Order of the Black Swan, thinking they have the threats they were invented to prevent under control do the unthinkable: They actually do "let up their guard." And then there's always the random event that can take the wind out of your sails. This all makes for a thrilling story with [almost entirely] familiar characters. There are a couple of additions and they make for exciting projections on who will feature in future additions to the series.

There is a little less physical intimacy in the romantic parts of the book than there has been in other books in the series. The sex is never gratuitous or vulgar. In here it's rather playful and offers up some interesting food for thought.

Instead of lots of bedroom action, we get physical action where the fate of our beloved characters teeters on the edge of life and death.

There's also a very poignant view of fatherhood here, that will be sure to make us all a little verklempt.

In short this series is a MUST READ and GATHERING STORM is a MUST READ in the series!

Another wonderful installment in one of my favorite series! I love that the Black Swan series weaves in and out of a variety of character's lives. While each book places the spotlight on someone (or several someones) new, the audience is generally kept up to date with those characters we've grown attached to as the series has progressed.

Danann has a way of blending action with humor that continues to appeal to me, and the chapters concerning the battle inside Jefferson Unit were a perfect example. From the young knights fearlessly jumping into action, and the Disco play-by-play, to the sudden emergence of Animal House, and the take down of Z Team, Danann seems to subscribe to the theory of You can't hold your breath when you're laughing.

In book Five of the series, (spoiler)we made some new friends, and lost some old ones. I have to say, it took me a while to accept Rosie. I could understand the age progression, I assumed as much after Litha's pregnancy... But the whole "grown woman in a little body" thing was hard to swallow, especially when we start talking about the relationship between Rosie and Glen. Also, if the theme of this book was that one moment can change your Fate forever, then I would have really liked to have seen more of the alternate dimension Storms.

I have but one tiny gripe... We never heard what was going on with Duff & Aelsong?! I'm dying to hear how that works out (of course, Danann placed a little treat in the back of the book, the cover of Black Swan #6, A Tale of Two Kingdoms, Due out in December 2013)

Elora, Ram & baby Helm, have moved back into Jefferson Unit. They hope that this will keep Elora safe, from another attack, from the Raglenclan. Storm & Litha are at their Vineyard with their new baby daughter Elora Rose - Rosie, who is already proving she is very...different.

Jefferson Unit is temporarily being converted to a Training & Research Institution, so there is only a skeleton staff, and a group of young Trainees. Sol takes his very first vacation with his fiancée Farnsworth, leaving Glen in charge. This is when the Raglenclan, decide to attack.

The young trainees show their mettle in protecting Elora, when she lets them!!! They definitely show how they are destined to be a Black Knight. The groundwork is laid for the next story as Storm is not quite himself!! We also meet the Z Team, who are trying to show the order that they are not the dubmbasses they are made out to be.

I loved who Elora and the trainees especially interacted and i had a big lump i my throat at parts. Roll on part 6!!!!!

Gathering Storm is the 5th Installment of the Black Swan Series.. and while I enjoyed everyone of them. This is my Favorite so far and that's saying alot.. Especially since I said that with all the other books in this series..
This Book left my mouth and jaw hanging.. It had many twists and turns I did not see coming. I cried, Laughed and just sat back and shook my head..
All our favorite Black Swan Knights are back.. Elora, Ram , Storm, Kay, Glen.. plus a few new characters...
This story without giving spoilers will make your heart pound and you will see even further why they are Knights..
Ms Danann has created Characters that breathe life into her stories..They make you feel comforting as if they are your best friends or even family..
I cannot wait for the next Book for this Great Saga to continue. You will not be sorry you purchased this book.. That being said.. You should read them in order to get the full character stories and backdrop..
Kudos to Victoria Danann on another great book....

"What a journey! I'm exhausted(in the best possible way). Now to pick up the pieces. I found myself reading this last installment reverently. As if I were holding the only book in existence. I didn't do this consciously, but our mind's know great art, and this novel is GREAT! Victoria Danann takes us on the latest journey of The Order of the Black Swan with epic detail and a fabulous storyline worthy of any bookworm. Gathering Storm is a stellar edition to this paranormal series(loved it). She also has the great gift of humor(which I need). I found myself laughing out loud often. "Great Paddy I love Sir Ram." Don't even get me started!! I have a book hangover now! Meaning...nothing else will compare, sad it's over, can't think about anything else...ugh! I'll be waiting along with everyone else for book 6. Thank you Lady Victoria<3"

Absolutely fell in love with all the characters in this book, Had a few laugh out loud moments and even some moments when I needed to swallow the tears. OH Man, this lady can write! she takes you there, you feel, see and with enough imagination even smell where you are. I do recommend this series to lovers of paranormal and out of the box thinking and reading.

Please please please read this series in order. Starting with My Familiar Stranger, which is permafree by the way! This world is very similar to ours and it is easy to forget that it is not exactly the same. If you have not read the previous books then you will be totally confused and will hate it. I want you to love it so please start from the very beginning..OH! And if you are not happy with the ending of the first book, still give the second book, A Witch's Dream, a try. The second book made me appreciate the first book so much more!

I LOVED Gathering Storm!! We get to see a deeper side of Storm and we also get to learn a little more about the mirrored beings in different dimensions. Rosie was just to cute for words but there was some aspects to her story that I was sad about (poor Storm). Refuse to go into any detail here but that does not mean it wasn't a fantastic story! It was! Sometimes sad things happen in really great stories!! It just makes the happy moments mean more right?? And Glen...I absolutely love Glen! Heck..I love them all!

Not sure what I can say about Victoria Danann that I haven't said before! Much love goes her way from over here!! She is fantastic at writing a story from different points of view and not many authors can pull that off with such ease.

Thank you Victoria for another amazing book!!!

Provided by author for review on my blog. NO remuneration was exchanged and all opinions herein are my own unless otherwise noted. I am also on Victoria's Street Team.

If you haven't read The Black Swan series you really, really should and as pointed out above, the first book in the series is free (the store, Barnes and Noble) so you can even check it out before you invest anything other than your time. I haven't been a huge fan of Indy or Self Publishing but Victoria and a couple other writers are converting me.

The Order of the Black Swan is a complex series set in an alternate world where a secret order of knights has worked to eradicate vampires. Recently, an alien has arrived from a different dimension and there are demons who can pass between one dimension and another at will. This is both helpful and problematic. The series centers on this order of knights, their adventures, lives and loves. It is highly recommended that you read the series in order, even though there is a synopsis of prior volumes at the start of this one.

This entire series swept me away; I was lost in its adventure, its unique storylines and its steamy romance. Each book sucked me deeper into the world of the Black Swan.

The pace in GATHERING STORM had me moving from page to page, gobbling the words as fast as my brain could take them in. But, do take time to notice the intricate use of dimensions in the story. Victoria looks at how there could be many dimensions filled with other versions of ourselves; but then not really ourselves. It can make for interesting thoughts about the nature of self and existence. If there is another me in another dimension then who is that person in relation to me; is she me?
This is a quantum universe of multiple dimensions -- infinite dimensions really. That means anything can and will happen. Let your guard down for just a minute and....

Well, that guard gets let down a bit here in a few ways. One, an interesting mode of travel goes a bit awry and the results could be somewhat disastrous. Two, the Order of the Black Swan, thinking they have the threats they were invented to prevent under control do the unthinkable: They actually do "let up their guard." And then there's always the random event that can take the wind out of your sails. This all makes for a thrilling story with [almost entirely] familiar characters. There are a couple of additions and they make for exciting projections on who will feature in future additions to the series.

There is a little less physical intimacy in the romantic parts of the book than there has been in other books in the series. The sex is never gratuitous or vulgar. In here it's rather playful and offers up some interesting food for thought.

Instead of lots of bedroom action, we get physical action where the fate of our beloved characters teeters on the edge of life and death.

There's also a very poignant view of fatherhood here, that will be sure to make us all a little verklempt.

In short this series is a MUST READ and GATHERING STORM is a MUST READ in the series!

I was completely entranced with is book. I just couldn't put it down once I started it. I love how victory is able to go back and forth though out the story without making you get confused or lost which a lot of authors do. And the way she describes the characters I could see in my head what they looked like at any point in the store. I loved how she added some of the trainees into this store also, she is always bring in new characters without losing the others. All in All I give Gathering storm five stars and I must say this book has made me have a special stop in my heart for Storm that wasn't there before. I can not wait for the next book.

A story like no other, Gathering Storm make you want to skip pages, but I recommend you Don't! To experience the Genious that is Victoria Danann you must start with My Familire Stranger and work your way towards Gathering Storm, this book is the Fifth installment of Ms. Danann's Sexy, Action packed, Interdementional adventure that will leave you wanting more! Miss Danann is a Master story teller with a Mind like no other, she delivers a Feast of Paranormal characters for those who Love the Creatures of the Night and then some, filled with Vampire's, Ware Wolves, Elve's, Incubus, Sexy Knight's and More, this is One Series you will never put down and Alway's want More of.

Once again Victoria has written a book that keeps you turning pages because you can't wait to find out what happens. I love the little references that remind us that this isn't the same dimension in which the story takes place. Glen's story is fleshed out more and I think we will hear more about him in future books as his tale isn't finished. Elora once again has to battle Stagnare dimension but with Helm at risk as well. There is nothing like a mother fighting for her "babies" including the trainees to make for a very interesting fight. The only thing I did not like about this particular book was that Grayson's story was completely left hanging and it does not look like this loose end will be tied up soon. This was disappointing since this was one of the characters that intrigued me the most and I hope we will hear more about completing his story as well as rounding out the stories of Rosie, Glen, Duff & Alesong.

My thoughts: Book 5: Gathering Storm:
WOW! Usually the first book in a series is the best book of the series. This is not the case for Victoria Danann and The Black Swan series. Each book is as good or better than the last one, leading you on into the story more and more. You fall in love with the characters and can't wait to return to their world. Each story brings you back and then farther on. You get to revisit and relearn some characters while meeting new and exciting ones too.
Once again I found myself wrapped tight in the story, hanging on each page. This installment of the series is filled with fantastic characters, action, and an emotional roller coaster. You will laugh and cry as you live the story as though you are there too. Do not miss this series - start at the beginning - make a weekend out of it and read all five books.

Book 5 GATHERING STORM from The Order Of the Black Swan Series by @Victoria Danann has turned a fun,funny, sexy, thrill ride and turned it into an EPIC JOURNEY.This book tore my heart out. made me laugh,pulled me apart and put me back together again. If you have been reading the series you will soooo NOT be disappointed in this one.A reminder this series is not stand alone books, you must read the whole series to get the total experience.I urge you to start reading them now.All my favorite characters and some new ones as well. It was fabulous!From the very moment when the..., and then...,and of course when...,It killed me to read...,then I cried for/with...,and then when... happened I laughed and laughed. If you don't absolutely love this book as well, let me know.

Victoria Danann's writting is spectacular!
I was an the edge of my seat, glued to my screen, wondering what was going to happen next!!
Victoria Dannan's writting is so intense and full of emotion, that it made me feel like I was actually there with all my favorite characters. I can't count how many times I've had to put my reader down to dab away quite a few tears, both from happiness and from sadness.
There are also quite a few surprises that I never saw coming!!
All I can say is AMAZING!
Victoria, I've never felt so connected to characters in a book, until I met The Order of the Black Swan. Thank You!

NO NO NO, Ms Danann, how could you!!!!????

How could you be so utterly, totally cruel to your readers???!!!
I got my greedy little paws on Gathering Storm, and what did I find? A book that is brilliantly entertaining, funny, heart-breaking, ruthless (the things you did to some of our favorite characters put my Kindle in a serious danger of bodily harm), gloriously unpredictable with jaw-dropping twists and with enough action to satisfy a platoon of adrenaline - junkies. The cruel part comes in letting us know that we have to WAIT UNTIL DECEMBER for the next book!!!! You have left this reader totally devastated, wrung - out, fervently wishing for an early Christmas and LOVING every second of it. SUPERB!!

I again loved this book. Storm being lost in another dimension was so wrong. His duplicate that took his place learned great lessons and had his life changed completely. So sad that Storm missed so much of his Rosie's growing up and falling in love. Storm is such a strong character. I enjoy so much all the character's stories in their everyday life. Always enjoy the introduction of new characters. Lots of excitement, laughter and tears.

Victoria Danann's writting is spectacular!
I was an the edge of my seat, glued to my screen, wondering what was going to happen next!!
Victoria Dannan's writting is so intense and full of emotion, that it made me feel like I was actually there with all my favorite characters. I can't count how many times I've had to put my reader down to dab away quite a few tears, both from happiness and from sadness.
There are also quite a few surprises that I never saw coming!!
All I can say is AMAZING!
Victoria, I've never felt so connected to characters in a book, until I met The Order of the Black Swan. Thank You!

Oh wow! This book was intense. Getting lost in parallel universes is definitely crazy! Once again Victoria Danann amazed me. The plot of Gathering Storm was fast paced and moved smoothly. But it sure kept you guessing! Which I have seen to be true of all of Victoria Danann's books. This book really gets its claws in you from the first chapter, and it doesn't let go until you finish... Maybe not even then, I immediately started the next book. I absolutely loved this book, and i truly enjoy being able to see all of my favorite characters. I like that they don't just vanish because they aren't the focal point of a book. If you are thinking about reading this book, just do it!!!! You will enjoy every page!

I have been left utterly speechless. Action packed from beginning to end! Victoria Danann has done it again! Well you will need to pick this one up for yourself to know what I'm talking about. But I will say that my emotions were running high during the entire ordeal. With a death that was completely unexpected. I laughed out loud, cheered, held my breath and cried. If it was a choice I'd rate this book with 10 stars! Don't stop writing Ms. Danann, I will continue to follow your work until my last breath. Thank you!

***SPOILERS*** Victoria had me on such a rollercoaster with this one. The twists and turn were sometimes with tears in my eyes. Some had me laughing, some screaming. Storm and Litha's daughter Rosie grows so fast, Litha never knows who she will meet beyond the door. Storm disappears with Deliverance on the hunt for him. Will Storm be found and brought back before Rosie becomes an adult? Or will Rosie go on the hunt for him? Read the book and find out.

I loved it!

Oh my goodness! I can't think of adequate adjectives to describe this book! You will definitely NOT be disappointed! You're off and running as soon as you open this book. I loved getting back in touch with old friends and making new ones... you'll fall in love the new characters as much as you adore the old ones! There are any number of twists and turns and some things I didn't see coming at all! If you haven't read this series, go get ALL the books and start reading; just be warned, you won't want to stop!(less)

I must say Victoria Danann is consistently writing some excellent books! Gathering Storm picks right up where Moonlight left off. I LOVE the central characters of Ram, Storm, Elora and Deliverance. Now Victoria has given us a bunch of new characters to love! From berserkers to misfit knights we meet all kinds of people on a roller coaster of a ride through Gathering Storm. You laugh, cry, root for the good guy and are at times shocked at what your favorites are up to. Don't miss this wonderful book and be sure you read the Black Swan series in order to appreciate them fully. Happy reading!

Once again, Victoria Danann has done it again, I love this fifth installment of the series, and pick up where we left on the 4th book, and again was fun to read, have the moments to laugh and sexy times too, like I said was totally in love with the story.
I totally recommend this series a journey that you not will be disappointed...

Thank you again Victoria for another great an exceptional book.

Remember when you used to squeal and get all excited growing up over the little things? well this book will have you jumping up and down in your chair squealing cheering yelling, not going to lie I scared my dorm roommate with all the noises of excitement and suspense while I was reading this book. Yeah its THAT good! Victoria Danann has done it again, grabs your full attention from page 1, sucks you back into the world of black swan knights, wolves, witches, sexy demons and super sexy elves, caution read slowly because once you finish you'll be like but but... but whyyyyy?????? I need more!!! bring on book 6 cuz im having a black swan addiction! The story must never end!

I loved this book! Love all the characters (still getting used to Rosie I admit) and have now put Ram and Elora in my #1 fictional couple spot (even re-read parts of MFS book 1 last night cause needed more R&E). Typically by this point, it starts to get where they don't live up to the earlier books but that is NOT the case here. Can't wait for the next installment.

Gathering Storm by Victoria Danann was so very good. I did not put it down at all. Finding Storm in two worlds was such a strange way of handling this story line, but I absolutely loved how it cam together at the end. I still need to know what happened to Grey....

Seeing Storm in this series grow more and more in every book and to see how the rest of B team are is just fun to read. This series is so well done that Ivan practically see it like it was a movie in my head. Watching his daughter Rosie grow was amazing to watch. Going through the Passes is more dangerous than I thought. A must read! I loved it!

This series by now has some great characters. They have developed into friends you want to visit with all the time to see how they are doing. The author keeps them all involved in the plot so you still have your favorites from the first books, but you also have new blood introduced in each one to keep things fresh.
A new author to add to my list of favorites.