Dark Fire: A Carpathian Novel (Dark Series)

It's yet another great book from an amazing author I love the dark series twist an turns everywhere this one is about Darius body guard to the dark trabodours it's great because you get to see him find love

3.5-4 stars

This was a pretty good addition to the Dark series. Destiny was a kick-ass heroine but she struggled with a dark past that scarred her deeply. I will note that while Destiny's past is talked about and she experiences a couple flashbacks but they don't last long and aren't too graphic.

Destiny was 6 years old when her family was killed and she was kidnapped her. It soon became apparent that her kidnapper wasn't human and he forced her to drink his blood, which changed her. In her pain, Destiny used her telepathic powers to reach out and she connected with Nicolae. Destiny was a captive for years and suffered seeing many horrible things as well as living through them herself. Nicolae connected with her and suffered along with her. He also taught her how to protect herself and eventually, Destiny was able to kill the vampire that had taken her captive and escape.

Destiny refused to talk to Nicolae through their link. She accepted his guidance and teachings but she thought herself forever tainted and a vampire and thought Nicolae was one as well. Destiny was convinced that if they ever met, she'd be forced to kill him. Nicolae and his brother are ancients in the Carpathian race and hunt the vampires to protect humans. Nicolae and his brother hunt while searching for Destiny and it takes a while before they finally connect. Destiny has been in the Seattle area for a while and likes the neighborhood she's in. She watches over the residents but avoids being seen because of her belief that she's evil. She hunts the undead in the area and that's what ends up leading Nicolae to her.

When they finally meet, Nicolae's actions and words are un-vampire enough that Destiny's willing to consider that he's really not a vampire but she knows nothing of Carpathians and isn't sure if she can trust anything that Nicolae says. It takes some time and a lot of doubts but Nicolae and his brother are able to convince her to trust them. Destiny is even more unsure when Nicolae says that she's his lifemate and he needs her to be his anchor to the light so he doesn't turn vampire. Considering Destiny's opinion of herself as being evil, she has some reservations about her being a good anchor to anything light. Nicolae certainly has his work cut out for him but he's determined to win Destiny and save them both. It also helps that some of the neighborhood residents accept Destiny as she is and turn to her in time of need. By the end, Destiny and Nicolae have worked through things and are solidly together and heading towards and HEA.

This was a pretty enjoyable story. I liked Destiny but I kind of felt split at times. She's a very capable fighter and can take out vamps on her own. She's also very kind and is a protector at heart. On the other side, I got slightly annoyed that she kept seeing herself as evil and doubting her place with Nicolae. The thing that made it only slightly annoying is the fact that she got past it before too long and considering her background, I can see where her fears came from. Nicolae was great...very patient and caring and willing to do whatever he needs to in order to be with Destiny and give her the love and care she needs. Overall, I did like the story and it's character and am happy I read it. I'd recommend it. :D

* note _ I listened to the audio version of this story and the narrator did a good job.

4-4.5 stars

This was a really good story. I liked both Darius and Tempest, although they both had their...imperfections. The story was engaging enough that I had didn't want to do anything else until I was done.

Tempest (aka Rusty) is a woman with a gift for fixing cars. Tempest grew up in the system and had a really hard life, suffering abuse at the hands of people she trusted which has led her to a very solitary existence. Tempest had special abilities that allow her to communicate with animals and she often prefers their company over that of humans. Tempest was without a job and down on her luck when she saw an ad for a musical group looking for a mechanic so she uses almost the last of her cash to get to the interview.

Darius is an ancient Carpathian male; Carpathians are born vampires with abilities like shape shifting (to any form, even mist), magic spells and psychic powers. The males of the Carpathians have a darkness in them and if they don't find their lifemates, they can lose their souls and become evil. Darius has been struggling with this darkness and the only thing that's kept him hanging on is his dedication to keeping his family safe.

Desari (Darius' sister and heroine from book #5) put the ad for a mechanic to travel with the band with a special compulsion spell that would make sure the "right" person for the job would be the one to answer the ad. Tempest shows up and seems perfect, she even makes friends with the 2 leopards that travel with the band (Desari and the others are in a band that tours around the country). Tempest is already working on the tour bus when Darius walks on to the scene. Darius recognizes Tempest as his right off the bat but he's a bit confused because humans have always been taboo for them before. With his separation from his people, he doesn't realize that some human women, ones with special powers, can be safely transformed into Carpathian and become true lifemates for their men (he does figure this out eventually).

Regardless of the taboo, Darius isn't willing to let Tempest go because he's finally feeling the darkness in him recede. Unfortunately, he feels if he can't keep Tempest, he'll lose it completely. Tempest is freaked out by Darius and his attempt to erase her memories of things she shouldn't have seen don't work because of her special abilities. Of course Darius doesn't know this and when she can, Tempest tries to run from him and instead runs straight into trouble that Darius has to save her from. Tempest is rather reluctant to accept Darius' assurances that they're meant for each other and keeps attempting to break away from Darius or think that it wont last. Darius does pretty well at being patient with her and he needs his patience because she does tend to get into trouble. There's some danger from human vampire hunters that have set their sites on Desari and Tempest and the difficulties escalate things so that Tempest and Darius' relationship moves quickly. In the end, they vanquish their foes and Tempest and Darius end the story starting a HEA together.

This was a really enjoyable story. I liked Tempest but she did keep Darus hopping. It wasn't so much that she was TSTL, there was only 1 instance where I thought she actually did something that was really stupid. Mostly, Tempest just seems to be a trouble magnet. What I really liked about her is that even though she had fears that caused her to fear joining Darius, she was willing to seek ways around her fears to make things work with him. Not all the heroines in this series have been willing to be that smart and instead they've let fear rule them. Tempest was fearful but found bravery when it was needed. Darius I really liked and I thought he was a good hero. He was a bit bossy but mostly just when he was concerned for Tempest's well being so I was fine with that. Overall, This was a really good (I almost gave it 5 stars) and engaging story that I would recommend. :)

* note - I listened to the audio version of this book that is done by Books In Motion and the narrator was Rebecca Cook. She did good with the narration overall but she changed the pronunciation of Desari's name from how it was done in the previous audiobook and I found that rather annoying.

Stupendous. She is a fiery mechanic, who has joined a group of musicians. He is the leader of the group, tall dark and handsome. Who has given up hope of ever finding his soul mate (a woman to keep him from turning feral -a vampire). When they meet he is amazed to find that she is his other half. However she has suffered abuse before and does not trust easily. Will the two ever become one? An attack on her leaves her even more tormented. What future is there for them? A great plot (that many abused women can relate too) and characters that you will fall in love with. I first got a copy of this when it first came out and sadly the copy is now so badly worn that I had to get another.

Warning: This will contain spoilers*

I loved this book. I remember when I first read this, years ago, I was expecting Darius to be like Gregori first was, imposing his will upon his lifemate but my goodness, he was so sweet and didn’t try to curb-tail her freedom as much as the others did in their books.

I’ve told you about my little journal before, in Dark Gold, and I didn’t put down any bad notes because there weren’t really any bad notes to write down. Here are some of the notes I made.

This story had a lot of firsts in it and I don’t know if it’s because Darius wasn’t raised with his people. The first woman to kind of be successful in running away, she got a good distance from him before he found her, twice.

Darius actually acknowledges that he can’t treat her the way he treats the group, expecting her to follow his orders without question but then he does it anyway? I don’t know, that may be the only slightly bad note I put in the little journal.

Barack, until the end, has changed from the last book and I find it funny, he’s a little whiner but it’s cute.

This book focuses more on the couple instead of the group but maybe that’s because the readers already know the group?

Cullen is another Gary, though he isn’t told the whole truth, he’s still kept in the dark about Carpathians and the readers don’t really get to see him much.

I don’t know if I should give kudos to Darius or Tempest. Darius for being the first one that I know of to make the decision to grow old and die with her and Tempest for being the first one to choose the conversion. I don’t know if I should give kudos for that at all because the others were either accidents or the men saving their lifemates life.

I do kind of wish that Barack and Syndil got their own book instead of sharing the spotlight with Darius and Tempest but I understand it, there’s really not much to say that wasn’t said in this book and the last one.

There was danger, though no vampire this time, Darius and Tempest still managed to have plenty of time together and I felt a very strong connection between them, especially when they teased each other. I was basically smiling throughout most of the book because Darius is surprisingly funny.

I was surprised that Darius knew how to tease, it didn’t really seem like he had a whole lot of that in his background. Gregori at least had Mikhail and Raven to give him a hard time.

This is exciting, everyone in the band has found their lifemate except for Dayan and I’m very eager for his book because it is so, so sweet, my heart melts just thinking about it. Sadly though, his book isn’t for a while so, have to wait.

While there is action and more emotions than I let on, I would say that this is mostly fluff that will make you say “aww” and make you smile, mixed with a little bit of non-fluff.

*Warning: This review will contain spoilers*

I’m not really sure how I feel about this book, I think I was a bit indifferent toward it. Don’t get me wrong, having a human converted by a vampire was rather interesting to read about and it certainly did further the major plot but I didn’t really feel anything for the major characters.

I want to say that Destiny was being much too stubborn about denying the existence of Carpathians but I can understand why she would.

It was the side characters that kept me reading most of the way until it really focused on the mystery. I think it was a great little filler but it was just a little anti-climactic near the end of it, I kind of wanted more. Like maybe a sneak peek at what the doctor did in his clinic and how he did it.

The vampire finding his lifemate was a plot twist I never saw coming the first time I read this, though I feel like I should have noticed it because the author kept talking about how this little old lady had special psychic abilities. Though I know this doesn’t happen again, I really would love to see more of it, I feel like it should happen more often, especially if a vampire is drawn to a place.

Even though her book isn’t for a good while, MaryAnn just seems more likeable in this book, I remember being excited when I got her story but I also remember being disappointed in it. I’ll write more about it when I get to Dark Possession.

Even though I know Jaxon is trying to become a hunter in Dark Guardian, I haven’t been able to re-read it but, I think it’s a good thing that there’s a female hunter, one that’s actually been trained since childhood to fight vampires.

Stupendous. She has been a prisoner of a vampire since he killed her family. He has felt her torment and sent peace and love through a psychic link. Now he is close to finding her. But will she accept him? He too must drink blood to survive. He knows he has to win her over as the vampires are now working in unison to bring down his race and she can help him stop them. Terrific plot with great action but also great feeling. The characters are both strong (even though she thinks of herself as weak) and both want to do what is right. Unfortunately my hard copy is now really tatty as I bought it years ago and hence this digital copy.

This was another book I couldn't decide whether I wanted to give it three or four stars. I decided on three simply because it's definitely not one of my favorites of Feehan's works. (Note, may contain slight spoilers)

The story goes around Nicolae and Destiny. I did like the fact that because of the abuse Destiny went through, she sees Nicolae as being the "light" and "anchor", playing on reverse roles for the Dark series H/h. I definitely didn't see Nicolae as behaving as...strongly as other "alpha male" Carpathians (though that was the point as to not make Destiny scared/hate him), so it was kinda a nice pace from the other male characters. At the same time, I didn't really enjoy about half the fight scenes involving Destiny, as she was supposed to be a good hunter though she got hurt pretty regularly whenever she fought (ignoring the times when she was distracted).

The side (human) characters didn't really bother me as they did some other reviewers, though I didn't hate/like them beyond MaryAnn. My only real downfall was the fact that it seemed as if MaryAnn would have a greater impact on the story/Destiny, especially when she had to personally point out that she was needed in Destiny's healing process. Though at the end, it seemed she was only there to really be the "friend" Destiny never thought she'd have and to help move along the plot. It seemed that Nicolae got her healed all by himself.

Overall, the love scenes were pretty steamy and well written (like usual for Feehan). The plotline in this book did seem to change around halfway through or so, though it wasn't really anything so big and noticeable (like the actual lack of MaryAnn's character's importance in the plot). Other than that, I really didn't see any issues with the book.
I would recommend this book to those who are currently reading the Dark series, though if you're a beginner to the series, I'd suggest reading another book in the series first, like Dark Melody or Dark Desire.

DARK FIRE by Christine Feehan

All Carpathian males, must find their lifemates before they turn vampire or greet the dawn. Without a lifemate, the males no longer see in color, feel pain or experience emotions. A lifemate is the light to their dark. She is the keeper of his heart and the keeper of his soul. Dark Fire is the 6th book in Christine Feehan's Carpathian series, and without a doubt, I favor this book because of Darius "blushes"

Darius, the youngest of the Daratrazanoff brothers, has yet to find his lifemate, and is so close to the end, he continues to distance himself from his family of `lost children', until the evening he returns to their campsite to find Tempest `Rusti' Trine, a fiery red-haired auto mechanic and his lifemate. For close to 1000 years, Darius has been the leader and family patriarch, watching over, protecting, fighting vampires and resigning himself to a life of loneliness -one without a treasured and necessary mate to save his soul. But the life he once knew, is about to be turned upside down and sideways, and one fraught with anxiety, laughter and love. He finds love and life in another lost soul-one who will challenge his leadership, his arrogance and his patience-Tempest is the lifemate he never expected and will die for, in order to protect her.

As independent as Tempest is, her life has been difficult-raised by drug addicts, who exposed the young child to the dirty underworld of neglect and addiction, she ran away, only to find that there are those you can trust and those who will take advantage of a young woman. Not without her own talent to `read' and `speak' with the animals, Tempest is not surprised by the world of the Carpathians. Their need to feed, go to ground to heal and sleep, as well their ability to shape shift, speak telepathically, and create the necessities to survive, from the earth around, do not push Tempest away, but the love of a man, has her running for her life and away from the only person who would destroy everything to protect her and cherish her beyond life itself.

Darius is placed in the precarious position to continuously rescue Tempest from the almost comedic and life-threatening situations she seems to find. When a reporter, Matt Brodrick threatens to expose Desari, Julian and the other members of the band as vampires, Tempest takes it upon herself to defend her new family against a campaign to rid the world of evil vampires, and finds herself injured, bleeding and once again, running from the only man, who has sworn his protection and love. When Tempest boards a bus, bound for any place but where she is, Darius is beyond exasperation, and must claim, the only woman, who can save his soul.

Following a trip into town to buy supplies, Tempest is approached by Cullen Tucker, a man once associated with the group of extremists, trying to capture and destroy the Carpathians, but who is now, risking his own life, to save Tempest and her new family. Knowing Cullen has more information that could aid Darius and the others, Tempest must bring this human, back to camp, and risk exposing everyone, to the humans they have been trying to avoid for 100's of years.

Throughout the storyline, we see Syndil, trying desperately to friend Tempest and guide her through the ever-increasing changes, much to the chagrin of Barack. But unbeknownst to Syndil, and many of the others, Barack is her lifemate. He has never lost his emotions or colors, but has been waiting a lifetime to claim his mate. Due to a horrific assault by one of their own `brothers' , who had turned vampire, Syndil is slowly recovering from the rape and near-death experience. Barack's patience snaps, when Syndil approaches Cullen, looking for friendship and a male companion.

When Darius and Tempest are left behind by the other band members, they are attacked by vigilante terrorists, seeking to expose and destroy the family. With only a severely injured Darius to guide her, Tempest must find her way to the other family members, driving the tour bus over rough terrain and through a storm of fierce Carpathian pride. When they are finally rescued, and Darius must go to ground to heal, Tempest declares her love for Darius, and offers her life for his.

But it is not until an ill-fated kidnapping attempt of Tempest, that, once again leaves Darius injured and bleeding, do we see Tempest's true devotion and love for this man. She willingly gives of herself and her blood, to save his life. When he awakens to the sound of his dying mate, Darius must complete the blood exchange, and claim Tempest as his lifemate for all time.

Dark Fire is one of my favorite Christine Feehan storylines. I fell madly in love with Darius from the moment he saw his lifemate, and had no idea what to do with her. He was a man lost in a world of need and longing, and a world he knew nothing about. There are many humorous passages involving Tempest and her `inability' for find her way home, but overall, their story of love and passion, is what draws me to this storyline........everytime.

[...]

I love this particular book in the series. I love the twist of how Destiny became the way she is. This is the first time we see a Carpathian woman as a skilled hunter. It touches on abuse and how we can heal through love. This is my second favorite book in the series, my favorite is Dark Slayer which is further on down the series. Don't miss this wonderful book dark destiny!

This book is romance at its finest; it is full of action, suspense, vengeance and romance. I love seeing such a powerful and menacing man find love and romance with his soul mate. The heroine is smart and sassy with a sense of humor that just takes the cake. This book is fantastically funny and an absolutely fun to read.

The 6th book in the Dark Series continues with the story of another ancient Carpathian male who, for years, thought that his group was the only remaining people of their species.

Darius was just a child when the Carpathian Mountain was attacked by the Ottoman Turks where hundreds of people, human and Carpathians alike, were left for dead. Possessing great powers even for his age, he managed to escape the village and got his sister and four other kids to safety. Now nearly a thousand years later and he remains their leader, and with his powers at full strength, he is the protector of his family and hunts vampire who threaten them. And with their family touring as a band, he acts as his sister Desari's bodyguard and manages all their schedules. But now that Desari has found Julian Savage, her lifemate, Darius feels ready to end the centuries of his bleak existence assured that Julian is powerful enough to look after the family. Fortunately for him, fate has a different plan when he finds himself faced with the new hired mechanic.

Ever since she could remember, Tempest knew that she was different - able to talk to animals and understand their feelings. A product of growing up without a family, she moved from one foster home to the next and has survived as an adult with her mechanical skills. With twenty-dollars left in her pocket, she answers the ad on the paper and finds herself working for the Dark Troubadours. But the moment she lays eyes on their leader, she knew that her life would never be the same.

Having lived for centuries void of any color or emotions, Darius was astounded to see rainbows of color swirling around him at the sight of Tempest. Right then, he knew that he has found his salvation in the form of the tiny redhead with a fiery temper to match, and vows to do everything in his power to keep her and protect her from harm. But as usual, things don't start smoothly for the couple for there are those fanatics who think to rid the world of anyone they suspect to be vampire.

If you have read the other books, you will find this quite unique in that Darius actually gave Tempest a choice to join his race, if not, he was more than willing to grow old and die with her. I thought this was the most wonderful aspect in this book.

DARK FIRE is another wonderful addition to the Dark Series. Although you will find that some scenes get repetitive, which tends to happen anyway with any series, the continuous rush you get from reading the book makes it a worthwhile read. There are enough actions to keep you glued, not to mention the humor provided by the other characters, who were introduced in the previous book DARK CHALLENGE. I do wish that Barack and Syndil get their own story though, because I know that Dayan does.

Next in the series is DARK LEGEND featuring one of the legendary twins, Gabriel Daratrazanoff.

Destiny lives in pain. Infected with vampire blood when she was a child, she knows she is evil--even as she hunts vampires. What was once a voice in her head, her salvation, turns out to be a Carpathian ancient--Nicolae. The Carpatians are also vampire hunters, but they run a horrible risk. If they cannot find their life-mates in time, they must either face the dawn (dying) or turn vampire themselves. And ancient vampires are the most dangerous. Destiny knows she cannot be Nicolae's life-mate. Her infected blood means they could never really share their blood, their strengths. Still, Nicolae insists, and a Carpathian male can be very convincing--and chauvinistic, of course.

Destiny's issues are brought to a head by an unheard-of alliance among the vampires. An ancient vampire, Pater, attempts to persuade Destiny to join him and other vampires in their plan to take over the earth. If the Carpathian hunters could be eliminated, little would stand in the way of the vampires. Oddly, the neighborhood that Destiny lives in seems full of both vampires and psychic humans--a rich hunting area. Although Destiny, aided by Nicolae, resists, she knows her infected blood continues to call out to the vampires. They'll be able to hunt her down.

In a sub-plot, several of the residents of Destiny's neighborhood lose control of themselves, attacking their spouses, stealing from the church, and otherwise engaging in violent acts that seem completely out of character for them. Destiny investigates but can find no trace of a vampire influence. What other influence could be at work?

Author Christine Feehan combines a high level of sensuality with anti-vampire action--an attractive combination. For me, DARK DESTINY was weakend by too many pages of Destiny obsessing about her tainted blood--without really making progress in either the relationship or in the battle against the vampires. Destiny was stuck, certain that she was destined to become evil, convinced she'd drag Nicolae down with her if he couldn't move on, but stuck characters don't make the best protagonists as they lack strong story goals. The destruction of the vampire cabal could have been such a story goal, but Feehan chose to play down this element of the plot.

Feehan's strong writing, the highly sensual relationship developing between Nicolae and Destiny, and the intriguing world-building definitely make DARK DESTINY worth reading. The lack of a clear story goal keep it from being quite the tour de force it should have been.

"Dark Fire" is the sixth instalment in Christine Feehan's super sexy "Dark" series and it does not disappoint. With strong and vivid characters and a thrilling and romantic storyline, "Dark Fire" will stay with readers long after the book is finished!
Darius, brother to Desari ("Dark Challenge"), has been the leader and protector of a small family unit of long lost Carpathians for centuries. Darius is an immensely powerful Carpathian, but after losing his emotions and the ability to see colours hundreds of years ago, he is dangerously close to turning vampire, one of the vile, soulless creatures he has spent his entire life hunting and destroying. The only thing keeping Darius from turning is his desire to keep his family safe and his own code of honour. But there is only one thing that can save Darius and ensure he never turns - finding his lifemate, a compassionate woman to balance out his darkness with her light.
Darius' sister Desari is a famous singer and as a result their family unit is constantly travelling. In order to maintain a human image, Darius and his family travel using human transport, including a large bus that is constantly breaking down. To remedy this situation, Desari convinces Darius to let her hire a mechanic to travel along with them.
Desperate for money and a place to stay, Tempest, a small red-headed mechanic, responds to Desari's ad. When Darius first lays eyes on Tempest, his world explodes into colours and he is bombarded with emotions. After all these centuries of darkness, Darius has finally found his lifemate, but she is human, not Carpathian (though she does possess psychic abilities). Tempest is undeniably drawn to Darius and his piercing black eyes, but she knows that he is different and immensely powerful. When Tempest discovers what Darius and his family really are after Darius drinks her blood, she is terrified and attempts to run away. But Darius is not about to let his one chance at salvation get away and he inevitably finds her and brings her back.
As time passes Tempest begins to feel like she belongs with Darius, and though she still fears him, she also begins to respect and love him. The passion Darius feels for Tempest is almost too much for him to bear, and when these two act on their feelings for one another the reader is treated to some wonderfully sensual scenes.
Darius has finally found the happiness he so deserves, but he knows that his happiness is fleeting, for Tempest will age and die just like any normal human. Darius knows he will not be able to survive without Tempest, and if he converts her to a Carpathian he runs the risk of turning her into a deranged vampiress. So Darius makes the decision to age and die with Tempest, much to his family's distress.
Darius and Tempest must find a way to balance Darius' overpowering need to control Tempest and keep her safe with Tempest's need to be free to make her own choices and be her own woman. Tempest has a penchant for finding trouble wherever she goes, which is bad news with a secret society of vampire hunters closing in on them. These horrible vampire hunters do not understand or care about the distinction between Carpathians and vampires, and are out to destroy them all. And now that they know of Tempest's association with Darius and Desari, she is in grave danger.
"Dark Fire" is an exciting and erotic read that will keep readers captivated. It is wonderful to see such a mighty Carpathian as Darius undone by the thoughtfulness of a small red-headed human. Will he make the ultimate sacrifice and end his life with Tempest? Or will fate intervene and allow Darius and Tempest to be together for all time? Feehan has managed to create yet another enthralling tale of destiny and a love so powerful it transcends time itself. "Dark Fire" is sure to satisfy readers of many different genres and comes highly recommended!

This is the story of Desari's older brother Darius (who nearly steals the show in Dark Challenge, in which his sister Desari finds her lifemate) and his human lifemate Tempest "Rusti" Trine.
While I like this book and have re-read several parts of it already, I have to say that the book itself is something of a disappointment. My disappointment was not quite in the same form that my disappointment with Dark Legend (see below) came about. The problem with this book is the less-than-substantial plot. The emphasis on repetitive narrative and introspective does not tell us anything new. Far less happens in this book than in virtually every preceding book.
And worst of all, Tempest changes from an interesting young human female at the beginning to a whiny teenager with authority issues in the middle. After seeing Desari and Francesca, I had high hopes for the evolution of Feehan's heroines. Tempest was a bit of a setback. Darius of course is very much in the model of the classic Feehan hero, a super-alpha - but he is significantly different from others, in that he allows Tempest her own way in something very important.
The sad thing is that this book could have been so much more, given the fascinating premise. There is a remarkable potential conflict set up, which could have been so important in the series. However, it is disposed of remarkably easily in the book. Too easily, in fact.
And a wonderful potential book (the story of the womanizing Barack and the ancient female Carpathian Syndil) is disposed of in a small sub-plot. With the seeming resolution of nearly all their problems, will be it be interesting when they reappear in future novels?
This is a classic Feehan in many ways. Human female who converts to Carpathian. Carpathian male who is super-protective, etc etc. In other ways, it is not - it is the second book about the Lost Children, and it does set up some interesting potential conflicts with the rest of Carpathian society. Two of the males exhibit behaviors that are *not* typical of Carpathian males at large, and <gasp> you actually have four Carpathian males - only one of them with a lifemate - living and working together in a society not known for its chumminess. I wish that this theme stood out more in the book. For me, it almost got lost in Feehan's somewhat rambling narrative.
Rating = 3.5
Recommended = to fans of the series.

Dark Fire is in one word, an EXCEPTIONAL READ!! The talented Ms. Feehan has penned such an unbelievable lovestory. She has bestowed onto her characters such emotion and depth that they become unforgetable and will remain in your thoughts long after the book is finished. In fact, I didn't want Darius' and Tempest's lovestory to end.
Darius is the undisputed leader of this 'lost' band of Carpathians. No one challenges his authority for he has kept them all safe for centuries. He has never asked for anything in his long existence, content to be both ruler and protector. He takes any threat to his family very personally and is much more savage than his older brother, Gregori. He is a force to reckoned with, a formidable enemy. Now, he is very close to turning. He has lived nearly a thousand years without any feeling or emotion. The only rush he gets is during a kill and that, in itself, is dangerous for it makes the beast within him more fierce. He knows that with his incredible strength and power no one can defeat him if he should turn. He would tear the world apart bringing death and destruction to the world. Only his iron will and code of honor keep him hanging on. Still, the darkness within him has been growing stronger and spreads across his soul.
Tempest 'Rusti' Trine reads the advertisement for a mechanic with a feeling that this job would be perfect for her. Rusti is an unusual woman with a hidden gift. Not only is she an excellant mechanic but she can also talk telepathically to animals. This job seems almost too perfect for her. That is, until she encounters Darius. In that instant, she senses the enormous power and ruthlessness which cling to him. She is afraid wanting to run yet drawn to his incredible handsomeness and something she glimpses in his dark, dark eyes. The moment Darius' black eyes rest upon her petite figure, he sees color. They swarm his senses and bring forth powerful emotions that are dangerous in their intensity. He is consumed with deadly urges unable to control the darkness within him. He does something which he has vowed never to do and wipes the memory from her mind. But Tempest is no ordinary human. She remembers everything that has happened and in terror, she flees. This, of course, makes Darius very, VERY angry. The way he uses his powers to rescue her from danger is incredible!
I absolutely loved Darius. He was so different from the other males of his race. Yes, they all were very gentle with their lifemates and all were extremely protective of them, willing to kill for their safety. But Darius' love for Tempest nearly scourched the pages of this book. The way he kept calling her "Baby" curled my toes . . . He was so very tender and compassionate in the face of her fear. He put her welfare before his own, so very willing to sacrifice his own safety, his own life to insure her protection. Unwilling to force Tempest to join his way of life, knowing of her rough past, he embraces the human way of life. Something no other Carpathian has ever done . . . .
In spite of this, Tempest is afraid that her love could never hold a man so powerful like Darius. Only when Darius makes the ultimate sacrifice for her safety, does she realize how much she loves him and how hellish her life will become if she should lose him.
Ah Lord (sigh) - such a passionate, unbelievable lovestory. One I did not want to end. Thank you so Christine for such a powerful, utterly beautiful lovestory!! :)
And for those of you who are wondering about Syndil and Barack, well . . . their story reaches a wonderul conclusion, too. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!

Courtesy of CK2S Kwips and Kritiques

Darius is the guardian and protector of his traveling musical troupe of Carpathians. For hundreds of years, his family had been believed to be lost, murdered in the slaughter of their people over a thousand years ago.

He reluctantly agrees to allow his sister, Desari to hire a human to travel with the band as their mechanic. But they must ensure the human never finds out their deepest secret. For they are of an ancient race of beings with superhuman strength and abilities... and who must feed on blood to survive. Darius is dangerously close to turning vampire, depraved and murderous, evil creatures that kill for the sheer pleasure of it. He is holding on only by his steely determination and desire to protect his family.

Tempest "Rusti" Trine answers an ad in the newspaper, not quite sure why, except that it seemed to jump out at her with a compulsion she could not resist. She has always been different from others, having special abilities no one quite comprehends. When Tempest joins up with Darius and his family, she knows she has found some who are also a bit different, and she finally has a place she can belong. She doesn't mind that she never sees any of them during the day, or that they seem to have secrets they are keeping from her.

The moment Darius first lays eyes on Tempest, his world explodes in colors and emotions he has not experienced in centuries. He immediately knows she is meant for him alone. He does not understand these sensations he is experiencing, or what they mean, having been isolated from his people since he fled from his home as a child, taking with him a few of the other children he was able to rescue. Darius is terrified to claim Tempest in the true ways of his people as the only converted human women he had met in his long life were insane vampiresses, murdering innocent children. He is unaware there a re a few human women out there who have special talents, making them capable of handling the conversion. Darius is compelled to be with her, and is willing to sacrifice all to keep her. Will he make the ultimate sacrifice?

When Tempest meets Darius, one look into his eyes, and she is drawn to him like she has never been before. She can't understand it and that makes her afraid. She is used to being on her own, and has trouble accepting that she may actually need someone else now. She tries to escape this unusual thrall he has upon her, but she is not strong enough to fight it. Even upon discovering Darius and his family's dangerous secret, though she is repulsed by their needs, Tempest cannot resist the fire and passion in his magnetic gaze.

Ms. Feehan has once again proven why she is one of the biggest stars of the genre. Every book is better than the one before. Tempest is by far the strongest heroine to date, in this reviewer's opinion. She is all modern and independent woman, who chafes at authority, and has quite a penchant for finding trouble. Darius is a very old fashioned man, from a long ago era, whose only desire is to protect and adore his woman, his lifemate. This makes for some very rousing clashes of will. The secondary characters are beautifully rendered, as in all the Dark books, and play just as big of a role in the story, as the hero and heroine, without ever overshadowing them. Many characters return from previous books and liven things up. And loyal readers will be happy to see a couple of their favorite continuing side stories have not been neglected. As always, the reader is enlightened a bit more about the world of the Carpathians.

Though there is violence in the book, as is to be expected, this book does not seem quite as dark as the previous ones. Most of the violence in kept to a few chapters.

There are only two faults this reviewer can find with Dark Fire. It is a little confusing how Ms Feehan bounces back and forth between Tempest's name and her nickname, Rusti. But once the reader gets used to it, it really does not cause any problems. The only other fault is that the book had to end! This is a beautiful addition to the ongoing Dark saga.

© Kelley A. Hartsell, 2001. All rights reserved.

A dangerous, dark fire burns in Carpathian men. More animal than man, they are predators. Each Carpathian man must find the light to his darkness, or risk losing the color and emotions that prevent them from slipping over the edge into becoming a vampire. Once Tempest enters his life, Darius may display a perfect tranquility, but beneath the surface fierce emotion seethes. There is only one woman for each male. Accustomed to having his own way, Darius meets his match in Tempest. He expects deference to his every wish. She is accustomed to being utterly independent. As they share thoughts and memories, Darius comes to understand Tempest also share the same aching loneliness concealed in his own soul.
Audacious, defiant, and tempestuous, Tempest lives up to her name with her rebellious attitude and stirring up of trouble. As she learns to calm the fury of her mind, however, Tempest discovers the power of her own psychic gifts, as well as the pull of fate. Destined to become Darius' life mate, Tempest struggles against the mesmerizing pull of his presence, the seductive danger and sheer magic of his voice. She doesn't understand that she puts color in Darius' world, igniting passion and emotion long forgotten over endless centuries. Indeed, it seems every time she goes out, trouble has a way of finding her, whether it be vampire hunters and injured animals.
Christine Feehan brings texture and richness to her latest saga of Carpathians in DARK FIRE. As sparks ignite between these strong willed, multifaceted characters, Darius knows he's met his life mate because she's literarily put color back in his universe. Tempest isn't nearly so trusting of fate, exerting her fierce independence and proving the strength of her mettle. Yet Darius ignites a dark fire every time he touches her, providing a scintillating, sensual read. Further, watching Darius learn to cope with long forgotten emotion following centuries of icy control makes for evocative, intense entertainment. As a new fan of this series, this reader found obvious ties to previous books, but still feels the strength of the novel allows it to stand alone as well. Very highly recommended.

Darius is the leader, and protector, of a musical traveling troupe. He feels the darkness spreading inside his soul, and wonders how far off the end is for him. His sister has hired a new mechanic for the group, a human, who will be able to not only repair their vehicles, but also run errands in daylight they cannot. Darius is caught completely by surprise the first time he sees her.

Tempest has always been different from other people. Her natural affinity with animals has been a closely kept secret. Almost from the very moment Darius embraces her, she seems to fall under his spell. He looks at her like no other man has, and brings out feelings she didn't think she could feel.

As they grow closer, her tendency to get into trouble makes Darius swear, and want to keep her locked away and protected. Lifemates are treasured, and he looks at Tempest as the precious gift she is. Their relationship is tested more than once.

This is a different world of the Carpathians. Travel with this unique group, and their search for their once-in-a-lifetime loves. Highly recommended!

Most of Christine Feehan's books have women that are strong but this one is different this lady kicks but and takes no names. This maybe one of her best I could barely put it down and finished in record time. I love the way these later books in the series bring characters that you loved from previous books.

She was six when she fell for the charms of a vampire who murdered her family, captured her and then converted her. Through the most horrible and degrading period of her young life, she relied on one man, the one she miraculously connected with. Although oceans apart, he became her constant companion, the savior she relied on for her sanity. Relying on him for emotional support, she survived the terror and havoc wreaked by her captor, and when she finally killed the vampire who stole her innocence and youth, she swore vengeance against all the undead and became a hunter to be reckoned with.

He is one of the ancient hunters sent out by the previous prince to rid the world of vampires. Together with his brother, he fought numerous battles, with each kill stealing a piece of his soul. His code of honor was the only thing that kept him from succumbing to darkness. But when a child connects to him unexpectedly, she became an obsession for him, another reason for him to hold on until he found her and saved her from the clutches of evil. Immediately he set out to find her, at the same time accompanying her from a distance in her solitude. Not once did she say a word to him, but always she shared her pain and sorrow. So with the only thing he felt he could give her, he prepared her for her battles with the undead, honing her skills and lending her strength. Now after years of search that felt like eternity, he finally found her.

While in the middle of a fierce battle with vampires, Destiny finally came face to face with Nicolae when he saves her from an ambush. But with no knowledge of Carpathians and never having met one before, she runs away from him, fearful of falling for his gentle voice, although something deep inside is telling her that Nicolae isn't like the vampire who lured her into a false friendship with his friendly voice and fake smile. Her instincts are telling her that the man who was her constant companion throughout her ordeal is telling her the truth. As for Nicolae, in spite of his immense powers, he doesn't want to force her compliance, preferring her full consent. He has no intention of betraying her by doing anything that will resemble the actions of the evil creature that stole her childhood.

DARK DESTINY is another sensual and action-packed installment in the Dark series. The Carpathians are now facing more problems now that the undead are starting to form an alliance intent on killing the hunters. And taking a different tone from the previous books, this delves into the more sensitive issues of child abuse and trauma, as seen in the eyes of the heroine. I thought Destiny was very courageous and Nicolae so gentle with his approach. The way he helped Destiny survived years of solitude and how he finally helped her beat her inner demons was the best gift that he could give her. I especially enjoyed the feeling of belonging that the other Carpathians have bestowed on her toward the end.

Yet all sweetness aside, I found that this pales in comparison to the other books, notably DARK PRINCE and DARK LEGEND. It's not so much the repetition, but rather the fact that the start of Nicolae and Destiny's relationship in the beginning wasn't fleshed out a little more. I thought it would have been really good if the story started out from when Destiny made the initial connection with Nicolae, just like the author did with DARK DESIRE. Secondly, I didn't find the humans here as entertaining or as interesting as some of those in the other books.

However, don't let this deter you from reading this book. This is the 11th Carpathian book I have read and I'm still wanting more and can't wait to read about Nicolae's brother, Vikirnoff.

This one will not go down as a favorite in this series for sure. Didn't care for the heroine. Destiny was abducted and horribly tortured as a child. She lives seeing herself as a horrible monster because of what she turned into. Her only salvation was the voice of Nicolae that encouraged, comforted and kept her sane. When Nicholae finally finds her, however, she treats him atrociously! While one understands her fears, as the book progresses, her actions read more like a spoiled child's tantrums than a mature woman's insecurities.

Nicholae is a stand out among the Carpathians of other books. He actually chooses to give her the choice in all things. He never forces his will on her, even to his detriment (unlike the other heros here-to-fore.) He has the patience of Job with a woman who, even the reader wants to shake at times.

The storyline is average, not particularly exciting and a little confusing but a good who's-doing-it type. Three stars pretty much explains it all.

Dark Fire involves Darius, Desari's (Dark Challenge) elder brother, and Tempest/Rusti, a female mechanic with an affinity for animals. Tempest answers a want-ad for a mechanic willing to travel and finds herself drawn to the leader and protector of the group (the Dark Trubadors), Darius. Tempest is frightened of Darius and his group when she realizes that they are not human, and that Darius has drank her blood. Understandably, Tempest runs away from a group she considers hazerdous to her health, despite her attraction to Darius. Darius rescues Tempest from attempted rape, but she is still fearful of the group and what they are. The vampire hunters are back too, in this book, trying to capture or kill a group member, and Tempest lands in the middle when one of them takes pictures of her.
Tempest is a girl who is down on her luck, but determined to survive in a manner that makes her proud of herself, not just one that is easy. Darius is used to giving commands and having them instantly obeyed. There is some personality clash, but the chemistry between these two is lots of fun to read. Tempest is not a female to sit back and be ordered around, and after a somewhat traumatic past, she is more than willing to forgo protection in order to maintain control. The relationship involves some of the most give and take in any of the Dark books. I highly recomend this book.

Darius and Tempest are a breath of fresh air for these novels. Darius has not grown up with the rest of the Carpathians and their set ways, so he treats his lifemate differently (or at least as differently as he can). He is still possessive, overbearing and generally an ultra-alpha male, but that's what makes these books enjoyable. What changes a bit in this one is his willingness to sacrifice himself instead of making Tempest change. We have a more compassionate or at least understanding male than the last books.
What I did not like in this story was the swiftness in which it read. The story was not as involved as the previous ones and the plot was much looser or uncomplicated than the last books. I wonder if the typesetting and margins got bigger in this book. There just did not seem to be as much meat to this story as the other ones. I also do not understand the unwillingness to bring in some of the other characters from the earlier books into the fold. They keep talking about Michail, their prince, but never motivate themselves to meet him. Wouldn't this band be interested in meeting more of their kind? Same goes the other way, wouldn't Gregori or Michail WANT to meet this new band of Carpathians? Well, I will just have to keep reading to see if these reunions happen. (which I suppose is the point).

Like another reviewer, I too was disappointed that MaryAnn didn't get her very own Carpathian. And what about poor old Vodk--er Vikirnoff? Why hasn't he gotten his own book with his life mate in it yet? Perhaps the two are being saved for their own books at a later point in time? I was a little sorry for Velma, but it provided a slightly different view of "unclaimed" lifemates. Shea's mother wasn't in quite the same position as Velma, since she had been partially claimed by her lifemate. At least, claimed enough that he was able to impregnate her, but not enough to totally lock them together and to convert her. Also, I think that this is the first time we have had a human villian who was NOT a vamp hunter in the series. And frankly, that doctor was just creepy. But I can see why Ms. Feehan put him in the book, since poor Destiny needed to see that there were evil people in all species so that she could start to heal mentally. And why the difference in the way the vamp blood affected Destiny? Why was it so different from the way Alexandria was affected? Was it because the vamp was the one that completed the transformation? Or because he wasn't her life-mate? All interesting theories that Ms Feehan really need(ed)(s) to address.

Courtesy of CK2S Kwips and Kritiques

This, the latest book in the Dark saga, will reel readers in, be they new or old fans. Also, Ms. Feehan introduces a new kind of heroine, her first ever, female vampire hunter.

Destiny is a rarity in the Carpathian world. She is a female vampire hunter, which before now was absolutely unheard of in their society. At a very young age, her family had been horrifically murdered by the hated vampire, and she was kidnapped, brutalized and converted by him. As a result, she has always felt alone in the world, soiled and ruined as a result of her experiences. Except for him...

Nicolae is an ancient, sent out centuries ago to hunt the undead, the vampires, those of their race who lost all hope and turned to the bad as a result. He was on the brink of losing his hold in the world and turning himself, when a powerful connection to a young girl in agony saved him. He taught her everything he knew about hunting vampires, giving her the power and control she needed to keep herself alive and sane.

Nicolae and Destiny finally come face to face when he finds her and rescues her from a vampire ambush. As a result of the tragedies she lived through as a child, Destiny trusts no one, especially Nicolae, whom she at first believes to be a vampire. He can do no other then protect her, his lifemate, as it is ingrained into all Carpathian men from birth. When it becomes apparent that Destiny's town is about to become a battlefield between Carpathians and vampires, Destiny and Nicole have to fight what could very well be a fight to the death, to rescue the people they have come to love. Will they succeed and will Destiny finally be able to overcome her past?

This story is different then the previous books in the series, with a darker feel. Destiny is mentally and physically scarred from her conversion by a vampire and her battles to destroy them. She believes she is unclean, contaminated, and will never be good enough for her kind. Nicolae has always been powerful and never loses a battle. It tears him up inside that he can't help Destiny win her emotional battles, or take them upon himself and spare her the misery. Though it contradicts his very nature, he knows what she needs to be whole again.

As always, the author expands on the world she has created, introducing new aspects previously unknown to readers. There are even a few sideline stories, which will interest, and maybe even answer a few questions, fans have long wondered about. One will experience many different emotions while reading, from tears of happiness to tears of sorrow, pleasure and pain, anger and joy. One will also love to see new characters who may later get their own stories?, as well as some returning favorites.

However, for this reviewer, in spite of some appealing details and plot lines, this story just did not captivate as previous books have done. There were a couple sub-plots, which felt unnecessary to the story, though their intended purpose was evident. It just seems the reasons for them could have been handled in another way through the main story line. It felt like this particular sub-plot could have been completely removed and the story would have been no worse off for it. Also, some of the new details and vivid descriptions of some aspects of Destiny's conversion and subsequent suffering were too unbelievable for this reviewer to fully appreciate them.

One other thing about this story which didn't sit well with this reviewer, was some of the writing itself. There were so many sentence fragments and one-word sentences through the entire book that it became very distracting. Whether this is a new situation or an old one that was not really noticed before, or just the need for more editing, it took away from the story. It is apparent that this writing style was used for a reason, possibly to give the feel of stream-of-consciousness and thoughts of the characters. Where this worked fine for the dialogue and for the internal thinking and conversing of the characters as it suited how they'd be thinking, it just did not work at all for the narrative portions of the story.

All in all, a passable story for the series, and likely it was just a "bump in the road" for the author, with future books to be back to what one has come to expect from a story by Ms. Feehan.

© Kelley A. Hartsell, June 2004. All rights reserved.

I loved this story! Darius who is an ancient Carpathian and is never disobeyed by those in his charge, meets a redheaded mechanic named Tempest. She has a penchant for finding trouble and has no intention of letting Darius tell her what to do. She finds herself however falling in love and offering her life for his own. This story was a wonderful addition to the Dark series and I can hardly wait for the next book.

It's the awsome,incrediable romantic novel I've read in a long time! While a lot of romance novels are quite sensual, few of them really make me believe the main characters really,truly, maddly love each other. Tempest and Darius have incrediable chemistry. I've vastly enjoyed the 'Dark' series but this is by far the best. I can truly believe that if Tempest and Darius weren't destined to be lifemates they'd love each other any way. You don't need some mystical it-was-fated plot element to bring these to together. That's how well their relationship developes.
Out of all of the other 'Dark' series heroines, Tempest is my favorite. She is still the beacon of goodness and light, but she's tougher than her predicessors. Life has given her some really hard knocks but she's always managed to bounce back. Darius isn't at all like the heroes of the other novels. He was more willing to compromise, and more understanding of how much emotional upheaval Tempest was going through when she got tangled up in the Carpathians' affairs.
I can't wait for 'Dark Legend'. I can only hope it lives up the greatness of 'Dark Fire'. My hat goes off to you Ms. Feehan.

I waited impatiently for this book, the sixth in the Dark series, to be published. As usual, Ms Feehan did not disappoint. Usually after so many books in a series, the books begin to lose their appeal and become the same theme over and over. This isn't the case with Dark Fire. This is Darius and Tempest's story. Darius is the brother of Desiri, the heroine from Dark Challenge. He has not told his sister how close he is to changing, becoming the dreaded vampire. He doesn't see in color and hasn't for many centuries. He feels no emotion and has only been faking the feelings he shows to those in his care. The responsibility to his sister and the others in care are the only thing that has kept him from meeing the sun. Then he sees Tempest working on one of the group's vehicles and suddenly, colors become vivid and he feels emotions. Tempest becomes the most important thing in the world to him, for without her, he goes back to the empty existence, he had before. I totally enjoyed this book and recommend it to anyone who enjoys a love story full of tenderness and steamy lust, caring, and devotion. Darius is a wonderful hero and sure to fill many women's fantasies of the ideal lover for he is willing to do something that no other Carpathian male has been willing to do. If you want to know what that is, buy the book. You won't be disappointed.

In this installment of the Dark series we find Darius on the edge of "turning" or becoming vampire. Darius is the brother to Gregory the most powerful of all the Carpathians and is no slouch himself when it comes to power and threat. Darius sees the solution to his problems in Tempest Trine a woman who is suited to be his lifemate in every way but one. She is not a Carpathian, she will age and die in a normal human lifespan where he could live another 1000 years without aging much at all. This ends up being Darius's biggest challenge. Tempest aka Rusty throws up a few more along the way just to keep things interesting. She really does not get his ideas on obedient women and that makes for some interesting reading as well. This book is sure to draw more readers into Christine Feehan's world. There are a few problems that would have been solved with a better editor though. Some facts don't match earlier books, somethings are just outright impossible according to earlier books (like Darius is 500 years older than he could be according to the earlier books) and I found a few words that could have used a spellchecker. Other than those minor irritations the book was a very enjoyable read.

Why this was probably my least favorite out of the Dark Series, I hope that Ms Feehan continues with this series as well as her others.

It was different to have a female survive having been turned by a vampire and surviving without losing her mind.

However, Destiny's character just seemed to get annoying at times. I don't know if there was a reason for that, but it does seem like quite a few others felt that way as well.

I like how their is more to this story than Destiny & Nicholas coming together.

Subplots and leading into new characters is something Ms. Feehan does well.

We all know that that the Vampires are banding together and that Morrison Research has something to do with this.

Nicholas's brother finding his potential lifemate....

I can't wait for his story.

The first time a female lifemate sees her lifemate (who has turned vampire).

That was awesome.

So, Destiny's character was weak and complained, but I have to say with the rest of it that it came together in the middle & end of the book.

Even though I read all the Dark series as they come out, I actually had not read this book - just missed it I guess. I read it after reading Dark Demon (which by the way, I rather enjoyed). This book just grated on my nerves. I agree w/the reviewers who state that Ms. Feehan spends way to much time promoting her causes - in this case female abuse. While it's certainly a worthy cause to support, I don't want it ad nauseum in a fantasy romance. Also, way too much time was spent on the character of Maryann which I found distracting and extremely annoying. Now I don't mind a strong female lead, but my idea of strong is not someone who has the same unreasonable misgivings over & over again & continues to put herself & her lifemate in danger. It's best put by a previous reviewer who asks is this what Nicolae waited 2000 years for? Ms. Feehan, we all understand that women are strong, most of your readers are strong, smart women - but please, a strong woman is not one who constantly whines & puts down her mate. Really, please get over making your female leads this way. The strongest, best female lead ever was Francesa who was a strong carpathian & her lifemate Gabriel was great too. Why can't we have more characters like these two? Both strong and smart enough to know that they belong together - after all, that's what the carpathians are supposedly about. Why build up these wonderful ancient powerful carpathian men only to have them look like idiots when they meet their whiny, unlikeable lifemates - they deserve better, and so do you readers.

Like other reviewers, I found myself disappointed by Ms. Feehan's newest offering. I loved the first three, then was a bit put-off by Dark Magic. However, I had already bought Dark Challenge, so I went ahead and read it. I really enjoyed Dark Challenge. This book, though...
First, you are bound to want to read it after reading the others, and have some expectations. While I agree with the gripe about cardboard characterization, the carpathian claiming her, the woman saying "no," this one had the added confusion of a previous rape in the heroine's life which was almost repeated, then LIGHTLY dealt with. That irked for some reason. Darius was an interesting carpathian, and I was looking forward to getting into his head... I was saddened to realize that he didn't even have any of the issues that Gregori or Julian had to deal with. I enjoyed the book. It seemed to me that the great... and varying... agonies of the previous books were missing. Of course, the usual vampire hunters and hissing, killing undead were still there.
The strong point for me was the imagery -- I could actually *see* Darius sweeping around, and I usually can't do that while I'm reading. It was remarkable, and very sensual. To read her descriptions of Darius was probably worth the price of the book, and will no doubt be the reason why I re-read this book later.
There is also a great little background romance that (perhaps) should have gotten its own book (IMHO), and it does delve into this group's history more.
I like Ms. Feehan's writing,and will continue to buy the books, and to re-read them because the males are so delicious, but this was definitely the "worst" of the bunch yet. Read it, you know you are going to if you read this series, but then make sure you pick up the anthology "after twilight" to renew your faith in this author.

I hadn’t read anything by Christine Feehan until a week ago when several fellow readers told me I just had to read her series to believe it. Well, this is my fourth book by Ms. Feehan in a week and it has been a wild ride. I would do a brief review of the story, but I think that has pretty well been covered by the other reviewers. Just let me say this, after four books, the story line remains fascinating. Each features a Carpathian who after centuries of searching for his life mate has to make a decision: either greet the sun and perish, or risk losing control and becoming a vampire who tortures the human race. In this story, Dark Fires, Darius the strong protector of his family is facing that reality. Then into his life comes Tempest. The only problem is Tempest isn’t Carpathian. She’s human. Tempest hasn’t had an easy life and really doesn’t understand the whole concept of love, family, and most importantly trust. Darius, being the alpha male, has the overwhelming urge to dominate and protect the woman of his life. Tempest, who grew up on the streets ends up battling against his arrogance and dominating ways. Let me just say this, if you want a sensual book with tons of excitement, and thrills; this is the series for you.

Quite frankly, I was getting very bored with the "Dark" series by Feehan. All of the books were starting to take the same theme, and it was hard to admit this to myself because I like Feehan's style so much. However, DARK DESTINY renewed my interest.

Destiny was converted by a vampire when she was young. During her torture by the vampire, she called out to Nicolae, unbeknown to her as her life mate. In order to battle the vampire, Nicolae, who cannot find Destiny, teaches her how to kill vampires.....making her a hunter. Nicolae eventunally finds her in the city of Seattle and the love story begins.

DARK DESTINY is fast based and very interesting. It is the first time we see a female Carpathian battle the demons within. It was interesting to see how Nicolae dealt with this unusual female life mate and how he adjusts to her. Also, on a side note, I'm interested in reading the story of Nicolae's brother. If you have found your interest in this series waning, please pick up this book.

I've read almost all of Christine Feehan's Dark Series and this one I just couldn't get into. Darius is annoying beyond belief, and Tempest is a flake. I actually like the other characters in the story better. Darius started using pet names WAY to quickly.

I don't know if I've just read too many of them or what, but would it hurt them to know each other for more than five seconds before they start using names like "baby" and "honey" and falling into bed.

So where I enjoy the Dark Series, and especially love the first three books, Dark Fire feels like it was put together to quickly with too much of the formula in it.

I have been with Ms. Feehan since the first Carpathian book hit the shelves. The series is about a species of males, Carpathians, who are essentially immortal, and who eventually turn into soulless vampires if they do not find their mate. Once they find her, they can once again see colors and feel emotions.
As other reviewers have stated, there are many factors in the last couple of books that weaken the plots. For one, these Carpathians have just discovered, after centuries of wandering, that they are not the only ones of their kind in the world. Yet they do not seem to be in much of a hurry to meet the others (including their prince and their brother), or even ask any questions about their people. For another, a long-standing question of mine has been this: if the Carpathians now know that certain mortal women can be their lifemates, wouldn't common sense demand that they start frequenting places of high concentration of these women, like associations, research institutes, etc? Also, readers have been told for the last six books that female Carpathians are rare, but we have been given no further reason for it, or any indication that anything is being done about it. Where is this species' instinct of self-preservation?
The heroines in the first few books were strong, valiantly trying to cope with nightmarish events, while holding on to their personal beliefs. They were not easily intimidated or controlled by their lifemates; there was a lot of "look, bucko, just because you're incredibly powerful doesn't mean we do things your way all the time!". The latter heroines have been milksops, incessantly whining about the males' authoritarianism without ever doing anything about it. Lately, Ms. Feehan's books have all had the same plot: (Man) "You are my lifemate, do as I say!" (Woman) "No, I won't, I won't!" Picture a foot stomping here, and you'll have the whole idea. Instead of a man-woman relationship, it has become a parent-prepubescent one.
These ladies are also unbelievably ineffective at defending themselves, or having a say in the course of events. I am generally attracted to strong female characters, whose love for the hero does not obliterate their ability to think for themselves, or the pursuit of their own goals.
I keep buying the new installments, hoping against hope for a return to the heroine who can hold her own against the hero, and I get disappointed every time. Don't be like me. Read Dark Prince, Dark Desire, and Dark Magic. That's it, stop there.

I loved this book and I feel that it is one of her best. I have often wondered if a woman was turned by a vampire, did she have to be evil? In DARK GOLD we found that her lifemate was able to save Alex.
I wondered if Skyler could be saved and welcome the love of a lifemate after all that she had been through. Well it seems to me this book answers all those questions.
As well as the question of a vampire finding his lifemate too late. The one question I didn't get answered is; What if his lifemate is old when he finds her? I had hoped to find that answer with Velda and Vikirnoff, but she wasn't his lifemate.
This book has all of the things we look for in a DARK book. However, Christine has more in store for us. The questions are there and I'll bet she has the answers. I can hardly wait.
Destiny was kidnapped at 6 years old, after watching a vampire kill her parents. In her anguish she screams psychially and connects with Nicolae who helps her get through several years of abuse and horror. Whenever she calls out, he is there. He opens his mind to her and and shares each and every indignity visited on her by her captor, he then teaches her to kill the vampire. She is 14 before she is strong enough to free herself of the vampire.
Nicolae has searched for her all these years. He does not know she is his lifemate, until she speaks to him telepathically after several more years. She fears he is what she had to kill to escape, another vampire. Although he has tried to tell her the difference between Carpathians and vampires. She no longer has any trust.
When Nicolae and Vikirnoff find her, they find a group of vampires who have bonded in a new way. Because of the vampire taint in her blood the vampires, at first think Destiny is one of them.
There seems to be a great plot in force to destroy all the hunters so that they can rule the world.
There is a strange alliance amoung these vamps. Although several of the women in this place are psychic the vamps are not trying to convert them. There is also a lot of unusual violence against men and women by their most loving and trusted friends and lovers. But Nicolae and Destiny can find no trace of control by the vamps in these attacks.
Fighting vampires and Destiny's distrust, Nicolae must find a way to reach her and save not only himself but Destiny from the horror of the tainted vampire blood.
Gregori and Savannah make an appearance toward the end of the book to help Nicolae save both himself and Destiny. They are near because they have just helped Dayan save his lifemate and new daughter. (DARK MELODY)
I loved the richness of this world and I think Christine is branching out into a more fully developed world with a fuller texture and understanding of the characters she has brought to life.
Don't miss this one.

The Carpathian leader Darius has understood all his life his responsibility to protect his family at all costs even if others must die. Thus, he has no comprehension about a soul mate just for him. Tempest Trine is an independent person so when she joins his traveling troupe as a mechanic, he is stunned when she refuses to accept his protection. Though she thirsts to belong, she feels that the cost of allowing him to control her is too high to pay even if his kisses scorch her soul.
The vampire hunters return with a vengeance to destroy Darius and his beloved family. They may have the Achilles' Heel in Tempest who has gotten inside Darius' blood.
In her latest Carpathian tale, Christine Feehan paints an intriguing novel due to the interaction between the brooding hero and the self-reliant heroine. DARK FIRE refreshes the basic theme of the series due to Darius' deviant behavior when compared with previous lead males. Tempest also adds a new element with her ability to ignore efforts to erase her knowledge of the Carpathian blood sustenance. Ms. Feehan has written a strong entry in her popular series.

I absolutely love this series, I can never put them down n that results in some very late nights. I cried with Destiny When she was alone n trying to protect people by staying away n feeling contaminated. These books always make me feel so many emotions, such visceral reactions. I've yet to be displeased by one of her books

I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. I wrote Feehan's Carpathian series off until I read Dark Fire. This installment is the freshest entry I've read in Feehan's series. Feehan basically stays with the stock Carpathian plotline, but makes the heroine more astute and candid. In other words, the heroine takes one look at the Carpathian lifestyle, sees her own place in it, and makes a few serious attempts to run away.
I enjoyed the aspects of Darius' and Tempest's relationship that Feehan chose to emphasize. One of my favorite components was that Darius had to act according to his own instincts and wonder if he was doing the right thing, since he was not raised by Carpathians and did not know their ways. Self-doubt is a realistic feeling. Kudos.
His attitude of "My wish is your command" is a bit over the top, but that's all part of this series.
This installment is worth your money. A fresh and invigorated entry in the Carpathian series.

This story is much like other Carpathian stories in that the male goes beyond alpha and into a unhealthy controlling mode. Destiny has power of her own but Nicolae seems unwilling to stand back and allow her to use it without his input. While she is stronger than some other Dark Series women, she still is forced to submit part of independence to her "lifemate" in a way that I, as a woman, find irritating at best.

Another characteristic of the Carpathian novels is the endless passages of narrative. Very little of it seems to be vital to the storytelling and all of it makes me yawn. I do recommend the series to insomniacs, however. It works wonders for putting me to sleep.

I think the most frustrating thing about Feehan's "Dark" books to me is that I've read her other two series, the Drake Sisters and the Ghostwalkers, and both of those feature strong women and strong men who balance each other, as well as intense action, strong narrative and engaging dialog. Where those series keep the reader turning pages, this entire series is ultimately forgetable and repetitive.

I'd recommend skipping not only Dark Destiny, but the Carpathian series as a whole and reading either the Drakes or the Ghostwalkers instead.

Wow! I really love these books. Christine Geehan has a fan for life. I have now read almost all the books in this series so far and I can't wait to get to the next one. Christine makes her characters so human, even though they aren't human at all. I enjoy reading about the Carpathian lifestyle and how its men protect their women to the point of death. The passion that they share is wonderfully erotic and touching at the same time. Its nice to read about men who are just as moved by sex as the women are. Its just as emotional to them as to the women.
This is Darius's story. He is Desari's older brother from "Dark Challenge"...
The secondary characters are as always wonderful. I would love to see a few of them have their own stories, hint, hint.
I would recommend these books to anyone. I will read and reread them over and over.

I've read all of Christine Feehan's books, and this was, in my opinion, the best. For once, instead of a dark, tortured hero, you get a dark, tortured heroine Destiny who kicks butt (her action moves remind me of Selene in the movie Underworld). There's no issue about acclimatizing the human heroine to the world of the Carpathians, because Destiny has already been "turned". The secondary characters are not the usual young humans or Carpathians, but rather interesting members of a vibrant community. The best parts for me are not only having a female vampire hunter, but also the neighbourhood mystery (which is nicely solved) and Velda's (zany-dressing old lady) secret. Those two elements really made the book stand out in the series.
Yeah, the heroine is traumatized and has trouble adapting to relationships - but that's no surprise - being tortured from the age of 6 to 14 is bound to be hard on anyone's life. The fact that she's still in terrible pain every single day from the blood in her veins just makes it more reasonable that she's still very close to her ordeal. Stories of tortured heros who learn to love easily are easy to believe because a) they've had a lot of sexual relationships/vices/friends since to wash the pain away, b) they were older when it happened, or the torture was only for a short time, or c) they have had more time to deal with it, or more time to learn control themselves. Destiny doesn't have any of these advantages. If I'd been beaten, raped, tortured and mutated by a crazy vampire for 8 years and thought I'd caused my entire family to die I wouldn't fall in love with a handsome Carpathian so quickly either (this is all in the first few chapters, so I'm not giving anything away).
As for the hero Nicolae, he was already ancient and strong, secure in his abilities. He had nothing to prove. He was strong enough, controlled enough, and smart enough to know that Destiny needed to heal before being rushed into a life-bonding relationship. Readers who want an alpha male to rush his mate into a relationship at the cost of her mental health are asking for a guy with big muscles but tiny brains. Remember? Carpathian males do what's best for their mates, even if that's not what their mates want (Gregori and Savannah, anyone?). Nicolae is smart enough to know that what's best for his mate is to give her some time and patience to get used to him before claiming her. (It just happens that giving her time was what was best for her AND also what she wanted. Giving her time didn't make Nicolae submissive, it made him intelligent enough to do what was best for her in spite of his own desires.)
So this book was everything I'd hoped for and more. The secondary characters really grounded Destiny in a warm loving community with interesting characters, there was an actual mystery (not just the usual vampire-conspiracy storyline), Feehan gave Destiny a realistic reaction (based on her past) to Nicolae, and Velda's secret had me crying at the end.
So run out and get this book. But if you just want another book like Dark Prince, Dark Challenge and Dark Magic, you may not like this, because it doesn't follow the old formula.

This is the sixth book in Christine Feehan's Carpathain Dark series, and after devouring it in a single day, it's now my favorite of the series (it's hard to just pick one favorite because they are all stellar)! This book took my break away. Darius is beyond magnificent, and Tempest has a wonderful quirky personality. This book is romantic, sexual, hot, loving, exciting, and I hung on every word. So did my blood pressure. It's a true love story. Don't be swayed by the complaints that some reviewers have made about this book; they just don't get it. They don't get what the Carpathian lore is all about, the scorching passion, the undying allegience, the overwhelming need the males have to protect their lifemates at any cost. It's pure romance in its most basic form, meant to be savored and cherished. Christine Feehan's books are about women being cherished by men who are strong enough to move the earth for them -- literally. Don't miss this book.

Destiny and Nicholea have been in each others thoughts since she was a child. She suffered greatly having been captured by a vampire. Nicholea helped her escape her ordeal. He hunted for her for years. Their love story has many ups and downs. Great read.

Dark Fire is book #6 in the Carpathian series. Thus far it has become my favorite. The reason for this is due in large part to Tempest. In the preceding books the idea of freedom of choice has become somewhat of a myth to the Carpathian men when it relates to potential lifemates. While the thought of taking what you want seems like a novel idea, when it pertains to a person it chafes. I genuinely enjoyed the chemistry between Darius and Tempest. I believed in her struggle to overcome the mental boundaries that prohibit her from entirely embracing a new lifestyle. Darius' reasoning on his potential mortality and Tempest's ultimate choice are what make this book a standout. If you are curious to find out what these choices are, I encourage you to pick up this book. It makes for a quick bedtime read

This book was a little slow to start, but@ about the 16% mark it brought tears to my eyes. Maybe for the people who could not see the beauty of this book should try reading at the 16% to 20% mark out loud. I have read the entire book. I think what I enjoyed about this book was how you were able to see the H/h come full circle. Although the h was brutally damaged from her childhood, she is a survivor, and this book showed both of them helping each other, and falling in love. I absolutely loved the secondary characters in this book.

I will refrain from reviewing the plot since it has been so adequately done by previous posters. My only problem with this book is one of the subplots. A theme of violence by hypnosis is introduced--only it is well known in psychology circles that just being hypnotised will not cause a person to be exceedingly violent against a loved one on command or even against total strangers. The kind of violence described in the book (as going against the natures and personalities of the participants) as introduced via hyponosis is so incredible that it could only be done through extensive conditioning after the breaking of one's will--as in prisoner of war camps or maybe nazi camps. The almost dismissive explanation of some doctor visits a couple of days a week just wouldnt do it. I write this as a fan of the series, one who knows that the Carpathian males do have different personalities, as do the heroines. I am not bashing the author but even a cursory reading of the relevant material in a first year psych text would have given her enough information to keep this glaring inconsistency out of an otherwise wonderful novel.

A wonderful Carpathian read! I enjoy the way she brings everything alive for the reader. She has a way of showing the beauty and the danger! I find myself thrilled and mystified! The story is complex yet simple. I cringe at the knowledge that there is evil, "darkness". But rally that there is GOOD, "light" to fight it, to tame it.. I am able to pick up any of Christine's "DARK" books and loose myself in the skill of a writer who knows "HER" world. There are no slips that detract from the story. No contradictions. And best of all the thrilling danger is set inside a frame of utter devotion & protection. A predator stronger then can be imagined, captured by tenderness! A wonderful read!
Love Always, Tonya

The Carpathian vampire novels are fantasy romance. They are intended for suspension of reality and to take people away from their lives. Sort of a timeout in order to refresh the soul. When you introduce a horrible subject like monstrous child abuse, it takes away from the escape from reality. That is not what these kinds of books are for and may be the reason why people are having such a difficult time with the book. The plot and the type of book are in conflict.

I want escape when I read Carpathian novels. This wasn't it. On the other hand, Destiny was actually better adjusted and was able to form a positive relationship much more easily than most untreated women. I just did not care for this much reality.

I've had the chance to read the majority of books in the "Dark" series. Unfortunately, as the series continues, it feels as if Feehan has run out of new ways to retell what is essentially the same story.

I was hoping as I picked up "Dark Destiny", that perhaps the author had found a way: female Carpathian who survived abuse to become a female hunter. Hmmm the premise sounded intriguing, the execution of the storyline was not so good. It seems that the storyline is building up to something bigger (ie: Gregori taking slide samples to see if they could conquer vampirism etc) but at this point I'm ready to throw in the towel. Sure there are many steamy scenes that this series is known for, but throwing out a new name to an ancient isn't the way to attract or retain readers. Throw in a new twist, convert a vampire something anything, just don't leave us hanging.

This is one of my favorite Carpathian novels. Feehan presents a wonderful Carpathian male, Nicolae, as the hero...and an equally strong female, Destiny, as his lifemate. Destiny was human, but converted by a vampire. Her story of abuse and recovery is quite realistic...as are most of the characters in the novel. I laughed out loud in some places because the more Feehan writes about the Carpathians, the better she gets at injecting a sense of humor into them after they have regained their emotions. She also introduces my favorite Carpathian in the this novel...he is Nicolae's brother, Vikirnoff. Feehan has a lot of fun at Vikirnoff's expense. Also, a bonus, Gregori and Savannah put in an appearance, and it is always nice to see them again. I truly enjoyed reading this book. I have to say, I am not a huge fan of long drawn out sex scenes, but there were one or two in this book that got my attention. Read, laugh, cry, and enjoy this one.

This was my first Christine Freehan book, one I picked up on impulse at the super market one day. Now as an avid fan of romantic fantasy (paranormal, historical, sci-fi...) I am never truly dissatisfied with any of them. The same goes for "Dark Destiny" and the colorful characters therein. Freehan really knows how to create a genuine and compassion-inspiring set of characters, and the over all story line was entertaining and even exciting at times. If you like vampires, steamy romances, and characters you can feel for, you will enjoy this book. If your a cynical or jaded readed,or if you're looking for some awe and or thought inspiring novel... go read the Tao Te Ching (which I highly recommend, by the way.)Now onto the next Freehan paperback!

I sat down one long weekend and read the last four books in this series. I enjoyed all of them, however the last three are the best. Darius is the rogue. His "family unit" is a lost group of chidern none of the others know about. So they don't know all the things that have been happening since they were separated from the rest. Therfore when Tempest (what a perfect name) arrives and Darius starts to see colors and feel emotion is torn between wanting to convert her and knowing that human females never survive the conversion. This is finally resolved and they come together. Ms Feehan has tackled abuse in this book and in Dark Gaurdian. Which I appauled her for doing. Now if she will bring together Darius, Gabriel and Lucian with the existing group they may solve their survival problem.

This book was my personal introduction to the series, actually to Feehan. I have totally fallen in love with the “Dark” series. Of course, I had to go back to the begining, to see what I might have missed, and since - have recommended with ( not really embarrased-but why is my face red ) kinda thing - you just gotta read it. It hooked me, and has not let go yet ...

I truly enjoyed reading this book as I have all the Dark series books. Since quite a few reviewers explained the gist of the storyline, I won't, but suffice it to say that Ms. Feehan has amazingly created an entire race that is fasinating to read about and the passion in these books is phenomenal. I doubt I'll ever get tired of this storyline. However, I must agree with the reviewer from St. Paul, MN that the narrative referring to Tempest as Rusti was somewhat disconcerting & I also found it odd that someone as "old world" as Darius would repeatedly use the endearment "honey" - but these are minor complaints and I certainly did enjoy this book and look forward to her next Carpathian story.

You can read everyone else's reviews and there are tidbits of truth in them all.

For me, it was a fun read. For some reason Destiny reminded me of the Myers-Briggs INFP personality type....those believe they are battling the evil in themselves. Her struggle is to find that what she carries inside her (vampire blood) is not 'who' she is.

And Nicholae is probably up there in my top 5 favorite uber-alpha-macho Carpathian males. He's protective, but he's also very aware that she needs her space and freedom. That forcing her will only drive her away or into madness.

His actions speak more of true love instead of auto-response to Carpathian genetics.

I agree and disagree with OK already I get it review. All good books must be able to stand on there owe. So even if I find the lifemate thing a little tiresome, if this was the first one you read in the series, you would we confused without it. And yes you could see what was going on with Barrack in Dark Challenge. Also I would also like more interaction between the brothers who haven't seen each other for awhile or meant at all. It would be nice if she would add some of that at least at the end of the story. But even with all that said, I still have enjoyed all the books in the Dark series, except Dark Gold. I'm not a vampire fan of either movies or books, but Feehan weaves a good tale worth reading.

To preface my review, I'd like to ask readers - Do you know that one out of three women have suffered some form of abuse - either mentally or physically sometime in their life, many as children? And the memory and guilt they carry lasts a lifetime?

I ask this question because if you know this little known fact, it will help you understand the issue of trust in DARK DESTINY.

I've read some of the reviews where they felt Destiny was whiny and Nicolae was wimpy. My opinion is so different that I needed to write a review to express my thoughts.

Can you imagine the torture this little girl went through from the time she was only six years old? First seeing her parents brutally murdered by a vampire, then 'USED' for his pleasure through horrible, obscene ways to this tiny little girl until she was old enough to escape him? Could she EVER rid herself of feeling unclean? Or, feel she was beautiful ever again after being so horribly violated for so long? In my opinion she was a super woman of incredible strength and fortitude to continue even wanting to live, let alone protect others from the evil ones.

And, Nicolae - In my opinion, he's the strongest Carpathian alive holding back his own desires because of his deep love for his lifemate - waiting for her to trust enough - going so far as to risk his very life because she meant that much to him. I wonder how many know a man such as he - to do anything and everything for love. For me, he shows compassion, patience, and the strongest love for Destiny, and he is a total opposite of a weak man - showing great strength in subtle ways as well as physically. It takes more to hold back than to take what you want...

The secondary characters in DARK DESTINY made for a beautiful neighborhood. The sometimes looney sisters who loved and cared for their neighbors, worrying when things weren't 'right'. And Mary Anne, the compassionate neighbor with unconditional love for everyone around her, wanting only to help battered, abused women find a way again.

I'll stop here, but there's more to this story than first appears. There's romance, sensuality, action, adventure, and suspense. And it's one story you really don't want to miss reading!

Carol Carter

All of Christine's books are well written. Maybe too many sex scenes but I have read them so many times I am having to but new ones. This book as well as Dark Melody and especially Dark Fire should be movies. Actually all in her series should be. Sisters if the heart Drake Sisters Ghost& Leopard would be excellent movies. I will contnue to purchase her books as long as they are available. Thank you for your efforts.

When I first started reading Christine Feehan's Carpathian novels, I enjoyed them. They were new, different. There was character development. But the later ones all seem to have the same pitfalls. The heros and heroines lack personalities, there is a lot of time rehashing old material, all of them were born 1,000 years ago, unless they are really old, and were born 2,000 years ago. But this does not seem to inform any part of their personality. What have they lived through? What has happened over that long stretch of time? What was the world like that they lived through? Their age seems to be a random number that sounds really cool, but there is no thought that goes into how that would affect the character.

I am disapointed in this book specifically because all of the same things happen again that have happened in all of the previous books. No new territory is explored. This series had potential when it began, because it was placing unreal characters in the real world, and how that affected them. The later books all ignore the real world. Even the plot against the Carpahians has gotten depersonalized and very nebulous. There is no sense of immediacy to this plot, because nothing ever moves forward. If you remember some of the earlier books, there were deffinate plots, with deffinate bad guys, and a sense of a bigger threat. Now, there is just this mention of vampires gathering together, and once the big baddie of the book is killed, there is no sense of this being under the direction of any other master controller pulling the strings. Instead, the next book I am sure will have another baddie, probably a vampire, trying to kill as many Carpathians as possible, but espedially the hero and/or heroine.

I give up on Christine Feehan's Carpathian novels. I was hoping that things would improve, and slogged through Dark Symphony and Dark Melody, and probably some others, but I now have to give them up. Nothing new is happening. I would prefer to reread the earlier books in the series, than read the new ones.

As more time goes on, I find it harder and harder to get into this series of her books.

Feehan is forgetting about what makes her books great, and that is both the internal and external struggles each couple must fight in order to become the lifemates they need to be. This book totally focused on the internal problems of the heroine, while it could have been great, it really wasn't. It was long and drawn out and the plot took a backburner to the relationship which too could have been great, but fell short.

The basis for this story line was such an intense emotional connection between a small child and an ancient carpathian, which did make for a strong bond, however, it wasn't explored to the fullest extent. The characters never really became real for me, they stayed in 1 dimension instead of becoming 3D.

The plot was exaggerated and boring. I need less conversation and more action.

I hope Feehan realizes this soon, otherwise her Dark series will stay in the dark for me.

I have to add my voice to the choir of other reviewers who have gotten a little tired of the redundant storyline. This book just didn't grab my attention, and consequently I found I got distracted easily and quite frequently. While I enjoyed the changes in this particular male hero (he "allowed" Tempest more freedom and choices than most of the other heroes in previous novels), and the heroine's past was interesting, I was a little disappointed. I didn't find Tempest as whinny as other people, but I did get tired of her apparent defenselessness. I realize that the point of the female lifemate is to be the exact opposite of the male (how many times have we heard "light to his darkness?"), but if she had really had such a rough life on the street, she would have learned better SURVIVAL SKILLS!... She would have been a LOT more cautious of some of the situations she had gotten herself into, and she would have been able to handle them better than she did.
Another point that bothered me was her previous attack, and the more recent attempt made by the driver. This seemed like it was going to be a major point in the book, but after you hit about the halfway mark, the episodes seem to be forgotten.
But, on a better note, Feehan's writing is getting better. Though she still gets repetitive, she's come a long way. The cliche you hear most in the writing critique groups is "Show, don't tell" and I wish Feehan would do more of this, but her ideas are good (if she could just come up with a bit of a different premise now that the series is well underway).
I also liked the romance subplot between Barrack and Syndil, though I do wish they had had their own book.
Overall, this was a pretty good book in the Dark Series, better than some (I have to admit that I was turned off for a while after reading Dark Magic) and fans of these books would probably want to read it, but if you're new to the books, go with Dark Legend or Dark Gold (my personal favs.)

I have never been a big fan of "vampire" books. How romantic can it be to have somebody sucking your blood? Ms. Feehan has managed to make a vampire series romantic, funny, gut clenching, and very enjoyable. Her Carpathian series has got to be one of the best series written for the dedicated romance reader. Of course, I agree with Tempest from "Dark Fire" that Darius is just too pig-headed and all controlling. All of the Carpathian men are dictatorial and really need the bonding of a human woman to bring them into the present and onto to solid ground. Read this series starting with the first one, "Dark Prince". You'll not regret it.

This is the first "Dark" series I read recently. I am awed by the twist in the genre, I am humbled by the beauty of the love between a Carpathian and his lifemate.
I continued reading two more Dark books, namely Dark Challenge and Dark Gold, and I must say, so far, Dark Fire is much better than these two. Darius's story is full of INTENSITY. Everything about the book is intense, as if the writer was 'in her utmost prime' when she wrote it. Dark Fire is well-written, hauntingly beautiful, mystifyingly intense and at the same time, magnificently sensual.
A good read. Now I'm going to devour Dark Magic next. Keep up the good work, Christine!

I enjoy the carpathian/vampire series -It keeps me in vampire books between Anita Blake books and the occaisional great like "Sunshine." So they aren't my favorite but I usually get caught up in the romance and general 'issues' that CF creates for her characters...

Destiny, a strong psychic child, was turned by a vampire (tortured... etc) She reaches out to Nicolae, her life mate as it turns out, who teaches her to eventually kill her vampire capture. That's the back story. The book begins at the point where she has been avoiding Nicolae for years and he's finally caught up to her.

The hero was a lot less dominate than most in this particular series as he has to help her move past the abuse she suffered as a child. Liked his brother more. Destiny was troubled and... damaged. A hard character for me to relate to on any level.

It seems somewhat stupid to bring in more "elders" at this point but maybe CF will go somewhere with that...

Her writing style is repetitive and overwrought however - which I think was just more apparent to me because I wasn't completely engrossed in the story. It didn't measure up to Dark Fire - My favorite in the series.

Another book in the "Dark" series is out for Christine Feehan's fans. Once again she's provided an imaginative, exciting read. But be aware that the Dark Series is not for the faint of heart although not as violent as the Anita Blake books, the Dark books do include vampires, evil doers, and action. In this particular book the lead character is Gregori's younger brother Darius who along with his sister and several others are the lost Carpathians from the Ottoman Turkish invasion of Europe in the middle ages. The group has survived and flourished but do not have the knowledge of their culture that the previous characters have had. Naturally, this puts the hero at a disadvantage when he first meets his life mate (the Carpathians mate for life with only one partner when they finally find one). Tempest, a human, has some understandable reservations about a relationship with an attractive, dynamic man who just doesn't happen to be human. Remember that when reading this series, the Carpathians aren't human and don't have human values or behavior. Although the book can be read on its own, it is helpful to read the series so that the reader can get the full picture of the Carpathian world.

Deliciously entertaining. A sad human element lurks in the tortured soul of Destiny, a young woman caught in a world of the damned and the terror of her childhood past. But a voice reaches out to her, kind and loving. It belongs to her savior, the man fated to be by her side. But even as she tries to resist him, she can't help being snared by the hope of another existence, a place where she can hope and dream, reaching freely for the one thing that matters - Nicolae. With his strong arms around her, battling evil to protect her, she finds in Nicolae, a place of new reality - a place where she can love.

This is the second of the "Dark" series of novels that I've read. I found it to be terribly... well... dark, and couldn't imagine Destiny ever having a normal relationship after what she experienced in childhood. Not without years and years of therapy anyway.

That clouded the whole experience of reading the novel for me. I did think it was well written and some of the secondary characters were fun and had nice storylines. I just couldn't believe the romance aspect of it. It would have been better if I was expected a paranormal mystery novel rather than a romance one.

They want to stroke you like a delicate flower, but there women makes them howl like a wolf in heat. You just can't read one of Christine's books, once you get started you just want to keep meeting new ones. This book is a thrill from the first page to the last. If you like your books to have romance with John Woo fight seens with the a dominate alpha male and the female not being to shabby either than Christines books are for you. Don't let the vampire part fool you. You have never read a story like these, so give them a try come on don't be scared. One bite oh..I mean once you read the first one you to will be a member of Christines fans that constantly beg for just the scrapes of paper from her waste basket.

This being the first, but not last Cristine Feehan book I have ever had the pleasure to read, I have to say that my five star rating goes to the best and, as my title has said, utterly captivating book.For all other Cristine Feehan readers who have been dissapointed before, dont let it keep you from this heavenly piece of writing.
This story begins with the typically beautiful, amazingly stubborn Tempest accepting a job as a popular band's mechanic. She feels secure and traveling with them, after an extremely rough encounter with her recent "guardian", until she meets the singers bodyguard and brother in a passionite yet dangerous encounter.
Darius,is the typically tall, dark, and handsome "compromiser" of Tempest, but Mrs. Feehan has led to a suprisingly unique type of book. Darius is also a Carpathian male, the dying species of immortal beings who have spiritual powers, and unless finding a life-mate, the other half of their soul, are rendered to the vicious killing machines we know today as vampires.
As you have probrably figured out these two beings are life-mates. This is the story of Darius trying to get a suprisingly stubborn Tempest to accept his world, and Tempest in return, trying to coax Darius into accepting himself.Both, with their strong characters and wile's will come together to fight the one enemy that could destroy their lives.While this story might sound like a typical, boring romance, the twists and fabulous writing make this a keeper, not to mention best-seller. ENJOY!

For all Christine Feehan fans, please don't hate me. I swear I am totally loyal to the Queen, but after so much hype about this book, and waiting endlessly for it (how long did she torture us about this in her fan site?) I was left disappointed.

I love Feehan's "Dark" Series-Dark Magic is still my favorite, even despite all the new yummy Dark Ones she keeps throwing out to us. Like I said, we have been tortured with hints about this book as it was in the making. I couldn't wait-heck there were "talks" (all jokes ok) about leading a break-in at her publishing company just to steal an advanced copy of this much awaited book. I thought that it was high time The Queen (Ms. Feehan) came out with a book on a FEMALE vampire hunter, one that proves that female lifemates are strong enough to do what needs to be done, even if they are of the "light." So I was looking forward to getting a copy of this in my hand.

Destiny is indeed a victim of a Vampire, a child gifted with pyschic abilities, her fmily was cruelly killed in front of her and tortured, then turned by the Vampire. We never find out his name-I guess its irrelevant since once she is stronger, she kills him-but in her pain, she reaches out to Nicolae, an ancient sent out to rid the world of the growing numbers of vampires. Nicolae, tries to get Destiny to talk, but she refuses. Meanwhile, he shares in all her experiences-the torture, the rape-and he offers her what he knows, the skills needed to kill vampires.

Okay so fast forward to present time, Nicolae finally finds Destiny (for an ancient, I thought he took awfully long to find a fledgling) but thinking he's a vampire, Destiny warns him to leave her city or she'll be forced to kill him. She has never met a Carpathian before, and is unable to comprehend that there is a difference between vampires and Carpathians.

As much as I rejoiced in the fact that Destiny proves that female lifemates aren't all helpless (and shouldn't be coddled) she irratated me. Yes, she was tortured and rape, and yes she had every right to doubt Nicolae, most of the things she did pissed me off. She just seemed so selfish, not even bothering to see how she's making Nicolae feel. At times I wanted to kick her or knock some senses (yeah, I know it was a book). Then there's Nicolae, he was just soooo understanding. It got too annoying at a point. I enjoyed reading about his brother more!

All in all, it was alright. Not the best in the series, but still it was nice to see a female Carpathian kick vampire behind. Prove to all those males (talking about Gregori) not to take the power their female lifemates have for granted. I just hope the next one is better. <sigh>

Ok so I have read the rest of the series. But I have to say this one is my favorite. The story line is strong. The lead character Darius is stuggling w/ keeping his "family" together and not really knowing the rules. When Tempest comes into the picture he is not really sure what is happening to him and tries to fight his attraction to her. This book brings us up to the present where terms such as "baby" are used. It was a great love story and brought in some seconday characters, which I am sure we are all waiting to see if they will have stories themselves. (i hope so). And it was nice to see Tempest give Darius what he wanted without him having to ask or take it from her. I have read this book more than once and this is my favorite one in the series. If you have not read any of the series you can read this 1st it has a strong story line.

I own all of CF's books and have to say this is her worst effort. It took me over 2 weeks to finish the book. I thought Dark Symphony was bad this one can now officially lay claim to number 1 disappointment.

I never felt any connection to the characters. I don't understand how in some books when the Carpathian male sees his lifemate he knows it's her and in others it's her voice. Is it too much to ask for some consistency and better editing? In this one it only took what seemed like 500 years for the bone head to figure it out. I actually was kind of hoping that Gregori couldn't save either of them, at least that would have been interesting.

Dark Guardian and Dark Fire were my favorites and I hope that the next book in the series is more to that standard.

I am beginning to think that CF is too busy writing other things other than the Dark Series and because of that Dark Series is beginning to suffer.

Her childhood was a nightmare when a vampire brutally murdered her family and converted her into a creature of the night. Only the angelic male voice in her head kept her alive and helped her survive the changeover. Her adulthood is more loneliness as she goes alone killing her own kind for Destiny is a vampire who works the night ridding the world of this pestilence.
Ancient hunter Nicolae knows patience, but his wait for his soul mate has become wearying as he has only connected through the minds and not the flesh. Although he continues to meet his centuries-old pledge to rid the world of vampires and protect Carpathians and humans, he waits to find his Destiny as soulmates forever. When he does meet her, he hopes that in the Carpathian Mountains, the Prince can heal her vampiric disease. First, he must find her and second he must overcome her distrust of him, but while he begins making progress, the duo falls into the midst of a vampiric conspiracy nothing like the world has ever seen before and never will again.
DARK DESTINY may be the best of the long running Carpathian tales as readers obtain an action-packed thriller intermingled with a terrific romance starring a rarity, a female huntress. The story line never slows down, as Nicolae knows his Destiny is his soulmate, but will need help, something this lone ranger never wants, for them to finally make it. The subplot involving the vampiric conspiracy is devilishly devised so that between this exhilarating potential world-ending calamity and the deliciously impossible romance, the audience has Christine Feehan's best work perhaps in the entire series.
Harriet Klausner

I stumbled upon Christine Feehan by accident but now I can't get enough of her. I love her books. They are fantastic. They are the type of book that once you pick it up you can't put it down. Her steamy sex scenes are not for the faint at heart.
I really enjoyed how Darius had to deal with Rusti. After watching him be so rough on his sister it was nice for him to have to go through some of the same problems. He knew he wanted Rusti but was driven nuts by her independence. He wanted to spend forever with her, but didn't want to take the chance of transforming her. It was great. The only thing I had a small problem with was his language. In Dark Challenge his language was very formal and "old World". Now he is calling Rusti "honey" and "baby". Sometimes it just didn't mesh with his ancient character. But all in all the book was fantastic and I will reread it ove and over again.

I enjoyed reading the story, and Tempest is one of my favorite female characters. The story has a nice twist in that Darius did not quite understand what comes with having a lifemate, as he grew up separate from the Carpathian community (where such knowledge is common). As a result, he worried that he was "turning" as he wanted to do things with Tempest that he should not. The development of this concept could have been better, and Darius' use of endearments ("honey", "baby") seems totally out of character as it is too modern for his background. The presence of his family and their interaction with the couple is a very welcome change, since many of the other books treat characters outside of the primary couple very superficially. Overall, it is an enjoyable read.

I am typically a Christine Feehan fan and am loving her new Games Series. This book was a severe disappointment and reads like it was written by someone doing a poor job of copying Ms. Feehan's style. Redundant, tedious, uninspiring, are just a few words that come to mind. This installment adds nothing to the series and may in fact detract from it. Not only are the hero and heroine tiresome and annoying but Gregori and Savannah (two of my favorite characters) seem to have had personality transplants and are equally irritating. The sarcasm coming from Destiny and, albeit to a lesser degree, Savannah towards their respective lifemates is nothing short of obnoxious. In my opinion, the endless stream of insults and criticism of carpathian males by Destiny, and then Savannah when she enters the story, shows them to be naive, insensitive and a bit obtuse. This is attractive? This is who Nikolai waited 2000 years for? This is not the behaviour of strong women, it is the behaviour of selfish, inconsiderate and insensible women. My advice - if you haven't read the book skip it and save yourself the pain. If you have read the book, you have my sympathies.

I would recommend this book to Feehan fans, and the story line was interesting enough, and yet I found the book to be overly filled with repeated passages. The same thoughts and fears were retold over and over, every few pages, as though either the author might have been shooting for a certain word count, or she thought her readers might suffer from temporary amnesia after reading a few pages at a time.

Annoyed by this, I ended up skipping over quite a few passages, and concentrated instead on enjoying the dark atmosphere Feehan is obviously so good at giving us. After all, Feehan is a master of "atmosphere."

I sooo felt for Destiny and what she went through. To live through what she did since the age of six, I seriously doubt that there are very many women or men that could deal with the pain she endured every day of her life. I could also understand her not reaching out to Nicolae, after all he had shown her his darkside and to her mind that made him vampire, but her heart and soul knew otherwise.

This is a very touching story and it touches on the things that we woman sometimes go through that others don't see, or don't want to see. Kudos for Christine and her wonderful stories. I can't wait to see what happens with MaryAnn.

Christine Feehan does it again! The story of Darius (Dark Challenge) and Tempest nearly sets the pages on fire with its explosive passion!
Darius, the brother of Desari from Dark Challenge, feels the darkness closing in on him until he sets his eyes on the petite, redheaded mechanic his sister has hired to make repairs on their bus. Suddenly, his dark life is filled with color and desire for the fiesty girl. Instinctively, he knows she is his lifemate, and joins them with ancient words despite the ramifications of her being human and him Carpathian.
Tempest (aka Rusti) is a young woman who has been alone most of her life. Penniless and alone, she thinks that traveling around with the musical band, The Dark Traubadors, as a mechanic is a dream come true. What she doesn't count on, though, is the bands darkly dangerous bodygaurd and protector of the family, Darius who quickly puts his brand on her.
Watching these two come together is a true delight. I didn't want the book to end. I can only wait for her next book to be released, to hopefully continue with more tales from the Carpathian Mountains!

I don't know what happen. But it seems that her creativity is spent towards Mind Game. The Dark Destiny lacks the spark that is found in her previous Cara. books. Those special intimacies between the main characters making fun of the ingrained arrogant... he-man.... know it all male characteristics is not as funny or enjoyable as it use to be. The concept of having a female hunter versus a male hunter is a great idea but not plotted well in this particular book.

Ironic her other book recently released "Mind Game' is by far a better book to read.

Not worth the purchase. Perhaps used... maybe ....... or just borrow from a library before buying it if you really want buy it for your collection.

I loved this book. It was the first one that I read by Christine Feehan...To be honest I never even heard of her until I saw this book.
I loved the characters. They seem extremely realistic. What sane human would be confronted by these creatures and not want to run? I am very glad that Tempest...the heroine in the story was not some blond curly haired bimbo that just takes what ever is given to her by the overgrown and bossy male of the story. Darius is a very sexy character. I loved him...(too bad there are none like him in real life). He showed some real emotions in the book. That is a good thing. Most male characters in romances do not really show the other side of their personality. He showed doubt and compassion and a real sense of maybe things need to be thought out instead of just done. But don't get me wrong...he was far from a pushover.
As for the other Christine Feehan books, which I went out and bought afterwards because I loved this one so much, it is a bit disappointing. But since this one was so good...you can't help but hope another one will come along. I am sure it will. This series has a lot of potential. It just needs some more work and thought to bring in some realism.

A young woman taken by a vampire when she was only six yrs old. She feels like she is tainted and she fights and kills the vampires. Her rescuer finds her and helps her to believe she is worth saving

I receive my copy last night and finished it all straight! I was amazed at the way CF changes Darius' character when he met his match with Tempest (Rusti to everyone else *grin*). I thought at first I don't like the way where Darius is much too considerate and gentle but when CF shows the still fierce, arrogant and stubborn side of Darius in the middle of the story, I was relieved. The story goes this way. Darius met his match with Tempest, the Dark Troubadour's new mechanic. All her life, Tempest (who has a terrible past) is alone and prefers to stay that way and doesn't want to be dictated by anyone else. Of course, Darius will not let her. On the other side, Darius, who grew up without Carpathian guidance, doesn't know how the human-Carpathian relationship works. Darius' family is also determine to save the relationship of the two. Just read the story and find out how they work it out!!

I had read this book before my review and I read it again Christine Feehan writes books that you love time and time again. The suffering of everyone was so poignant and heartfelt. The introduction of human evil so insidious because it's easy to look at the undead but we forget true evil is in all of us.

I have noticed several complaints about this book. I think it a shame because personally I thought it was terrific. As with all of Christine Feehan books I was hooked from page one. I found myself swept into her world with characters that were unique and real. The heroine was strong and flawed. The hero loving and protective. I am a huge fan of Feehans books so maybe I am prejudice but I strongly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys something a little different.

As for Ms Feehan repeating herself about the basics of the world she writes about, think people, her books need to stand alone for those who haven't read any of her books. they need to be informed of the world she creates otherwise they as readers would be totally lost.

Let's see . . . sex, sex, and more sex . . . Oh, and did I mention sex? And, "Oh, I'm a beautiful, fiercely independent heroine who is unaware of my own stupidity. But I don't need to be taken care of."
"Yes, and I'm your big, strong, sexually irresistible MAN who can't keep it in my pants. I won't ever let you out of my sight at the risk of seeming like an overbearing, overprotective warden, because I don't want to trust anyone with you, my delicate beautiful flower."
Gawd! Could this GET any more stupid? This novel is the same thing over and OVER!!! The protagonists are nothing new and neither is the strife between them. This is nothing you haven't read before. You should probably check this out at a library first. Good thing it was on sale when I bought it.

Terrible! This is the first book I've read by Christine Feehan, and it's enough to turn me away. I'm a big fan of paranormal romance, so when I saw the many books on the shelf by the author , I thought the stories must be good. Nope. It seems that Miss Feehan is more interested in quantity (which means more dollars) than quality.

Dialog - redundant. The characters just go on and on about the same thing. Some conversations between were irrelevant and a poor attempt at humor.

Destiny - the lead in this novel was, and I quote "totally annoying." She keeps saying this phrase over and over again to the hero, Nicolae. Her maturity level is that of a 12 year old, and for someone who is skilled in hunting the undead, she's...dumb.

Nicolae - total wuss! Yes, I understand that he's suppose to be ultra in-love with Destiny, but he's also an ancient warrior. But Nicolae lacks the characteristics of an alpha male. The worse scene was when the healer Gregori came down to heal both Nicolae and Destiny of the "tainted blood", and while in the middle of a conversation - the two lovers kissed. I almost threw the book against the wall. So disrespectful to Gregori, his wife and everyone else present.

For once, I was rooting for the evil vampires. Kill her (Destiny) already!

I have read all the books in the Dark series, and I have enjoyed all of them. However, I couldn't even finish Dark Destiny. I found the heroine to be whiny and annoying. She can read her lifemate's mind, but she doesn't believe a word he says. Also, Nicolae has been communicating with Destiny since she was a child, but he neglected to tell her about Carpathians? If he had been communicating with her, and she trusted him, why didn't she tell him where she was so that he could save her from the vampire? Destiny spends the first hundred pages complaining about how she must be evil because she has evil blood, but when Nicolae offers a cure, she refuses. I never became involved with this couple, and I really didn't care what happened to them. In fact, I found myself thinking, Nicolae would be better off without Destiny. I read a review that says this book gets better, but after reading 150 pages, and hating every one of them, I just couldn't bring myself to waste any more time on this story.

My favorite book of all time!

This is the first one I had ever read by Christine and it hooked me!

Since then I buy and read EVERY book she comes out with. I even went back and got those that came out before this one.

I love a fiery story and this one gave it to me.

I don't lke the heroine to give in easily and I like to see temper and flames! This gave me both. Great book and my favorite out of the series!

and that's the problem. I've probably read all of the Carpathian books, but I'm now finished with the series. So many of the characters are the same, especially the men. For the women, different things may happen to them, but I feel like I'm reading about the same people over and over. I was really looking forward to this book recapturing what I liked about the first few in the series, but it didn't. If you haven't read any of Feehan's other novels then you'll probably enjoy this one, but otherwise just avoid it.

I thank the day that someone introduced me to Christine Feehan. She is sheer brilliance! This one is about Darius, the older brother of Desari (and younger brother to Gregori). If you haven't read these, don't worry about it, because it's easy to read these without being in order. The beauty of the book lies in the raw emotion and candor. The writing is done with such sensuality and eloquence that you can't help but get swept in. If you love paranormal romances, or even suspenseful ones, you'll enjoy this.

'Dark Destiny' brings with it a new twist on the Carpathians! Destiny is a female hunter, and she actually learned most of her skills from her future lifemate. Awesome story that had me on the edge of my seat! The secondary characters are unique and have a community within the community that pulls you into the story and their plight. Nicolae is probably the most free-thinking Carpathian I've seen thus far, and the love and humor between him and his brother coated the story with a warm glow! The love story between Destiny and Nicolae is awesome!! Nicolae makes the ultimate sacrifice for Destiny in a move that made my heart melt. Plenty of action-packed adventure in the book as well as a visit from some prior characters that sets the stage for future installments in the series. This book answers questions about the Carpathian race as well as gives us a few hints about possible storylines in the future. These books are so well crafted, I can barely wait for the next one!!

Christine has done it again.. After reading the other reviews there is very little to add.. Only for me, with Christine's books I become totally immerced in the world of the Caparthians...and that says a lot about the authors ability to write..I can not say.. that there is one that I prefered more.. I love the slight references to others characters in her books.. and so therefore it continues..Thank you for another great one to add to my collection

Dark Fire by Christine Feehan is a fast paced compelling page turner full of electrifing energy a book that is hard to tear yourself away from.
I didn't care much for Ms. Feehan's Carpathian series until I read Dark Fire.
In Dark Fire the author stays with the Carpathian theme but makes her heroine more crisp, independent, and candid, taking a look at the Carpathian lifestyle, and after seeing her place in it she is displeased and attempts to run away.

I was very impressed by Nicolas`s tenderness and understanding of Destiny`s tormented past to be patient and loving. Destiny`s courage and inner strength was admirable after years of torment. Also, interesting to see what happens to women never unclaimed by their moderates who turn vampire. Great read.

This was the best of the Dark books by far. Darius's character had more depth than the other heros of Feehan's novels. I am a huge fan of the entire series, but found the storyline more compelling in Dark Fire. You feel a genuine attraction to Darius and respect the way he deals with Tempest. I would recommend that someone read all of this series, but Dark Fire stands alone with an intricate plotline and great charater description.

I just finished reading DF and yes i stayed up all night reading. This book was really different from the others,my heart went out to Tempest and the pain she went through in her life but Darius took that pain away and at the same time she saved his soul.I can't help but wonder what will happen to Dayan,looking forward for his story. When you read this book,it'll make you cry and laugh and you will enjoy every word of it.This is the best book of the Dark series.

Anyone can read my reviews and discover I am not a fan of Mrs. Feehan. That is why I am as baffled as I am. I had been over come with a need re-read this book. Yes I remember how much I hated it the first time...how my skin crawled when Darius overused his terms of endearment. But still I had to re-read this book...so much so that I had to buy it again! (It was so horrible the first time I gave it away.) Now I am not going to say this book is awful because the fact that I did read it again would make me some sort of sado-masochist...so instead let me describe the story.

Darius (standard Carpathian, no new qualities) is the leader of a small family of fellow Carpathians who also happen to be traveling musicians. They are beginning to have auto trouble while on tour and put an ad in the newpaper for a mechanic.

Enter Rusti, mechanic, of slight build with red hair. She is tough and reasonable. A standard Feehan heroine who takes exception to the demands that Daruis, after discovering they are indeed lifemates, places on her.

Not to spoil it for anyone, but if you have read Feehan, you know what happens. Same thing that happens in every story. Just different names.

Why did I find myself desiring to read this story again you may wonder? Well I did ponder this quite abit, considered that I was indeed NUTS, but then decided there were three parts of the story I did like.

1. The escape attempts were well written.
2. I liked the scene where Rusti is calling the animals to her in the forest.
3. I liked that the most of the bad guys were humans.

So I can't in good conscious give this novel more than three stars but in all fairness to Feehan, I can no longer say it was the worst thing ever written. That is still Captive Bride by Johanna Lindsey. You should see my review about that.

I had been disappointed in the last couple books, but thought that this one showed hope for a series that was looking like it was running out of steam. Couple comments: they used to call books like these purple prose, if you don't like dramatic books books this is not the author for you. Also, Christine's editor needs to get busy and chop; these books are about 100 pages too long for the plot line. They would be a better read at the length of the earlier novels of this series. Fans of Christine's books that can't understand the Destiny's whineness should browse through the previous reviews for that discusses child abuse, I can't say it better than that reviewer did. I really thought Destiny was reasonably portrayed, if anything she trusted Nichaloe, a little too quickly.

Christine Feehan is one of my favorite vampire-romance author's. I have everything she's written. While I was not overly thrilled with Dark Symphony (it did have some laughs) or Dark Melody I had high expectations for Dark Destiny. I was only slightly disappointed.

The by-play between Nicholas and his brother was excellent. Unfortunately, bringing the Gregori (the Dark One) and his life-mate Savannah into the plot (directly from Dark Melody) brought up the anticipation level (of conflict involving Gregori)that never quite panned out. Although finally seeing Savannah get come into her own as a fledging hunter was somewhat satisfying (knowing Gregori would never allow her to actually battle a vampire took some of the thrill away).

If I had to denigrate anything about the book it would be the heroine's obession with her past and her continual whining about it. Even if there is a platform for early childhood abuse and victimization going on in Christine's mind, maybe she should have reached out to the numerous survivors and researched how they managed to go on with their lives. There were numerous times during my reading when I just wanted to slap some sense into Destiny and say "let it go,get some therapy and move on." I am a staunch advocate of abuse survivors but this became tedious.

Other than the whining by the heroine, the book was good. I was very happy to see a Carpathain meet his lifemate after he became Vampire. I always wondered what would happen (would he, could he kill her too?. Anyway, I would buy this book again. It does present new interesting secondary characters and a possible plot for a new book in the series(hopefully without the whining).

This is the best book of the Dark series that she has written in quite a while. The past few have been very poor, but with this one Ms. Feehan proves herself to be back in fine form. This book has an actual plot and does not have the constant repetition that some of the others did. A few minor editorial errors - The heroine claiming to love to lay under the covers in the rain, when she sleeps under ground in the dirt - for one. Good job Ms. Feehan. Keep it up!

Dark Fire" ignites readers' hearts and takes them on a grand adventure of sacrifice, total acceptance and love. A love for all time. A strong love that doesn't wither when adversity strikes. A love you fight for because without it, you have nothing else. Ms Feehan has created an all-consuming read that you won't be able to put down! Darius and Tempest will take you on a journey of the heart that is sure to captivate you from beginning to end. A soft voice whispering wickedly and velvet black eyes seduce readers into a grand adventure while Tempest's compassion and sense of humor give Darius the light he craves! An excellent read from beginning to end. A story full of humor, family loyalty and an eternal love that is sure to stay with readers long after the last page has been read."

In this book, Mrs. Feehan has shown that even through the toughest adversity the goodness of a persons heart and soul shine through.
The Heroine of this book, Destiny, underwent physical, mental and emotional abuse throughout her childhood and was still able to show an inner strength and a will to survive. Once again Christine has given us a strong hero who knows that with true love all things can be conquered and a heroine who has to learn that being strong sometimes means needing someone to lean on.
This book has action, romance, suspense and even small amounts of comedy. For the first time in her Dark series Christine has given a woman the role of a hunter, and she has done so with a beautifully written story that takes you further into the shadow world she started in Dark Prince.
Destiny is a woman who thinks she is doomed to spend her life alone because of a horrible attack by a vampire when she was a child but Nicolae is determined to win her heart and prove to her that they belong together not just now but for eternity and he will do whatever it takes to make her understand that. The secondary characters in this story make it even better as you get caught up in their world and what happens to them and how Nicolae and Destiny will do anything to protect them from harm.
If you enjoy action, romance and suspense pick this book up and give it a try..you will not be disappointed. You might actually find yourself entering another world, full of shadows, night creatures and those who call that world home.

Christina Feehan did it again. I can't express how much I enjoying reading her stories. I wish I could read them in the order they were written but regardless which book I get. All are great reading.

Another Great installment in the Dark Series. But I Really Didn't Care for the Narrator "Richard Ferrone" I don't know who decides who Narrates the Publisher or the author?? But....When an Author writes a Series there Should "Only be one Narrator for the WHOLE Series" or it Screws it ALL up Such As J.D. Robb her "IN Death Series" has ONE Narrator (Susan Ericksen), Sherryl Woods "Chesapeake Shores Series" One Narrator (Christina Traister) J.R.Ward "Black Dagger Brotherhood Series" (Jim Franqione) one Narrator!!!

It's Very Annoying in a book Series when there is More than ONE NARRATOR for the Whole Series!!! I'm Sure that I'm Not the Only one that Feels that Way!!

I chose this rating because I am love with these books. I can sit all day and read these stories. There is romance and danger. Some funny parts. You get it all here. Fun! Can't wait to see who finds love in the next book.

This is the sixth book in Ms. Feehan's Dark series. I must admit that I am not realli into vampire books--Anne Rice's books basically turned me off. So it was with much reluctance I took the plunge and read her first book, Dark Prince and was instantly hooked. I love the way she brings her readers into the world of the Carpathians. The vivid details in each of her books trully brings the readers in and lets them "see" thought the eyes of her characters. But most of all, I love the way her heroines are heroines we as women can be proud of--none of those insipid, shallow, fainting belles--instead she writes of their strength, compassion, kindness and courage.
Dark Fire was one of the most anticipated book on my "To read list." I counted down the days for its release and once I got it in my hot little hands I couldn't put it down. The main character Darius, was just so hot--he was so dangerous and strong, yet he was so gentle with Tempest. The time he took Tempest in his arms to comfort her after her attack brought tears in my eyes. Readers can feel his rage and yet he knew that what Tempest needed was kindness so he held her and comforted her. We all want to be treasured that way, and Ms. Feehan introduces us to a man capable of destruction and yet gentle enough to heal others. He is one of her best characterts to date.
If you have never read a book by Ms Feehan, Dark Fire would be a great way to get hooked! Although it is part of a series, it can stand alone. Once you read this, I guarantee that you will HAVE to get the rest! All in all, I really enjoyed Dark Fire. I look forward to reading more of her works, especially the rest of her upcoming stories on the Carpathian race and their struggle to survive and exist in this world.

This is one of my favorite "Dark" books. Ms. Feehan has a tendency to get caught up in the details of the plot, at the expense of devloping the characters; her characters can appear a bit one-dimensional.

"Dark Destiny's" chatacters are -finally- fully developed. The interaction between the hero, his brother, and the heroine is nicely nuanced. I especially enjoyed the (tragic) side story involving one of Destiny's protectees.

Destiny and Nicholae are connected when she is very young
and is turned by a vampire. Nicholae couldn't find her so
he taught her how to kill. Several years into the future
and Destiny befriends a community meets up with Nicholae and
we find out there is something else going on with the vampires.
Also what I loved about this book is a friend of Destiny is
a black women that has psychic abilities, and she is going to
visit the Carpathians Mountain because she probably has a lifemate waiting for her. I thought Nicolae's brother would be her lifemate but I guess not. Oh well I hope we get a story from her. This one is action packed with some sad parts also
you will enjoy it I think.

As always, Mrs Feehan comes across with a tragic life story, followed by a beautiful love story and a ...maybe if not totally completely resolved ending, at least a happy couple. Her characters are distinct and memorable. A wonderful read for just about any time.

Romance novels are a repetitive genre -- the same things happen, but the details change slightly; namely, the girl's name, the guy's name and profession, etc.
If you're after a series with continued character development, and more and deeper revelations about the vampire universe, this isn't it. This is a romance series, with a fairly original formula: Guy Carpathian finds gifted human soulmate, who after resisting him, leads him to redemption. Guy Carpathian saves her from bad guys a couple of times. It's a pretty good formula, but the books are _strictly_ formula. Even the love scenes are basically identical from book to book.
So if you want depth/character development/insight with some romance, you should avoid these, and stick to J.D. Robb, Laurell Hamilton and Charlaine Harris. But Feehan is writing romances around a unique formula. If you like formula romances, you will probably enjoy these greatly.

I absolutely loved this book. It was written so that you got a sense of Destiny and Nicolae. I like that they didn't rush into anything relationship wise, considering Destiny had a terrible past with a vampire. Nicolae took his time with Destiny, getting her use to the idea of having a relationship with him. Everything just fell right into step for the two of them.

I've read the Dark series religiously since Dark Prince caught my eye. Granted the Carpathian stories are similar,but the books do have their differences. I don't think any book will ever top Dark Prince for me, except perhaps Dark Legend which is coming out in January. However, for those who have read the Dark Series before, this is the book that let's you see a Carpathian choose to give up his immortality for his mate. This is a very new twist, considering no other Carpathian has even thought of such a thing. This is the book Feehan has been trying to write all along -- one where the herione is actually courted (at least to the best of an overbearing Carpathian male's ability) instead of just being claimed from the start. I think that if you enjoyed the last books, you will enjoy this one as well. I know that I'm still looking forward to Dayan's story and can't wait to read Dark Legend.

Pretty much loved all the characters in Dark Fire. Darius is absolutely sensual & yummy! Can't help but love these strong,sexy,handsome,attentive alpha male types. Can't wait to read about Barrack & Syndil getting together. All in all, a fun book to read. Some reviews are just too serious and these books are all about NON serious sexy fun!

This is my first book by Ms.Feehan. I was quite impressed with it. Darius, the main male character, was very compelling, but too possessive. His chauvinistic personality grated my nerves after a few chapters. Tempest, Darius' love, held on her own as a character and i was surprised by her occupation, as a mechanic. The author's concept and development of the Carpathians is very strong and original. There was too much sex in this book; "the flames of desire licking" at Darius and Tempest got monotonous after a while.

I read the first twenty books of this series and completely love it. I'm a big fan of erotic paranormal romances and have been trying to wean off to another genre but alas! This particular series and the BDB will be eternal favorites. All the alpha males you can stand and the hot women they love. They're predictable to an extent but it's like comfort food; the mac&cheese of reading; what's not to love?

Another great book by Christine Feehan continuing the Dark series. Darius is a wonderful hero ready to make any sacrifice for Tempest. What wouldn't most of us give for a man who would risk his very health to protect his lover from a choice which he believes that he is not entitled to ask her to make? Although, he is admittedly quite dictatorial. But Tempest is more than his match and is actually the most street-wise of the "Dark" heroines.

If we're really being nitpicky about how many female Carpathians have been featured as leads, there have been more than two: Francesca, Desari, Syndil (not necessarily a lead, but she had her own story) and Savannah. I don't think Destiny really counts, since she was born human and was converted.
I had mixed feelings about this book. I would of course recommend it to anyone who's a fan of the series already, because while Feehan does tend to go off on her "cause" tangents, Dark Destiny still works well as part of the series and furthers the storyline of the Carpathians in general. I'm not sure anyone reading this as their first "Dark" book would be all that impressed though, and that would be a shame since there are some really wonderful books in the series, books that are better than this one.

The pluses: Destiny has more backbone than nearly all the previous female lifemates combined, although we have to rely on Feehan telling us so every few paragraphs rather than on any actions she takes. We see very little of Destiny's hunting skills, although there are a few scenes where it's refreshing that the hero actually lets her fight. Of course, as per the usual, in the end, the heroine needs to be saved by one of the menfolk (rolling my eyes here), but up until that point, Destiny has more autonomy than any other Carpathian woman except maybe Desari and Francesca.

I wasn't even remotely attached to any of the human pals this time around and found the whole lost lifemate story thread to be a snooze. We already heard what happens when a lifemate goes unclaimed in Shea and Jacques' story with Shea's mother; rather than feeling any sadness for the lifemate here, I thought the character (and her sister) were unnecessarily corny and cliched. The priest was a yawner too, despite what we find out he knows - if the intent was to create a new Father Hummer, Feehan failed. The biggest quibble I have with Dark Destiny is introducing a character like MaryAnn and then doing absolutely nothing with her. Let's face it, we read these books not for the sidekick humans but for the Carpathians - why bother shoving a character on us as hard as Feehan does MaryAnn and then have it utterly fizzle out because there aren't enough pages to tell two stories?

I only have one thing to say about the choice of names for Nicholae's brother - Vikirnoff? Surely Feehan realized that the name was close enough to a brand of vodka that it would induce giggles? The other irritant was having Feehan introduce a "new" line of ancients and have us believe none of the rest of them knew about it, not even the other ancients. I realize Feehan's running out of characters mentioned in previous books, but there still has to be more than a dozen Carpathians running around; I'd rather hear about them than have her make up more ancients just because they're the most powerful (and I guess she thinks that makes them more interesting).

The romance between Nicholae and Destiny is sweet and given her issues, proceeds in a believable way. I didn't find the whole victim mode Destiny keeps going into as annoying, given that she's been basically alone her entire life. I'd be more unhappy if she turned out to be well-adjusted and fell into her lifemate relationship easily.

Ultimately, this isn't the worst book in the series (that honor goes to Dark Gold) or the best (three way tie between Dark Prince, Dark Magic and Dark Fire). It falls somewhere in the middle, probably close to the Carpathian/Scarletti hybrid, Dark Symphony.

I find it quite amusing that any review not wildly adoring of these books gets a lot of unhelpful ratings. I happen to love reading Feehan's books, especially the Dark series, but think it's absolutely ridiculous that some of Feehan's fans are doing such a disservice to other fans and potential readers by deliberately skewing the reviewers' ratings. I can't imagine any author approving of the kind of rabidly blind loyalty that doesn't allow for honest discussion of the merits of a book and I think it's unfortunate that some very good reviews keep getting lost because they're rated so poorly by people who really don't want to hear an honest discussion.

Once again, Christine Feehan has written a very compelling book. As a fan of the "Dark" series, I was eagerly anticipating this newest addition, and it didn't let me down. The characters of Tempest and Darius really draw you into the story. You also see development in the other band members stories. The plot is fast paced and energetic. I read the entire book in one night. I just couldn't tear myself away. This book can stand alone, but you're really missing out if you haven't read the other books in the series. I highly recommend just that. Again, Dark Fire is a definite must read to any romance fan, even if your not a fan of this particular type of romance. I was strictly a historical romance reader, but I read the first book in the Dark series and was hooked. Give it a try! Happy reading!!!

Dark Fire is a cross between Dark Prince and Dark Desire. Two people, or one person and a Carpithian who find love and family. Tempest is a woman alone in the world dealt a rough set of cards in life has found the perfect mate but refuses to be tied down and Darius the leader of family of Carpithians finds his lifemate at the darkest time in his life, at first he doesn't know it, all he knew that without Tempest the world would be in for a nasty suprise until he was destroyed. Darius is dealing with her independence and she's dealing with his life and family. Throw in some crazed vampire hunters and you've got the prefect story. I love this book, I keep reading this I can't put it down. Definitely waiting for her next book.

In the second installment of the Dark Troubadours series-within-a-series, the troubes leader and bodyguard, Darius (whom we first met in Dark Challenge) meets his lifemate Tempest, a young redhead with an ability to communicate with animals, whom they hired to be their mechanic. We also get to revisit Barack and Syndil, Desari and Julian (who is as ornery as ever), and Dayan.
Ms. Feehan has created a wonderful, deep character in Darius. Like other Carpathian males, his demands that his woman be safe make him overbearing at times, but the sacrifices that he makes for Tempest are amazing. Tempest is a perfect complement to him, with her quirky sense of humor and courage. This is more than a Carpathian Lifemate Ritual - this is a true love story. It is fast-paced and heartwarming.

With Dark Destiny Ms Feehan has bought a new twist to the Carpathian series - a female Carpathian hunter.
Destiny has spent her life destroying vampires, after one destroyed her childhood and made her life one of pain and solitude. To her if they suck blood they're a vampire.
Nicolae was the only light during those long years. He taught Destiny everything she knew. Now the question is will Destiny use those lessons to destroy him.
Dark Destiny is a very emotional book. There is deep sorrow - but also great humor when the two Carpathians are forcibly adopted by a Seattle neighbourhood. It answers some questions, for example what happens when lifemates meet too late. At the same time more questions are raised and the tempo is building.
Ms Feehan consistantly provides strong stories with memorable characters. This is one of the best of the series and I highly recommend it.

OK, I am anavid Feehan fan and will read and buy anything she publishes. But be warned that Dark Destiny is not what the first "preview" chapter makes it out to be.

First, the book deals with issues that are more disturbing than informative. From child rape...to more sexual intense moments this book was gory to take for something that could entertain you.

Secondly, after the 5th chapter the book goes into a depressing and repetitive tone that is just boring...the love tangle between the two characters does not seem authentic, more like forced by the author.

I was really disappointed by the book, and will be more careful when choosing books in the future before reading reviews like this.

People easily jump into conclusions that this is the greatest read in the world...but to be honest I put the book down too many times to allow that statement.

I recommend that you BORROW or get the book from the library and preread some chapters to see where you stand...good luck.

I see a lot of reviews complaining about the formulaic plotline, but not one complaining about how utterly domineering the male lead is. He treats Tempest (that's a romance-novel name if ever I heard one) like a child, tells her what to do, and expects instant obedience. Sure, it's to "keep her safe," but isn't that the excuse men have been using to control women for most of history?
Some reviewers remarked that Tempest was stupid for trying to run away. Frankly, I think that's the smartest thing she could have done. If I were in her situation, I'd want to get away from a man like that regardless of the danger. Frankly, the whole "lifemate" situation seems nightmarish to me--all choice is taken away from the people involved, they lose their privacy, their free will, and their independence, and are tied to someone for the rest of eternity (as if a lifetime of commitment isn't intimidating enough!)
Yeah, I know...I'm taking it too seriously. It's just fantasy-fulfillment. I guess some women enjoy fantasizing about being controlled. I don't, so I can't really recommend the book.

To preface my review, I'd like to ask readers - Do you know that one out of three women have suffered some form of abuse - either mentally or physically sometime in their life, many as children? And the memory and guilt they carry lasts a lifetime?
I ask this question because if you know this little known fact, it will help you understand the issue of trust in DARK DESTINY.
I've read some of the reviews where they felt Destiny was whiny and Nicolae was wimpy. My opinion is so different that I needed to write a review to express my thoughts.
Can you imagine the torture this little girl went through from the time she was only six years old? First seeing her parents brutally murdered by a vampire, then 'USED' for his pleasure through horrible, obscene ways to this tiny little girl until she was old enough to escape him? Could she EVER rid herself of feeling unclean? Or, feel she was beautiful ever again after being so horribly violated for so long? In my opinion she was a super woman of incredible strength and fortitude to continue even wanting to live, let alone protect others from the evil ones.
And, Nicolae - In my opinion, he's the strongest Carpathian alive holding back his own desires because of his deep love for his lifemate - waiting for her to trust enough - going so far as to risk his very life because she meant that much to him. I wonder how many know a man such as he - to do anything and everything for love. For me, he shows compassion, patience, and the strongest love for Destiny, and he is a total opposite of a weak man - showing great strength in subtle ways as well as physically. It takes more to hold back than to take what you want...
The secondary characters in DARK DESTINY made for a beautiful neighborhood. The sometimes looney sisters who loved and cared for their neighbors, worrying when things weren't 'right'. And Mary Anne, the compassionate neighbor with unconditional love for everyone around her, wanting only to help battered, abused women find a way again.
I'll stop here, but there's more to this story than first appears. There's romance, sensuality, action, adventure, and suspense. And it's one story you really don't want to miss reading!
Carol Carter

I'll keep this brief. Those who read Christine Feehan's Dark Series know the premise. I just wanted to add some stars to the review of this book, so that her fans know that this is NOT one to skip. I've read five of her books since Nov. (it is now Dec.), and found the writing to be very uneven. Some are more entertaining than others, though I have enjoyed all to one degree or another. Feehan's fans all seem to agree that she can be very repetitious--whether in theme, dialog, or characters. Dark Fire, however, is wonderfully different in that the characters are much more unique. Darius doesn't use his need to see to his lifemate's health and happiness as an excuse to force his will on her, and Tempest stays in character. In addition, I love her character! It's very fresh and (well to be rather repetitious myself) unique. I didn't keep this as brief as I thought I would, but I just enjoyed it so much that I had to rave a bit!

I hope this helps those of you who, like me, read the reviews before deciding to read the next book in a series-- Don't skip this one!

13 has certainly proven to be a lucky number for Christine Feehan. Dark Destiny, the 13th installment in the phenomenal Carpathian series, is the most captivating and poignant book to date.

Destiny is unique in that she is the first known female vampire hunter. Converted, tortured and brutalized by a vampire when she was only a child, she escapes into her mind and connects with Nicolae, the ancient hunter who would eventually become her lifemate. It was this bond with Nicolae that saved her sanity and enabled her to destroy her captor. The tainted blood of the vampire who turned her leaves Destiny in constant agony, but her need to protect other women from these monsters is stronger than her desire to put an end her own misery. So night after endless night, she pushes aside the pain so that she can hunt those who would prey upon the innocent.

Nicolae is a perfect balance for Destiny. His love, patience, and unwavering belief in his lifemate were so heartwarming that it brought tears to my eyes. Not only is this a story about love, it's about hope, even in the face of overwhelming adversity. Nicolae and Destiny lead a cast of wonderfully endearing characters, from new faces like the enigmatic Vikirnoff and the compassionate MaryAnn, to old friends like Gregori and Savannah. These characters are so vivid that you feel like they could be people that you run into on the street.

I highly recommend Dark Destiny, but be prepared to put your life on hold for a good five hours, because you will not want to put this book down.

Christine Feehan has written her masterpiece work. That is, until the next masterpiece. Her hero, Darius, is a sensual combination of control and emotional vulnerability. You will laugh, you will cry, you will love this book. It rips something out of you that is so full of emotion, you will never read a 'regular' book, ever again. Way to go, Christine. Thank you again!!

Not knowing better - this is the book I started with. Within a few pages I was a convert. Afterwards, I went back and read them in order. I was really happy to stumble onto this series after many had been written. It gave me several months of pleasure. Keep them coming please. I need another "fix."

This book follows the general line of the series. It throws unique twists and turns and comes to a satisfactory conclusion. It is exactly what I have come to expect from Feehan. I love her work and hope you do to!

If you want a great read you really need to read this series.Ms Feehan is a wonderful writter and has an imagination the surpasses so many authors. I love to read to escape the real world and so I only real fantasy type books so I can go out of myself and go somewhere far away.And all her books do that for me.The love scenes are wonderful and I feel like I am the lucky woman the hero loves.

Thank you Chris for giving us another winner in the Dark series. Darius & Tempest are a fabulous couple. Darius is a lot more sweeter after he meets Tempest than he was in Dark Challenge. What is it about those Daratrazanoff men? They definately have that something extra special. It must be in their genes. It makes you wonder what their father was like, doesn't it.

Since others have mentioned the plot problems, I will only say that if I were the hero, I would have preferred to walk into the sun. What an annoying heroine. What a pity, a good premise which the author didn't develop. Instead we get the same kind of suffering hero, waiting for the damn heroine to realize he's not a vampire...the bad guy...again and again...I couldn't take the repetitions. The reader isn't stupid. We got it, please move on!

Destiny seduced by the voice of a vamprire has long believed that it was her fault that her parents were killed. Converted and abused for years the only safety she found was the voice of Nicolea in her mind. He taught her to survive, however, after years of brutal pain brought about by the tainted blood that runs in her veins, Destiny isn't willing to trust in Nicolea's beautiful voice.

Nicolae, one of the Ancient Carpathians, shows that with age you learn patience. After so many centuries, what is a few more weeks when you can prove to your lifemate that you "can do no other" but see to her happiness. His strength of will in giving Destiny the time she needs to believe she is deserving of his love, that he will love her no matter, even to giving his life by absorbing the tainted blood that runs in her veins only showes that he is a true Carpathian, seeing to his lifemates well being before his own.

DARK DESTINY is a beautiful tale of survival and learning to trust. The trauma of rape, violence and the belief that she was the cause of her parents death that Destiny endured, not to mention the pain of the tainted vampire blood would have driven most insane after so many years. It is a testimony to Destiny's strength of will that she survived, it was no wonder that when she finally meets Nicolae she is reluctant to trust.

I've read that several believe Destiny to be a whiner and Nicolae a wimp. I have to wonder if these people have ever been traumitized in their lives or ever had to overcome a tragedy so overwhelming that it changes your perception of life. DARK DESTINY is a tribute to those who have and a challenge to those who may be facing lifes traumas to keep working at surviving another day. Ms. Feehan has yet again woven into her story the belief that love, humor and the support of good people, be they family or friends will make our lives richer and more productive.

I must say I am surprised to see how many people didn't enjoy this book. I was completely entranced and couldn't put it down for a minute! It was nice to finally see a female Carpathian as the focus of the story, one who endured all the male Carpathians had to endure. This is probably my favorite book in the dark series and I highly reccommend it.

I loved this book! What a great female lead Destiny turned out to be. I was overjoyed to find her such a strong, powerful match for Nicolae. I was glad that Nicolae wasn't portrayed as the overly he-man type that some of the Dark men have been. The mix of neighbors (Destiny's "family") were a fantastic addition. I even liked Vikirnoff.
I am such a huge fan of Feehan's, including ALL of the "Dark" Series. I can't wait for the next installment!

I really loved Darius but Tempest is a twit not to mention annoying. Stupid is a good word. She's suppose to be a bad girl type but please. Just once I wish Feehan would draw a real female. Screw the marter(did I spell that right). Give her some human flaws such as smoking or partying. I'd love to see a Carpathian's reaction to that.

This was my first book I read by Christine Feehan and I loved it! Now, I have read all of her current books to date in the Dark Carpathian Hunter series and the Drake Sisters series and love just about all of them! Totally worth your time and money!!!

It is a good book. It follows the series well, the plot stays with the ones that come before it.

The sex scenes are too drawn out, the story line is good though. I have become accustom to skipping the 3-4 page long sex and then starting to read again.

I'll continure to buy the dark series, just because I like the stories.

I thought this was a very good book and it was hard to put down! The story was very different than the other Dark Series books which was refreshing since the the heroine was already Carpathian instead of being changed by the Carpathian male. I loved this book.

GREAT read!! I really like the series CF has created! I've only recently started reading books by Christine Feehan and I haven't been disapointed yet. Amazing characters and Storylines....Love them!!

Every time I sit down with one of Christine's books, I loose track of time and surroundings. Each one of the Dark series had me reading cover to cover in less than 24 continuous hours. They got my blood pumping to the point that I could not think or do anything else. Sleeping was impossible. She makes me wish that it was real and that I could find happiness such as the heroines. My only regret is that it takes too long between book releases. Other books just don't do the same thing for me. I have turned on my sisters and neices to Christine and everyone is on pins and needles waiting for her next one. Please hurry!!

I just finished reading Dark Fire by Christine Feehan. I loved this book, each book in her series based on the Carpathians just keeps getting better and better. She has a special way of drawing the reader into the story so that you feel that you are right there with the characters. If you love a book that has the hero being a strong, possessive, totally in love with the herione and willing to put his life on the line for his lifemate then you need to read this book.Christine Feehan is truly the most talented author out there right now. Her "dark series" is the best series of books that I have read.

I have read all of the "Dark" books and I love them all. The carpathian men are what every woman dreams of. I have read the reviews posted here for Dark Destiny and was shocked that anyone could consider Destiny whiny or Nicolae weak. I loved the book. I thought that it was very true to life that Destiny had problems with trust and being touched. Being converted by a vampire and used as she was should have destroyed her, also she was in daily agony from the lesions and toxins in her blood. Just surviving that trauma and giving Nicolae a chance showed how strong she was. Nicolae not only helped her through the degradation but lived it with her. He understood that more than anything she needed to feel in control of everything around her. However, he still gave her limits and protected her without her knowledge. I think that he must be one of the strongest of the carpathian males and I can't wait to read her next book and I hope it about his brother.

Ok I am have really enjoyed the Dark Series so far, but Christine is getting way too bogged down with the history of the Carpathians. She keeps mentioning the Morrison Center, the connections with Wizards and the human pyschics who can be converted.
Each new human femaled introduced is more powerful than the last. From Raven who would get ill being around evil people to Dayan's lifemate who could make things move with her mind. These women are getting more and more boring. The first stories were great....how the hero would be stunned at meeting his lifemate, convincing her, a couple of vampire fights, and happily everafter. Now it's, oh you are Carpathian, you drink blood, you want me to...ok no problem. Piece of cake.
Yes, the guys are now actively looking for lifemates and are not surprised when they find them, but the women don't seem to be either.

I enjoyed the fact that the heroine is human and has problems swallowing the fact that Darius is a vampire. She just isn't swept away, but has to accept what he is and what he is capable of. The plot was better in this book than in some of the series. Can't wait to read the next one.

This wasn't Feehan's best work, but neither was it her worst.
Here is what I really liked. The heroin's experience and perceptions of life as a "vampire" without "our hero" standing around saying how great life is. The progression of the couple's relationship was quite different from Feehan's other books. Some of the minor characters were very interesting.
Here is what I didn't like. The heroin is a pessimist with low self esteem. She lets traumatic experiences from her youth control her entire life. The hero is too submissive.

While I have truly enjoyed all the Dark series books thus far, this one is THE best (so far). Do read them in order if you can, but hold on tight--for this one. I believe in giving your loved one the ultimate choice of his/her future - and if they even want a future with you...then they must choose it. This time, in this book, Tempest has a choice - it s not made for her. I am not giving this story line away, but I love the interaction of these two characters. Just fantastic!

Christine Feehan is the very best author I have ever read. I have been a romance reader for 23 years and the Dark series are the very best.You will find Rusty a very likable women with her own powers, and then you have Darius who like all the other Carpathians is very overpowering. This is a must read along with all of Feehans other books. The good thing about the books is that if you have not read one of her books before you still get a very good history lesson of their race. My recomendation is that you readd all the books and wait like the rest of us for the next one.

This is a book that is a must have. I've not had a chance to read the other five books, but if they are as good as this sixth book, I'm sold. This book is very descriptive and sensual with the details. I just cannot put this book down.

This is the best of the "Dark" series. I almost quit reading after Dark Challenge. But this is Christine Feehan's best effort yet. I'm back and waiting for the next in the series.
While the formula remains the same, the details are richer, the characters stronger, and the action more. Everything the earlier books were, but more.
If you've never read Christine Feehan this is the best of the batch. And if you have, but didn't know what all the fuss was about giver her one more try.

Once again this author has scored a perfect 10. Often a book series leaves me with the impression of 'been there, done that'. However, this series is the exception to that rule. Ms. Feehan has created a new world, filled with characters of quality. This is NOT a vampire book. It is a Carpathian book! Trust me there is a BIG difference. Read one (any one) and see for yourself. If this is your first "Dark" book--BEWARE--you will rush to order all the others. I am shameless in my support for these Dark Series books.

Christine Feehan has outdone herself again in Dark Destiny! This is by far the best Dark series book yet! The heroine in this book is tough yet vulnarable,having to become a vampire huntress after years of physical and emotional abuse by a vampire.Her lifemate Nickolae is the epitome of carpathian perfection,standing by Destiny through it all and helping her heal from her childhood trauma. Together they build a life and home in a sweet little neighborhood and show eachother that love and friendship with trust can open new worlds. Mrs. Feehan continues to weave her magic and manages to draw you into this world so thoroughly that you feel as if you're part of it.This book is a very fast read and you'll find it hard to put down until the last page is turned.

It took everything in me to finish this book and not put it down. This has to be one of the worse books I have read in a long time. If I had to read "honey or baby" one more time I was going to rip all the pages out. Darius was a overbearing you know what but at the same time Tempest/Rusti was just a plain ol dummy. If someone told me don't go over there because it's very dangerous why am I going to go, just stupid. I could have read a little more about Barack and Syndil. The one star is for the love scene that was the only thing worth while. I even got tired of that.

Darius is one of my favorite (his whole bloodline) and it was funny see a woman as small as Tempest pitted up against him. He melt when he looks at her and can any woman resist that? He tries to command her and she evades him at every turn.

I just love christine feehan vampire novels.I am so glad to finally great to read this book.It is funny and sad(sometimes)but most of of the time it is romance.So if you like romance then this is the book for you.

I finished this book and Im on the store for more. Mrs Feehan's talent of writing makes me crave to read more. I have been a closet romance novel reader, thinking it was emotional trash. She gracefully entices the readers imagination with enough censorship to tease the reader and hunger for more. I actually found myself in her world, wanting more.

I have been reading Christine Feehan's books since the first one and each on is a great book. After writing so many books about the Carpathian's, you would think that the subject would get stale, but this book proves that you don't know everything !

This book brought back some old characters from previous books and introduced a new character that will surely have their own book. I can't wait!

This book was sooooooo amazing!!!!! Absolutely need to read! This girl in the book is funny, pretty, and smart what more could you want? The man in this book was handsome, super tough, and amazing all the way around. Get this book wont regret!

Once again Ms. Feehan has written a great carpathian book. After reading her books you can never think of a vampire as an actual vampire. At some time they were carpathian! Dark Fire is the story of Darius. He's been taking care of his "family" since is was six years old. He's never had anyone care about his needs, he's always taken care of everyone elses. Of course, all that changes when he finally finds his lifemate. This book is another winner for Ms. Feehan and as with all the rest, I can't wait for the next one to come out!

Dark Destiny is the thirteenth installment for Feehan's Dark series. In this story we are introduced to the first female vampire hunter, Destiny, and her lifemate Nicholae. Of course, the plot follows the usual storylines...no great surprise there. Though, there is a slight twist because instead of the usual brooding male Carpathian, we get to see a brooding female Carpathian.
Destiny is conflicted because she's been turned Carpathian by a vampire who murdered her mother and father. The dastardly blood sucker held her hostage, terrorizing and torturing her mind. Yet, she was such a stong pyschic that she was able to link cosmically with a mysterious being who helps her escape.
To save her from the clutches of the vampire, Nicolae trained Destiny to hunt and kill as a means of protection until he could find her. Though they share a bond, Destiny is unsure if she can actually trust him, so throughout the years she has never responded back to his haunting voice. When they finally meet, Destiny has to learn to conqueror her fears and trust in herself, or risk losing him forever.
I got to be honest. I'm actually giving this book three stars because it's better then the three contributions to the series that came before it. Dark Symphony, Dark Melody, and the story in the anthology The One and Only...sorry forgot which Dark one that was...were absolutely trifling in their stupidity. Those books left such a horrible impression in my mind that I had no expectations for this book what-so-ever. I didn't even know it was out till I just happened to glance by it at the store.
Seriously, I am thinking of hanging up my hat with the Dark series...or at least stop spending my money and dust off my library card. This book is just tired, and it didn't do anything for me. Plus, I am sick to death of Ms. Feehan using her books as some type of platform for whatever cause she's currently on. She didn't do that early on in the series, but since Dark Legend she's been on this kick. The romance is lost in whatever statement she's trying to make...IMHO. It's not a totally unpleasant read, so you can give it a try. Just don't expect it to knock your socks off.

I loved Dark Fire. As always, C. Feehan wraps you up in the emotions and relationships of the main characters. Darius is strong, possessive and at the same time gentle and caring. I fell in love with him immediately. Tempest is his perfect match, strong and gutsy but filled with love and compassion. I was on the couple's side 100% and could not wait until the end of the novel to see the end results. This book rates as high as Dark Prince. Loved It...

Ms. Feehan is a gifted story teller, and her dark series books are all well written. I was somewhat disappointed with Dark Challenge but Dark Fire is her best so far. Both characters are wonderfully developed and the story line progresses to keep you reading from beginning to end. So buy this book, my only warning is put aside time to read the whole thing as you will not be able to put it down for long!!!

I loved the book, the story of Gregori and Savannah was great. I have read pretty much all of the Carpathian books by Mrs. Feehan and have loved them all. I love her books. If you liked this series, the Gostwalkers series is awesome as well and is one of my favoirite reads. I also enjoyed the Leopard Series as well.

This book bored me to tears. The heroine was tiresome. The hero and his brother were interesting, but not enough to save the book. I've read everything Ms. Feehan has done. I'm currently reading Mind Games. I think I'll just stick to the new series and bid a fond farewell to the Dark series.

I have read all of Christine Feehan's Dark series and so far I think this is the most boring. I felt it was slow moving and repetitive. Overall story is good, but the same one we have already read about 7 times. Give us something new please!!

Dark Destiny was a huge disappointment. I have read all of the Dark series and I can't put them down. This one took me days to get through,I had a hard time picking it up. It was truly one of the worst books I have ever read. I am not sure if I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. I hope Ms. Feehan does a better job next time,if not she just might as well give it up.

As someone who has been abused as a child this book was both amazing and compelling in it's portrayal of true triumph over evil. Survivors of such terrible ordeals will feel an instant connection with the character Destiny.
This is by far my favorite Dark book. They are all good, but this one touched my heart more than any book I've ever read in my life.
The romance in this is heartfelt and goes right to your soul. The action and adventure will keep you on the edge of your seat.

I read this a few years back, and it was my first out of this series!! This is by far the hottest I have read by Christine Feehan!! If this helps this is the only one that I have kept as a keeper!! I have read most of the series except the most recent ones which have come out in the last couple of years!!

I really loved this story above the rest just by a tiny bit. It is really a tragedy and awesome! It brought tears to my eyes and made me buy a hell of a lot more of her books! She outdoes herself everytime.

I loved this book! Christine Feehan did a great job with this story! There was plenty of romance and I loved how you got to know a few of the other Carpathians better as well! A must have book for any collector of the Dark series!

Some reviewers complain that "its the same old thing" but Feehan imparts enough info on Carpathians so that each book can be read alone or as part of a series.
I enjoyed reading this book, as I have all of her others. I give few books 5 stars but this one definitely ranks a 4 or above. I eagerly await each Feehan novel - she didn't let me down with this one.

this book was literally one of those that was extremely difficult to put down. "i have a test tomorrow...hmmm...okay, then just one more chapter...i promise!" nope. that didnt work. definately a must for lovers of the intriguing combination of vampiric beings, power and passion.

Christine is an extrodinary writer, I've not read her other books but Dark Fire really caught my eye. It's a very good story with an indepth plot and very well-done characters. As a writer myself, I have to say she has really inspired me in many ways. If your a reader of the Fiction type, this is a must buy. It has romantic situations and details galore!

This book was surprisingly well written, and I enjoyed reading it. I though the chemistry between Nicolae and Destiny was very realistic, and somewhat sizzling.

Overall, very good read and one of the better Carpathian novels.

An okay entry into the series but, way too much drama. She spent too much time worrying over the lead characters past and not enough time developing the romance or the mystery. It was very disappointing.

Unlike other reviewers I actually thought this was one of Christine Feehan's best books. Her Dark series becomes a bit repetitive and formulaic, but nevertheless this one was great as more information was revealed to further develop the series, and the relationship between the main characters was convincing.

The story lacks mention and history of the other characters - how could you not mention to Tempest that Raven was human, hello!
The author should have just called her Rusti, it was a much better name.
I could see the Barrack Sindyl thing coming a mile away in the last book.
I'd like to read about Julian & Desari's visit to Aidan & Alex who I loved, not just read a passing sentence that they went. And I'd like to read about Gregory & Darius meeting, and Barrack & Sindyl's visit to Carpathia to meet Prince Mikhail. The author does a disservice to her loyal readers not to keep those characters alive.
OK! OK! I get the idea - light to his darkness, lifemates, three blood exchanges, human psychic women, the male suddenly sees things in color again, dirt & saliva heals, feed but don't kill, sleep in the ground, shapeshift, etc. The plots are so repetitive I could be reading the same books since Dark Gold. Independent gorgeous woman rebels against the dominant sexy Carpathian male. After a few romantic interludes she falls deeply in love and is now 100% devoted. About two thirds into the novel, suspense of the story kicks in and it becomes a thriller at the end where they're threatened and attacked either by an ancient vampire or some fanatic vampire hunters.
The honey baby stuff was cloying.

I enjoy reading books that start off as a series and going forward with a long drawn out ending forcing the reader to go from book to book to see how things turn out for the hero/heroine, sadly, this is the first (CF) book I have read and out of order at that but the good news is that I LOVED IT and have ordered the books ahead of this one. I can't wait to get started on them!

I don't think I have ever been compelled to finish a book before. Dark Fire certainly pulled me into the story from the moment I picked it up, until I put it down, completed. This was just the start. Since then I've read the entire series and can't wait for Dark Guardian. Well done, Christine Feehan !

This is one of my favorite in the series. I have read it several times and it doesn't get old. Darius and Tempest are a great match. The story line is good and I love how she stands up to him. Darius is exciting and his vulneralbility where she is concerned is enchanting. GET THIS BOOK!

I have read every one of Christine Feehans books and by far this was the most boring. It took me days to read, its one I could put down and take my time getting back to the story. By far not her best book. I found Destiny to be monotonus, and Nicolae a weak carpathian.

I have read all of the Carpathian series and found this one just as appealing as the others. If the characters were all the same the read would get boring, but Christine makes her characters have a life of there own and there own story while tying in the other characters from previous or futre books. I absolutely loved it.

I bought this book because I wanted to try something different. It was different alright! In a word, this storyline was STUPID! I knew it was about vampires but there was just a little too much reference to blood and drinking blood in this book. It started to make me a little sick. I think this author has some kind of sick fascination with the eroticism associated with vampires. The story was boring and inane. I tried to keep on with it but gave up after 150 pages. There was no romance at all. All I wanted was for those evil vampires to put the bite on the heroine and get rid of her! Suffice it to say, I will NEVER waste my hard earned money on any more of Ms. Feehan's novels.

If you like romance with action, this is for you. I love books that have kick ass girl moves with passion and undying love. This book contains action, martial arts, love, horror and the paranormal. One hell of a book. You must trust me when i say you'll love this book! please just read it, then you will understand.

Though I have loved the other books in the Dark Series, this one is terrible. Destiny is very whiny and seems to enjoy her victim status. Nicholae is a good character but the relationship with Destiny has no sizzle. It was mostly blood and gore with very little romance. Even though I have been a strong Feehan fan, I can NOT recommend this book.

Ok so maybe starting the series on book 11 is not a good idea, BUT this trash was so not worth the time to read. The main female character goes on and on and on and on and you just wish she would shut up. The main male character ends up coming off the patron saint of patience, soooo not based in reality. Then of course throughout the book we have the homilies of the holier than thou population. There is a kernel of an interesting plot within and I had hopes for the book for the first 150 or so pages, BUT of course it did not live up to it and by page 300 I couldn't care less if the main characters lived. However, I will not get a book and NOT read it (was bought in a collection of supernatural romance lot). The book should have been 100 pages shorter. The only way I finished it was to put it in the bathroom where I was forced to finish it.

This book is very very cheesy, it has no twists whatsoever, the plot formula is really lame and too cheesy and straightforward. The chapters lack a prettiness to them in that descriptions aren't really there. The descriptions other than the sex parts which are actually quite good, are like very watery ketchup or a pinch of whisky in a gallon of water, the whiskey being what u want and the water is what u want NOT!.

Overall i would not recommend this book at all because u have seen and heard and dreamed of it. The writer is a novice, she's rich because ppl are stupid to buy the book (i too fell there, but never again!). You cannot have a scene and a chracter who added a very poor intrigue that lures u to a promise die and never give a good description of the hospital or what was the purpose of his deed.

This book lacks in everything from chracters to description. It is absurdly retarded and the vampires are like those we saw in BLADE and the hunters are stupid ppl with powers that go beyond magic and make u laugh out loud instead. Again, the 1 i gave it is for the sex scenes, which was good but u will find better and plenty more in real erotic books.

Again this is a cheesy, absurdly ridiculous excuse for anything. It is suitable for 13-15 year old girls and even then the book still fails horribly. It is too cheesy and blatantly pompous in that the there are poor attempts to make a contrast and conflict between chracters but it IS NOT BELIEVABLE AT ALL!! If u cannot create rich conflict like a woman in love with her son who struggles with psychosis, then the conflict must be left out. It is in or it is out but never a mockery to here it is very poorly and then there it is not and ever poorer in horridness.

(...)

This is the most ridiculous book I have ever read.The characters and situation are not very believable.The writing skills are very poor except when the sex scenes arrive.There it goes into to much and detail and reduces the book from 2 star to 1 star.The filthiest book I have ever read and will read.I was deeply unimpressed by this book and how it got to be a best-seller amazes me.