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Hayden Crowe fronts an all-girls band down in Austin, Texas. Between tending bar so her sister can stay in school and dealing with the fallout after their addict father skipped town, she hasn’t exactly had time to join the social media freak out over the recent outing of vampires and werewolves.
Her world comes crashing down the night she’s attacked in an alley after a gig and bitten by a feral werewolf. Unable to return home for fear of hurting her sister, and with a message scrawled across her arm warning HOSPITALS NOT SAFE, Hayden is left with just one option…
Him.
Ethan Caldwell doesn’t do relationships. Adopted son of the pack Alpha, he lives a solitary life as a barista and artist. Things three years ago with Hayden Crowe… went too far. By pack law, she couldn’t be told what he was. Ending it was for her own protection.
But when Hayden shows up on his doorstep, newly changed and in danger, Ethan defies his father’s orders to stay away. Someone in the paranormal community is hunting her, and hell if he’s going to fail her again.
DARK is part of the Blood Moon, Texas Shifters series. Sizzling hot romance. Guaranteed HEA.
Her world comes crashing down the night she’s attacked in an alley after a gig and bitten by a feral werewolf. Unable to return home for fear of hurting her sister, and with a message scrawled across her arm warning HOSPITALS NOT SAFE, Hayden is left with just one option…
Him.
Ethan Caldwell doesn’t do relationships. Adopted son of the pack Alpha, he lives a solitary life as a barista and artist. Things three years ago with Hayden Crowe… went too far. By pack law, she couldn’t be told what he was. Ending it was for her own protection.
But when Hayden shows up on his doorstep, newly changed and in danger, Ethan defies his father’s orders to stay away. Someone in the paranormal community is hunting her, and hell if he’s going to fail her again.
DARK is part of the Blood Moon, Texas Shifters series. Sizzling hot romance. Guaranteed HEA.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 23, 2019
About the author
Kat Kinney
12 books565 followersAuthor Kat Kinney lives with her family and three extremely pampered guinea pigs who do not like werewolves, vampires, or dragons and wonder why their human insists on writing about things that like to eat them. When she isn’t writing about things that bite and howl, Kat can be found knitting crazy socks and plotting out future books!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 212 reviews
January 23, 2023
**I was provided with an ARC for an honest review.**
This book got two angsty alphas as our main characters with sexy shifter chemistry:
Hayden, She is unassuming and apologetic. And that BEFORE she ever got bitten.
“The world blurred past, too sharp, sight and smell and scent so overpowering I itched at the rasp of mockingbirds rustling, could taste the tang of sage and mesquite in the air, found myself getting dizzy every time I blinked.
Rocks scuttled underfoot as I scurried down a gully, the scent of the third wolf causing fury to rise in my blood. Come after me and my sister?
I. Would. End. You.”
I adored her protective relationship with her sister Ellie that definitely gave her character more dimensions beyond the initial rocker chick vibes.
Ethan Caldwell, A born werewolf, he has a better understanding of the supernatural world. But not a goddamn clue about romance
“She stormed out of my life three years ago, and I’d wanted to kick myself every day since.”
Both characters had difficult pasts that we learn more through the dual perspective.
But the trick writing dual perspective is to keep both voices strong and separate. So ... because both of our characters are angsty troubled alphas, they had very similar voices at times that I got lili lost and confused.
Shifter Sexiness
I adore werewolves and urban fantasy.
This book didn't focus on developing the world around our characters, but more on our new wolfie learning how to survive in it. I felt like we missed out on the typical supernatural shenanigans of finding your place in the werewolf pack that is separate from the human world. Instead, the world was set up as was more of a vague werewolf coating over the existing human world.
I did enjoy the danger of becoming feral that the wolves can't just suddenly control, but must continually take actions to prevent it
“Anything the wolf wants, you give it in small doses. Keep it in its cage. The three F's. Fight, fuck and feed.” Or risk going feral and killing everyone you love.”
And as a new werewolf, Hayden really captured the terror and panic of learning that control!
“Overwhelmed by the helplessness. I couldn’t leave. Couldn’t see my sister. Night after night, I battled rage, confusion and blackouts. Forgot who I was only to wake in a post-shift stupor. Trembled as tears pricked the backs of my eyes, wanting to break every dish, shred every pillow, destroy all of Ethan’s furniture down to the last chair. And then curl into a ball and weep, trapped and alone with the part of what had happened I could never say aloud. That in those darkest moments just after twilight, I worried I would never feel like me again.”
Now let me say this. I do not enjoy the usage of email chains/texts/emojis/hashtags in my books.
I understand that it's to relate to our generation... But honestly, some quality sassy remarks are way more relatable than the hashtag will ever be to me.
Also while reading, this book isn't linear. There be some flashbacks that sometimes felt random when not indicated.
Why does our MC have so many goddamn nicknames?
- WillKillForThinMints
- Anastasia
- Batman
- Daisy
I mean like one would be cute. But these nicknames were casually thrown out there, that I had no clue who was being referenced or the story behind them.
My critiques are about how I wanted MORE from the book. I found the characters interesting, the mystery exciting, the pace thrilling. But I had a hard time connecting.
We don't see the first werewolf attack.
We hear about it afterward.
We don't see the two characters meet each other.
We hear about how they use to be close
The beginning felt disorganized and chaotic. We are thrown into this world that is new to Hayden and she never really ventures outside one supernatural coffee shop so it implies we gonna see more later
But we are just as clueless as her. Constantly trying to figure out the characters, the world, just everything. Hayden couldn’t explain shit to us so a lot didn’t make sense, and I felt I needed to put wayyy 2 much effort into figuring out what the fuck is happening
Overall, the heroine really had quite a funny personality that provided funny commentary and chemistry with the love interest. Where this book sorta struggles to me and reason it doesn’t quite compare to the other great paranormal mysteries like Nevada Baylor is the lack of character relations and dynamics ...beyond the fun sexual romance. The sisterhood between Hayden and Ellie is cute but surface deep. The rest of the characters are interesting with some fun pop-up scenes… but we don’t have any of the great group dynamics of everyone together laughing struggling bonding. The plot revolved around the heroine's learning her new werewolf nature and trying to figure out the mystery of why and who is tracking her.
If you're bored and just wanna laugh at some ridiculous hot shifter shenanigans then I'd recommend trying it out but know that is very much focused on hot sex, sassy comments, dangerous mystery and.... yah no thats about it
This book got two angsty alphas as our main characters with sexy shifter chemistry:
Hayden, She is unassuming and apologetic. And that BEFORE she ever got bitten.
“The world blurred past, too sharp, sight and smell and scent so overpowering I itched at the rasp of mockingbirds rustling, could taste the tang of sage and mesquite in the air, found myself getting dizzy every time I blinked.
Rocks scuttled underfoot as I scurried down a gully, the scent of the third wolf causing fury to rise in my blood. Come after me and my sister?
I. Would. End. You.”
I adored her protective relationship with her sister Ellie that definitely gave her character more dimensions beyond the initial rocker chick vibes.
Ethan Caldwell, A born werewolf, he has a better understanding of the supernatural world. But not a goddamn clue about romance
“She stormed out of my life three years ago, and I’d wanted to kick myself every day since.”
Both characters had difficult pasts that we learn more through the dual perspective.
But the trick writing dual perspective is to keep both voices strong and separate. So ... because both of our characters are angsty troubled alphas, they had very similar voices at times that I got lili lost and confused.
Shifter Sexiness
I adore werewolves and urban fantasy.
This book didn't focus on developing the world around our characters, but more on our new wolfie learning how to survive in it. I felt like we missed out on the typical supernatural shenanigans of finding your place in the werewolf pack that is separate from the human world. Instead, the world was set up as was more of a vague werewolf coating over the existing human world.
I did enjoy the danger of becoming feral that the wolves can't just suddenly control, but must continually take actions to prevent it
“Anything the wolf wants, you give it in small doses. Keep it in its cage. The three F's. Fight, fuck and feed.” Or risk going feral and killing everyone you love.”
And as a new werewolf, Hayden really captured the terror and panic of learning that control!
“Overwhelmed by the helplessness. I couldn’t leave. Couldn’t see my sister. Night after night, I battled rage, confusion and blackouts. Forgot who I was only to wake in a post-shift stupor. Trembled as tears pricked the backs of my eyes, wanting to break every dish, shred every pillow, destroy all of Ethan’s furniture down to the last chair. And then curl into a ball and weep, trapped and alone with the part of what had happened I could never say aloud. That in those darkest moments just after twilight, I worried I would never feel like me again.”
Now let me say this. I do not enjoy the usage of email chains/texts/emojis/hashtags in my books.
I understand that it's to relate to our generation... But honestly, some quality sassy remarks are way more relatable than the hashtag will ever be to me.
Also while reading, this book isn't linear. There be some flashbacks that sometimes felt random when not indicated.
Why does our MC have so many goddamn nicknames?
- WillKillForThinMints
- Anastasia
- Batman
- Daisy
I mean like one would be cute. But these nicknames were casually thrown out there, that I had no clue who was being referenced or the story behind them.
My critiques are about how I wanted MORE from the book. I found the characters interesting, the mystery exciting, the pace thrilling. But I had a hard time connecting.
We don't see the first werewolf attack.
We hear about it afterward.
We don't see the two characters meet each other.
We hear about how they use to be close
The beginning felt disorganized and chaotic. We are thrown into this world that is new to Hayden and she never really ventures outside one supernatural coffee shop so it implies we gonna see more later
But we are just as clueless as her. Constantly trying to figure out the characters, the world, just everything. Hayden couldn’t explain shit to us so a lot didn’t make sense, and I felt I needed to put wayyy 2 much effort into figuring out what the fuck is happening
Overall, the heroine really had quite a funny personality that provided funny commentary and chemistry with the love interest. Where this book sorta struggles to me and reason it doesn’t quite compare to the other great paranormal mysteries like Nevada Baylor is the lack of character relations and dynamics ...beyond the fun sexual romance. The sisterhood between Hayden and Ellie is cute but surface deep. The rest of the characters are interesting with some fun pop-up scenes… but we don’t have any of the great group dynamics of everyone together laughing struggling bonding. The plot revolved around the heroine's learning her new werewolf nature and trying to figure out the mystery of why and who is tracking her.
If you're bored and just wanna laugh at some ridiculous hot shifter shenanigans then I'd recommend trying it out but know that is very much focused on hot sex, sassy comments, dangerous mystery and.... yah no thats about it
Read
May 8, 2022
‘Just like in fairy tales, I was now the monster who couldn’t be destroyed.’
Okay, paging all my werewolf-loving sistren, this is the book for you! Talk about fun, magical, romantic and paranormal! Welcome to a world were weres (heheh) are part of society; some are born, some are Bitten. There are also vampires, and in this world the sun keeps them in line.
But some nights it was impossible to fight the rising sense of helplessness. I couldn’t leave. Couldn’t see my sister. Night after night, I battled rage, confusion and blackouts. Forgot who I was only to wake in a post-shift stupor.
From the start, I really enjoyed Hayden and Ethan’s chemistry. Talk about scorching! And they were a great couple from the get go.
Plus, complementing these wonderfully actualised characters is Kinney’s great prose that sets you right into their world.
“I fight so that those who cannot will never have to live in fear.”
There is something so fantastic about urban fantasy romance books and I am so glad to be dipping my toe back into the genre. The characters in Dark are spunky and sassy, the angst and drama are high quality, and the humour swaps for action at a wonderful ratio.
Kinney has created a fun, romantic story with fantastical worldbuilding, and I’m excited to see where book two takes things!
Review of book 3, Bound here.
☆ Blog | Twitter ☆
Okay, paging all my werewolf-loving sistren, this is the book for you! Talk about fun, magical, romantic and paranormal! Welcome to a world were weres (heheh) are part of society; some are born, some are Bitten. There are also vampires, and in this world the sun keeps them in line.
But some nights it was impossible to fight the rising sense of helplessness. I couldn’t leave. Couldn’t see my sister. Night after night, I battled rage, confusion and blackouts. Forgot who I was only to wake in a post-shift stupor.
From the start, I really enjoyed Hayden and Ethan’s chemistry. Talk about scorching! And they were a great couple from the get go.
Plus, complementing these wonderfully actualised characters is Kinney’s great prose that sets you right into their world.
“I fight so that those who cannot will never have to live in fear.”
There is something so fantastic about urban fantasy romance books and I am so glad to be dipping my toe back into the genre. The characters in Dark are spunky and sassy, the angst and drama are high quality, and the humour swaps for action at a wonderful ratio.
Kinney has created a fun, romantic story with fantastical worldbuilding, and I’m excited to see where book two takes things!
Review of book 3, Bound here.
☆ Blog | Twitter ☆
October 8, 2021
4 Addiction Daisy stars
SUCH A GREAT BEGINNING
I hadn't read a paranormal romance in quite some time and this book was a good way to ease myself into the subgenre again. It was a compelling story with a hot romance and a lot of revelations.
Hayden and Ethan were nice full-fleshed characters - even if "nice" isn't an adjective I'd use for either of them 🤣 Honestly, Hayden was very stubborn, which put me off during the first chapters. But page after page, she grew on me. By the middle of the book, I loved the girl and her loyalty to her sister. She was caring and fierce when it came to those she loved. A snarky female character who likes chocolate and goth nails? YES. Did I mention she played in a band and wrote emotional lyrics? Now I did 😉
Ethan's character was complexe, thanks to his traumatic experiences with awful foster parents. We got a glimpse of his first years with the Caldwell through intermediate chapters, early in the book. His strained relationship with his foster dad didn't help. Despite his positive surroundings, he never felt part of the family and erected walls around himself. He got convinced by Ben he was "poison" and stayed away from Hayden, even if he was in love with her. It broke my heart when I found out, but it was sweet to see their relationship mending.
Even if I liked our MCs - which is quite clear from all the blabla above - I couldn't connect with them. Maybe it was because of the pacing? The beginning was hectic with time flying quickly and I felt like they became an item extremely fast. But, yeah, they were still in love with each other, so why not... I just missed the building tension🤷♀️
Once we got to it, the main plot was exciting, balancing between action and revelations. Things seemed simple at first, but they were definitely not! As we didn't follow each brothers, we missed some part of the investigation, but it was overall thrilling to watch it unfolds. Speaking about them, I want to know more about their relationship and why Ethan really doesn't get along with Dallas. I'm waiting for a good story here!
SUCH A GREAT BEGINNING
I hadn't read a paranormal romance in quite some time and this book was a good way to ease myself into the subgenre again. It was a compelling story with a hot romance and a lot of revelations.
Hayden and Ethan were nice full-fleshed characters - even if "nice" isn't an adjective I'd use for either of them 🤣 Honestly, Hayden was very stubborn, which put me off during the first chapters. But page after page, she grew on me. By the middle of the book, I loved the girl and her loyalty to her sister. She was caring and fierce when it came to those she loved. A snarky female character who likes chocolate and goth nails? YES. Did I mention she played in a band and wrote emotional lyrics? Now I did 😉
Ethan's character was complexe, thanks to his traumatic experiences with awful foster parents. We got a glimpse of his first years with the Caldwell through intermediate chapters, early in the book. His strained relationship with his foster dad didn't help. Despite his positive surroundings, he never felt part of the family and erected walls around himself. He got convinced by Ben he was "poison" and stayed away from Hayden, even if he was in love with her. It broke my heart when I found out, but it was sweet to see their relationship mending.
Even if I liked our MCs - which is quite clear from all the blabla above - I couldn't connect with them. Maybe it was because of the pacing? The beginning was hectic with time flying quickly and I felt like they became an item extremely fast. But, yeah, they were still in love with each other, so why not... I just missed the building tension🤷♀️
Once we got to it, the main plot was exciting, balancing between action and revelations. Things seemed simple at first, but they were definitely not! As we didn't follow each brothers, we missed some part of the investigation, but it was overall thrilling to watch it unfolds. Speaking about them, I want to know more about their relationship and why Ethan really doesn't get along with Dallas. I'm waiting for a good story here!
July 29, 2022
(Actual rating: 4.5 stars)
Dark is an exciting read filled with shifters, romance, danger, and so much more.
First of all, I loved how Kinney writes. Their voice is so unique and their descriptions made me feel like I was in the Texas countryside (ps. I live in Texas so I would know.)
Hayden and Ethan were both great characters. Although at times I felt a bit lost when their POV would switch, once I got a good handle on them both as people I was rooting for them to work out their issues and realize how much they both needed each other.
There were a lot of characters and a lot of history packed into this book. I did love how the author didn’t pander to the reader and they let us know things along the way instead of info dumping all at once.
I am eager to read more about this family of shifters and I am happy to see that Kinney has a lot more books out.
Dark is an exciting read filled with shifters, romance, danger, and so much more.
First of all, I loved how Kinney writes. Their voice is so unique and their descriptions made me feel like I was in the Texas countryside (ps. I live in Texas so I would know.)
Hayden and Ethan were both great characters. Although at times I felt a bit lost when their POV would switch, once I got a good handle on them both as people I was rooting for them to work out their issues and realize how much they both needed each other.
There were a lot of characters and a lot of history packed into this book. I did love how the author didn’t pander to the reader and they let us know things along the way instead of info dumping all at once.
I am eager to read more about this family of shifters and I am happy to see that Kinney has a lot more books out.
January 5, 2022
A Paranormal Masterpiece!🔥
Keeping me on my toes is an understatement! Ethan and Hayden are quite the pair. From their jaded past to their uncertain present, the two had me on edge. I absolutely loved Ethan. I almost shed a tear learning about his past, how he was treated and the struggle of feeling like an outsider. I applauded his strength to push through the darkness, fight through the shadows. And Hayden...the fierce, take no crap badass who was a true fighter and protector, had me cheering her on from the very beginning. Their chemistry, the scorching fire they had was jumping off the pages at me. This captivating novel was all about family, love, struggle and hope. About the lives of werewolves and the dangers that lurked, hidden in plain sight. The twists and turns in Dark had me second guessing what would happen next. Such a thrilling start in this series and can't wait to get to book 2!
Keeping me on my toes is an understatement! Ethan and Hayden are quite the pair. From their jaded past to their uncertain present, the two had me on edge. I absolutely loved Ethan. I almost shed a tear learning about his past, how he was treated and the struggle of feeling like an outsider. I applauded his strength to push through the darkness, fight through the shadows. And Hayden...the fierce, take no crap badass who was a true fighter and protector, had me cheering her on from the very beginning. Their chemistry, the scorching fire they had was jumping off the pages at me. This captivating novel was all about family, love, struggle and hope. About the lives of werewolves and the dangers that lurked, hidden in plain sight. The twists and turns in Dark had me second guessing what would happen next. Such a thrilling start in this series and can't wait to get to book 2!
November 11, 2020
Entertaining. What starts as a tale of forbidden love becomes a complex unravelling of pack mentality and tests of loyalty. Hayden has been mugged, they took nothing but her eyes have been weird ever since. She is a young woman left to look after her younger sister after their dad's addiction problem leaves him unable to care for them. She works in a bar and she is the super cool front person in an all-girl band.
Everything is changing in the world Hayden lives in, paranormal occurrences are being reported, and Hayden has noticed something about herself. And the hero Ethan works in a coffee bar called Dark.
Kat Kinney's writing is very entertaining, the text messages, the name of the band, the chocolate cupcake obsession. It all makes the narrative real - it can't be real though it's a paranormal romance!
Everything is changing in the world Hayden lives in, paranormal occurrences are being reported, and Hayden has noticed something about herself. And the hero Ethan works in a coffee bar called Dark.
Kat Kinney's writing is very entertaining, the text messages, the name of the band, the chocolate cupcake obsession. It all makes the narrative real - it can't be real though it's a paranormal romance!
January 22, 2022
Dark is a super fun (and steamy!) paranormal romance!
I was rooting for Hayden and Ethan from the beginning and their chemistry was written so well! I also loved the fact that these two had a past and despite Ethan's strong feelings for Hayden, he had to keep his distance for her safety. BEST TROPE!!
With lots of realistic dialogue, steaminess, and action, Dark is the perfect book for all fans of paranormal/shifter romance! Kinney's unique writing style was the cherry on top! 5 stars!
I was rooting for Hayden and Ethan from the beginning and their chemistry was written so well! I also loved the fact that these two had a past and despite Ethan's strong feelings for Hayden, he had to keep his distance for her safety. BEST TROPE!!
With lots of realistic dialogue, steaminess, and action, Dark is the perfect book for all fans of paranormal/shifter romance! Kinney's unique writing style was the cherry on top! 5 stars!
November 23, 2020
Hayden is the hard-working lead in an up-and-coming all-girl band that is slowly gaining popularity in the music industry. However, when she is mugged in an alley after a gig, her life takes an unexpected turn. Unwillingly turned into a werewolf, Hayden turns to the only person who can help – Ethan.
Ethan is stunned when Hayden walks back into his life and is desperate for help. Against the wishes of his pack, Ethan determines to help her through the difficult transition that’s upon her. He also vows to find out who turned Hayden against her will, especially since she becomes a victim of stalking. Who is targeting Hayden? What do they want with her? Does this have anything to do with the other missing people in the area? Ethan isn’t sure, but he will do whatever it takes to protect the only woman he ever cared for.
Dark is an intense paranormal romance with well-developed characters, excellent dialogue, and super-steamy chemistry. The story is told from both Hayden and Ethan’s perspectives, which I liked. You really get to understand their emotions and motivations and why they resist their feelings. Hayden, for example, is a newly-turned werewolf, and her struggles with this change, as well as her conflicting feelings about Ethan, are skillfully explored. I love the humor and sarcasm that the author weaves into Hayden’s story. Hayden is fierce and independent, and her funny and sometimes acerbic personality shines through, even in the midst of her complex situation. The dual perspectives also help to delve into Hayden and Ethan’s family dynamics and how they’ve influenced Hayden and Ethan.
Flashbacks to Ethan’s childhood provide further context for his tortured actions and explains why he struggles to let people in. His memories, as well as his fear of abandonment and rejection, guides his relationships. Ethan constantly questions his worth, and Hayden is the only one who has ever gotten past the walls he has put up.
Ethan and Hayden both have difficult pasts and put a lot of pressure on themselves, and their tumultuous relationship prevents Hayden from fully trusting Ethan. However, he’s the one she turns to in times of crisis. Ethan is the person that she knows can help her. It is clear that both are afraid to give in to their feelings for each other, but their connection is too strong to deny. I loved how their story progressed! Their chemistry is fantastic, their bond is deep, and their love is true.
In addition to the awesome characters and the swoon-tastic romance, I enjoyed the suspenseful plot in Dark. This is a world where vampires and werewolves are common knowledge, but humans aren’t entirely comfortable with the knowledge. Many possible antagonists could be targeting Hayden, and I enjoyed trying to figure out who turned her and who was stalking her. The closer Hayden and Ethan get to the truth, the more dangerous their lives become, which led to some nail-biting scenes.
I really enjoyed this paranormal romance, and I can’t wait to read the next book in the Blood Moon, Texas Shifters series! Thanks so much to Kat Kinney for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
Ethan is stunned when Hayden walks back into his life and is desperate for help. Against the wishes of his pack, Ethan determines to help her through the difficult transition that’s upon her. He also vows to find out who turned Hayden against her will, especially since she becomes a victim of stalking. Who is targeting Hayden? What do they want with her? Does this have anything to do with the other missing people in the area? Ethan isn’t sure, but he will do whatever it takes to protect the only woman he ever cared for.
Dark is an intense paranormal romance with well-developed characters, excellent dialogue, and super-steamy chemistry. The story is told from both Hayden and Ethan’s perspectives, which I liked. You really get to understand their emotions and motivations and why they resist their feelings. Hayden, for example, is a newly-turned werewolf, and her struggles with this change, as well as her conflicting feelings about Ethan, are skillfully explored. I love the humor and sarcasm that the author weaves into Hayden’s story. Hayden is fierce and independent, and her funny and sometimes acerbic personality shines through, even in the midst of her complex situation. The dual perspectives also help to delve into Hayden and Ethan’s family dynamics and how they’ve influenced Hayden and Ethan.
Flashbacks to Ethan’s childhood provide further context for his tortured actions and explains why he struggles to let people in. His memories, as well as his fear of abandonment and rejection, guides his relationships. Ethan constantly questions his worth, and Hayden is the only one who has ever gotten past the walls he has put up.
Ethan and Hayden both have difficult pasts and put a lot of pressure on themselves, and their tumultuous relationship prevents Hayden from fully trusting Ethan. However, he’s the one she turns to in times of crisis. Ethan is the person that she knows can help her. It is clear that both are afraid to give in to their feelings for each other, but their connection is too strong to deny. I loved how their story progressed! Their chemistry is fantastic, their bond is deep, and their love is true.
In addition to the awesome characters and the swoon-tastic romance, I enjoyed the suspenseful plot in Dark. This is a world where vampires and werewolves are common knowledge, but humans aren’t entirely comfortable with the knowledge. Many possible antagonists could be targeting Hayden, and I enjoyed trying to figure out who turned her and who was stalking her. The closer Hayden and Ethan get to the truth, the more dangerous their lives become, which led to some nail-biting scenes.
I really enjoyed this paranormal romance, and I can’t wait to read the next book in the Blood Moon, Texas Shifters series! Thanks so much to Kat Kinney for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
May 3, 2020
This book was a great read.
Good pacing and well developed characters, even secondary characters seemed to have their own background.
After one chapter, I really got into the story. Both Ethan and Hayden were interesting main characters (specially Ethan imo).
Passion, some suspense and wolves. Great combo.
Good pacing and well developed characters, even secondary characters seemed to have their own background.
After one chapter, I really got into the story. Both Ethan and Hayden were interesting main characters (specially Ethan imo).
Passion, some suspense and wolves. Great combo.
October 20, 2019
Hayden Crowe’s star is on the rise. “Daisy Addiction”, the band she fronts, is steadily working its way to the top of the music scene in Austin, Texas. There are rumors that music agents are showing up at their gigs—but then, there are also rumors of werewolves hanging out in her hometown of Blood Moon, Texas. Hayden has no time for such silliness. Unfortunately, the werewolves, at least, have plenty of time for her.
Hayden is “mugged” one night after a gig, and soon begins to experience unsettling, carnivorous impulses she fears she cannot control. Instinctively, she knows there’s only one person she can take her troubles to: that O’Keeffe of the Coffee House, that Caravaggio of the Cappuccino, ex-boyfriend, bad-boy-barista, and tormented artist-soul, Ethan Caldwell. And boy, is that boy tasty!
There’s an aphorism that a writer should write what they know. This long-time Texan and some-time Austinite believes and appreciates that Kat Kinney knows Texas and that strange, paranormal version of Texas called Austin. But does she know werewolves? Of course she does—and passing that knowledge on to the reader requires an awful lot of explaining.
The language used in the story is satisfyingly blunt, and the writing by-and-large excellent. Maybe Kat Kinney pushes some of the metaphors too far, but maybe not—and that’s exactly how far ya gotta push ‘em. There are some great, imaginative, and wacky scenes: think a dark night, a Texas-style thunderstorm, a corn maze, and werewolves!
There was a lot of gratuitous gooeyness, both of the romantic and chocolate varieties. The youth-speak, text-speak, and textually-deciphered-emoji-speak got tiring after a while, which is not to say that’s not how the hip pup barks these days. There were a few scenes that left me confused, and the ending, though HEA (as promised in the blurb), seemed to resolve none of the intriguing, non-Haythan plot lines.
This reader, though bitten, did not get the werewolf fever. I thought the genre kept the considerable talents of Kat Kinney on too short a leash. The tropes seemed to serve as a cage rather than a bandstand. Perhaps in the next iteration, Kat Kinney will let the wolf out, rip the genre to shreds, and sew it all together again with the head where the tail should be. That’ll teach it who’s Alpha.
Hayden is “mugged” one night after a gig, and soon begins to experience unsettling, carnivorous impulses she fears she cannot control. Instinctively, she knows there’s only one person she can take her troubles to: that O’Keeffe of the Coffee House, that Caravaggio of the Cappuccino, ex-boyfriend, bad-boy-barista, and tormented artist-soul, Ethan Caldwell. And boy, is that boy tasty!
There’s an aphorism that a writer should write what they know. This long-time Texan and some-time Austinite believes and appreciates that Kat Kinney knows Texas and that strange, paranormal version of Texas called Austin. But does she know werewolves? Of course she does—and passing that knowledge on to the reader requires an awful lot of explaining.
The language used in the story is satisfyingly blunt, and the writing by-and-large excellent. Maybe Kat Kinney pushes some of the metaphors too far, but maybe not—and that’s exactly how far ya gotta push ‘em. There are some great, imaginative, and wacky scenes: think a dark night, a Texas-style thunderstorm, a corn maze, and werewolves!
There was a lot of gratuitous gooeyness, both of the romantic and chocolate varieties. The youth-speak, text-speak, and textually-deciphered-emoji-speak got tiring after a while, which is not to say that’s not how the hip pup barks these days. There were a few scenes that left me confused, and the ending, though HEA (as promised in the blurb), seemed to resolve none of the intriguing, non-Haythan plot lines.
This reader, though bitten, did not get the werewolf fever. I thought the genre kept the considerable talents of Kat Kinney on too short a leash. The tropes seemed to serve as a cage rather than a bandstand. Perhaps in the next iteration, Kat Kinney will let the wolf out, rip the genre to shreds, and sew it all together again with the head where the tail should be. That’ll teach it who’s Alpha.
August 23, 2023
Dark is the first book in the Blood Moon, Texas Shifters series, and it introduces us to a world where shifters and vampires are not the best of friends, where you can be turned by sex or a bite, and where the thunderstorms are FIERCE!
The story itself is a simple one. Unrequited love, up-and-coming band, kidnappings, stalkers, silver addiction - did I say simple? The world-building is fulfilling enough, as it is set in contemporary Texas (as you might have guessed from the series title!). Although I have never been, it was easy enough to 'see' this world.
If I had any complaints, I would mention the transitions in some of the scenes. A couple of times, I was confused between what was actually happening and what had already happened, but was being remembered. Another time was right at the start. Was Hayden speaking to Ellie in the car or was she remembering the conversation?
Told from the first perspective of both Hayden and Ethan, this was a fast-paced story with plenty of action to balance out the blooming second-chance romance between our two main characters. I would love to know more about Ethan's brothers as I wasn't sure at the end just what was happening but that's probably just me.
A great start to a new series by a new-to-me author, but one that I hope to continue with. Definitely recommended by me.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
May 7, 2020
The story itself is a simple one. Unrequited love, up-and-coming band, kidnappings, stalkers, silver addiction - did I say simple? The world-building is fulfilling enough, as it is set in contemporary Texas (as you might have guessed from the series title!). Although I have never been, it was easy enough to 'see' this world.
If I had any complaints, I would mention the transitions in some of the scenes. A couple of times, I was confused between what was actually happening and what had already happened, but was being remembered. Another time was right at the start. Was Hayden speaking to Ellie in the car or was she remembering the conversation?
Told from the first perspective of both Hayden and Ethan, this was a fast-paced story with plenty of action to balance out the blooming second-chance romance between our two main characters. I would love to know more about Ethan's brothers as I wasn't sure at the end just what was happening but that's probably just me.
A great start to a new series by a new-to-me author, but one that I hope to continue with. Definitely recommended by me.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
May 7, 2020
December 4, 2019
"Mugging" Werewolves. Romance. an interesting main character who's in a band. :D Yes, please! I'd love to read it!
I loved Dyrwolf, so I had to give this one a go. :) I was not disappointed. :)
Man, I really liked this, especially the voice/tone of the narrative. Hayden had such an interesting and unique thought pattern. It easily made her one of my favorite main characters in a while. Being in her head, seeing this made-up world through her eyes was so much fun.
:D The story was great, and perfect for paranormal romance fans. Would it be cliche to say this would be a great pick for Twilight Fans? 'Cause I think Twilight fans would really like this.
I loved our two main characters, Hayden and Ethan. I was ALL about the love story. And this world of vamps and werewolves is easily one the best I've read about in a while. Can't wait to read book 2! When does it come out? :D
I loved Dyrwolf, so I had to give this one a go. :) I was not disappointed. :)
Man, I really liked this, especially the voice/tone of the narrative. Hayden had such an interesting and unique thought pattern. It easily made her one of my favorite main characters in a while. Being in her head, seeing this made-up world through her eyes was so much fun.
:D The story was great, and perfect for paranormal romance fans. Would it be cliche to say this would be a great pick for Twilight Fans? 'Cause I think Twilight fans would really like this.
I loved our two main characters, Hayden and Ethan. I was ALL about the love story. And this world of vamps and werewolves is easily one the best I've read about in a while. Can't wait to read book 2! When does it come out? :D
August 22, 2019
First time reading this author’s work and I can’t wait for more. This was a nonstop read for me so that means I stayed up reading because it kept my attention from the very start and kept tryin* to figure out why the stalker was after Hayden. But I can tell this is part one of a series because the mystery leads up to the next story of who is doing what and why. Connection of the main characters and to the readers is great, not much sex but a lot of heavy make outs is still great.
October 13, 2019
Wow!!! Now this is what I call an amazing paranormal romance. The story is extremely engrossing and the characters are written so creatively. I just loved Hayden (a lead singer of the band). I couldn’t put down this first book of the series Blood Moon, Texas Shifters and waiting to have the second book in my hands. Well done Kat!!!
January 9, 2020
Beautifully Written Shifter Romance
Hayden Crowe is working hard to make a success of the music business with her all-girl band, when her career prospects are forcibly postponed. She is attacked in a back-alley and discovers she has been unwillingly turned into a werewolf.
Ethan Caldwell has his own dark and troubled past, but he always had a thing for Hayden and even being warned off by his pack Alpha won't stop him helping her when she is in need. Together they have to help Hayden come to terms with what has happened to her, protect her younger sister and discover what led to the feral attack that changed her.
What I enjoyed:
The writing. The use of words is often simply beautiful. The author has a real talent for descriptive phrases and also the ability to shift into succinct text-speak or banter and deliver a punch as effectively as summoning a scene.
The story. This has a lot to it and the first assumptions the reader makes are not going to be the right ones. I did note not all the main threads are resolved by the end of the book, but enough for it to feel very self-contained. A big mystery remains unsolved though and I can see why this is a 'part one'.
The worldbuilding. This was probably one of the greatest strengths of the book. For those familiar with shifter romance, it follows some of the familiar and classic paths so would be very easy to get into. But it builds on those in some new and interesting ways which add a definite sense of freshness to the genre.
The issues raised. These are very real issues such as addiction, rejection by family, abandonment in childhood and its impact. The story might be a paranormal romance but it has an intensely human depth.
What I struggled with:
Lack of unique character voice. The author chose to write using two first-person perspectives - Hayden and Ethan. I am not a fan of that for many reasons. In this case, it was because the two character 'voices' are pretty much the same. They used near-identical phrasing both in dialogue and internal monologues. At times I'd have no idea if I was reading an Ethan section or a Hayden section. This created other issues too. For example, after some really lovely, almost poetic, phrases of his internal monologue, Ethan - as narrator - then told us he is no good with words, which really did not wash.
Pace. It was very slow for the first half of the book. This was due to having an excessive amount of Ethan's backstory told in flashbacks and too much internal angst for both the major characters instead of real action. The pace picks up a clip in the second half, but never really reaches a full-on gallop.
Overall thoughts:
I really enjoyed this book, the beautiful writing makes even its faults pale into insignificance. If you enjoy shifter romance, this one will knock your socks off!
Hayden Crowe is working hard to make a success of the music business with her all-girl band, when her career prospects are forcibly postponed. She is attacked in a back-alley and discovers she has been unwillingly turned into a werewolf.
Ethan Caldwell has his own dark and troubled past, but he always had a thing for Hayden and even being warned off by his pack Alpha won't stop him helping her when she is in need. Together they have to help Hayden come to terms with what has happened to her, protect her younger sister and discover what led to the feral attack that changed her.
What I enjoyed:
The writing. The use of words is often simply beautiful. The author has a real talent for descriptive phrases and also the ability to shift into succinct text-speak or banter and deliver a punch as effectively as summoning a scene.
The story. This has a lot to it and the first assumptions the reader makes are not going to be the right ones. I did note not all the main threads are resolved by the end of the book, but enough for it to feel very self-contained. A big mystery remains unsolved though and I can see why this is a 'part one'.
The worldbuilding. This was probably one of the greatest strengths of the book. For those familiar with shifter romance, it follows some of the familiar and classic paths so would be very easy to get into. But it builds on those in some new and interesting ways which add a definite sense of freshness to the genre.
The issues raised. These are very real issues such as addiction, rejection by family, abandonment in childhood and its impact. The story might be a paranormal romance but it has an intensely human depth.
What I struggled with:
Lack of unique character voice. The author chose to write using two first-person perspectives - Hayden and Ethan. I am not a fan of that for many reasons. In this case, it was because the two character 'voices' are pretty much the same. They used near-identical phrasing both in dialogue and internal monologues. At times I'd have no idea if I was reading an Ethan section or a Hayden section. This created other issues too. For example, after some really lovely, almost poetic, phrases of his internal monologue, Ethan - as narrator - then told us he is no good with words, which really did not wash.
Pace. It was very slow for the first half of the book. This was due to having an excessive amount of Ethan's backstory told in flashbacks and too much internal angst for both the major characters instead of real action. The pace picks up a clip in the second half, but never really reaches a full-on gallop.
Overall thoughts:
I really enjoyed this book, the beautiful writing makes even its faults pale into insignificance. If you enjoy shifter romance, this one will knock your socks off!
April 26, 2020
A world of vamps and werewolves with a dash of erotic.
As I loved Dyrwolf, the author’s debut novel, I decided to give this one a go. I wasn’t disappointed. I could sense that the author's writing evolved, got more mature. Kat’s unique writing style gives that little special something to the whole story, making it more interesting.
The story is told sequentially from the POV of Hayden and Ethan. Sometimes we get to read about past events too, which helps us better understand the present.
Hayden was attacked one night and she woke up in an alley, not knowing what happened to her. The message she found on her hand ‘Hospitals not safe’ scared her. What terrified her more, was not the change she noticed in her eyes, but the thoughts she faced during the night. A month after the attack, she returned to Austin. She went straight to Ethan, the guy that she worked with at a bar called “Dark”. We can see that the two of them had a history together and that the flame is still there. In the past, Ethan was a werewolf and Hayden a human. Now things have changed. We witness that humans have learned that they share the world with shifters and vampires. Hayden is not a human anymore and she needs help. Ethan decides to protect Hayden even though he puts his role in his pack at stake. Through all the events, he helps Hayden and her sister, but he gets through a personal transformation. He gets to acknowledge that he is enough, that he can love and be loved, that he will not destroy everything, because he proved many times that he is good for her and his adoptive family. They are bonded now.
Although the chemistry between the two main characters is strong and visible, the intimate scenes flawlessly described, I would prefer to go past them during critical times when Hayden’s or Ellie’s life was at stake. The ending is great, just as promised in the blurb.
Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
As I loved Dyrwolf, the author’s debut novel, I decided to give this one a go. I wasn’t disappointed. I could sense that the author's writing evolved, got more mature. Kat’s unique writing style gives that little special something to the whole story, making it more interesting.
The story is told sequentially from the POV of Hayden and Ethan. Sometimes we get to read about past events too, which helps us better understand the present.
Hayden was attacked one night and she woke up in an alley, not knowing what happened to her. The message she found on her hand ‘Hospitals not safe’ scared her. What terrified her more, was not the change she noticed in her eyes, but the thoughts she faced during the night. A month after the attack, she returned to Austin. She went straight to Ethan, the guy that she worked with at a bar called “Dark”. We can see that the two of them had a history together and that the flame is still there. In the past, Ethan was a werewolf and Hayden a human. Now things have changed. We witness that humans have learned that they share the world with shifters and vampires. Hayden is not a human anymore and she needs help. Ethan decides to protect Hayden even though he puts his role in his pack at stake. Through all the events, he helps Hayden and her sister, but he gets through a personal transformation. He gets to acknowledge that he is enough, that he can love and be loved, that he will not destroy everything, because he proved many times that he is good for her and his adoptive family. They are bonded now.
Although the chemistry between the two main characters is strong and visible, the intimate scenes flawlessly described, I would prefer to go past them during critical times when Hayden’s or Ellie’s life was at stake. The ending is great, just as promised in the blurb.
Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
March 25, 2021
I really wanted to like Dark by Kat Kinney but for me, sadly enough, it missed its mark. I'm a lover of paranormal romance and there were some things I didn't entirely dislike in this book but I can't say I really enjoyed the story or characters that much.
I felt that the start of the book was a little all over the place and disorganized. A lot was going on and I felt like I had missed some things. But after the initial start and I was getting to know the characters more I slowly got into it all. The middle was the best part for me but by the end the story had lost me again, unfortunately.
The characters were tricky for me. On the one hand I did like them for the most part but there were just things that bugged me, mostly with Ethan. I liked him to a certain point and he was a hot werewolf so he gets bonus points for that but he had for too many issues, especially with trust and getting close to people. And those issues kept coming up way too much. He was one of those I don't do relationship guys and I'm just over that at this point.
Hayden I also did like because she was pretty awesome but it never got to the point where I fully loved her as one of the two main characters. I went back and forth with her. There were also a lot of hashtags used throughout the story which was fun at first but eventually it started to annoy me just a little bit because they were used quite a lot in the end. I was like, okay enough already.
I don't want to end this review in negativity so I'm going to sum up the things I did like. Luckily enough there were some:
-Hayden being the lead of an all-girls band (so badass!)
-The story was funny at times (I love humor in a book!)
-Werewolves (I'll never stop loving them!)
-Ethan wearing glasses (hot!)
-Hayden's relationship with her sister (so sweet!)
I hope I haven't put off too many people with my review because I do feel other people will enjoy it more than I did. I've seen lots of good reviews but it just wasn't a hit for me, personally.
I felt that the start of the book was a little all over the place and disorganized. A lot was going on and I felt like I had missed some things. But after the initial start and I was getting to know the characters more I slowly got into it all. The middle was the best part for me but by the end the story had lost me again, unfortunately.
The characters were tricky for me. On the one hand I did like them for the most part but there were just things that bugged me, mostly with Ethan. I liked him to a certain point and he was a hot werewolf so he gets bonus points for that but he had for too many issues, especially with trust and getting close to people. And those issues kept coming up way too much. He was one of those I don't do relationship guys and I'm just over that at this point.
Hayden I also did like because she was pretty awesome but it never got to the point where I fully loved her as one of the two main characters. I went back and forth with her. There were also a lot of hashtags used throughout the story which was fun at first but eventually it started to annoy me just a little bit because they were used quite a lot in the end. I was like, okay enough already.
I don't want to end this review in negativity so I'm going to sum up the things I did like. Luckily enough there were some:
-Hayden being the lead of an all-girls band (so badass!)
-The story was funny at times (I love humor in a book!)
-Werewolves (I'll never stop loving them!)
-Ethan wearing glasses (hot!)
-Hayden's relationship with her sister (so sweet!)
I hope I haven't put off too many people with my review because I do feel other people will enjoy it more than I did. I've seen lots of good reviews but it just wasn't a hit for me, personally.
June 9, 2022
The description of this book warns – “sizzling hot romance” – and that’s what a reader gets! So, be prepared and leave all your modesty behind when you open “Dark” by Kat Kinney, the first instalment of the Blood Moon, Texas Shifters series.
Meet Ethan and Hayden. Your new Romeo and Juliet – or I should probably say Edward and Bella –from the world of werewolves. Or I’d better discard all comparisons since these two are so unique and independent that it feels unfair to try to compare them to anyone.
Both are flawed, disillusioned, tough, and not willing to accept that life is crap - despite it constantly providing them proof in abundance. They move forward, and even though most of the time it feels that they are moving through an overgrown maze – yes, there is an absolutely creepy and awfully atmospheric maze in the book! – they don’t give up.
I loved the mouth-watering, delicious descriptions of food and coffee! Iced caramel macchiatos, pumpkin lattes decorated with whimsical swans, and Thin Mints are practically characters of the story in their own right. I also loved that I felt like a visitor in a small town in Texas, who is lucky to see it through a local’s eyes.
As the story unfolds, we get to see glimpses of the paranormal world with the secret agendas of its inhabitants, and when it ends, we crave to find out more.
“Dark” tells a story of two people, damaged by their life experiences, in their opinion, beyond repair, finding hope to have a different, happier life – together. Did I mention that things get really hot while they travel along the road of that discovery? Yes, I did. So, keep that in mind, and get ready to join the passionately ferocious – or ferociously passionate – couple on their ride to their happy-ever-after.
Meet Ethan and Hayden. Your new Romeo and Juliet – or I should probably say Edward and Bella –from the world of werewolves. Or I’d better discard all comparisons since these two are so unique and independent that it feels unfair to try to compare them to anyone.
Both are flawed, disillusioned, tough, and not willing to accept that life is crap - despite it constantly providing them proof in abundance. They move forward, and even though most of the time it feels that they are moving through an overgrown maze – yes, there is an absolutely creepy and awfully atmospheric maze in the book! – they don’t give up.
I loved the mouth-watering, delicious descriptions of food and coffee! Iced caramel macchiatos, pumpkin lattes decorated with whimsical swans, and Thin Mints are practically characters of the story in their own right. I also loved that I felt like a visitor in a small town in Texas, who is lucky to see it through a local’s eyes.
As the story unfolds, we get to see glimpses of the paranormal world with the secret agendas of its inhabitants, and when it ends, we crave to find out more.
“Dark” tells a story of two people, damaged by their life experiences, in their opinion, beyond repair, finding hope to have a different, happier life – together. Did I mention that things get really hot while they travel along the road of that discovery? Yes, I did. So, keep that in mind, and get ready to join the passionately ferocious – or ferociously passionate – couple on their ride to their happy-ever-after.
September 28, 2019
DARK: A DARK PARANORMAL ROMANCE is Book One in the new BLOOD MOON, TEXAS SHIFTERS series by Kat Kinney, author of the highly rated DYRWOLF.
DARK centers on rock singer/guitarist Hayden Crowe from the small town of Blood Moon, Texas. It's years after vampires were outed to the human world, and she's dealing with mysterious physical changes resulting from a mugging that she can barely remember. Is she now a vampire? Or something else entirely? Love interest Ethan Caldwell, artist and barista at the trendy coffee shop named Dark, feels he must protect Hayden and help her find answers - whether she wants to hear them or not.
Besides being a paranormal romance, DARK also has the feel of a "who dunnit" mystery. Chapters are written in the first-person, switching between Hayden's and Ethan's perspectives. Past timelines are written in italic text for clarity. The writing is very clean, indicating either a painstaking review process or professional editing.
I would highly recommend DARK to any who enjoyed Stephenie Meyer's TWILIGHT Series, but were left wishing for a bit more sizzle. Looking forward to seeing more books from this new series.
DARK centers on rock singer/guitarist Hayden Crowe from the small town of Blood Moon, Texas. It's years after vampires were outed to the human world, and she's dealing with mysterious physical changes resulting from a mugging that she can barely remember. Is she now a vampire? Or something else entirely? Love interest Ethan Caldwell, artist and barista at the trendy coffee shop named Dark, feels he must protect Hayden and help her find answers - whether she wants to hear them or not.
Besides being a paranormal romance, DARK also has the feel of a "who dunnit" mystery. Chapters are written in the first-person, switching between Hayden's and Ethan's perspectives. Past timelines are written in italic text for clarity. The writing is very clean, indicating either a painstaking review process or professional editing.
I would highly recommend DARK to any who enjoyed Stephenie Meyer's TWILIGHT Series, but were left wishing for a bit more sizzle. Looking forward to seeing more books from this new series.
October 1, 2019
Of all the books I've read recently, this is by far one of my favourites. It's a solid take on shifters, and vampires, in the vein (ahahahaha *ahem*) of Charlaine Harris... Only, better-er. I wouldn't usually pick something like this up, because it isn't quite my genre, but Kinney's writing is provocative, and her use of dialogue and internal monolouge proves her to be more adept than most at grasping the simple nuances of basic human speech. There is none of this staid, unnecessary conversing between characters, nor are there walls of text where characters self-ramble over mountains of nonsense. Hayden's thoughts are entertaining; she's prone to digressions in the middle of discussions, and that not only makes her simple interaction in the book believable, but the insight into the character makes her endearing as hell.
July 25, 2020
A sexy fast-moving start to this series
As a novice fantasy/dystopia reader, I found this an interesting introduction to the world of werewolf/shifters. Hayden is a newly, unwillingly transformed shifter who runs away from her sister and returns to an old flame, Ethan.
This story is a mix of romance, as Ethan helps Hayden become accustomed to her new life, and the mystery behind disappearances and an increase in feral attacks.
It works well so that the reader can learn about this different world at the same time as Hayden and the pages turn quickly with increasingly sexy, yet often tender scenes between our protagonists.
The conclusion is satisfying, and yet still leaves some of the mysteries to solve in the next books.
Highly recommend for a newbie to the genre, and I’m sure it will be loved by old hats too.
As a novice fantasy/dystopia reader, I found this an interesting introduction to the world of werewolf/shifters. Hayden is a newly, unwillingly transformed shifter who runs away from her sister and returns to an old flame, Ethan.
This story is a mix of romance, as Ethan helps Hayden become accustomed to her new life, and the mystery behind disappearances and an increase in feral attacks.
It works well so that the reader can learn about this different world at the same time as Hayden and the pages turn quickly with increasingly sexy, yet often tender scenes between our protagonists.
The conclusion is satisfying, and yet still leaves some of the mysteries to solve in the next books.
Highly recommend for a newbie to the genre, and I’m sure it will be loved by old hats too.
July 14, 2021
What can I say? Dark is the story is a woman who was attacked and suddenly finds herself with powers and abilities. The warning of her assailant rings in her ears and she knows there's danger beneath the surface.
Surviving as a changed human in a world where being a vampire or werewolf isn't easy and Hayden is struggling to find her way. Drawn to Ethan, she finds herself thrown into the deep end and their relationship which was rocky to start only gets more complicated.
I usually don't enjoy first person point of view books but Kat did a brilliant job of getting me interested and engaged with Hayden. She made it easy to like and believe in the characters and root for her to find her HEA. This is the first in a series and I will be reading the next ones as they come out.
If you want a fast paced, action packed, emotionally charged read this is the story for you.
Surviving as a changed human in a world where being a vampire or werewolf isn't easy and Hayden is struggling to find her way. Drawn to Ethan, she finds herself thrown into the deep end and their relationship which was rocky to start only gets more complicated.
I usually don't enjoy first person point of view books but Kat did a brilliant job of getting me interested and engaged with Hayden. She made it easy to like and believe in the characters and root for her to find her HEA. This is the first in a series and I will be reading the next ones as they come out.
If you want a fast paced, action packed, emotionally charged read this is the story for you.
October 28, 2019
Exceptionall well-written paranormal romance
This was a fantastic story of wolf shifters that was incredibly unique, thought-provoking, romantic, and suspenseful. I adored the main characters - both Ethan and Hayden - and the rich backstory of their lives/families. Their blooming romance built up wonderfully and the steamy moments weren't over the top. There's a ton to love about the author's fun, funky, and snarky tone riddled with humor and deeply rooted in emotion. Really enjoyed this new series. A solid 5-star read for me and hope to read more from this author. Highly recommended!
This was a fantastic story of wolf shifters that was incredibly unique, thought-provoking, romantic, and suspenseful. I adored the main characters - both Ethan and Hayden - and the rich backstory of their lives/families. Their blooming romance built up wonderfully and the steamy moments weren't over the top. There's a ton to love about the author's fun, funky, and snarky tone riddled with humor and deeply rooted in emotion. Really enjoyed this new series. A solid 5-star read for me and hope to read more from this author. Highly recommended!
April 7, 2022
The chemistry between wolf Ethan and newly-bitten Hayden leaps from the page in Kat Kinney's Dark, the first book in the Blood Moon, Texas Shifters series. From the moment Hays claws her way into E's life, the girl singer with the nose ring is either on a path to destroying the barista-artist, or will end up saving them both. Either way there's plenty of chocolate along the way. WHAT a perfect romance trope!
Kinney's writing sizzles as she effortless presents her characters, wielding contemporary insights that keep the story a page-turner. Plenty of drama - real and family - surround the lycan pair, setting up future stories for the series.
Kinney's writing sizzles as she effortless presents her characters, wielding contemporary insights that keep the story a page-turner. Plenty of drama - real and family - surround the lycan pair, setting up future stories for the series.
October 3, 2019
I would tell you to make sure you have snacks when reading this book but I promise you it won't be anything good as the foods mentioned! Or the coffee. I wish Dark were a real place, nearby, that I could go to. I am not sure what was more creative, the specialty coffees or the shifter's abilities. I did enjoy this book and look forward to reading book two in the series. Kat Kinney has put her own unique spin on the shifters in this book as well as the vampires however small their role might have been. And it is great book to read the month of October considering it ends on Halloween.
November 1, 2021
Dark, sexy, and addictive
What a fun read! Both Hayden and Ethan were MCs I could get behind, and I loved the way their history made the present all the more gripping & intense. Also, I Ioved Ethan's pack of "brothers" and the various sibling dynamics there. I'm officially roped in and will need to read each and every one of their stories. Highly recommend if you like sexy werewolf stories!
What a fun read! Both Hayden and Ethan were MCs I could get behind, and I loved the way their history made the present all the more gripping & intense. Also, I Ioved Ethan's pack of "brothers" and the various sibling dynamics there. I'm officially roped in and will need to read each and every one of their stories. Highly recommend if you like sexy werewolf stories!
July 8, 2021
Ms. Kinney's unique writing style grabbed me from the start and immersed me into this alternate reality of werewolves and vampires hiding among and, at times, preying upon, humans. The attraction between Hayden and Ethan is practically a character in itself and, fair warning, this story is anything but "clean." But if you are up for a page-turning, sensual read, Dark is a fabulous choice!
April 4, 2023
DNF @ 55%
The beginning of the book is kind of confusing, which led to me carrying that feeling along with me the further I read. I'm also questioning everyone's decisions and wanting so much more information about what is going on. I feel like we are in one place and then immediately in another. The connections and relationships don't make sense. I feel like we needed a lot more flashback chapters and a lot more explanation on how things work for this story to make sense. Also was totally blindsided when Ethan was asked if he and Hayden were a thing and he said "they're working on it." What?! Really?! I thought we hadn't even gotten to the point where they were going to try being in a relationship again. So, the romance is confusing me too.
That all being said, it is a really interesting concept and I did want to know what was going on with the stalker.
The beginning of the book is kind of confusing, which led to me carrying that feeling along with me the further I read. I'm also questioning everyone's decisions and wanting so much more information about what is going on. I feel like we are in one place and then immediately in another. The connections and relationships don't make sense. I feel like we needed a lot more flashback chapters and a lot more explanation on how things work for this story to make sense. Also was totally blindsided when Ethan was asked if he and Hayden were a thing and he said "they're working on it." What?! Really?! I thought we hadn't even gotten to the point where they were going to try being in a relationship again. So, the romance is confusing me too.
That all being said, it is a really interesting concept and I did want to know what was going on with the stalker.
December 13, 2021
Dark was a fantastic paranormal romance series open! It had vast world building with a big cast that I'm excited to see in the next books.
Hayden gets bitten and turned by a mystery werewolf and shows up at Ethan's work, and everything gets spicy from there!
It is flashback heavy in the beginning to get you caught up on both Hayden and Ethan's family and past, but done well and definitely set the world and series.
Pick it up if you love werewolves and rockstar romance, big worlds to get to know and a nice bite of suspense!
Hayden gets bitten and turned by a mystery werewolf and shows up at Ethan's work, and everything gets spicy from there!
It is flashback heavy in the beginning to get you caught up on both Hayden and Ethan's family and past, but done well and definitely set the world and series.
Pick it up if you love werewolves and rockstar romance, big worlds to get to know and a nice bite of suspense!
June 8, 2022
This was a different spin on werewolves that I loved.
I enjoyed the chemistry between Hayden and Ethan. I laughed quite a bit at her snarkiness ( new word) towards him and his brothers. She’s a badass and I loved her. I enjoyed the suspense of finding out who was behind her getting bitten.
I’m very much looking forward to the next book.
I enjoyed the chemistry between Hayden and Ethan. I laughed quite a bit at her snarkiness ( new word) towards him and his brothers. She’s a badass and I loved her. I enjoyed the suspense of finding out who was behind her getting bitten.
I’m very much looking forward to the next book.
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